But perhaps that’s the rub.  Because the Thank you Card isn’t really all about us – the sender after all. It’s more about the person you’re thanking.

Look at it this way.  Whilst it’s true that we should say Thank You to everyone who is thoughtful enough to share gifts with us, the method of how we say that should be given equal thought.  After all, it’s no good sending a blanket email card out, if this misses out those without email addresses – or those who might not check their email regularly.

And neither can you send a text to those who might not be comfortable deciphering the code that is predictive text!

You really do need to give it a little thought.

I know we’re all busy people, but that’s were the humble printed card and email is designed to make saying thank you a little easier.  Whether you go for a pre-packaged card, or make your own Thank you, you’ll know what’s right.

Pick and mix how you say thanks and those you’re sending to will thank you back.  They’ll appreciate the time and effort it took.  And if they’re like the older members of my family, they’ll remember if you took the trouble to put pen to paper.  For some of them this really is the only way, brought up as they were on the niceties of saying Thank you, and imortalising it on the page.

Not for them the ‘winging it’ message whipped up in a moment and just as quickly deleted. It takes a more conscious effort to bin a posted thank you card than an email one.  And you can bet too that it will be looked at more than once and placed on show.

Because that’s what you want to do with some thank you’s. You want the recipient to receive a more lasting appreciation.  There really is no excuse for dashing off an ‘off-hand thanks.

So go ahead.  Pick and mix your thank you cards or letters now that Christmas is over and the New Year begins.  And make it a conscious choice as we head into 2009 that you’ll adopt an attitude of gratitude as you receive cards and gifts in the coming year. A thank you card says more about you than you know.
 

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If this is the first time you’ve thought of sending an E card then why not try the Email Card?  It’s relatively quick once you get the hang of it and it’s worth the time investment.  Once you get familiar with your way around one site, most are similar and you’ll find yourself able to personalize your message and send out card faster than a shake of a lamb’s tail.

So here’s the low-down on how to get started.

My recommended site are American Greetings and Blue Mountain. 

Click here to see the top 10 most popular eCards on AmericanGreetings.com, including birthday cards, romantic cards and more. Visit Blue Mountain for a wide selection of eCards and printable greeting cards for every occasion. Try it free for 30 days!

They’ve both been at the top of their game for years now and have cards for any occasion you can imagine. So first off, Click on the link to get to their home page

1.Enter Free Easter in the search box on the left hand side.  Up will come a selection of animated, flash and postcard options, some with music. Click on your selected ecard to view/listen 3 When you’re ready hit ‘personalize and send’
4. Add the recipient’s name (nickname if you have one) and their Full Name for anti-spam reasons
5. To make things easier you can register with Blue Mountain to turn your address book into a compatible Quicklist.  If you don’t want to do this, simple enter each email address by hand – or cut and paste
6. Add your message to the card
7. Change the color and font if you have a preference Add a photo if you like from your pc
8. Select delivery options
9. Hit  preview to check before you send.  Always recommended!
10. Finally click send and there it is – off and away.

Of course anywhere along the line you can choose to click on their membership options for an even greatere selection.  Blue Mountain currently offers a month’s Free Ecard membership which is definitely worth taking – especially this time of year.

 But first things first. Start saving time and money with the free easter cards on offer.

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  If you’re really at a loss of what messages to write in thank you cards you'll be delighted to know that many  pre-printed cards  have a greeting ready made for you.  If you're going for an email card then you often have options to choose from.  You won’t have to come up to something your self and you can let someone else do the brain work. It's a bit of a cop-out but it does get you out of a tight spot in a hurry.

A thank you card is the one thing that we should be thinking about after any celebration or holiday season. It's an important social activity that shouldn't be understated.

If,  like me, you were brought up to write a thank you letter straight away after receiving a gift, then you may already be thinking about thank you cards or busy searching for just the right thank you message to write inside.

