by Brenda Schwaab

Holiday cards are so beautiful; we enjoy receiving them, opening them, reading the messages, and displaying them around the house.

But, now the holidays are over and we have stacks of them. Should we throw them away? Should we recycle them? Let’s use them for craft projects to prepare for next year or to preserve memories.

Gift Cards

Cut around a design with regular scissors or cut a small area with pinking shears. Punch a hole and add ribbon or yarn to make a tie-on. Place in a safe place, and use them next year.

Memory Book

Purchase a small notebook with blank pages or a small photo album. Place small card sections in the book. Glue onto blank pages or insert in photo sleeves. Add a greeting card verse from one of your cards on each page. Share this book with family or friends. Makes a nice gift for shut-ins.

Memory Box

Purchase a shadow box or picture frame. Cut around the card designs and glue in frame for a keepsake of your favorite cards.

Placemats and Coasters

Purchase heavy tag board in red or green. Cut tag board to placemat or coaster size.

Arrange cards or sections of cards to cover the tag board. Glue in place. Cover with clear contact paper.

Card Mosaics

Cut cards in small squares (one inch) When you have a large quantity of them, glue on Ceramic tiles, craft tray, tag board or paper to make designs. Either cover entire flat surface of item or make designs like Christmas Trees, Bells or Wreaths with the squares.

Not Creative?

Donate your cards to a school or non-profit organization and let them be creative.

All of the designs are listed for Holiday cards, but may be made from other greeting cards. The possibilities are endless. How about a Memory box or book with wedding cards. Think about a book of Bridal or Baby Shower cards, Birthday cards or Anniversary cards.

Be Creative