How to Create Year-Round Cards with Wreaths

Last Updated: September 5, 2024

If you thought wreaths were only for holiday crafting projects, think again! We’ve just released our very first registration press plate - the Regal Wreath Registration Press Plate/Foil Plate! This innovative tool allows you to create stunning wreath designs that can be adapted for every season and occasion. Whether you’re making handmade cards for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, or just because, the Regal Wreath offers endless possibilities. 

Handmade Christmas card with letterpress wreath design on a dark 3D embossed background, made with Altenew's Regal Wreath Registration Press Plate/Foil PlateIn this blog, we’ll explore how to customize your wreath for different seasons and share versatile cardmaking ideas that will inspire your creativity year-round.

Watch Lydia explain "What are registration press plates and how do they work?" in this video.

What is a registration press plate?

A registration press plate is a tool used in letterpress printing that simplifies the creation of multi-color designs. It consists of a set that includes a multi-colored mylar template, allowing users to layer colors accurately. This innovative technique ensures that designs are aligned perfectly, enhancing the overall letterpress experience and enabling stunning effects in printed materials. 

In short, it helps crafters like you create multi-colored letterpress designs in one go! No need to ink blend, stamp, or stencil to make your letterpress designs pop!

Altenew's Regal Wreath Registration Press Plate/Foil Plate perfectly complements its range of hot foil rolls

What are press plates used for in paper crafting and card making?

  • Press plates can create intricate designs on paper, adding texture and interest to handmade cards and paper crafts.
  • With registration press plates, you can layer multiple colors accurately, enhancing the visual appeal of your paper crafting projects.
  • Some press plates have coordinating dies so you can add 3D effect to letterpress designs.
  • Press plates can also be used with hot foil sheets, making it easier to add shine to your designs.

Overall, press plates are versatile, beginner-friendly tools that can instantly enhance and elevate any DIY crafting project. 

Crafting Year-Round with the Regal Wreath Registration Press Plate/Foil PlateQuick and simple handmade Christmas card with a colorful letterpress wreath, made with Altenew Regal Wreath Registration Press Plate/Foil Plate

Spring

Spring is all about renewal and vibrant colors. When creating DIY crafting projects with the Regal Wreath in spring, think of bright greens paired with pastel flowers. Create cheerful “Hello Spring” cards or floral invitations that celebrate the season. Use lighter colors and layer your flowers for a fresh, airy feel.

Summer

As summer arrives, embrace bolder hues! Summer cards can feature vibrant colors that pop, perfect for birthday or graduation celebrations. Consider incorporating tropical elements or bright florals to capture the essence of the season.

DIY holiday card idea with letterpress design of a colorful holiday wreath and the sentiment "wishing you peace this holiday season"

Fall

Fall brings rich, regal, and jewel tones. Use the Regal Wreath to create Thanksgiving cards or autumn-themed invitations. Enhance your designs with leaves or seasonal motifs to add depth and warmth to your handmade creations.

Clean and simple DIY Christmas card with letterpress and hot foiled wreath design with the sentiment "season's greetings", made with Altenew Regal Wreath Registration Press Plate/Foil Plate

Winter

Winter is a time for cool tones and metallic accents. Create beautiful holiday cards or winter greetings using the Regal Wreath Registration Press Plate/Foil Plate. Incorporate snowflakes or utilize foiling techniques for a festive touch that will surely impress.

Versatile Uses for the Regal Wreath Press Plate/Foil Platesimple and elegant DIY birthday card with 3D embossed background and a wreath design

Weddings

The Regal Wreath Registration Press Plate/Foil Plate is perfect for weddings! Design elegant invitations or thank you cards that match the couple’s theme. Consider using gold foil for a luxurious finish that adds a touch of sophistication. Lydia’s handmade birthday card above can be turned into a wedding card simply by using a wedding-related sentiment. The Regal Wreath design would look stunning against a white 3D embossed background!

Clean and simple handmade birthday card idea with a beautiful wreath design

Anniversaries

Celebrate love with anniversary cards! Whether it’s a milestone like a 50th anniversary or a special date, customize your wreath with personal elements like names or significant dates. Layering and texturing can create a romantic feel that’s perfect for the occasion. Make your anniversary card extra special by die-cutting your sentiment out of a circle die and placing it in the middle of the Regal Wreath - just like Aga’s card above!

Everyday Greetings

Everyday greetings are a wonderful way to connect with loved ones. Use the Regal Wreath to craft “Thinking of You” or “Just Because” cards. Keep your designs simple and easy to replicate, allowing you to spread joy effortlessly.

2 handmade greeting cards made with the same wreath stamp and die set but with different layouts and color palettesIn the handmade cards above, Norine created a colorful wreath and a muted/monochromatic one to create two gorgeous “just because” cards. Give this a try with your Regal Wreath Registration Press Plate/Foil Plate!

 TIP! Add different colored enamel dots or gem sparkles on your wreaths for extra dimension and texture!
DIY Christmas card idea with a beautiful letterpress and foiled wreath design, made with Altenew Regal Wreath Registration Press Plate/Foil Plate

Tips for Year-round Crafting

To maximize your crafting experience, consider mixing and matching elements from different seasons. Adding personal touches, like die-cut flowers or embellishments, can elevate your designs. Lastly, keep your seasonal materials organized for quick access, ensuring you’re always ready to create! 

2 handmade Christmas card ideas made with Altenew Regal Wreath Registration Press Plate/Foil Plate

Designer's Tips:

Here are some more exclusive tips straight from the designer of this product!

▪ Foil the wreath design using your favorite color foil. Then add in the flowers and leaves using your letterpress system.

▪ Hot foil or letterpress the wreath design onto your project, then use the solid flower and leaves to add a pop of color to the design. The festive sentiments are the perfect finishing touch to the impressive design.

Letterpress and Hot Foil Easily and Instantly!

The Regal Wreath Registration Press Plate/Foil Plate is a versatile tool that allows you to create beautiful designs for every season and occasion. With this game-changing tool, you can easily create colorful letterpress designs on your handmade cards, scrapbook layouts, DIY home decor, and more. We hope this blog inspires you to give our first-ever registration press plate a try. Happy crafting!


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