Holiday cards are a timeless tradition, but why not elevate them this year by adding a new dimension—literally? With these simple pop-up holiday cards made from a renewable and recyclable resource, your seasonal greetings will stand out as handmade gifts in their own right and will be a smart choice for the environment.
How to Get Started:
Download and print out the card templates on 8.5-by-11-inch paper in landscape mode for the best results. The templates come with full instructions, making it easy for you to assemble these delightful cards at home.
Hosting a Sustainable Card-Making Party
Add an extra layer of fun by hosting a card-making party. Adults can tackle the more intricate designs, while children (with supervision) can help with simpler elements like cutting out strips for the Christmas tree or shaping the snowman.
As for the party itself, think low-key. This is a hectic time of year, so the idea here is to foster community without any pressure to be “on.” Achieve this vibe by striking a moderate, cozy tone in all aspects of party planning.
- Snacks: Opt for nongreasy snacks at the table to avoid getting oily smears on the cards. Fruit, crudités, and cheese or meat assortments speared with toothpicks will keep partygoers’ bellies well-fed (and their fingers grease-free). If you want to have heartier offerings available, heat up some finger foods (mini quiches, pigs in a blanket). Encourage gathering in the kitchen to eat when these goodies are fresh out of the oven and then returning to the craft table afterward. And whatever you do, have plenty of paper napkins!
- Beverages: What’s more wholesome than crafting? Crafting with the scent of mulled cider wafting through the room. Mull a large batch of cider, and have paper cups with lids on hand to help limit the damage any spills can do. Check your local recycling rules to see it the cups can be recycled.
- Setup: Keep an assortment of large paper plates at the ready—not for food, but to serve as personal supply trays for each guest. Guests can put the pieces of the card they’re crafting onto their plates as they work.
- Decor: If you haven’t added a card garland to your holiday decorations yet, now’s the time. Displaying holiday cards your household has received reminds guests of the delight that their cards will bring to their recipients. Not only does this upcycle existing paper products, but it also serves as a fun way to inspire your guests while reducing waste.
A Fun and Green Way to Celebrate
The best part of making pop-up cards is the joy and creativity it brings to your holiday season. Whether your cards come out perfectly symmetrical or a bit quirky, the love and care you put into them will shine through. Plus, you'll be making your festivities as kind to the planet as they are fun for your friends and family by using materials, like paper, that are made from a renewable resource and then practicing proper recycling.
If you're looking for more holiday activities, take a look at these printables to help celebrate all year long.
