Recently, I was asked if I had any ideas for graduation cards? Since I did not have any graduation cards already designed, I challenged myself to come up with three designs. The biggest part of that challenge resulted from not having a stamp set specific to graduation! My second challenge, was to design a graduation cap. Through my search, I found several ways in which to make a graduation cap. So today, I am sharing three easy graduation cards that you can make with out having stamps or dies specific to graduation.
Easy Graduation Card With Gold Accents
Above, I decided to use Basic White Thick card stock for the card base. Next, I layered Basic White dry embossed using the So Swirly Embossing Folder on Basic Black. For this graduation card, I wanted gold accents, so I used sentiments from the Thoughtful Moments Hybrid Embossing Folder and Dies and cut the sentiments from Gold Foil.
For the graduation cap, I cut the head piece using the die from the inside of the coffee pot found in the Latte Love Dies. The top of the cap is a 1 1/4″ square. I used white Bakers Twine for the tassel and secured it using a brad.
For the inside of the card, I layered Basic White on Basic Black and used sentiments from the Happy Little Things Stamp set. I used gold foil to die cut stars from the Thoughtful Moment Dies.
Easy Graduation Card Using Bird’s Eye View
I love the whimsical look of the easy graduation card made using the Bird’s Eye View Stamp Set! Blueberry Bushel layered with Basic White dry embossed using the Dashing Designs 3D Embossing Folder dressed up my card front. Next, I added a 2″ strip of a starburst design from Full of Life 6″ x 6″ Designer Series Paper. For the sentiment and circle, I used the Stylish Shapes Dies. I stamped the cute little bird and books using Tuxedo Black Moment ink and colored with Stampin’ Blends. I chose sentiments from the Sentimental Park Stamp set.
For the graduation cap, I used 1/8″ Gold from the Gold & Silver Combo Pack. I cut the edge and pulled the white threads out leaving separate strands of gold. I made the tassel the same as I had done, above. However, during the video, I had difficulty releasing that thread to demonstrate the bow.
I layered the inside of the card with Azure Afternoon and Basic White. A strip of Full of Life Designer Series Paper carried through the starburst effect on the inside. Sentiments were from Happy Little Things Photopolymer Stamp set.
Easy Graduation Money Card and Envelope
Because money is a very popular gift for graduations, I thought it would be fun to make an easy Graduation Money Card and matching envelope! The dimensions of this graduation card allows for gifting money or a check. I used Blueberry Bushel for the card base and layered with Basic White dry embossed using the So Swirly Embossing Folder.
For the sentiment, I used 3/4″ strip of Basic White and layered it on Blueberry Bushel. Since the sentiment was solid, I first inked the stamp with Versamark and then with Blueberry Bushel. This ensured good coverage and a solid stamped sentiment. Stylish Shapes Dies were used to cut the circles. I added a Basic Black graduation cap.
I chose to add an embossed layer on the inside of the card. However, there are several alternatives you may choose to do. First, you could add a Basic White layer on the upper or lower inside flaps. Use this area to stamp a sentiment and/or write a personalized message. A second option, would be to add a layer of coordinating Designer Series Paper to one of the flaps.
I used Blueberry Bushel card stock to make a matching envelope for my graduation money card. I included a diagram for cutting and scoring the envelope in the PDF download.
Easy Graduation Cards Instructional Video
In the instructional video below, I demonstrate how easy it is to make three distinct graduation cards without using a stamp set specific to graduation. You will, also, find several tips and tricks for making the graduation cap, stamping a solid sentiment and more. Below, is a downloadable PDF with the link to the instructional video, measurements, diagram for the envelope and supplies. I hope you enjoyed the these three easy graduation cards! Leave me a comment, as, I would love to know your thoughts and which card was your favorite!
supplies
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