Relaxing & Beautiful Handmade Note Cards
all illustrations by Ida Mae
Making art is an opportunity to slow down, take some time off, and get lost in the creative process. If you’re anything like me, you probably don’t have hours to put in to making a greeting card every time the occasion arises.
The solution? Keep it simple, focused, and heartfelt. The magic isn’t in a complex, multi-layered masterpiece; it’s in the fact that you made it by hand.
A Personal Story on the Power of a Handwritten Note
I dedicate this post to my grandmother Ida Mae, ( pictured here) for who I am named. I miss writing her letters during the holidays.
This passion for creating and sending notes isn’t just about art for me; it’s deeply personal. As an adopted child, my own mother wrote me a letter every single year, each one filled with beautiful illustrations and heartfelt words. Those letters were more than just paper; they were a tangible, hold-in-your-hands proof of love and connection. They are the reason I pursued a career in the arts, and they are a constant reminder of the impact a simple, handwritten note can have.
This season, I want to encourage each one of you to write a handwritten note to someone you love. It doesn’t have to be a novel. It can be just a few lines telling them you’re thinking of them. This small act can make a huge difference in someone’s day and help you stay connected in the beautiful, traditional way of note writing.
“Creative Homework”
Simple Prompts for Stunning Cards
To make it easy, I’ve created a list of simple, everyday prompts. Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to create just one card based on one of these themes. Don’t overthink it!
Prepare Your Card
Grab a sheet of watercolor paper.
Either cut it to a postcard size or fold it in half to create a note card.
Check Your Pen
On a scrap piece of paper, draw a small line with your pen.
Brush a wet watercolor brush over it. If the ink doesn’t smear, it’s waterproof and perfect to use!
Create Your Design
Lightly sketch your design with a pencil, or go for it directly with your waterproof pen.
Add Watercolor
Use a few colors of watercolor to paint your design. Don’t worry about being perfect!
Let it Dry
Set your card aside until the paint is completely dry.
Your Inspiration List: Each Prompt Has a YouTube Link!
- Flowers: A single poinsettia bloom Click Here
- Trees: A majestic oak, a delicate birch tree, or simple pine. Click Here
- Pet: A simple outline of your dog, cat, or bird. Click Here
- Ornaments: Draw a single ornament from your collection. Click Here
- Fruits: A slice of orange or a perfect pear Click Here
- Candle: A flickering flame on a simple candlestick. Click Here
- Bird: A flying swallow, a robin, or a partridge in a pear tree Click Here
- House: The cozy outline of your home or a snowy cottage. Click Here
Nothing too overwhelming. The goal is to enjoy 15 minutes of creative calm and end up with a unique, personal card that will brighten someone’s mailbox.
Now, go grab your supplies, pick a prompt, and create a little piece of joy. Who will you send your first card to?
Happy creating!