Vistaprint offer a great selection of notecards with ‘Thank you’ printed on the front.  They come in both landscape and portrait standard sizes of  5.47" x 4.21". You can choose from a matte or linen finish.  Not only do they currently have a great offer on their pricing but they come with free envelopes. 50% Off All Note Cards, Announcements & Invitations  is on offer at the moment to encourage you to get those letters written.

Moo have a great choice of MOO MiniCards – £9.99 for 100 unique photo cards   and all available to personalize.  Their system is clear and unfussy and means that you can say ‘thanks’ with a special holiday photo’.  Simply upload your chosen ‘piccy’, follow they simple instructions and you’ll soon have created your own set of holiday tankk you cards which they’ll rush to you via snail mail.

If you’re after a quality writing paper or watercolor card then you're in for a treat.   From writing paper sets to blank note cards, you’ll be sure to find something to suit.  And writing on a decent paper makes all the difference. Those hard to write notes form all the easier on good paper.

You could even think about sending a gift of thank you flowers yourself, to show your appreciation of the initial gesture. Thank You Flowers are the perfect way to send your love and grateful thoughts.

There are many ways to say – and give your thanks, personally or by mail. Choosing the right Thank You Note or Thank You card for the occasion will make all the difference.  

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Glass painting is a real passion of mine and over the years I shown so many people simple glass painting techniques.  Glass painting is really such a doddle with good instruction that you'll wonder why you never tried it before.  If you haven't, this handmade card glass painting project is a real delight.

I've talked of the the quality of craft activity packs before, so you'll be used to my concerns. If you're a first-timer, it really pays to buy into a reputable craft publisher who knows their subject  and how to explain it.  In the long run, taking a bit more time to get used to a layout really does pay, because the chances are you'll be familiar with it the next time.  Which will make further projects all the quicker. 

The Glitter Pocket Card glass painting project has it all:

1. Instructions
2. Designs
3. 4 glass paints (red, yellow, blue, green)
4. Artist's small paintbrush
5. Outline pen
6. Acetate
7. Gold glitter
8. 3 fold card

The steps are small enough so you can get going quickly.  Yet comprehensive enough to give you the information you need.

If simple glass painting projects is what you're after then you'll also find the Acetate and Foil 3 fold Card a joy.This too has all the specialist materials you need and making it up is really easy.

The painted design is backed in foil which gives the vibrant color of the glass paints an added sparkle.  Absolutely everyone I've ever taught this too loves it.  It's been a success with all age groups and the joy is that you don't have to be able to draw as it's a simple tracing process using the thin outline pen that's included in the pack.

If you're not sure which to start with I'd recommend the Acetate and Foil Card as it's slightly less fiddly.  But both are sure-fire winners. Two simple glass painting projects to add to your handmade card repertoire.
 

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The great thing about this card is that it's  virtually a no-sew patchwork project.  Imagine!  patchwork without sewing.  When I say virtually I mean only edge tacking and tiny cross/catching stitching at the points.

This patchwork card project is an interesting one because there are so many ways of using the technique within a 3-fold aperture card.

You call the shots with the shape and size of your aperture, and how you arrange your pieces (following instruction and recommendations).

All in all you create a really colorful, textural card in a pretty short time.  The time is really taken up in the preparation, as in all patchwork.  Once you've got that down you're steaming!  and yes, pressing is required at crucial points.

This patchwork card making project comes to you in kit form complete with 2 colorway options.  You get full instructions, 3 pieces of cotton fabric, 3 fold card, sew in Vilene and that all important Patchwork pattern.

I used to run teach Card Making for my local Education Authority 6 cards in 6 sessions, and this was always a popular one.  And many folk made a few extra in the following week.  Once a patchworker, always a patchworker.  Some folk can't see the sense in cutting up perfectly good fabric and re-modelling it, but a patchworker and crafter too, it's a natural to me.

So make your choice and put your cardmaking to the test with this Folded Star (or Somerset) patchwork card.

