6 Creative Holiday Card Background Ideas (Plus a Bonus!)

6 Creative Holiday Card Background Ideas (Plus a Bonus!)

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Using Background Panels to Create Cards
3. Making Panels with a Rectangle Die
4. Creating Dimension with Layers
5. Using Foil Art Backgrounds for Shaker Cards
6. Incorporating Backgrounds into Die Cut Shapes
7. Maximizing the Use of Leftover Foil Art
8. Creating Background-Matted Cards
9. Die Cutting Backgrounds to Create Images
10. Using Negative Foil Pieces on Toner Art
11. Conclusion

Introduction

Hello, crafters! Today, I want to share a ton of inspiration on how to use your background panels and create beautiful cards from your stash. Whether you have foil-Based backgrounds like the ones I'll be using or any other kind in your collection, I've got plenty of ideas for you. So, let's dive in and get those creative juices flowing!

Using Background Panels to Create Cards

One of the easiest ways to use your background panels is to turn them into simple panels for your cards. By using a rectangle die, you can easily cut them down to the desired size. Personally, I like to add a white border on my cards as it frames the picture nicely. If you have both the negative and positive portions of the background image, like me, you can use them to create repeat sentiment panels. This way, you don't even need to add an additional sentiment to your card.

Making Panels with a Rectangle Die

To create panels with a clean and professional look, I recommend using a rectangle die that coordinates with a perfect Align tool. This tool ensures that your panels are aligned perfectly on your cards. However, even if you don't have the specific dies, you can still cut your panels to the desired size using a paper trimmer. Remember, the smaller you cut them, the more cards you can create from a single background sheet.

Creating Dimension with Layers

If You want to add dimension to your cards, consider layering the images on your panels. For example, I added multiple layers to a reindeer image, creating a shadow effect on the white background. This helps the image stand out and prevents it from getting lost in the design. Additionally, you can add sentiments centrally on the card to give it a WOW factor.

Using Foil Art Backgrounds for Shaker Cards

Shaker cards are always a hit, and foil art backgrounds can add an extra touch of magic to them. Start by using a portion of the foil art background to create the background of your shaker card. You can choose any Shape you like, such as a snow globe for Christmas. To make it more fancy, add a background and a sentiment within the shaker element. You can also incorporate other images or themes, like a fishbowl or a birthday cake, using the foil art background.

Incorporating Backgrounds into Die Cut Shapes

Another creative way to use your background panels is to die cut shapes from them. For example, you can use a Christmas tree die to cut out a tree shape. If you don't have a specific die, you can easily cut a triangle from your background panel to create a modern-style Christmas tree shape. You can also die cut different shapes like snowflakes or stars and arrange them to create a scene or a die cut background.

Maximizing the Use of Leftover Foil Art

Don't let any part of your foil art background go to waste. There are plenty of ways to use the leftover pieces creatively. For example, you can cut down the panel to create backgrounds for smaller cards. You can also use the leftover waist from one background to create another card. Just remember to keep a stash of these leftover pieces handy and look for ways to incorporate them into your designs.

Creating Background-Matted Cards

For a simple yet elegant look, you can create background-matted cards using your foil art backgrounds. Just mat the background on a contrasting color, like black, and add a couple of cute images or sentiments. This way, a single panel of foil art can give you multiple cards, saving you time and resources.

Die Cutting Backgrounds to Create Images

Use your background panels to create images by die cutting them. For example, you can use a Christmas tree die to create a pop-up Christmas tree on your card. Alternatively, you can cut different shapes from the backgrounds, such as snowflakes or stars, and add them in multiples to create a scene or a dimensional background. Get creative and see what other shapes and images you can come up with!

Using Negative Foil Pieces on Toner Art

Did you know that you can use negative pieces of hot foil on toner art? With the introduction of colored toner art, you can now create stunning foiled backgrounds without the need for black backgrounds. Simply run these negative pieces through your laminator, and you'll achieve fantastic results. This opens up endless possibilities for using your foil art backgrounds in unique and creative ways.

Conclusion

I hope these ideas have inspired you to dig out your background panels and create beautiful cards from your stash. Whether you're using foil art backgrounds or any other kind, there are countless ways to incorporate them into your designs. Remember to think outside the box, experiment with different techniques, and have fun with your crafting. Happy paper crafting, and remember to check out my other videos for more same-but-different Christmas card ideas!