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10 Creative Ways to Use Photo Frame Cards (For Photos AND Original Artwork)

Photo frame cards are brilliant multi-taskers, they start as greeting cards and transform into display pieces that last for years. However, here’s what makes them truly special: you can use them with printed photos OR create original artwork to frame.

At Artist Paper Club, we offer photo frame cards in different styles to suit different creative needs. Whether you’re inserting a cherished photograph, creating an original watercolour painting, or designing custom artwork, these cards provide a beautiful way to share memories and creativity.

In this guide, we’ll explore 10 creative ways to make the most of photo frame cards, covering both photo and artwork applications.

Understanding Your Options: Photos vs. Artwork

Before we dive into the creative ideas, let’s clarify the different types of photo frame cards available:

For Photos (Printed Photos You Already Have)

Photo Frame Cards with Slide-In Insert These cards feature a die-cut window where you slide in a standard 4″x6″ printed photo. The photo is held securely without adhesive. Available in:

Photo Mount Cards These feature an embossed frame on the card surface where you attach your photo using included adhesive dots. The photo sits on top of the card rather than sliding behind a window.

Photo Mount Cards

For Artists (Create Original Artwork)

Frame-Enhanced Cards with Insert Cards These kits include photo frame cards PLUS blank insert cards for creating original art. The insert cards fit perfectly in the frame window. Available in:

Regular Cardstock Inserts – 300GSM premium white cardstock, perfect for pen and ink, markers, coloured pencils, collage, or mixed media
Watercolour Paper Inserts – 300GSM Leyton 100% cotton watercolour paper, perfect for watercolour painting, gouache, or other water-based media

How they work:

Create your artwork on the included A2 (4.25″ x 5.5″) insert card
Slide the finished artwork into the photo frame card’s die-cut window
Send as a greeting card that doubles as a framed piece of original art

Now, let’s explore creative ways to use them!

1. Original Watercolour Art as Greeting Cards

Best for: Frame-enhanced cards with watercolour inserts

Instead of buying printed greeting cards, create original watercolour artwork for special occasions. Paint seasonal motifs, floral designs, or abstract pieces that reflect the recipient’s personality.

Why it’s special: You’re giving an original piece of art, not just a card. The recipient receives a one-of-a-kind creation they can frame and display forever.

Ideas by occasion:

Birthdays: Paint their birth month flower
Christmas: Create a watercolour winter scene or native Australian flora
Thank you: Paint something meaningful to your shared experience
Sympathy: Soft, gentle watercolours in calming colours
New home: Paint their new house from a photo reference

Artist tip: Use the Leyton 100% cotton watercolour paper inserts for professional results. The paper handles wet techniques beautifully and won’t buckle.

2. Wedding Table Numbers (That Guests Actually Keep)

Best for: Photo frame cards OR frame-enhanced cards with artwork

Forget disposable table numbers. Create keepsakes using one of these approaches:

Photo approach: Use photos of you and your partner at each corresponding age — table 1 gets a photo of you both at age 1, table 5 at age 5, and so on.

Artwork approach: Commission or create watercolour paintings of meaningful locations (where you met, got engaged, favourite date spots) with the table number incorporated into the design.

Why it works: Guests love the personal touch, and many will take them home as wedding favours. It’s a conversation starter and a keepsake all in one.

Pro tip: Add a small note on the back: “Please take this home as our thank you gift for celebrating with us.”

3. Birth Announcements with Original Artwork

Best for: Photo frame cards (for baby photo) OR frame-enhanced cards with artwork

Photo approach: Send the classic birth announcement with baby’s first photo in a frame card. Recipients can display it on their desk or nursery wall.

Artistic approach: For a unique twist, create watercolour artwork before baby arrives:

Paint baby’s name in beautiful calligraphy with floral accents
Create abstract art in the nursery colour scheme
Paint a sweet illustration of baby animals
Design a family tree with space to add baby’s details

What to include:

Baby’s photo or custom artwork in the frame
Birth details (name, date, weight, length) inside the card
A sweet message from the new parents

Why it’s better than traditional announcements: These get displayed, not tucked away. Grandparents especially love having them at work or on the mantlepiece.

