Create Fun Shaped Cards with Large Dies Easily

On my live this week, I shared how easy it is to create fun shaped cards using your larger dies. These cards are quick to make, full of personality, and a great way to add a little extra wow to your projects.

Colorful handmade balloons in various pastel shades with text: 'Happy Birthday', 'Let's Celebrate', 'you did it', and 'Enjoy Your Day'.

Photopolymer stamp set titled 'Balloon Festoon' with various balloon designs and celebratory phrases.

For today’s cards, I featured the Balloon Festoon Bundle #167606, which includes these fabulous oversized balloon dies. I was inspired by my friend Amelia, who demonstrated a simple technique for turning almost any large die shape into a card base. And bonus depending on which one you choose they can still fit in a standard size envelope.

The process is surprisingly easy. Simply cut two of your chosen shapes. On one of the die-cut pieces, score about ½” along the top or side, depending on the shape and how you want the card to open. Fold along the score line and adhere that folded tab to the back of the second die cut. Just like that, you have a shaped card that opens and closes!

I decided to keep my designs simple by using a single color of cardstock and coordinating ink along with Basic White. By combining stamping and blending brushes, I was able to create several different shades and tones of the same color, adding depth and interest without needing lots of supplies. I chose to feature some of the new In Colors, but this technique works beautifully with any color palette. Check out all the fun combinations you can make.

These shaped cards are perfect for birthdays, celebrations, congratulations, and so many other occasions. Depending on the size of the die you use, many will even fit inside a standard-sized envelope, making them easy to mail.

To finish them off, I added a touch of sparkle with Wink of Stella or if you are using the in-colors try out our new shimmer brushes.

Fast, easy, and so much fun—this is definitely a technique you’ll want to try with your favorite large dies. As an added bonus, you’ll discover that many of your dies can do double duty, creating both focal elements and unique card bases.

I hope you’ll give shaped cards a try! If you missed the live, be sure to catch the replay and see just how simple these cards are to create.

Ready to get started?

Click the Shop Now button to order any supplies you need. Then click on the Balloon Festoon Card Tutorial below to access the PDF tutorial, video instructions, cutting guide, and helpful tips and tricks.

Before you know it, you’ll be creating your own fun shaped cards for birthdays, celebrations, and special occasions. Happy crafting, and I can’t wait to see what you create!