How to Make Use of Those Old Christmas Cards

Most of us keep the cards we get from Christmas and store them away somewhere in the attic, basement, closet, or garage. After a few years they really start pilling up but you don't have the heart to throw them away.

Here is a few neat ideas that you can do with your collection of Christmas cards. With some extra supplies and a little creativity you can make some beautiful holiday decorations to place around the house. You and your family will love putting together these little projects and enjoying the family time together.

Christmas Card Wreath

Supplies:

• Large piece of cardboard (at least 12" x 12")
• Scissors
• Glue
• Marker
• Ribbon
• Christmas Cards

• Directions:

  Take the large piece of cardboard and draw a circle big enough to be a wreath. Then draw another circle inside that circle. That the scissors and cut out the wreath and cut out a hole in the middle where you drew the other circle. Take a look at your old Christmas Cards and try to choose a wide variety of colors. Glue each one on the cardboard wreath overlapping each other with another color till wreath is complete with cards all around it. Now take the Ribbon and make it into a decorative bow or purchase a premade one of your choice and glue it to the top of the wreath. Now you have a Christmas Wreath to put outside your door represents all your family, friends, and loved ones from over the year.

  Holiday Bookmarks

  Supplies:

  • Thick poster board
  • Markers
  • Scissors
  • Transparent Contact Paper
  • Glue
  • Christmas Cards

  • Directions:

    Cut a strip out of the poster board approximately 8" X 2" in size, about the size of a bookmark. Cut a picture from one or more of the Christmas cards that's about the same size as the bookmark leaving enough space to write on or create designs. Glue the picture to the poster board strip and wait for it to dry. Once fully dried take the markers and write a greeting such as "Merry Christmas or the name of a loved one". Finally seal it in the contact paper or have it laminated at a nearby copy store.

    Candle Holder

    Supplies:

    • Salt
    • Glue
    • Jar of any size
    • Rubber band
    • Paint Brush
    • Thin lace or ribbon long enough to fit around the jar
    • Salt
    • Red or green candle to fit in jar
    • Christmas Cards

    • Directions:

      Select a Christmas card that you enjoy looking at. Cut out the scene from the card and glue it to the outside of the jar. Until the glue is completely dry use the rubber band to keep it in place and the edges flat on the jar. Once dry use the paintbrush to apply glue to the remainder of the jar. Sprinkle salt all over the jar to glisten and represent snow. Last of all place glue around the upper neck of the jar and apply the lace or ribbon around it for a more decorative look. Place the candle inside the jar and light the wick. You'll see your favorite Christmas Card scene illuminate and the jar will glisten and have the look of warmth to it.

      Note:

      These are just a few ideas of how you can make use of your old Christmas cards instead of hiding them away collecting dust. When more family members join in to do these projects the more fun it becomes. Get creative and maybe come up with a few ideas of your own as to what to do with all the wonderful Christmas cards you've collected over the years.

      Source- My family traditions since 1998