For many Canadians, some of the warmest holiday memories involve opening heartfelt cards from friends and family. Yet finding the perfect card that conveys seasonal joy and peace to everyone on your list, regardless of their background, can be a challenge. That's why turning to the handmade marketplace of Etsy is a brilliant solution, offering a treasure trove of unique, often non-denominational designs that spread pure winter cheer.
Beautiful Handmade Finds for Your Holiday Mail
We've curated a selection of standout holiday card sets from Etsy that are sure to impress. These collections largely feature handmade or hand-designed elements, with beautiful watercolor artwork, charming winter motifs, and thoughtful details. They focus on the warmth and togetherness of the season without being exclusively Christmas-centric. An added benefit for conscious shoppers? Each purchase directly supports a small business or independent artist.
Top Picks for Winter Scenes and Wildlife
For those who love serene winter landscapes, a pack of 24 watercolor cards depicting a snowy night sky is a mesmerizing choice. With silhouetted pine trees against swirling purples and blues, it's designed to evoke wintry wonder. Priced at $33, these blank-inside cards are so stunning that one reviewer noted a recipient planned to frame theirs.
Animal lovers have exquisite options. A set of 10 cards features adorably festive puffins huddling in the snow, printed on heavy cardstock for $30. Another popular set showcases watercolor winter birds like the mourning dove and barn owl; a pack of 10 with two of each design costs $30. For a woodland theme, a bestselling pack of 12 features intricate illustrations of foxes, hares, cardinals, and robins, with the art wrapping from the front to the back of the card. This set starts at $20 and lets you choose envelope colour.
If you prefer whimsical illustrations, an eight-pack of forest animal cards with rabbits and deer costs $20. A reviewer specifically praised them for being "perfectly holiday-like without being too Christmas-y." For more festive critters, a vibrant "forest festivities" set shows animals dancing and playing instruments, available in packs from 4 to 48 cards starting at $18.
Unique, Inclusive and Sweet Designs
Etsy is also home to clever and inclusive card ideas. A bestseller pack of 25 cards features a timeless message inside reading "Wishing you a Neverending season of Love and Peace" and comes with unique green envelopes for $13.
The made-to-order holiday walkup set depicts a festive sidewalk scene with wreath-covered apartments and people carrying presents. You can order custom quantities from 10 to 50 cards, starting at $28, with the option to add personalized text inside.
For a touch of quirky fun, an eight-pack of sweet and silly Nessie (Loch Ness Monster) cards is available for $18. In a truly unique category, plantable wildflower card sets are made from seed paper, allowing recipients to plant the card and grow flowers. These handmade cards start at $8 for a pack of one.
Celebrate seasonal treats with a winter desserts and drinks card set featuring vintage-style illustrations. Made from recycled paper, they come in various pack sizes from 4 to 24, starting at $12. A reviewer suggests tucking a hot chocolate packet inside! Similarly, a whimsical holiday treats pack with gingerbread houses and Yule logs starts at $16 for six cards.
For a modern twist, a 24-pack of vibrant, colourful cards offers a fresh spin on traditional greetings for $33. No matter which set you choose, you'll be sending a piece of handmade artistry and supporting independent creators this holiday season.
