It's fun to make your own holiday cards, especially when they're as easy as these. And they don't have to cost a lot, even though the final effect is quite elegant. The ease of this project is due to inexpensive 3-D stickers you can get from a variety of sources. But don't tell your friends who are going to receive the cards; they're going to think you're an artistic genius.

Here's what you need to make your own custom 3-D cards:

Card stock

This is sold with matching envelopes in packs of 10 or 12, or in boxes with larger quantities. You can use any size, but make sure your stickers look in proportion. And if you're going to mail the cards, make sure the size complies with U.S. Postal Service regulations. Although you can use shades of white or cream, your cards will be more distinctive if you use stronger colors and/or a background design.

Three-dimensional stickers

You'll want to make sure you get 3-D stickers for these cards. The effect would be lost if you used flat stickers. Christmas and Hanukkah stickers are available in the right column of this page and also at art supply stores, variety stores (such as Target), dollar stores or online.

Rubber stamps with holiday messages and rubber stamp pad or ink (optional)

There are a variety of pre-made stamps with holiday messages, or you could use a rotary stamp with letters that move so you can create your own message.

Bubble wrap for mailing (optional)

Steps

1. Make sure the card stock is evenly folded. If not, refold it and crease it with your fingernail. If that looks sloppy, however, don't use that card and move onto another one.

2. If you want to imprint a message inside the card, do so now, before you apply stickers. It looks best to center your message from side to side, and slightly above center from top to bottom. You can use a ruler to make sure the distance from the edge on each side is the same. There may be times, however, when it might look better for the sticker to be slightly off-center, either from side to side or top to bottom. Let your eye be the guide if that's the case.

3. Select a sticker or a combination of stickers that look good together. If a sticker is small, consider pairing it with one or two more to create a design. Like the message inside, the sticker or sticker combination should sit centered from side to side, and slightly above center from top to bottom. If you want to include a stamped message under the stickers, be sure to allow room. Most stickers already have adhesive on them, so you won't need glue. Be careful when you place the stickers; if you lay them down gently, you'll be able to rearrange them until you get them into just the right spot. Once they're where you want them, press hard to make sure they stay in place. If the sticker or combination of stickers isn't secure, use a toothpick to carefully apply a drop or two of glue underneath to make sure everything stays put.

4. If you're going to mail your cards, you'll probably want to protect them with bubble wrap. Repeat for each card: Cut a piece of bubble wrap slightly smaller than your card, place it on top of the card and slide both pieces carefully into the envelope. This will ensure your card arrives looking as good as when you created it! For extra flair, use a colorful flat sticker on the back of the envelope to seal it.

You might also enjoy these other resources:

• Free Christmas Crafts
  For more free craft and card ideas for the holidays, visit the link above. You'll also find a great selection of free vintage Thanksgiving and Christmas clip art.