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Much of creative thinking involves combining previously unrelated ideas or subjects to make something new. This process is called synthesis, and is regarded by many experts as the essence of creativity. Gregor Mendel created a whole new scientific discipline, genetics, by combining mathematics with biology.

THOUGHT EXPERIMENT: Before you read the next paragraph, take a moment and try to combine a Christmas card with something else to make a new product. Ask:
What can be combined?
Can we combine purposes?
How about an assortment? A blend? An alloy? An ensemble?
Combine units? Combine materials? What other article could be merged with this?
How could we package a combination?
What can be combined to multiply possible uses?
Combine appeals?

How did you do?

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Sofie Los and Saskia Clarijs operate a store in Japan called Niko Niko which means to “say cheese.” The company designs products that are surprising, eco-friendly and designed to make your smile. This year they combined wild flower seeds with Christmas cards into a biodegradable card. Instead of throwing the card way, you can plant it instead. So long as you supply it with soil and water, you will have a garden overflowing with wildflowers by summer.

The card can be planted indoors or outside, so you can choose according to the temperature and conditions at the time of planting. Cover the soil (outside or in a pot) with the card. Spread about half a centimeter layer of soil over the card and tamp down gently.
After planting, give it a good soak. You want the paper and the soil to be nicely damp but not swimming in water. During the first 10 days, keep the paper moist at all times. The water is necessary for germination. Once sprouts appear, continue to keep the paper moist but be careful not to overwater. Once plants appear, water as needed.
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(Michael Michalko is the author of Thinkertoys: A Handbook of Creative Thinking Techniques; Cracking Creativity: The Thinking Strategies of Creative Geniuses; Thinkpak: A Brainstorming Card Deck, and Creative Thinkering: Putting Your Imagination to Work. http://www.creativethinking.net)