Keepsake: Christmas Card Upcycle
I love receiving Christmas cards, but I always find myself at a loss with what to do with them once the season has ended. It doesn’t feel right to throw away lovely cards that people took the time create and send, but saving them in a gallon Ziplock bag to collect dust (my go-to) didn’t seem to be a practical solution either.
I was determined to find a way to use these cards as more than just fridge decor during December. The good news is that I didn’t find just one great way to upcycle Christmas cards – I found three! Using not much more than scissors and tape or glue, here are several ways to enjoy these cards for years to come.
Upcycle Idea 1: Make A Wreath
Cut old Christmas cards carefully into similar shapes of varying sizes (circles, holly leaves, or gingerbread men are all fun shape options) making sure to preserve the design aspects of the card that you wish to keep intact.
Using tape or glue, arrange the pieces of cards into a wreath and affix to one another. For a patina effect, use smaller pieces (this also allows you to use all parts of the card without keeping design intact.)
Upcycle Idea 2: Create a Card Ornament
I know many families who celebrate the tradition of adding a new ornament (or several!) to their collection each year. Take the effort out of the tradition by creating an ornament out of Christmas cards recieving and gift them to the people they came from or keep them for yourself!
Simply cut cards into a bulb or Christmassy shape (see above for ideas) and add any bits of flair that you wish – glitter, stickers, and craft puff balls are all great options! Using a permanent marker or pen, add the date to the back of the ornament and enjoying seeing your loved ones decorate the tree for years to come!
Upcycle Idea 3: Homemade Gift Tags
This is my favorite way to reuse Christmas cards because it turns them into something I need every Christmas anyway – gift tags!
Cut the cards into tag shapes a few inches long by a few inches wide, making sure that the opposite side is blank for your To: and From: text. Or, use photo cards to make tags with picture of the recipient! Attach tags to gifts using tape or ribbon threaded through a hole punched in the top of tag.
What Is Your Favorite Holiday Upcycle?
“I save drawings and paintings my twins make in preschool and use it as wrapping paper for smaller gifts or stuffing paper for gift bags! People love the personalized touch.”
“Instead of spending money on gift boxes every year, I start saving cereal and snack boxes a few months before Christmas. After a quick shower with craft-safe spray paint, I have various-sized boxes to use to make wrapping clothing and awkwardly shaped gifts a snap.”
“I love the smell of our real Christmas tree so much that I sweep up the fallen needles and store them in a jar with a cotton ball. This homemade potpourri lets me enjoy the scents of the season all year long.”
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