4. Artist Trading Cards (ATC) for Grown-Ups

Best for: Frame-enhanced cards with regular or watercolour inserts

Create a series of miniature artworks to trade with fellow artists or give as a collection.

How to use:

Create a themed series (seasons, local flora, abstract collection)
Each artwork becomes a frameable, displayable piece
Trade with other artists or give as a boxed set gift
Recipients can display the entire collection on a shelf

Perfect for:

Art group exchanges
Teacher gifts (a year of seasonal artwork)
Unique Christmas gifts for art lovers
Building your own portfolio of small works

Artist perspective: This is a legitimate art form. Unlike traditional ATCs, these frame cards give your small works the presentation they deserve.

5. Recipe Cards with Original Illustrations

Best for: Frame-enhanced cards with regular cardstock inserts (for drawing/illustration)

Create illustrated recipe cards that are both functional and decorative.

Two approaches:

Illustrated approach:

Draw or paint the finished dish on the insert card
Write the recipe inside the frame card
Creates a visual reference + functional recipe

Photo approach:

Use a photo of the finished dish
Add decorative elements around the frame
Include family stories about the recipe

Perfect for:

Bridal shower gifts (collection of family recipes)
Housewarming presents
Christmas gifts for foodie friends
Preserving Nanna’s recipes for the next generation

Make it extra special: Include a photo of the family member who makes it best, or illustrate their signature technique.

6. Illustrated Children’s Art Display

Best for: Frame-enhanced cards with regular cardstock inserts

Give children proper artist materials and let them create “gallery-worthy” pieces.

How it works:

Provide children with the A2 insert cards
Let them create with their favourite medium (markers, crayons, paint)
Frame their artwork in the card
Display on the fridge or send to grandparents

Why kids love it: Their artwork gets presented like “real art” in a frame, which makes them feel like professional artists.

Grandparent angle: Send children’s artwork to grandparents in frame cards monthly. They’ll love receiving original art from the grandkids that’s ready to display.

Teacher gift idea: Have each student create artwork on insert cards, compile into a class gift for the teacher at year’s end.

7. Graduation or Milestone Achievement Cards

Best for: Photo frame cards for achievement photos, OR frame-enhanced cards for custom art

Photo approach:

Cap and gown photos
Team photos for sports achievements
Performance photos for music/drama milestones
Academic award presentations

Artistic approach:

Create custom watercolour artwork incorporating school colours
Hand-letter congratulations with decorative elements
Paint symbols of their achievement (mortarboard, sports equipment, musical instruments)

Why it matters: These achievements deserve more than a generic store-bought card. A frame card elevates the celebration and gives them something to display in their dorm or new home.

8. Pet Portraits (Original Art or Photos)

Best for: Photo frame cards for pet photos, OR frame-enhanced watercolour cards for pet portraits

Photo approach: Celebrate a beloved pet with frame cards featuring:

New puppy or kitten announcements
Pet birthday cards
Rainbow Bridge memorial cards
“New family member” announcements when adopting

Artistic approach: Create watercolour pet portraits to send as:

Thank you cards to pet sitters (with a portrait of the pet they cared for)
Sympathy cards for pet loss (paint their beloved pet from a photo)
Birthday cards for pet lovers (featuring their furry friend)

The emotional impact: For pet loss especially, a hand-painted portrait shows you understand that pet grief is real grief. Friends and family can display the portrait as a lasting memorial.

Artist opportunity: If you’re skilled at pet portraits, these frame cards are perfect for commissions or selling at markets.

9. Travel Memory Cards with Mixed Media Art

Best for: Frame-enhanced cards with regular cardstock inserts, OR photo frame cards

Photo approach: Create travel memory cards featuring photos from special trips, sent to travel companions as keepsakes.

Artistic approach: Create mixed media artwork inspired by your travels:

Collage using tickets, maps, and drawings
Watercolour scenes of landmarks
Abstract pieces using colours and textures from the destination
Typography combining place names with decorative elements

Inside the card:

Dates and location
Favourite memories or funny stories
Personal message thanking them for the adventure

Why it’s special: Much more meaningful than just sharing digital photos. Recipients get a unique piece of art that captures the essence of your shared experience.

