I really wanted to take Seth Apter’s class, 52 Card Pickup, but I didn’t make it to any of the retreats where he was teaching. So I decided to try it myself.

One of my more brilliant ideas, I have to admit. The great thing about a card is that it’s not a Big Deal. You don’t have to prepare, get ready, or think much about it. You just pick up a card, try out different approaches, and surprise yourself (the best part of the creative process).

Some of the things I’ve tried so far:

• Sanding and painting the card
• Covering with scraps of paper
• Using white or black gesso (primer)
• Punching holes to expose part of the card
• Gluing images from books and magazines
• Sewing on top
• Adding stickers, beads and other embellishments
• Coating with sealant or glazes

And I’ve just scratched the surface. Scratching? Hmmmm, that gives me another idea…