It’s a common sign of the holidays when well wishes and happy greetings from close and long-lost friends start to arrive in the mailbox.
Christmas cards start flowing through the mail system and making their way to loved ones by the hundreds each year, but there is nothing quite like pulling a handmade card out of the envelope to see the love poured on to a piece of paper.
Keeping up the holiday tradition, Sandria Crosby of the Westville Library had the idea to spread her knowledge of card making to the community, through the library.
“It stemmed from the idea of having a craft group,” said Crosby.
In addition to the idea for the craft group, the library wanted to put their Cricut and Cuttlebug machines to good use.
“Because the equipment is easy to use, it is all ages (activity,)” Crosby said. “If you can use a pair of scissors and a glue stick, you can make a card.”
Although those looking to handmake cards using the machines at the library are welcome to come in and maybe gather ideas while they are there, there are some tips for beginners who are interested in crafting a handmade Christmas creation for a loved one this year.
Crosby noted that the library is big on reusing and recycling, so she recommends using old greeting and Christmas cards if they have a particular scene or message on them you would like to incorporate. Drawings as well as handwritten messages are great to show a loved one you care.
For those looking to make more advanced cards, paper crimping machines such as the Cuttlebug can be used to press a design in the paper and rubber stamps can be used for designs, messages or anything else. Many card makers mix textures and patterns of cardstock to get a good look.
“Everybody loves a homemade card or gift,” Crosby said.