Don't reach for last year's leftover cards. Send a handmade card that is truly a work of art (and would look great in a frame, on your tree or on the mantel)!
1) Pocket Creative
Pocket Creative has perfected its letterpress techniques in a small design studio run out of proprietor Jenny Liesfeld's home in Westover Hills. Her cards are awe-inspiring — one features a border of detailed images of animals around a blank center, allowing you to personalize your card. Custom holidays cards are available. Order online ( pocketcreative.com ) or call 389-1164.
2) Itty Bitty Press
Screen-printed holiday cards and tags are what Jason Frank and Brianna Bevins of Itty Bitty Press are all about. Happy Holiday Reindeer Gift Tags are affordable and adorable. A set of five is $4, each printed on craft paper in red ink. Also check out the handmade "Christmas Spirits Greeting Card," $15 for a box of five. A white dove is the focal point. Because it's blank inside, it's perfect for a family photo or whatever holiday greeting you would like to inscribe. Order on etsy.com
3) Quirk
Quirk is a Broad Street gallery that features work from emerging artists. Definitely check out the unique "Forest Greeting Card" by artist Eleanor Grosch ($2.50). Deer, squirrels, owls, bears and raccoons play in a blend of purple, gray, red, white and black. The Scribble Stem Folding Cards ($14 for a set of 10) use a cross-stitch technique in red and green. quirkgallery.com
