10/22/2025
Hand-painted Kitsch Cards
Retro-inspired, faux embroidery paintings to get you in the nostalgic mood for the season!
Hand-crafted is best!
Inspired by retro, kitsch figurines, these hand-painted cards are perfect to give to someone special this winter season. By using Americana Acrylics and a liner brush, you can achieve the look of embroidery that is reminiscent of a bygone past. These painted pieces are creations that can be displayed and cherished for years to come!
First things first- get prepared
Gather your supplies and cover your workspace with a non-stick surface. Cut watercolor paper into squares (one for front of card, and one for back of the card). I wanted a larger card so I cut 8.5"x8.5" squares. Print out the templates and trace the designs onto cut watercolor paper squares using transfer paper.
Time to add color
Choose a background color for the base of the plaid design (around the edge of the design and the inner panel of card. Mix your chosen Americana Acrylic color with a bit of water to create a wash. Paint onto surface, and while still wet, continue to layer with lines painted with varying brush sizes. If you use warm colors to create the front plaid pattern, on the inner panel use a cool color palette to give some visual variation!
To give the look of embroidery to the front design, use a liner brush to paint on a variety of Americana Acrylics. Keep brushstrokes choppy. Paint inner card design detail using the liner brush as well.
Put it all together
Cut a strip of watercolor paper to glue the two painted squares together to create the card. Allow to dry. Cut the envelope shapes and glue them together. Paint on cute details to finish!
Change up colors and design elements to personalize each card to create unique gifts to give this holiday season. Display a variety of the painted pieces as wall art in your own home decor!
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