Before you become intimidated by the supermom in your ’hood who is known for making over-the-top valentines for her child’s classmates, we give you a reprieve. With the help of Emily Grosse, co-owner of crafting studio Assemble on Phinney Ridge, we present simple tips on creating great-looking, affordable, easy, non-cheesy cards. The best part? The kids do most of the work. Kavita Varma-White

The materials: Craft paper, cut into 4-inch squares; old magazines, wrapping paper or recycled colorful paper; decorative hole punchers (available at craft stores in various shapes, from hearts to stars); twine or ribbon; a glue stick; a Sharpie pen.

The process: Punch heart or star shapes into your choice of colorful paper. Use the glue stick to glue the colorful paper hearts or stars onto the square craft paper cards.
The final product: Punch a hole in the corner of card and thread ribbon or twine for a hanging tag. Use a Sharpie to write a Valentine’s Day message.

If you’d rather start under Grosse’s watchful eye—and add fancy details like
stitching—Assemble is offering valentine card workshops on Feb. 5 and 12 (2–3 p.m.). You’ll create a few card samples during the class and then take supplies home to finish the rest. $20 per child.