Fabric Greeting Cards
Handmade fabric greeting cards not only add that extra sentiment to any gift, they also are an economical, quick and fun fabric craft project doable by anyone.
Use novelty, themed or seasonal print fabric to further emphasize the message. A vintage hankie can also be used as the fabric background – use iron on fusible web to the fabric back if it is delicate for added stiffness. Transfer a shared travel or family gathering photo onto muslin fabric for a touching memory. Fabric charm packs (pre-cut 5" x 5" squares) are also ideal to use as the pre-cut pieces are uniform in size, usually in a riot of colors and coordinating prints.
Cream or white already cut sturdy cardstock is easiest to use when making the card. Folded blank cardstock and envelopes can be purchased in a package from a variety of sources.
There are many ways to make the fabric card. One way is to raw-edge applique a small fabric motif onto a 4x4 fabric square, then machine stitch the square centered onto one side of the cardstock that is folded in half. The motif can be transferred as an outline from a coloring book, a cookie cutter, or free clip-art. To then machine stitch the fabric effectively onto the stiff paper, first drop the machine’s feed dogs and shorten the stitch length. It is not necessary to remove the presser foot, but it may be easier to see where the needle is stitching and to eliminate any pressure tracks from the foot. Use a zig zag, decorative or simple straight stitch. Another way to use the fabric motif is by directly gluing onto the cardstock front. Clear glue is best.
Embellish the card front with small buttons, sequins, lace or ribbon. Hand write or stamp an appropriate sentiment on the inside of the card. As an accompaniment to a wrapped package, slip the finished card into a transparent glassine envelop to temporarily protect the fabric or use a clear seal top flap closure bag often used to protect photos.
The fabric cards can be mailed; however, the post office has a few rules to follow. For example, the card and protective envelop should not be more than 1/4" in thickness to qualify for a single Forever stamp. There are other restrictive rules regarding raised attachments and weight limits. Requesting hand canceling provides a personalized touch if desired. Follow the USPS guidelines for shipping handmade cards to ensure prompt delivery.
Fabric cards are a beautiful addition to a wrapped package or when hand delivering a hospitality gift or thank-you note. Enclosed in the card are of course best wishes written from the heart, but sometimes inspiration on what to write in the card is needed. There are several online sources for what to express, via a quote or inspiration, for a Christmas or Hanukkah card, for Mother’s or Father’s Day, birthday, anniversary, congratulatory or thank-you cards with a range of appropriate greetings to choose from.
Sew happy, sew inspired.
Use novelty, themed or seasonal print fabric to further emphasize the message. A vintage hankie can also be used as the fabric background – use iron on fusible web to the fabric back if it is delicate for added stiffness. Transfer a shared travel or family gathering photo onto muslin fabric for a touching memory. Fabric charm packs (pre-cut 5" x 5" squares) are also ideal to use as the pre-cut pieces are uniform in size, usually in a riot of colors and coordinating prints.
Cream or white already cut sturdy cardstock is easiest to use when making the card. Folded blank cardstock and envelopes can be purchased in a package from a variety of sources.
There are many ways to make the fabric card. One way is to raw-edge applique a small fabric motif onto a 4x4 fabric square, then machine stitch the square centered onto one side of the cardstock that is folded in half. The motif can be transferred as an outline from a coloring book, a cookie cutter, or free clip-art. To then machine stitch the fabric effectively onto the stiff paper, first drop the machine’s feed dogs and shorten the stitch length. It is not necessary to remove the presser foot, but it may be easier to see where the needle is stitching and to eliminate any pressure tracks from the foot. Use a zig zag, decorative or simple straight stitch. Another way to use the fabric motif is by directly gluing onto the cardstock front. Clear glue is best.
Embellish the card front with small buttons, sequins, lace or ribbon. Hand write or stamp an appropriate sentiment on the inside of the card. As an accompaniment to a wrapped package, slip the finished card into a transparent glassine envelop to temporarily protect the fabric or use a clear seal top flap closure bag often used to protect photos.
The fabric cards can be mailed; however, the post office has a few rules to follow. For example, the card and protective envelop should not be more than 1/4" in thickness to qualify for a single Forever stamp. There are other restrictive rules regarding raised attachments and weight limits. Requesting hand canceling provides a personalized touch if desired. Follow the USPS guidelines for shipping handmade cards to ensure prompt delivery.
Fabric cards are a beautiful addition to a wrapped package or when hand delivering a hospitality gift or thank-you note. Enclosed in the card are of course best wishes written from the heart, but sometimes inspiration on what to write in the card is needed. There are several online sources for what to express, via a quote or inspiration, for a Christmas or Hanukkah card, for Mother’s or Father’s Day, birthday, anniversary, congratulatory or thank-you cards with a range of appropriate greetings to choose from.
Sew happy, sew inspired.
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