DIY Christmas Cards from Old cards

Now this is a tutorial but because everyone will have different supplies this tutorial should be more of a concept.

I was making my own Christmas cards on blank cards that I got from Michaels in the shape of tags when I realized I never should have bought them because the design was so simple! I must have been feeling lazy as I shopped and not wanted to make the envelopes.... Anyway, I was looking through my old card stash when I had the idea to make my own Christmas cards from them.

First, take whatever cards you have that perhaps tickle your fancy and maybe you can imagine what kind of christmas/holiday decor you would like to add to them. I decided to take the boats for this example.

Make a cut down somewhere near the center that leaves, hopefully, two usable sides. What I mean is, If there is something you want in your card make sure not to cut it in half.

Measure the same distance in on each side of the creased side of your card. I measured 1" in on each side and then 1.5" down on each side. Then cut from one mark to the other. IF you aren't comfortable with your cutting skills use a ruler and draw a line from one point to the other.
If you have a hole-punch USE IT. I don't so I used a blade to cut a diamond shape hole.

Next take scrap paper and draw some doodles. It can be animals, elves, santa hats, ornaments, holly, etc. GET CREATIVE!

Color your characters or decorations simply and with a limited amount of colors. This should help to tie your card together and give it a little Wa. (Harmony, for those not familiar with the Japanese word). Then glue your decor to the card. I used a mixture of Elmers glue and hot glue when I used felt.

Fold a piece of 6"-8" ribbon in half and feed the folded end through the hole. Then feed the two end pieces through the loop and pull tight.

If inside you happen to have some pesky writing then take another piece of paper and cover it! I only had white to I took my golden stamp pad and added a little pizazz. Then because I have stamps from Michaels (only one dollar for the whole alphabet!) .......

I added my seasons greetings. This can also be done on the outside of the card.

Remember to trim off any excess paper that hangs off the sides.

And Voila! Finished product. If you would like more examples, feel free to visit my Etsy shop and look under the section Stationary. I won't be offended if you look and don't buy. ^_^