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One of my goals for this Christmas in July series is to not only present my readers with awesome holiday ideas, but also ones that they can use for everyday gift or decor ideas, as well. These Puzzle Greeting cards definitely fall into each category. I adore making and receiving photo gifts at Christmas, so puzzle photo cards are the perfect little touch for me!
My thought process for these cards is that they are great for sending to kids or maybe grandparents. I think it would be neat to make some to send to my little one’s cousins. The cards are easy, but they are more time-consuming than the traditional card, so for those (like me) who send out 50+ Christmas cards, I wouldn’t try to make one for each card that is normally sent. Maybe save these for those close family members.
Supplies:
- Puzzle cards- found in the scrapbooking section of arts & craft stores. I’ve found rectangle ones, oval ones, and even heart shaped ones.
- Mod Podge
- White Tissue paper
- Computer and printer
- Exacto knife
The first goal is to print a picture for your card onto white tissue paper. To do this, I cut a piece of tissue paper a bit smaller than a piece of 8 1/2 by 11 cardstock. I taped the tissue paper to the cardstock. I then chose my picture (make sure that it’s the correct size to match the card shape that you’ve chosen) and printed it on the tissue paper page.
Here is an example of the tissue paper taped to the cardstock with a message printed on it:
Cut the photo out and lay it on top of the puzzle card. Cut around the picture until it matches the shape and dimensions of the puzzle card.
Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the photo. Be sure to seal the ends. Let it dry and apply one more coat. The less Mod Podge that you can get away with, the better. At the end, we will be cutting though the layers to separate the puzzle pieces.
At this time, if you’d like to include a message on the back of the puzzle card, that may be done, as well. For this tutorial, i just include a short message. Follow all of the above steps to Mod Podge the back of the card. Let dry.
Now for the fun {a.k.a. hard part}. Using a self-healing mat or other hard-flat surface, CAREFULLY use the exacto knife to cut through the card, following the lines of the individual puzzle pieces. Work in a well-lighted area. This step requires an extremely steady hand. Cut until all the puzzle pieces are separated.
It’s inevitable that not all the pieces will be perfect- using that exacto knife is less than exact if you don’t have an absolute steady hand. But overall, the is a unique way to send a greeting to someone who needs a Christmas card, or a little pick me up!
Make it easy and send it in one piece, or make it a mystery by sending the puzzle card in pieces. The recipient will have to put the puzzle together to find out the message and get a nice photo surprise!
Linking to these parties.
Oh my word Melanie, this is a wonderful idea! I will be pinning this to try!
How what fun clever idea!! I think the grandparents in our family would LOVE this!! Thanks for sharing I’m totally pinning it!:)
Very fun idea!
What a fun idea! I can see this making a great little love note, especially!
Such a cute idea!!!
Really like this. Cute idea!
This is such a cute idea! Thanks so much for sharing at Mix it up Monday 🙂
Fun, fun, fun!
I love this! I hope you’ll stop by and add this and any other posts you’re proud of to my Wednesday What We Wore, Read, and Made Link party
marissa
http://raegunwear.blogspot.com
What a great idea for cards! I love the idea of posting them unmade too! Fun!!
Thanks for linking to a Round Tuit!
Hope you have a fabulous week!
Jill @ Creating my way to Success
http://www.jembellish.blogspot.com/
Awesome! I like the idea of sending it piece by piece. Thanks so much for sharing at Etcetorize this week~
Thanks for linking to Take-A-Look Tuesday – you were featured today!!
–Mandy, http://www.SugarBeeCrafts.com
Such a fun and personalized gift/card to receive and make. Thanks for sharing this week on BeColorful.
p
This is a great idea! Thanks for sharing at Terrific Tuesdays.
Rachel
adventuresofadiymom.blogspot.com
That would be so fun to send to my own children. They love getting mail, and the picture would be a surprise. Thanks for the great idea.
I’m hosting my first linky party “One Creative Weekend” at OneCreativeMommy.com. I’d love for you to visit and link up this idea or anything else you’d like to share.
How cool! I love it. Thanks for linking to our Handmade Tuesdays party.
Does anyone know where you can still purchase these? I want to send puzzle cards to ask ladies to be bridesmaids in my wedding. I can’t find them anywhere. 🙁 I used to purchase decorated puzzle stationery when I was a kid (Even Lisa Frank made them) and I can’t find those or blank ones anywhere.
Hi! I bought these in the paper crafting section of Michael’s several years ago. I did find some on Amazon but I’m not sure if they are the size you’re looking for: Puzzle Cards (aff link).