CHRISTMAS CARD FROSTING
I like to think of Christmas cards as small gifts I’m sending to loved ones. Because of that, I think it’s worth it to make each one feel special.
From the envelopes to the pens I use to address them, I like to think the palette through. I typically have a design in my head each year, but this year I’m sharing my favorite Christmas card “frosting” items here so you can use them, too.
Before we jump into links, let’s talk postage. USPS releases different holiday stamps each year and some years are more aesthetically pleasing than others. 2023 is kind of a bummer year if you ask me. But never fear—as usual, Etsy has us covered. I bought stamps from a previous year here and they were actually less expensive than at the post office counter.
Now that we’ve got our stylish stamps, here are some other ways to dress up cards!
Green Envelopes: These are self-sealing, meaning you rip off a sticker strip and you don’t have to lick the envelope. A swap that is both beautiful & easier.
Handwritten Cards: Don’t feel up to sending dozens of cards this year? That’s not all bad. Pick up a pack of blank Christmas cards and add your own photo (or not!) to your favorite few.
Kraft Paper Envelopes: These are a long-time favorite of mine. They add such a lovely texture and warmth. Plus, they look darling with white ink.
Custom Address Stamp: This makes addressing Christmas cards quick & fun. It makes me feel like a fancy librarian. Plus, they work for years to come—a great investment.
Instant or Retro-Print Photos: I received a Christmas card from a friend last year that was handwritten and included a quick Polaroid-style snap of their family from an Instax camera (I see those for sale on Facebook Marketplace all the time!). It was my favorite card of the season. Fun cards do not have to be complicated or expensive!
Pre-made Wax Seals: Etsy sells tons of pre-made seals that have sticker-backs. Genius. This Santa one has my heart.
“Teacher Pen”: These are the MVP of Christmas card pens. I use others as well, especially if I want a white or metallic ink, but if I had to pick one pen to recommend, it would be this one. (P.S. They come in red & green, too).
Vintage Holly Sticker Seals: This Etsy shop has lot’s of different options (I bought the pine tree ones for my cards this year) at a great price point. I think a sticker seal adds some nice contrast to an envelope and makes the whole tiny package feel thought-out.
Washi Tape: I love these Rifle Paper Co. ones, but you could go for any washi tape. I’ve used it in years past to seal my envelopes in lieu of stickers & it’s a great option to add some color.
Custom Embosser: I don’t have one of these, but I’ve had my eye on them for a while now. I think it’s such a fun tool to have in your stationery tool-kit. I would use it on the back of an envelope instead of a seal for an luxe feel, but you could also use it on a basic pack of craft store notecards to create your own blank Christmas cards.
Gold Foil Edge Envelopes: Don’t these look like they came straight from the North Pole? I think these would easily take Christmas cards to the next level. Who wouldn’t be excited to see this in their mailbox?
I could talk stationery all day long, but hopefully these products give you some good inspiration for your card-sending this season. Let me know how it goes!
