Materials Needed  

(Image: Toolkit collage – metallic cards, scissors, hole punch, embossing stylus, ruler, ribbons, glue dots, and optional rhinestones.)  

- Metallic cards (recycled or new)  

- Sharp scissors/craft knife  

- Hole punch (1/8” or decorative shape)  

- Embossing stylus or blunt knitting needle  

- Ribbons (satin, velvet, or twine)  

- Decorative elements: Stickers, foil transfers, or tiny rhinestones  

- Adhesive: Glue dots or clear craft glue   

Step 1: Design & Cut Your Tags  

1. Choose a template: Classic shapes like rectangles, circles, or hexagons work best. For uniformity, print a 2”x3” template and trace it onto the card’s non-metallic side.  

2. Cut precisely:  

   - Use scissors for simple shapes.  

   - For intricate edges (scalloped or geometric), secure the card to a cutting mat and use a craft knife.  

   - Pro tip: Sand rough edges with a nail file for a polished finish.  

 Step 2: Add Texture & Patterns  

Technique A: Embossing  

1. Place the tag on a soft surface (foam pad or folded towel).  

2. Press the stylus firmly to “draw” patterns – swirls, initials, or geometric lines. The metal will dent, creating a subtle 3D effect.  

Technique B: Etching  

1. Use a craft knife to lightly scratch designs (e.g., “To/From” or holiday motifs).  

2. Wipe metallic dust away with a microfiber cloth.  

 Step 3: Embellish for Glamour  

1. Foil accents:  

   - Draw designs with a glue pen, wait 10 seconds until tacky, then press transfer foil onto the glue.  

   - Peel gently – the foil sticks only to the glued areas.  

2. Gemstones: Attach small rhinestones with glue dots for sparkle.  

3. Mixed media: Layer lace or dried flowers under a vellum overlay glued to the tag.  

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 Step 4: Assemble with Elegance  

1. Punch holes: Use a standard hole punch at the top center or corners for asymmetrical styles.  

2. Attach ribbons:  

   - For luxury: Use satin or velvet ribbons (cut to 6–8”).  

   - For rustic charm: Pair twine with a sprig of eucalyptus.  

3. Reinforce holes (optional): Add eyelets using a jewelry punch tool to prevent tearing.  

 Step 5: Personalize & Present  

1. Handwrite messages: Use metallic gel pens or acrylic paint markers for contrast.  

2. Attach to gifts:  

   - Loop ribbons around wrapped box handles.  

   - Use double-sided tape to affix tags directly to matte paper surfaces.  

3. Pair wisely: Contrast metallic tags with kraft paper or pair gold tags with emerald-green wrapping.