Happy Hand-Made Holidays

One of my favorite things to do for the holidays is to make my Christmas cards. 

Since 1993, I started the tradition of hand making all my holiday cards. It seemed like a good idea almost 30 years ago. I have since tried to break the habit over the last few years, but inevitably I will hear from a family member or a friend letting me know that they have saved all my cards over the years. My Catholic guilt creeps in and I feel the need to continue the tradition. 

The cards below represent a variety of techniques. I tapped into my book binding, sewing, and origami skills. I like the cards to be as interactive as possible, so in the past I have created pop up cards, scratch off cards, and advent calendars. In a few cases I made CD’s (back before streaming) and a few Claymations (stay tuned for that journal entry).

..and the answer is YES, I am crazy. I make at least 75 cards total and at times have spent up to $500.

Here are a few of my favorite cards over the years: