Handmade Cards

Posted on Categories #100PrintsByStephanieIp, 2018, Graphics, IllustrationsTags , Leave a comment on Handmade Cards

Last December, when I was setting my goals for this year, one of the things I really wanted to explore more of is custom greeting cards. Ever since I started making my version of custom Moory Christmas cards, I knew I had enjoyed creating them so much that I wanted to continue to create more. Custom designed cards are always the best and most unique gift you can give to someone you appreciate. In return, (hopefully) they will reciprocate the appreciation of receiving a one-of-a-kind card made by you. Well, a nice beautiful card can make the first impression, but it’s the thought that really counts.

In order to create these custom card, I added the little personal touch by adding a picture frame on the back, which at the time I didn’t know exactly how I would make it more interesting. A simple plain picture may be boring, so I thought how about adding a custom printed prop, have the card recipient hold it and pose for a Polaroid image. The idea turned out to be a fun experience for everyone involved. When the recipients are happy during the process, you know you have done something right.

Creating custom cards can be a lot of work, especially when it’s for a special occasion like birthdays. As much as I love creating them, these cards take time to execute as they are all done from scratch! Well, not really 100% from scratch, thank god I don’t have to make the paper and create ink. Haha! Though, having the right tools are essential in making nice cards.

My recent Christmas gift from my lovely boyfriend!

As soon as January hit, there were a bunch of birthdays of people I know. Early in the month, I was illustrating hot air balloon for the #100PrintsByStephanieIp challenge I had set up for myself late last year. When I was scrambling to put together something unique, I thought, “What would be better than receiving a hot air balloon for birthdays?” Having the illustrations done already allowed me to get right into the execution process.

Recently, I have also picked up a new skill in calligraphy and embossing with embossing powder! A little glitter can really do wonders to a piece of artwork. Remember how glitter glue used to be your favorite art tools when you were a little kid? Glitter can get messy, but not if it actually melts into a form of embossing! This is why I fell in love with this crafting technique instantly.

A custom designed notebook with a custom embossing finishing touch.

Now, enjoy this last video of my third custom Hot Air Balloon birthday card making process!


// Stephanie Ip

Stephanie is a Creative Director and Consultant, providing creative strategy development support to small and large scale businesses in the industries of Fashion and Soft Goods. She specializes in Design and Development. Learn more about her here.

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