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Your complete guide to homemade cards with eye-popping designs
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In this tutorial, you'll learn how to make a card that allows you to give the impression that the picture has a three dimensional aspect to it.

How to Make a 3D Pop Up Card

Fold a piece of paper in half and make 2 small horizontal cuts in the middle of the folded side. Push the cut section into the card so it makes an L-shape. Glue drawings to the cut section on the inside of the card so it pops out when you open it.

Part 1
Part 1 of 2:

Making the Card Base

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  1. The card can be made in any color.
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  3. The longer the snip is, the closer to the end of the card the item will be.
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Part 2
Part 2 of 2:

Adding the Drawings

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  1. Perhaps draw clouds, trees, bushes, and people! Then cut out your drawings, neatly and carefully. In this tutorial, the artist has chosen to draw a snake that is coming up out of the card––it's a good idea to choose an image pose that suggests movement or length, to make the surprise even more exciting when the recipient opens the card.
  2. Use tape or glue to position the drawings in the right spot. Close the card to check it fits well, then you're done!
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Community Q&A

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  • Question
    Can I make the 3D parts anywhere on the card?
    Community Answer
    Anywhere along the fold end. You shouldn't cut the 3D part on the fold line close to the top.
  • Question
    What is the card supposed to look like when it is closed?
    Community Answer
    The card will look like any card, but with a slit. If you would like to cover the slits, put another layer of paper on the outside of the card.
  • Question
    Can I make a book on the upper part of the paper?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can, but make sure the fold does not get disrupted so as to manage the popping out.
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      Tips

      • To make springs to allow the drawing to leap out, get two strips of paper and fold them on top of each other.
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      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To make a 3D card, start by folding a piece of cardstock in half. Next, make two snips along the fold where you want something to pop out, and fold in the part you snipped. Then, cut out your drawing and glue it to the popped out area of the card so it has a 3D effect when the recipient opens it. For tips on how to design your pop-up card, keep reading!

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