10. Seasonal Art Series (Create Throughout the Year)

Best for: Frame-enhanced cards with watercolour or regular inserts

Create a seasonal art series to send to long-distance family or friends throughout the year.

How it works:

Create four pieces of artwork representing each season
Send one card per season (March, June, September, December)
By year’s end, recipient has a complete seasonal collection to display together

Seasonal themes:

Summer: Beach scenes, native flowers, bright colours
Autumn: Falling leaves, warm tones, cosy imagery
Winter: Minimalist landscapes, cool colours, frost patterns
Spring: Blooming flowers, fresh greens, new growth

Perfect for:

Grandparents who love receiving mail
Friends who’ve moved overseas
Elderly relatives in care facilities
Long-distance family connections

The collection factor: Recipients can display all four cards together, creating a cohesive seasonal gallery that tells a year-long story.

Artist-Specific Use Cases

For Professional Artists

Commission Opportunities

Offer custom watercolour frame cards as an affordable art product
Price point accessible to more buyers than full paintings
Perfect for markets, online shops, or commission work
Create series of landscapes, botanicals, or abstract pieces

Portfolio Pieces

Showcase technique in small format
Easy to photograph and share online
Ship samples to galleries without expensive framing
Lower barrier for collectors to start purchasing your work

Teaching Tool

Demonstrate techniques to students on the insert cards
Students create practice pieces that can be gifted
Workshop participants leave with finished, frameable pieces
Build confidence by showing even small works deserve proper presentation

For Hobby Artists

Low-Pressure Practice

Small format feels less intimidating than full sheets
Mistakes aren’t as costly
Complete a piece in one sitting
Build skills through regular small projects

Gift-Giving Made Easy

Always have handmade gifts ready
More meaningful than store-bought cards
Recipients can display your art with pride
Supports your artistic practice while showing you care

Technical Tips for Each Card Type

Working with Photo Frame Cards (For Photos)

Choosing photos:

Use 4″x6″ (10cm x 15cm) standard prints
Ensure photos are high resolution (at least 300 DPI)
Consider composition — important elements should fit within the frame window
Test one card before printing multiples

Insertion tips:

Slide photo in gently from the side opening
Adjust position before fully inserting
Photo should sit flush against the frame without buckling
For black cards, ensure photo edges are clean (more visible than white)

Photo quality matters:

Use good quality photo paper (matte works well)
Avoid glossy in very bright settings (glare)
Trim carefully if needed — uneven edges show in frame

Working with Photo Mount Cards

Using adhesive dots:

Apply dots to four corners of photo back
Press firmly to activate adhesive
Peel off protective layer
Position carefully — you can’t reposition easily
Press photo onto embossed frame area

Positioning:

Centre photo carefully before pressing down
Ensure photo sits flat without bubbles
The embossed frame should be visible around photo edges
Work on clean surface to avoid dust under photo

Working with Frame-Enhanced Cards (For Artwork)

Using Regular Cardstock Inserts:

What works well:

Pen and ink illustration
Coloured pencil
Markers and brush pens
Collage and mixed media
Stamping
Calligraphy

Technique tips:

Cardstock is heavier than regular paper — great for layering
Accepts most media without bleeding
Can handle light watercolour washes (test first)
Smooth surface perfect for detailed work

Using Watercolour Paper Inserts:

What makes it special:

100% cotton Leyton watercolour paper
Professional quality, not craft-grade
Handles wet techniques without buckling
Can be stretched if desired (though not necessary for cards)

Watercolour tips:

Use masking tape to create clean borders
Let dry completely before inserting into frame
Paper can handle multiple washes
Suitable for wet-on-wet and wet-on-dry techniques
Also works beautifully for gouache, acrylic ink, and other water media

General artwork tips:

Create artwork slightly larger than window if you want flexibility in positioning
Consider the orientation (landscape vs. portrait)
Test insertion before adding final details near edges
Sign your work on the back!

