Victorian "Calling Cards" - a Networking Solution:

As I started to network with other costumers I was handed Victorian-like personal contact cards.  These really were not business cards but rather "contact" cards to facilitate connections through blogs, emails and of course Facebook.  Wearing costumes does not always allow for a concealed cell phone let alone a pad and paper.  These cards discreetly tucked away can be left with others to share contact information.

I thought about buying pre-made cards online.  You know, the "free cards" just pay shipping....then decided to venture out on my own.  I own a simple printer, have rotting scrapbooking equipment (think small paper cutter), free clip art is abundant, I know how to navigate Publisher, and Michael's had a sale on cardstock.  With my $2 worth  of cardstock and a couple false graphic starts I produced:

Of course here was a learning curve with this.  My no-frills printer apparently doesn't do a great job on pearly paper. I had much better luck printing on the matte sides of the mauve and ivory textured paper.

These papers had a pearly textured finish which is now the back of the cards.  This worked out ok.

This paper had a lovely printed matte side and a pearly ivory finish which I printed on.  My printer did not like the pearl finish but I do like the design on the back.  I kept it simple, my name and the name of my Facebook page.  So now I'm connected -- 19th Century style!