I received an email a few days ago from a lady, (I’ll call her Mary to protect her privacy) who was super excited about all the things she was learning from me, but expressed apprehension in participating in the ATC (artist trading cards) swaps I’m hosting. So here is a small challenge on how to make super simple artist trading cards for beginners!
Mary didn’t think she was good enough to create a miniature art piece to give to someone. First.. so untrue, she makes wonderful art, but it’s that inner critic, the little voice in our head that can be so damaging to an artist…especially a beginner.
So I’m going to break it down into a series of posts starting with “how to make two simple artist trading cards” which is geared towards beginners. To make it even easier, you can download a “printer friendly” supply list below. So let’s get cracking.
When creating artist trading cards, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with all the pretty pictures on Pinterest and Instagram.
Instead of feeling overwhelmed, I’d like you to try this exercise to go along with the video lesson.
- Find something as your base. It has to be 2.5″ x 3.5″ and for this lesson, I’m using a playing card.
- If you are reading my blog, you likely have some types of paints, so get out some white paint or gesso.
- You’ll need something to glue stuff down with, so use whatever you have on hand.
- Pick a focal point.
- Pick one contrasting colour to match our focal point.
- Pick something to collage with to break up the background and create visual interest.
- Pick three accent pieces.
Note #1: Specific supplies that I used in the video lesson are listed in the printable supply list.
Note #2: Having a bunch of backgrounds prepared in advance is always recommend when creating artist trading cards. Check out the Book of Backgrounds series for instant backgrounds for any type of art and specifically, here is one that has a sanded chalky finish look to it and here is the inspirational artist trading card I made with the background.
You can see how the little things can make simple artist trading cards look so beautiful.
Maybe it’s not that the artist trading cards are simple, it’s using simple embellishments that make them beautiful.
Super Simple
Artist Trading Cards for Beginners
Video
Let’s Make These
Super Simple Artist Trading Cards
I have a question for you...
Have you made artist trading cards before?
- if not, what is stopping you from creating artist trading cards? does something have you stuck?
- if so, what is a tip you can share with other readers?
Please share in the comments below.
I haven´t done any ATCs before, but I will have a go at it now =)
I like it when you give directions to follow! It makes it easier for me.
It´s like it can´t be wrong then, cause Gisele said what to do =)
Hope you give it a try, they can be so much fun to do.
I am so in love with everything you do and everyday I say today is the day to start and I never do. I know I can do it but there is like a little voice telling me I am not good enough. Thank you for everything you do such an inspiration
Now, now… no more talk that you’re not good enough. The Art Police is not welcome to this party! Just push those thoughts aside and just do it. I be you’ll be surprised 🙂
Linn you’re going to have a surprise sent to you on Monday!!! sending you an email to get your postal address!
I love to make ATCs. My tip for beginners is to just try it. The more you do the better you get. One idea flows into the next. Love the simplicity of the butterfly cards.
You are 100% right! just try it, there are no rules.
These are beautiful! Really appreciate the download. I’ve never done these before, but will soon!
Keep it simple and just have fun!
Lovely ATC s! I have made and swapped ATCs before. I’m hoping my physical health (hands) will allow me to participate in your Anything Goes swap. Thank you for you share. Very inspiring!
Hi there.. the anything goes is so flexible. How about just flat collage to make a mosaic? With drying time, your hands will have breaks.
My tip is to go with your first idea, your gut instinct. Even if it seems while you’re working that it’s not good, it often turns out better at the end, than you think it will.
And oooh, a kit! AWESOME!
Thanks Nora…you are 100% right!