Card making advice

[Sunnysky2016]

I've just started making cards. As is part of my bipolar disorder I blew a lot of money on a lot of items. I've got pens, papers, hundreds of stamps, inks, big shot, dies etc.

Yet I don't know where to start!!!!!! Any really good blogs, websites etc anyone can recommend? Or any have their own sites that I could look at. I may be good at this or may not.... Mmmmm lol

Sounds like a fun problem to have! Just go for it and enjoy.

I'd say as a general rule, less is more. When I see handmade cards (and I make them myself too) they look most impressive and professional when they are simple and have some space around the design, so don't be tempted to throw everything at every card.

There are lots of magazines like Crafts Beautiful etc which I'm sure must have websites and Facebook pages etc but the best thing is probably just to Google some designs using the things you have and then crack on and have a try or search for stamped birthday designs etc and see what you like. You don't have to copy but you can be inspired by them.

I once printed a book of card designs sent in by my customers (I used to run a craft supplies business) and one of the main things I looked for when choosing what to include was an interesting layout.

Ideas include keeping the design to one side for an asymmetric design; grouping 4 squares together like a window; or 2/3 in a column down the centre of the card. just having a small design within the larger panel of the card can make a design stand out more than having a big design that fills the card.

Lettering is also important, so if you have stamps that will help, but you can also print out greetings and layer them on your cards. Nothing says 'dodgy handmade card' like a poorly handwritten greeting! If you have lovely writing go for it and write your own messages and greetings.

Most of all, clear a space, spread out all your stuff and have fun.

Thank you

Have you looked at Pinterest ? Some great ideas on there for lots of crafts.

Thanks i will do. Really appreciate both feedback

I used to go to a card making group
Have a look in your area

I get Creativity/Docrafts magazine. Once a month and only £2.99 if bought at the Range. I also use Docrafts website for inspiration and the Range for supplies but also recommend Hobbybase for online supplies.