Scrapola patterns are a wonderful resource for making cards and tags. When making cards and tags, I like to make several at the same time in an assembly line fashion. This will save you time and when you are in a rush to get to a birthday party you won't be running to your craft room to try to drum up a great card or tag. It will also save you money! I am amazed at how expensive cards have become.

You might like to make original cards for certain members of your family or special friends. You can still make the cards or tags ahead of time so that you won't be in a pinch when the special occasion gets close. Make a list of all the birthday parties or celebrations you have planned this year and make cards or tags according to your list. You will be so glad you did, and your family and friends will love to have a piece of your creativity too!

You could also get together with some friends and have a card making party. You could even organize a card swap so that you get original cards from other creative minds. There are several groups that coordinate over the Internet to make and swap cards and tags. This can be a wonderful resource as well to spark your creativity.