Cardmaking

Cards, also known as greeting cards, are sent to greet, congratulate or express sentiments on occasions like birthdays, weddings and festivals. These greeting cards are made of fine cardboard or card paper on which the message is printed. There are often decorations or illustrations that accompany the message to enhance the appearance of greeting cards. The occupation of cardmaking is an enjoyable and laborious vocation that tests the creativity and skills of the cardmaker.

The art of cardmaking began in ancient China where people exchanged greeting cards on festive occasions. Paper greeting cards were made by hand in several parts of Europe during medieval times. Nowadays, elegant greeting cards are designed by cardmakers for Christmas, New Year, Valentine’s Day and such occasions. These cards add to the gaiety and splendour of these occasions.

Contemporary cards are either handmade or manufactured en masse by automated processes. Some popular techniques of making greeting cards include glass painting, cross stitching, rubber stamping and parchment crafting. Various kinds of embellishments and tools are used for modern cardmaking. Brads and eyelets contribute significantly to the overall look of the greeting card. These cards often feature innovative designs and popular themes like cartoon characters, wild life, etc.

Cardmaking supplies and card making kits could be purchased online or from several shops across the UK. Amateur artists could get card making ideas from various books available on the subject.