We may not exchange Christmas cards as frequently as before, but looking at vintage cards could spark inspiration to revive this tradition or generate ideas for various card and invitation styles. Take, for instance, the rich collection at the Manchester Art Gallery.
One standout piece from the archive is an original chromolithographed and embossed fan-shaped card, adorned with a tasseled cord, dating back to 1870-80. Produced by Eugène Rimmel, French-born British perfumer and businessman (yes, the one that invented non-toxic mascara, that's why in many languages mascara is also known as "rimmel"…), the card unfolds like a peacock's tail, featuring seven leaves that elegantly fit into a central piece.
Rimmel employed perfume creatively, infusing scent in sachet valentines and in theatre and concet programs, so maybe also this card was perfumed. What we do know for sure about this card, though, is that this was a popular design: there was indeed a Valentine card by Rimmel that looked like this "Christmas fan", but with different wishes ("My heart if with you," "Forget me not"; View this photo). 
For fashion fans, there's a card in the Manchester Art Gallery archive from 1910-20 that incorporates a miniature sewing set. Designed by Angus Thomas and sourced from Mary Greg's collection, it playfully declares, "You're still a bachelor – darn your socks! Nevertheless, I send my heartiest wishes for a singularly jolly Christmas and a doubly Happy New Year." The quirky aspect of this card lies in its inclusion of a needle, buttons, a small pair of scissors, and a flattened thimble affixed to lightweight cardboard.
During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Mary Greg, driven by a passion for pre-industrial handmade objects, diligently preserved items made with traditional skills that were fast-disappearing or even already lost. Greg would acquire everyday domestic items like basketware and thimbles that were often overlooked by contemporary collectors, but that, over time, gained rarity.
This card is just an example of Thomas' comic Christmas and puzzle cards from the 1800s. Many of them featured silly and humorous puns that people liked a lot.
Joke cards actually became a favourite around that time: Thomas sold Christmas cards with a variety of subjects and jokes, at times including paper shells ("I send this 'o pin you'll come well out of your shell and have a jolly Christmas with lots of good luck to warm the cockles of your heart," View this photo) or scissors (check out the wishes on this one – "Have a clipping time", View this photo).
One of the most popular cards by Thomas featured a pasteboard thermometer attached to it saying "With the Warmest Christmas Greetings. May your Enjoyment Rise by Degrees to the Highest Known Temperature". On the card there was also a quiz: "What is the highest known temperature?" with the answer ingeniously hidden behind the thermometer. Thomas' cards are rare, but it's still possible to stumble upon them on Etsy or at vintage markets – so keep your eyes peeled for them.
So, there's still time to wish a loved one a jolly Christmas and there's still applications for Thomas' silly jokes: perhaps, you may want to use the miniature sewing kit idea as an opportunity to remind someone of the joy in learning new skills or employ it to metaphorically reconcile a broken friendship. Have a lovely Christmas!
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