How to Craft with Kids - Tips for Engaging Children in Cardmaking

Last Updated: August 24, 2024

Crafting with kids is not only a fun activity but also a beneficial one. It allows children to express their creativity, develop essential skills, and engage in meaningful storytelling through art.

Pink handmade birthday card with cute foxes and balloons

In this blog post, we will explore the exciting world of cardmaking and provide tips for engaging children in this delightful craft.

Altenew's annual Kids' Coloring Contest 2024

Why Cardmaking is a Great Choice for Kids

Cardmaking is an excellent choice for kids as it encourages creativity and self-expression. Children can let their imagination run wild as they design and decorate their own cards. This process allows them to express their unique personalities and emotions through art.

stock photo of 2 kids doing some arts and craftsCute DIY photo frame made with Altenew crafting supplies

Additionally, cardmaking helps children develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Cutting, gluing, and coloring require precision and control, which are essential for a child's overall development.

Moreover, cardmaking provides an opportunity for storytelling through art. Children can use their cards to convey messages, share stories, and express their feelings. This creative outlet allows them to communicate in a unique and artistic way.

Cute scrapbook layout for kidsPink and black "hug me" card with a cute fox image and geometric background

Essential Supplies for Kid-Friendly Cardmaking

When engaging children in cardmaking projects, it's essential to have the right supplies on hand. Basic supplies include paper, scissors, glue, and coloring materials such as crayons, markers, or colored pencils. These materials allow children to bring their creative ideas to life.

Cute handmade card idea for kids with cards and the sentiment "just fur you"

It's also important to use child-safe tools to ensure their safety during the crafting process. Child-friendly scissors with blunt tips and non-toxic glue are ideal choices for young crafters.

In addition, using eco-friendly materials is a great way to teach children about sustainability and environmental consciousness. Consider using recycled paper, non-toxic paints, and biodegradable glitter to minimize the environmental impact of your cardmaking projects.

Clean and simple happy birthday card idea for kids with stamped balloon images

Tips for Engaging Children in Cardmaking Projects

To ensure an enjoyable and engaging cardmaking experience for children, consider the following tips:

Clean and simple handmade card idea with 2 cute cats and the sentiment "just fur you"
  • Keep It Simple. Start with easy designs and templates to build children's confidence and make the process less intimidating.
  • Incorporate Themes. Use holidays, seasons, or personal interests as inspiration for card designs. This adds a fun and meaningful element to the crafting experience.
Simple and easy DIY greeting card for kids with stamped images of cats and the sentiment "purr-fect"
  • Encourage Collaboration. Work on projects together with your child to foster teamwork and create a bonding experience through crafting.
DIY celebratory card with the word die-cut "Yay" cut using different colored cardstock and stacked together
  • Celebrate Their Work. Display finished cards in a prominent place to boost children's confidence and show appreciation for their creative efforts.

Fun Techniques to Try with Kids

  • Stamping and Coloring Techniques. Introduce children to stamping tools and various coloring techniques such as blending, shading, and creating patterns with stamps.
Cute handmade greeting card idea with stamped and die-cut potted plants and a cat on a table, and the sentiment "come play with me"Cute and colorful DIY greeting card idea with a few hot air balloons stamped and die-cut using Altenew products
  • Using Stencils and Stickers. Stencils and stickers can add an extra layer of creativity to card designs. Children can use them to create intricate patterns or add fun embellishments to their cards.
Colorful and unique birthday card idea with stamped and watercolored balloons in different shapes and colors
  • Exploring Mixed Media. Experiment with different textures and materials such as fabric scraps, buttons, or yarn to create unique mixed media cards.

Altenew Kids' Coloring Contest 2024

The 2024 Kids' Coloring Contest is an exciting opportunity for crafty kids to showcase their artistic talents. Enlist the talents of the little ones in your family for this thrilling annual contest.

Simple birthday card idea with stamped images of cute critters, colored in with Altenew coloring pencils

Following the success of our kids’ coloring contests from 2017 to 2023, we're once again presenting an opportunity for your kids to snag incredible crafting prizes from Altenew. 

Learn how to join the Kids’ Coloring Contest here.

Ideas for Cardmaking Projects

Clean and simple handmade birthday card idea with a bunch of different shaped balloons, stamped and colored in different colors
  • Birthday Cards - Create personalized birthday cards for family members and friends, adding a special touch to their celebrations.
  • Thank You Notes - Teach children the importance of gratitude by making thank you cards for teachers, relatives, or anyone who deserves appreciation.
DIY thank you card for doctors and nurses, made with Altenew crafting supplies
  • Holiday Greetings - Get into the festive spirit by designing holiday greeting cards for Christmas, Hanukkah, Diwali, or other special occasions.
Beautiful and simple handmade greeting card idea with a stamped and watercolored image of a girl sitting on the floor
  • Custom Cards for Family and Friends - Encourage children to make custom cards for loved ones on any occasion, adding a personal touch to their messages.
A photo of a girl holding DIY birthday banner made with colorful papers and banner and alphabet dies from Altenew3 cute and colorful DIY bookmarks made with stamped flowers and ink blended ombre backgrounds

Crafting with Kids Is Fun and Easy with Altenew Supplies

Crafting with kids is a joyful and rewarding experience that fosters creativity, skill development, and meaningful expression. Engaging children in cardmaking projects not only provides quality bonding time but also nurtures their artistic abilities and imagination.

Here at Altenew, we encourage families to embrace cardmaking as a fun and enriching activity that promotes creativity and self-expression. Share your cardmaking experiences with the little ones with us and consider entering our Kids' Coloring Contest 2024 to celebrate their crafty achievements! Happy crafting!


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