How to Make 3D Cards: A Creative Craft Project for Children and Adults

Cards are always fun to make and receive, especially when they are 3D cards. And with the latter you are also assured of a smile when opening these types of cards. Not only because it looks a lot more cheerful, but also because not many people will expect this. In addition, it is also just a bit more thoughtful because you show how much effort you put into the design – if you made it yourself that is. And the nice thing is: making a pop-up card is perfect as a craft project with the children – just like making an insect hotel. So there is only one question left: how do you make a 3D map?

Do you like crafting with your little ones? This is how you make paper mache with your kids.

Making 3D maps: together with children

The themes for one do it yourself 3D map are endless; for example, you can use a cake for a birthday card, send flowers in a thank you card, make a heart for a Valentine’s Day card, draw a cup of tea or glass of wine on a Mother’s Day card, and make 3D Christmas cards with seasonal elements such as a Christmas pudding, a Christmas tree or a robin. You can’t think of it that crazy.

In addition, 3D is a technique that only makes your cards more beautiful and 3D cards are also a great craft for children. It is the perfect opportunity to be creative with your family. There are so many simple designs that are perfect for an afternoon of crafting with kids – and these tips will make crafting with toddlers even more successful. And the good thing is: it is also easy to make. We will tell you how using the step-by-step plan below.

This way you can easily make a 3D map in five steps

You need:

A good pair of scissors Two pieces of colored cardstock A ruler to measure the tabs evenly A pencil A glue stick Supplies for decorating (stickers, markers)

Step 1/ Fold two pieces of cardboard in half. One piece will be the inside of the 3D card and the other piece will be the outside of your card. So choose colors that match your design. If the paper is larger than you want, cut the card to size and fold it. Use pieces of A4 card to make a standard size card.

Step 2/ Take the inner piece of the card. Make two parallel cuts about an inch long through the folded side of the paper. The size of the cuts may vary depending on what you’re making. Measure with a ruler before cutting so you know where you want the 3D figure on the card. You can stick to one tab if you’re a beginner, or use multiple tabs to make it bigger (like a layered cake) across the width of your card.

Step 3/ To make a 3D figure, open the card and fold the tabs inward. Tuck the tab (or tabs) along the center so that it pops in, then fold the card over it. Open the card again and the tab is ready to be decorated.

Step 4/ Now take the second piece of the card – the outside. Apply the glue stick to the back of your first piece of card where the flap was cut out and attach it to the second piece. Make sure they match and smooth them out so there are no wrinkles.

Step 5/ Now it’s time to decorate your card, and this is (in our opinion) the most fun part where you can get creative! You can stick an image on the tab or just decorate the tab itself with glitter, ribbon, stars or words. Then write a sweet message to your recipient in the paper above or below the 3D figure.

What theme will you choose for your pop up card?

Inspiration for your 3D cards

Need inspiration to get started? We have these 7 ideas for DIY Listed 3D cards from brilliant creatives.