If you make your own Valentine card, you'll delight your loved one with the effort you've made. Even if you use a computer, you can make a Valentine's Day card with a personal touch. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Using a Computer
With a computer and a versatile word processing program, you have control over the font and your message. Choose your words, and then print them out on card stock. Once you've done that, you can decorate the card with watercolors, markers, stickers, stamps, cutouts, scrapbook materials, tissue paper, glitter glue and paint pens.
You can also use the computer to find or create additional artwork, poetry or designs to add to the card. Print in color, or print in black and white, and add the color yourself. Just be patient when working with the printer, and have enough paper on hand to print out several versions to make sure the card comes out the way you want.
Collage Art
Cut out pictures from magazines (chocolates, hearts, the word "Love" and other affectionate words, flowers or puppies), shapes from wallpaper or fabric scraps, photographs or pictures from other leftover greeting cards. You can add texture with bits of ribbon, sequins, buttons, yarn, dried flowers and scrapbooking paper.
To add the material to your valentine card craft, you'll need either a hot glue gun or some all-purpose glue. Choose card stock or construction paper for the card itself. Fold the paper in half to make the card form. Cut out and arrange everything you want to use on the paper, and, when you're happy with the arrangement, glue it down. Add words to the outside, around or through the design and to the inside of the card. Allow everything to dry.
Stencils
Remember also that cards don't have to be rectangle in shape. Go ahead and cut your card into a heart, butterfly or flower shape for more flair. Just use or make your own stencils. To make your own, use cardboard or card stock. Draw the stencil shape, and cut it out with sharp scissors. Suggestions for Valentine's Day include hearts, the word "Love" or more complex designs if you are artistic.
Another way to use the stencil is to paint shapes on top of a card. Once you've cut out the stencil, simply lay the stencil on top of a folded piece of card stock, and paint over the stencil so the design gets onto the card beneath. Duplicate as desired, and then add your message when the paint dries.
When you're done, your Valentine's Day card will be a real work of art that the recipient will cherish.
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