Money, a check or a gift certificate is often the perfect gift to give, however it can often seem like this is the easy way out. To dispel that notion, make certain that the presentation shows obvious attention given to detail. These paper "wallets " might be the perfect solution. They are easy to make, yet they show that you cared enough to take a little time.
Materials:
9" x 12" sheet of watercolor paper or colored art paper
ruler
folding bone or burnishing tool
craft knife
check, bill or gift certificate
9" by 12" sheet plain paper for pattern - optional
Note: Making a pattern is not necessary, however because it is best not to write on the actual piece of paper you will be using for the wallet, a pattern might help as a guide (figure A). Directions are written describing where to draw the lines. On the actual wallet you will only score them with the folding bone.
Steps:
- Place the paper lengthwise on a tabletop, and draw lines dividing it into thirds. The check or money order should fit into the middle section.
- Center the check, and draw a vertical line on each side, about 1/4" away from the side edges of the check (figure B).
- Draw another line 3/8" outside each of the four drawn lines. This distance will be the depth of the wallet (figure C).
- Cut out each of the four corners. Fold in the two side flaps. Fold the bottom flap up and the top flap down.
- To further enhance the appearance, curve the two corners on the top flap, and cut the side flaps at an angle.
- Unfold everything, and decorate the outside of the wallet as desired. Rubber stamp it, cover the entire wallet or just the front flap with handmade paper, or draw designs with a gold leaf pen. If you are using watercolor paper, draw lines in one direction, then in the opposite direction using watercolor pencils in two or more colors. Wipe the lines with a wet water color brush to turn the lines into a soft plaid.
- Hold everything together with a pretty ribbon or small pieces of adhesive backed Velcro.
Resources cutting tools - Fiskars
Available at local craft and hobby stores nationwide.
Fiskars
Website:
www.fiskars.com
rubber stamps
Delta Creative, Inc.
Website:
www.deltacreative.comart paper - Strathmore
Available from craft, hobby and rubber stamp stores nationwide.
Strathmore Paper Company (a division of International Paper)
East Granby, CT
US
Phone: 860-844-2400
Website:
www.strathmore.com
paint pens - Zig
EK Success Ltd.
Website:
www.eksuccess.com
Derwent watercolor pencils
Discover Art
San Diego, CA
Phone: 858-578-6005
Toll Free Phone: 888-327-9278
Website:
www.discoverartwithsandra.com
leafing pens--Krylon
Available at local craft and hobby stores.
Krylon Products Group
Website:
www.krylon.com
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