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It’s not always a money saving issue that encourages us to have a go at card-making projects. It’s usually  the love of the thing, the sentiment.  This is what drives us to put time, effort and thought into demonstrating our affection through card-making.

Before you hung up about how your efforts will be received, remember to concentrate more on why you choose to make a card, rather than what you bring together. We really can out-think ourselves in the process.  And sadly, the act of creation is often lost in trying to create ‘something special’.

Your handmade card doesn’t always have to be a thing of brilliance that demonstrates skill and technique.

Forget the fact that you may ever have assembled a bunch of gathered materials into some pleasing rectangular arrangement.  Concentrate first on the purpose behind your efforts and how it will be received when it’s finally given.

If you’re really concerned as to how your efforts will be received, do the following test:

1. Is the one you intend to give it to likely to judge your card on (A) skill or (B) sentiment?
2. Will they look more to the finish or the fact that you chose to invest time in it making?
3. Do they merit your energy?
4. Will they truly appreciate why you wanted to make it, as opposed to what you actually made?

I guess the real acid test here before you begin is will what you make, your home-made Easter card in its full glory (or not) be taken at fact value, or will they appraise the look of the thing and so re-appraise you!

If you’ve faced all this and still feel drawn to make your own Easter card, then really, think no more, just get down to it and make a home-made Easter Card to be proud of.

I've a range card kits that would make great handmade Easter cards  and 25 card project ideas – including cards for Spring and the holiday season.  They're all perfect for your card crafting and sending occasions.

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If you have a special person who like to ‘do’ their own flowers then why not choose to send them a bouquet that they can arrange themselves.  That way they can choose to make your gift into a number of different arrangements for different settings, adding their own touches as they choose.

Why not go for a colorful bunch of Daisiesas a beautiful Spring-like flower bouquet.Lilies are the traditional Easter Flower and Lily Arrangements are the perfect choice for someone who will appreciate the extra professional touch.  There are so many stunning Easter flower options available that whatever you choose you can be sure it will arrive in tip-top condition.

Ordering your Easter flowers is a simple click away.  Make your choice, and you’re directed to give your own and the recipient's details. If you prefer, and you can opt to have your flowers delivered to you, for personal hand delivery.  If not, then add your greeting and it will be carefully added to your Easter flower order.

Alternatively, you may need to choose JustFlowers.com International Flowers  for delivery overseas.  Either way, flowers these days are sent promptly and efficiently, carefully packed with all the care and attention you would require.  Should you want to you can include other other Easter Flowers and Gifts such as chocolates, or teddies etc.  There’s along list to choose from.

Whatever you go for, sending – and giving Easter Flowers really will help you to feel connected to those who can’t be with you. 

Make this year the one when you show your special appreciation for family and friends, near, far and wide.  Include Easter flowers in your holiday celebrations, and add a card with your personal message for goodwill this Eastertide.

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Some time ago when working in Adult Education I was teaching volunteers activities to share in Care and Residential homes and with the wider community.  It was Easter time and they wanted something that would last and not break the bank.

One or two had access to a store cupboard of artificial flowers which cut down on expenses so they asked for something that would keep year after year, and be durable. 

This project is based on a variation of an International Flower Company's 3D card and certainly ticks the boxes on all counts.

It's colorful,  cheerful and would suit any variety of occasions.  All you need to do is change the Mountboard color to match the season – or flowers. 

It requires careful marking and cutting, but the effort is worth it – because look what you get! The inside is cut away to create an integral stand with a central aperture to hold the oasis dish – and it packs flat for storage.

It's impressive, and you can add your own messages on the white inside area or stick a foil greeting to the front.  Either way it's a winner and great for the Easter table, sideboard or window. 

I've still got some in different colors that I pull out for different occasions.  At this time of year I often use a yellow mountboard with purple irises. The yellow, green and purple is a stunning combination. 

This project is taken from 50 ways to papercrafts which includes 50 double sided paper craft activity projects, line diagrams and templates. 

