Marlene posed the question do I have a budget for the cost of each card? The short answer is yes; I have an absolute cap of 50p per card otherwise it would not be worthwhile making them to sell. I always buy good quality blanks of 300gsm so that they don't buckle under the weight of the embellishments and each blank works out at 16p including an envelope. On top of that is the cost of the cello bag, a sheet of 100gsm copier paper for the insert, adhesive and, of course, whatever I plan to put on top for the design. Plain & simple is my favourite style of card but I do like to add ribbon and gems for a 3D effect. It's often quite a struggle to come in at under 50p!
Marlene also asked if I have any tips to reduce costs. The best bit of advice I can give you, Marlene, is to always be on the lookout for ways to buy supplies ever cheaper; eBay, market stalls for ribbon etc If I ever buy a new top which has ribbon sewn into the shoulder seams to hold it on the hanger, I cut it off before wearing the top. The thin ribbon makes wonderful little bows! I never spend my hard earned cash on ready made bows either, they are quite simple to make yourself. Another way to cut costs is to make your own die cut shapes to use as a focal point, assuming of course that you have a die cutter :/ The little bags on my last batch of cards were made by me by simply by folding the paper. There are loads of instructions on the internet too for paper folding, origami shirts for example. Do have a go!
My bedtime reading for the last couple of weeks has been The Yorkshire Shepherdess by Amanda Owen. I have enjoyed reading it immensely as her style of writing is right up my street. She's funny, articulate and an amazing woman. This is one book I will definitely read again not least for the wonderful photographs of her family or for the descriptions of the circumstances surrounding the births of her 7 children!
I can't go to sleep without reading at least one chapter of a relaxing book so I began reading The Hidden Cottage last night. Is anyone else a fan of Erica James? She is a 'new to me' author but I like her style so far.....
Anyway, must dash, the ironing is calling....yuk....
Thanks everso for popping in, and don't be afraid to leave a comment. I love reading every single one x
Ironing done here :-)
ReplyDeleteErica James has written loads of books - I've read most - they are similar to Katie Fforde. A good light read so if you enjoy this one you have lots more to look out for
I like Katie Fforde so maybe Erica will be my new reading passion :)
Delete50p is good to make one, your cards are really detailed and so professional. I struggle to read paper backs , I go for a hardback with bigger print usually xx
ReplyDeleteThank you for the compliment, Marlene. Your own card makes are really improving, keep going! x
DeleteI always buy A4 card and cut and fold, I find that saves money, plus you can get lovely coloured A4 cards. I do buy off the internet, but only now and then, when I do order I get colours which I like, so I will always use them. I have to use my die cutting machine more, I have a few embossing folders. My envelope I buy in bulk from Staples.
ReplyDeleteBecause I make cards for the shop it's cheaper if I buy 5" x 7" blanks in just white and cream. I just add colour with embellishments. The card has to be 300gsm to work for me too.
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