If you love easy card-making techniques that look far more complicated than they really are, you’re going to enjoy this fun birthday card design. In today’s project, I’m showing how you can use stand alone dies in a creative way to build a unique card base with built-in flair! This technique is perfect for those who want to make easy birthday cards with impressive results.
Creating the Shaped Die-Cut Card Base
To create the card base, I started with the second largest scalloped die from the Studio Light Nested Rectangles and cut two layers. For the back layer, I positioned it with the rounded edge at the top and scored at 5/8″ from that rounded edge. Next, I folded on the score line (folding it back) to create the hinge. After opening it back up and flattening the piece, I applied liquid glue above the score line only. Then I adhered the second die-cut layer on top—matching all edges perfectly. This creates a shaped, clean top-fold card base. I demonstrate this step clearly in the video tutorial. In addition, this same concept can be adapted with other uniquely shaped dies as well—think ovals, circles, or decorative frames—so it’s a versatile technique you’ll come back to again and again, especially if you want to create birthday cards that are easy but still wow the recipient.
Adding Texture to the Front Card Panel
For the front layer of the card, I used the matching straight-edged nested rectangle die. To add texture and dimension, I dry embossed this layer using Altenew’s Dotty Circles 3D Embossing Folder. These steps work well if you want to design birthday cards with easy approaches but lots of impact. The subtle raised pattern gives the background just enough interest without competing with the balloons.
Layered Balloons for Dimension and Shine
Speaking of balloons, I die cut them from scraps of cardstock—perfect for using up those leftover pieces we all have in our stash. To add a soft, realistic touch, I also die cut the three largest balloons from vellum and layered them behind the cardstock balloons. As a result, this creates the illusion of light reflecting off the balloons, giving them a more dimensional, airy look. I finished the front with a stamped and die-cut “Happy Birthday” sentiment from Graceful Greetings by Gina K Designs.
Finishing the Inside of the Card
On the inside of the card, I carried the design through by adding a second layer cut with the straight-edged rectangle die. Before adhering it, I trimmed 3/8″ off the bottom so it fit perfectly inside the shaped card base. I also added a small balloon to tie the inside and outside together for a cohesive look. Using these steps, you can make easy birthday cards with a beautiful finish inside as well.
Watch the Video Tutorial
If you’d like to see this technique in action, be sure to check out my video tutorial where I walk you step-by-step through creating this unique die-cut card base and assembling the entire card. I show exactly where to score, how to fold the hinge, and where to apply the glue so your card base comes together cleanly and easily. Additionally, you’ll also get a closer look at all the details that are sometimes hard to capture in photos, making it super easy to follow along and try birthday cards yourself.
During the video, I also shared a second birthday card where I dry embossed the balloons themselves for a completely different look. I’d love to know which version you prefer—the smooth balloons or the textured ones. Leave me a comment on the video or here on the blog and let me know your favorite! Which easy birthday cards will you try at home?
Happy crafting, and thanks so much for stopping by!
— Kathi
Simply Kards By Kathi
Supplies
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means if you shop through them, I may receive a small commission — at absolutely no extra cost to you. I only share products I personally love and use. All of the products I use have been purchased by myself, unless otherwise noted. I do not accept paid reviews, and I am not on any design teams. All opinions and recommendations are based on my own experience as a crafter. For more details, please see my full disclaimer page. support helps keep Simply Kards By Kathi creating and inspiring! Thank you! View my disclosure page. Supplies can be used to make easy birthday cards all year long.
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