Anyone can buy a Christmas card – and make them too! The difference is that the self-made version will probably be better received because it is obvious that someone put more effort into it. Don’t worry, you don’t need an incredible amount of artistic talent! In just a few steps, we have created Christmas cards with different motifs to send and give as gifts.
How it works:
First, you will need cardboard or hard paper, depending on how firm you want your card to be. If you would like to send your card in an envelope, ensure that it has the right size format. We decided to use a DIN A 4 size and to fold the cardboard in the middle so you can open the card.
The motif is next. You can either draw it yourself, for instance a star, or find a beautiful template online. Now you just have to print it or cut it out.
Now spray the back of the stencil with our WEICON Adhesive Spray removal to fixate the motif to the card. This ensures that the template won’t slip out of place while spraying. But careful! Do not apply too much glue so as not to damage the card when removing the stencil. Please use in a well ventilated room only or outside.
Bronze, silver or gold?
Once the stencil is glued to the card you can start using the metal spray. We have used our brass, chrome-silver and copper sprays. The intensity also depends a lot on how much spray you apply. Individual, light sprays create a drop pattern, while even sprays transform the paper into a shiny, metallic surface. Both look very beautiful. Be sure to have a distance of about 20 centimetres between the can and the paper, and don’t overdue it with the spraying. Otherwise the paint can get runny causing undesired spots. It’s best to test it first before starting.
Also, be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands, as well as work clothes, so you don’t get frustrated later about any colour getting on your shirt or pants. Also: Use the spray in a well ventilated room, or even better, use it outside.
The spray is dry after about 15 minutes and the stencils can be carefully (!) removed. If you would like to write anything on the front of the card a white gloss-paint pen is recommended. You can find them at craft or stationery stores.
Now all that is missing is your personal Christmas greeting inside the card. Your friends and family will definitely be excited to receive one of these!
Have fun crafting!
Written by guest author Mona Schele