For your free Flower Card instruction sheet  (and sign up to all our other news) send  an email with Flower Card in the subject line to geraldine@greetingcardguide.com 

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For many of us, the Eastertide period means Holy week and all that that entails.  And whilst we may not ourselves choose to take part in Church services or rituals, we may know of those to whom this has significance. 

At the least, we may recognize the symbols associated with Easter and have friends, colleagues or family whose lives are still influenced and governed by their Christian faith.

There are fortunately a great many quality religious Easter cards available with traditional Easter messages and images. 

Such cards allow us to show our support for  others’ faiths by choosing designs and easter greetings that will help us to feel connected to them at this holiday time.

Christianbook.com have been supplying these cards for many years now and they have a wide selection of  Religious Easter Cards, letterheads and stationery.

Sometimes an assortment pack of Religious Easter Cards can prove an economical solution.  With many designs to choose from you've a selection of card options to send out and more chance of finding the right one for the right person. These from Dayspring include Christian text and verse and come as 3 each of 4 designs, making 12 in all

Boxed sets give variety as different artists go for different media and use different styles.   Traditional religious Easter card scenes can be found on  Boxes of 12 assorted Easter cards from Lawson Falle. Each card features a Christian sentiment, and KJV Scripture verse. You get 3 each of 4 designs, envelopes included.They also include a bonus of  2 free postcards.

 If you're after a wider selection  of Christian easter cards   in a contemporary style, with messages of eternal life then you'll find it here. 25 in a pack. There's also instructions for making an origami cross! Kids will learn the true reason for Easter and create their own cross to remind them that Christ is risen. 

All in all there are many places to locate your Easter Cards but looking for a company that marries good service with sensitive tracts and messages and you can be sure that your Religious Easter card will be well received and appreciated.
 

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You can create a whole range of individual  cards in one go, but guarantee no two will be the same.  Everyone will receive a unique homemade Easter card personal to them.

You’ll need a number of items, some of which you may have around, others  hat you’ll have to beg or buy.

What you need
A4 card
A4 paper sheet
Toning ribbon
Bowl/baking tray/clean cat litter tray
Oil based paint
Turpentine
Water
Plastic sheeting
Ribbon
Hole punch

What you do
The card is made in three easy stages:

1. Preparing the paint surface
1. Fill your bowl /tray with water.
2. Cut your paper to size.  If you have a project in mind cut your paper ready for that.
3. For greatest economy, cut your paper to fit your tray.  Any parts that you don’t use will come in useful for other projects.
4. Drop a blob of paint into the water.  If it doesn’t float on the surface it will need mixing with a little turpentine.
5. Thin some more paint with turpentine and try again.
6. Add some other colors.
7. Gently swirl with a clean stick.

2. Marbling
1. Hold the cut paper both sides and gently drop onto the surface, smoothing out any air bubbles.
2.   Carefully peel the marbled paper off the surface and lay on a stack of papers to dry.

3.  Making your card
1. Fold a piece on A4 paper in half and draw an egg shape that is attached to the left hand fold.  Cut out. Use this as a template to make your egg shape.  If you have an envelope ready, make the template to fit.  Alternatively, use one of the envelope projects to make your own.
2. Fold your dry marbled paper in half.  Place your template on the fold, draw round and cut out.
3. Cut out a slightly smaller shape of thin paper to fit inside your card.
4. Wrap a length of toning ribbon around the fold to hold the inner paper in place.
5. Write on your greeting.

What next
Marbled paper looks so exotic and is so simple. Keep practising until you get the right consistency.  Use it as covers for your folders, scrapbook, cards, notelets etc.  Offcuts can be used to brighten up envelopes, stuck on cards, and used as mini envelopes.

This project was taken from Handmade Cards : Step by Step.  25 ways to stick and stitch your own greeting cards.  It's just one of a range of card kits, courses  and handmade card ideas to help you with your card craft skills. The book includes patterns, and designs and easy instructions to help you make all sorts of different cards.
 

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