• There are dozens of Mother's Day cards available at most drugstores, grocery markets and gift shops. Although it may be easier to just pick up one of these pre-made cards, most mothers agree that a homemade card is much more meaningful. By putting in the extra time to make a unique and personalized card for your mom, you're doing more to show her how much she really means to you.

• There are no hard and fast rules to making your own card. Be as creative as you like and try to implement designs and features that you think your mom will appreciate.

Basic supplies:

1. Card stock or construction paper for the card
2. Colored pens, pencils, crayons and markers for the lettering and drawing pictures
3. Scissors
4. Glue or tape to affix decorations to the card

Optional supplies:

1. Dried flowers
2. Origami flowers
3. Photographs
4. Sparkles
5. Ribbons
6. Stickers
7. Buttons
8. Charms

• How elaborate your Mother's Day card is will depend on several factors, including the time you have to spend, your age and skill level. To make a truly unique card that will bring your mom joy on her special day, consider trying some of the following:

1. Go to a craft store and get scrapbooking supplies to make a more professional-looking card
2. Write a poem about your mother and use it as the inside text
3. Include a quote from your mom's favorite book, song, or bible verse
4. Use photographs of you and your mother to create a time line or collage
5. Take a special photo of yourself and use the card as a frame for the photo
6. Make your own paper for the card
7. Use hand prints or fingerprints to add your own personal touch to the card
8. Use binder rings and index card to create a book of "coupons" that your mom can redeem for hugs, kisses and help around the house
9. Use newspaper clippings, ticket stubs and other memorabilia from events you and your mother have shared to create a collage that will remind her of special times