Inserting finished artwork:

Ensure artwork is completely dry
Open frame card carefully
Slide artwork into die-cut window from the side
Adjust position until centred
Window may feel tight (this is normal) — go slowly
Artwork should sit securely without adhesive

Planning Your Photo Frame Card Projects

For Photo Projects

What you’ll need:

Photo frame cards or photo mount cards
Printed photos (4″x6″ for frame cards)
Envelopes (usually included)
Pens for writing messages
Optional: Adhesive dots for mount cards (usually included)

Cost considerations: Photo frame cards are surprisingly affordable considering they serve as both card and frame.

Timeline:

Order cards: arrives within 2-7 business days Australia-wide
Print photos: same day at most photo labs or overnight online
Assembly: 5-10 minutes per card
Addressing and posting: standard timing

For Artwork Projects

What you’ll need:

Frame-enhanced card kit (includes frame cards, insert cards, and envelopes)
Art supplies appropriate to your medium
Workspace for creating
Time to let artwork dry (especially watercolour)

Timeline planning:

Watercolour: 2-4 hours per piece including drying time
Illustration: 1-3 hours depending on detail
Mixed media: Variable, allow time for layering and drying
Insertion and completion: 5 minutes per card once artwork is ready

Creating in batches: Set up an assembly line for efficiency:

Create all artwork first
Let everything dry thoroughly
Insert all artwork into frame cards
Write messages inside all cards
Address envelopes
Post all at once

Caring for Your Photo Frame Cards

Display Tips

For standing display:

Place on flat, stable surface
Keep away from direct sunlight (photos and art can fade)
Dust gently with soft, dry cloth
Ensure frame card is fully open to stand properly

For wall hanging:

Use removable adhesive strips rated for card weight
Group multiple cards together for gallery wall effect
Consider magnetic board for easy rearrangement
Frame individually in standard frames for extra protection

Protecting Artwork Long-Term

If keeping cards as keepsakes:

Store flat in acid-free boxes
Keep in cool, dry place away from sunlight
Place tissue paper between cards to prevent rubbing
Consider photo-safe sleeves for extra protection
Label boxes by year, occasion, or artist

For valuable original artwork:

Consider having professionally framed
Use UV-protective glass
Archive-quality matting
Keep away from moisture and direct heat

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use instant camera photos like Instax? A: Instax Mini photos (62mm x 46mm) are smaller than our standard 4″x6″ frame opening. However, you could mount them creatively using our photo mount cards or frame them with decorative elements around the smaller photo.

Q: What’s the difference between the frame cards and mount cards? A: Frame cards have a die-cut window where you slide the photo behind. Mount cards have an embossed frame on the surface where you attach the photo with adhesive dots on top. Frame cards give a more recessed, gallery-like appearance; mount cards show more of your photo surface.

Q: Can I print directly onto the insert cards? A: The insert cards are designed for hand-created artwork rather than printing. The watercolour paper especially won’t go through standard printers. We recommend creating artwork by hand to take advantage of the premium paper quality.

Q: Do I need to use adhesive to attach artwork in the frame cards? A: No! The artwork insert cards slide into the frame window and are held securely without adhesive. This is actually better — it means you could potentially swap out the artwork if desired.

Q: Can I use the watercolour inserts for other media besides watercolour? A: Yes! The Leyton 100% cotton paper works beautifully for:

Gouache
Acrylic inks
Pen and ink with light washes
Coloured pencil (lovely texture)
Mixed media

Q: Are these suitable for professional artists selling work? A: Absolutely! The premium quality (300GSM cardstock, 100% cotton watercolour paper) is appropriate for professional work. Many artists sell original pieces in frame cards at markets or online as accessible price-point items.

Q: How do I price original artwork frame cards if selling? A: Consider:

Time invested in artwork (typically 2-4 hours)
Materials cost (card kit + art supplies)
Your skill level and reputation
Local market rates
Typical range: $15-50 for emerging artists, $50-150+ for established artists

Q: Can the cards stand up on their own? A: Yes, when fully opened, the frame cards stand independently like an A-frame. Ensure the card is on a flat surface.

