Five ways to reuse your old Christmas cards

I’m looking with dismay at my beautiful display of Christmas cards. I know Christmas is over, but I can’t quite bear to take them down yet, especially since some are handmade. 

Every year I’m faced with the same predicament, so this year I thought I would try and find some creative ways to reuse our Christmas cards. Here are a few of my favourite ideas, which could also be applied to other cards throughout the year…


1. Make gift tags for next year
All you need to do is develop a template shape that you like (you can use a commercial gift tag from this year) to trace around on the back of your Christmas cards. Simply cut out your tags, add string or ribbon of your choice (you can be as fancy as you like here) and then stash the tags with any left-over gift wrap and decorations for next year. You can find full instructions at www.thegoodstuffguide.com

http://www.thegoodstuffguide.com/upcycling-christmas-cards/

http://www.imperfecthomemaking.com/2011/12/what-to-do-with-old-christmas-cards.html




2. Make Placemats
Simply cut out and layout or collage your cards together on an A3 or A4 piece of paper, glue down then laminate. You can also cut out and display the messages in the cards – your family will love reminiscing every time they use these special placemats.
 Image from www.thegoodstuffguide.com

3. Make a gift pouch
These little pouches are ideal for giving jewellery or other small gifts. 
See how to make one here
http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Gift-Pouch-from-a-Greeting-Card
 Image from www.wikihow.com

4. Make a Christmas wreath
All you need to make this beautiful wreath is:
1. A stack of colourful Christmas cards
2. A holly leaf stencil/template
3. A hot glue gun
4. Toothpicks
5. A Styrofoam wreath
http://sweetlittlesmoothie.blogspot.com.au/2011/12/christmas-card-holder.html


5. Cut them up so your kids can practice their weaving skills
Kids will love working with the bright colours of the cards, and card is a lot easier to weave with than paper. Here’s what to do

http://www.baby-patch.com/blog/?p=367

What do you do with your old Christmas cards? 
We’d love your thoughts – please comment below…

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