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Making Christmas Greeting Cards

By Oreoritse Tariemi

25 December 2022   |   3:25 pm

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A greeting card is a piece of card stock usually with an illustration or photo, always made of high quality paper featuring an expression of friendship or other sentiments like appreciation, celebration or condolences. As small as they are, they can be the perfect gift and are usually given on special occasion like birthdays, anniversaries…

Christmas Greeting Cards Photo Pexels

A greeting card is a piece of card stock usually with an illustration or photo, always made of high quality paper featuring an expression of friendship or other sentiments like appreciation, celebration or condolences.

As small as they are, they can be the perfect gift and are usually given on special occasion like birthdays, anniversaries and holidays. Even if you have sent or have never sent a greeting card, it is always advisable to send people especially loved ones cards during Christmas to wish them well for the New Year. If you are looking for a gift inspiration for your loved ones this Christmas, then read along to learn to make the perfect greeting cards. 

History of Greeting Cards

The custom of sending greeting cards can be traced back to the ancient Chinese who encouraged messages of goodwill to celebrate the New Year. And also to the early Egyptians who conveyed their greetings on papyrus scrolls.

By the early 15th century, handmade paper greetings were being exchanged in Europe; the Germans are known to have printed New Year’s greetings and handmade paper Valentine were also being exchanged in various parts of Europe. The oldest Valentine card was written to Bonne of Armagnac by her husband, Charles Duke of Orleans, who was imprisoned at that time; the letter is currently at the British Museum.

The era of greeting cards slowly evolved from handmade gifts to being used as a popular means of communication due to the rise of the printing press, followed by new trends like Christmas cards.

During Christmas, most people traditionally mail seasonally themed cards to their friends and relatives, companies also send cards to their customers during the season usually accompanied with a universally acceptable message such as “happy holidays” or “season’s greetings”

Types of Greeting Cards

Standard: A standard greeting card is printed on high quality paper and is rectangular and folded with a picture or decorative motif on the front.

Inside is a pre-printed message that is appropriate for the occasion along with a blank space for the sender to add a signature or handwritten message. They come in matching envelopes.

Photo: A photo card is a card that features a photograph usually chosen by the sender. They are popularly used for sending holiday greetings like Christmas.

Electronic: Also known as E-cards. These greeting cards can be made and sent electronically through sites like Facebook. 

Pop-Up: Pop-ups are normally cards that, once opened, have a picture coming outward giving the reader a surprise. Pictures and printed messages in greeting cards come in various styles, ranging from humorous to profane.

Handmade: A handmade card is a card that includes a production stage made by hand. This term covers a wide range of products including; ribbons, pop-up cards and 3-D cards. These types of cards make an ideal Christmas gift because they are thoughtful and they do not have to go alone. You can pair the card up with jewellery, flowers, clothing or any other type of gift you wish to give your loved one this holiday.

Significance: One major reason why sending handwritten cards is important is because it shows sentiment and that you care. Taking the time to make a card shows to people around you that you value their relationship. They are also very affordable.

What You Need

• Card Stock
• Scissors
• Rope
• Marker
• Glue
• Glitter, ribbons e.t.c.

Things to consider while making them

1. Use eye-catching colours and design tools.
2. Consider designing outside and inside the card.
3. Be creative about it but also think about the person you are sending it to.
4. Always add a personal touch.
5. Avoid using copyrighted references.