Q: Will watercolour paper buckle in the frame? A: If you use proper watercolour technique and allow the paper to dry completely, buckling is minimal. The Leyton paper is high-quality 300GSM cotton and handles water well. For very wet techniques, you might notice slight texture, but this is normal and part of watercolour’s character.

Q: Can I write on the frame area around the window? A: Yes! The 300GSM cardstock accepts pen ink beautifully. Many people add:

Decorative elements
Calligraphy
Borders or patterns
Names and dates
Personal messages around the frame

Getting Started: Which Cards Are Right for You?

Choose Photo Frame Cards (Slide-In) If:

You have existing photos you want to display
You want quick, easy assembly
You prefer a clean, gallery-like presentation
You’re doing bulk projects (weddings, events)
Photos are standard 4″x6″ size

Available in:

White (classic, versatile)
Black (dramatic, modern)

Choose Photo Mount Cards If:

You like the look of photos mounted on the surface
You want the embossed frame as a design element
You’re comfortable with permanent adhesive attachment
You want flexibility in photo positioning before committing

Choose Frame-Enhanced Cards with Regular Inserts If:

You want to create original artwork
You work with dry media (pen, pencil, markers)
You enjoy illustration or mixed media
You want to design custom cards
You’re creating with children

Choose Frame-Enhanced Cards with Watercolour Inserts If:

You’re a watercolour artist (hobby or professional)
You want to gift original paintings
You work with water-based media
You want professional-quality paper
You’re creating art for commission or sale

Can’t decide? Start with one small pack to test. Many customers end up using different types for different occasions!

Real Customer Stories

Emma’s Watercolour Wedding Invitations

“I painted 80 watercolour pieces for our wedding invitations using the Leyton watercolour insert cards. Each one featured Australian native flowers in our wedding colours. Guests were blown away — many framed them! It took time, but it was so much more meaningful than printed invitations. The quality of the watercolour paper is incredible, and the frame cards make them look so professional.” — Emma K., Sydney

David’s Photography Side Business

“I use the black photo frame cards for my photography prints. I shoot landscapes around Tasmania and sell them at local markets. The frame cards let me offer affordable pieces ($25-35) that people can immediately display. They’re my best seller because customers don’t need to arrange framing separately. The black frames make the colours in my photos really pop.” — David M., Hobart

Sarah’s Monthly Grandparent Mail

“I send my daughter’s artwork to both sets of grandparents using the regular insert cards. Every month, my 6-year-old creates a piece of art, we frame it in the card, and she writes a message inside. Her grandparents display them all on a shelf — they have a growing collection. It’s become a lovely tradition, and my daughter takes such pride in being a ‘real artist’ whose work gets properly framed.” — Sarah T., Brisbane

James’ Art Commission Business

“I’m a hobbyist watercolour artist, and the frame-enhanced cards with watercolour inserts have opened up a new income stream. I create botanical paintings and sell them at craft markets. The cards allow me to offer original art at an accessible price point ($40-60) that people can display immediately. I’ve sold over 200 pieces this year!” — James L., Melbourne

Seasonal Ideas Throughout the Year

Summer (December – February)

Photos:

Beach holiday memories
Christmas family photos
New Year celebration shots
Australia Day gatherings

Artwork:

Watercolour beach scenes
Native summer flowers (bottlebrush, grevillea)
Bright, colourful abstracts
Sunset landscapes

Autumn (March – May)

Photos:

Autumn foliage walks
Easter celebrations
Mother’s Day family photos
School holiday adventures

Artwork:

Warm-toned leaf studies
Harvest themes
Cosy, muted palettes
Transitional landscapes

Winter (June – August)

Photos:

Father’s Day celebrations
Ski trip memories
Cosy indoor gatherings
Midwinter celebrations

Artwork:

Cool-toned landscapes
Minimal winter scenes
Australian alpine flora
Abstract winter colour studies

Spring (September – November)

Photos:

Spring garden blooms
Wedding celebrations
Melbourne Cup fashion
Graduation ceremonies

Artwork:

