Fall - Thanksgiving Card Ideas

 Hi friends! 🍂 Is it just me, or does card making season sneak up faster every year? One minute it's sunny and warm (who am I kidding, it's always sunny and warm here in southern AZ), and the next I'm making a list of fall cards, Thanksgiving cards, and Christmas cards all at once. So today, let's chat about fall card ideas and how to plan your crafting so it all feels fun instead of rushed.

Which Cards Are You Making First?

I asked this over on my Facebook Page and I love seeing everyone's answers. Most of us fall into one of three camps:

• 🍂 Fall and harvest cards: cozy colors, leaves, and "thinking of you" notes
• 🦃 Thanksgiving and thank-you cards: perfect for November
• 🎄 Christmas cards (already!): the planners among us 😉

There's no wrong answer! My tip: start with whatever season is closest, then work forward. Fall cards first, Thanksgiving and thank-you cards next, and Christmas cards once November rolls around.

This or That: Rustic or Shimmer? ✨

When it comes to fall cards, I find most crafters lean one of two ways.

Team Rustic 🍂
- Warm colors like rust, mustard, and deep brown
- Natural textures and layered leaves
- Feels cozy, homey, and harvest-y

Team Shimmer ✨
- Soft neutrals like cream, taupe, and pale gold
- A touch of shimmer or foil for a little glow
- Feels elegant and works beautifully for Thanksgiving

Can't decide? Mix them! A warm rustic base with one shimmery accent is one of my favorite combos.

Easy Tips for Handmade Fall Cards

Here are a few simple ideas to get you started:

1. Pick a palette first. Choosing 3 colors before you start makes everything come together.
2. Layer it up. A few layers of cardstock add depth without much effort.
3. Keep a simple sentiment. "Thankful," "Hello Fall," or "Thinking of You" can stand on its own.
4. Make a batch. Once you love a design, make several at once. Future you will thank you.

Get a Head Start on Christmas Too 🎄

If you're Team "Christmas Already," Paper Pumpkin makes it easy. October's Noel Greetings kit is elegant Christmas cards with gold foil accents (subscribe by Oct 10), and November's Tags of Joy kit is festive handmade gift tags (sign up Oct 11 to Nov 10).

👉 Subscribe to Paper Pumpkin here

Let's Craft Together 💌

Want to make your fall or Christmas cards with friends? Host your own class day: you pick the date, bring 2 or more friends, and I'll host a class just for your group. Message me on Facebook at Stampin with Kelly.

And for all your fall and holiday supplies, the September–December 2026 catalog is full of goodies:

🛒 Shop my Stampin' Up! store here

So tell me, are you Team Rustic or Team Shimmer? 😄

Happy stamping, friends! 💛

Kelly
Stampin with Kelly | Independent Stampin' Up! Demonstrator