Although it looks like a solid color at first, the background of this card is actually a combination of several colors. Our special technique ensures that each copy of the holiday greeting has its own unique appearance. Although it may take some time to make each card, the technique is simple enough even for kids.

• Dark red matte card stock, cut to 5 1/2 x 9 inches
• Paper plate
• Acrylic paints (we used bright orange, deep red, and black)
• Plastic cross-stitch canvas
• Small sponge paint roller
• Gold paper
• Scissors
• Decorative-edge scissors
• Bright gold paint pen
• Glue stick

1. Spread paint onto plate in three separate areas. Use a sponge roller to apply paint. Soak it with water first. Squeeze out the excess water.

2. Lay a piece of plastic canvas over the card stock. Roll the dampened roller into paint, picking up some of all colors but very little of black. Paint in random strokes over the plastic canvas. Use a generous amount of paint and paint over areas if needed. Lift the plastic canvas occasionally to check the coverage. Let it dry. Fold card stock to make a 5-1/2-x-4-1/2-inch card.

3. Cut gold paper into desired shapes, such as the star shown. Glue your shapes to the card stock. Cut narrow strips of gold paper to create borders, using the decorative-edge scissors if you like.

4. Use a gold paint pen to add designs or words to the card.