Botanical watercolours
Cherry blossoms
Fresh spring colours
Renewal and growth themes

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Ideas

Create a Portfolio Series

For artists: Create limited edition series:

Number each piece (e.g., “3/20”)
Theme by subject, colour, or technique
Sell as complete sets or individual pieces
Build collector interest

For photographers: Curate photo series:

Landscape collections by region
Street photography series
Architectural studies
Wildlife collections

Art Swap Circles

Organize monthly art swaps with friends:

Each person creates artwork on insert cards
Meet monthly to swap pieces
Everyone goes home with new original art
Builds community and keeps you creating

Commission Opportunities

Individual commissions:

Pet portraits
House portraits (new home gifts)
Family portraits
Favourite place paintings

Bulk commissions:

Wedding party gifts
Corporate thank yous
Event favours
Fundraiser items

Teaching and Workshops

Host workshops where participants:

Learn watercolour basics on insert cards
Create finished piece in one session
Take home frameable artwork
Lower barrier than full sheet paintings

Shopping Guide

Photo Frame Card Range at Artist Paper Club

For Photos:

White Photo Frame Cards – Packs of 30 or 60
Black Photo Frame Cards – Packs of 30 or 60
Photo Mount Cards – Packs of 10 or 60

For Original Artwork:

Frame-Enhanced Cards with Regular Inserts – Packs of 8 or 48
Frame-Enhanced Cards with Watercolour Inserts – Packs of 8 or 48

All include:

Premium 300GSM cardstock frame cards
Matching envelopes
Insert cards where applicable
Adhesive dots where applicable

Delivery:

Australia-wide shipping
Free shipping over $70
Fast 24-hour dispatch
Orders arrive within 2-7 business days

Quality Matters: What Sets These Cards Apart

Premium Materials

Frame cards: 300GSM cardstock (not flimsy craft paper)

Heavyweight, substantial feel
Stands independently without props
Accepts pen ink beautifully
Professional presentation quality

Watercolour inserts: Leyton 100% cotton paper

Professional artist quality
Handles wet techniques without buckling
Same paper quality as full sheets
Archival quality for lasting artwork

Regular cardstock inserts: 300GSM premium cardstock

Smooth surface for detailed work
Accepts multiple media types
Heavier than standard card
Professional finish

Precise Die-Cutting

Clean, professional edges on all frames
Precise sizing for perfect photo/artwork fit
No rough or torn edges
Museum-quality presentation

Thoughtful Design

Cards stand independently when opened
Insert slots designed for easy artwork placement
Envelopes sized to protect cards in post
Neutral colours that suit any occasion

Share Your Creations!

We absolutely love seeing how customers use photo frame cards! Whether you’re inserting family photos or creating original watercolour masterpieces, we’d love to feature your work.

Share with us:

Tag @artistpaperclub on Instagram
Use hashtag #artistpaperclub
Email photos to artistpaperclub@outlook.com
Join our customer gallery page

We feature:

Customer artwork and photos
Creative card designs
Unique applications
Artist spotlights

Need Help Choosing?

Still not sure which cards are right for your project?

Discuss your project needs
Recommend the right card type
Answer technical questions about media compatibility
Provide advice on quantities for events
Help with bulk order pricing

We’re artists and paper enthusiasts ourselves — we genuinely love helping people find the right materials for their creative projects!

More Inspiration from Artist Paper Club

Related blog posts:

Understanding Cardstock Weight: Why 300GSM Matters
Watercolour Paper Guide: Choosing the Right Paper
DIY Wedding Stationery: A Complete Guide
Creative Uses for Blank Greeting Cards

Shop related products:

About Artist Paper Club

We’re an Australian-owned art supply business based in Canberra, specialising in premium paper products from around the world. We carefully curate quality art materials at competitive prices because we believe great art shouldn’t require a premium price tag.

As artists ourselves, we test every product and only stock items that meet our strict quality standards. Whether you’re a professional artist, hobby creative, or just want to send something special, we’re here to provide the materials that help your creativity shine.

Free shipping Australia-wide on orders over $70 | Fast 24-hour dispatch | 8,300+ happy customers

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