Stitching, Threads and Wraps

• Use embroidery thread, plastic lanyard, satin ribbon, jute or yarn to stitch designs onto the front of your card. Use a template to prick holes in the correct positions. Clamp the card in a clipboard before you begin, instead of using tape to attach the template, or the card may tear. You can also use geometric designs, using string art.
  
  Poke a horizontal line of holes an equal distance apart, then a vertical line of holes the same distance apart, 90 degrees to one another, with the same vertex. Connect the first vertical hole, farthest from the vertex, with the first horizontal hole, closest to the vertex. continue connecting pairs of holes until your desired pattern emerges. (see Resources for string art patterns)
  
  Cards can also be embellished with tassels and pom-poms. Wrap thread, ribbon or a lanyard around your fingers. Run a piece of thread through all the wraps and pull into a knot. Cut the ends to form your pom-pom. Make longer, thinner wraps for tassels, and tie off with a hangman's noose knot.
  
  

Flowers and Cut Paper

• Glue pressed flowers onto cards, then cover them with clear contact paper. Slide them into clear or transparent colored plastic report covers. Press flowers ahead of time so that they are completely dry, before using them on your cards. You can also apply clear acrylic nail polish to flowers, brushing the acrylic over the flower and onto the card.
  
  Cut photos into interesting shapes using scrapbooking scissors. Fold origami animals and attach them using epoxy or instant adhesive.
  
  

Beads, Buttons and Bows

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  Add crushed or whole beads. Make mosaic patterns with colored rice grains, popcorn kernels, pasta shapes, colored salt or sand. Attach buttons and bows in patterns. Anything that appeals to the eye or the sense of touch will enhance your card.