Shaker cards are a fun and interactive way to add a little extra flair to your handmade cards. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned crafter, these essential shaker card tips & tricks will help you create beautiful, interactive designs every time!
Images copyright 1990-2025 Stampin’ Up!®
Essential Shaker Card Tips & Tricks for a Flawless Design
1. Reduce Static for Free-Moving Shaker Pieces
One of the biggest frustrations with shaker cards is when the sequins, beads, or other filler pieces stick to the acetate window. To reduce static, simply rub a used dryer sheet over the acetate and the inside edges of the foam before sealing the card. This reduces static, ensuring that your shaker elements move freely. This is one of the most valuable shaker card tips & tricks.
2. Be Careful When Adhering Images to the Shaker Window
If you want to attach an image to the front of your shaker window, avoid using liquid glue, if possible, as it can leave visible marks on the acetate. Instead, opt for:
- Tear & Tape
- Tape runner
- Adhesive Sheets
If you must use liquid glue, make sure to use a fine needle-tip applicator to apply a minimal amount carefully. Following these tips & tricks will ensure no messy glue marks on the acetate window.
3. Properly Enclosing Shaker Pieces
To ensure that your shaker pieces stay securely inside the window, use foam adhesive strips applied closely together to prevent any gaps where pieces might escape. Be careful to place the strips along the edge of the window so they do not show through the acetate. Double-check that all edges are fully sealed before attaching the window layer to the card base. These tips & tricks will help to ensure the enclosing of the shaker elements.
4. Creating a Secure and Sturdy Window Layer
Foam strips are commonly used to create the raised window layer, but if you don’t have them on hand or prefer a sturdier alternative, try layering cardstock strips instead. Cut 1/8″ – 1/4″ wide strips, and layer 5-6 pieces on top of one another, adhering them together for the desired thickness. Once built up, attach these strips to the back edges of the window layer. When it’s time to adhere the window layer to the card front, use Multipurpose Liquid Glue or Tear & Tape for a strong hold. These adhesives ensure that your shaker compartment stays sealed without gaps where shaker elements might escape. Sturdy window layers are key to stunning shaker cards.
Shaker Card Tips & Tricks: Step-by-Step Video Tutorial
For a full tutorial, check out the video below, where I demonstrate how to make a shaker card using these tips and more! This video is filled with my shaker card tips & tricks.
The shaker card created in the video features the Memorable Blooms Bundle and the Beautiful Butterflies Hybrid Embossing Folder. The floral elements and intricate butterfly details add a stunning, elegant touch to the card, making it perfect for any occasion. The embossed textures combined with the shaker components create a dynamic and visually appealing design that’s both fun and sophisticated. More shaker card tips & tricks can be seen in this project.
With these shaker card tips & tricks, you’ll be crafting stunning, professional-looking shaker cards in no time! Give them a try and enjoy the creative process!
Additional Shaker Card Design
For both cards, I used designs from Everyday Happiness 12″ x 12″ Designer Series Paper for the shaker backgrounds. The Pretty Peacock card base and window element with the Lost Lagoon patterned paper creates a stunning look against the Basic White embossed layer! Using these shaker card tips & tricks will enhance your designs.
Images copyright 1990-2025 Stampin’ Up!®
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