For artist Mary Carol Hopkins, creating her annual Christmas card is more than a tradition; it is an act of love. Her mother hand-carved a Madonna image in 1962 using a stained-glass-style design, and this treasured letterpress block still exists today. To share her mother’s lovely art once again Mary Carol turned to Evolution creative solutions for print solutions that preserve the integrity of the heirloom art.
The Business Problem
The original artwork existed as a letterpress block, a carved wood block with a raised image used for traditional letterpress printing. Mary Carol needed a printer who could faithfully reproduce the image on the front of each card so she could hand-paint every one with watercolor. She also wanted a printed message inside the card without the expense of creating an additional letterpress block. With a mix of artistic goals and production challenges, she needed a partner who could guide the technical decisions.
Our Creative Solution
Evolution creative solutions approached this heritage project with craftsmanship and care. Because the artwork would be finished with watercolor, the team recommended using 100% cotton paper. Cotton fibers absorb watercolor more effectively than standard wood-fiber papers, allowing for rich color and preventing paint from bleeding. This choice was essential for maintaining the clarity of the hand-painted details.
To capture the carved heritage image, Evolution creative solutions coordinated production so the original letterpress block could be pressed into the cotton cards. The letterpress impression created shallow raised lines, which are ideal for guiding watercolor and keeping pigment contained. Every card became a small canvas ready for Mary Carol’s artistry.
To complete the piece, the team digitally printed the interior message. This approach reduced costs while maintaining a refined and personal finish.
The final cards blended history, handcraft, and modern print expertise—pairing a mother’s 1962 carving with her daughter’s watercolor painting, brought together by thoughtful production planning.
When meaningful design meets expert craftsmanship, Evolution creative solutions helps bring treasured stories to life. Contact [email protected] or call 513-681-4450 for our expertise on your next unique print project.
You can also complete an online request here.
Product Specifications & Rationale
| Product Specifications | Rationale |
| 100% cotton cover stock | Ideal for watercolor absorption and vibrant color |
| Letterpress impression from original carved block | Creates raised lines that help prevent watercolor bleed |
| Digital printing for interior messaging | Avoids cost of creating a second letterpress block |
| Custom cutting and folding | Creates a finished size suited for painting and mailing |