Fun Fold Card Ideas for Every Occasion

What are fun fold cards?

Fun fold cards are unique and creative designs that incorporate different folding techniques to create interesting shapes and structures. These cards add an extra element of surprise and excitement to any occasion and are a great way to showcase your creativity and crafting skills. From gatefold cards to easel cards, there are a variety of fun fold card designs that you can make to create personalised cards for any occasion.

Fun fold cards are popular among card makers because they offer an extra level of creativity and excitement to their designs. These cards stand out from the typical flat, single-folded cards and offer a unique way to showcase different elements, such as photos or embellishments. Additionally, fun fold cards are a great way to personalise a card for a specific occasion or recipient. The different folding techniques allow for endless possibilities in design, making each card a unique work of art. Making fun fold cards can be a fun challenge for card makers who want to take their crafting skills to the next level. They offer the opportunity to learn new techniques and experiment with different designs, resulting in a sense of satisfaction and pride in the finished product. Are you ready to express you creativity and add a special touch to your handmade cards?

Gatefold Cards

Gatefold cards are a type of fun fold card that features two panels that fold inward to meet in the centre of the card, similar to a gate. They are a simple and elegant way to add a unique touch to a card. Here's how to make a basic gatefold card:

Instructions

• Cut a piece of cardstock to the desired size for your card. A standard size is 4.25" x 11", scored at 2.75" and 5.5" to create a card that measures 4.25" x 5.5" when folded.
• Fold the cardstock in half at the first score line to create the base of the card.
• Fold the second score line in half in the opposite direction, creating a mountain fold.
• Decorate the front of the card base with patterned paper, stamped images, or other embellishments.
• Attach the folded panel to the front of the card base using adhesive. The folded panel should be attached at the bottom of the panel only, leaving the top of the panel free to stand up like an easel.
• To hold the easel in place, add a small piece of adhesive to the bottom of the easel panel to attach it to the card base.

Variations

• Create a diagonal gatefold card by scoring the cardstock at an angle instead of straight across the centre.
• Use a different shape for the card, such as a circle or square, to create a unique gatefold design.
• Add additional layers or panels to the inside of the card for more space to decorate and write a message.

Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own.

Gatefold Card

Z-Fold Cards

Z-fold cards are a type of fun fold card that feature a unique "Z" shape when viewed from the side. The card is created by folding the cardstock in a zigzag pattern, which creates several panels that can be decorated with images, text, and other embellishments. Here's how to make a basic z-fold card:

Instructions

• Cut a piece of cardstock to the desired size for your card. A standard size is 8.5" x 5.5", scored at 2.125" and 4.25" from one end to create a card that measures 4.25" x 5.5" when folded.
• Score the cardstock at the halfway point, which would be 4.25" if using the standard size. Use a scoring tool to create a crisp fold line.
• Fold the cardstock in half at the first score line. Then fold the top half of the cardstock back on itself along the second score line, creating a "Z" shape.
• Decorate the front of the card as desired with embellishments, patterned paper, or stamped images.
• To add additional panels to the card, cut and score additional pieces of cardstock to the desired size and attach them to the existing panels with adhesive.

Variations

• Create a vertical Z-fold card by starting with a cardstock that is taller than it is wide, and folding the card in a "Z" pattern from top to bottom.
• Use different paper shapes for the card, such as squares, circles, or hearts, to create a unique Z-fold design.
• Use patterned paper or stamped images to create a colourful and unique design on the front of the card.

Follow your step-by-step guide to create your own.

Z-Fold Card

Easel Cards

Easel cards are a type of fun fold card that are designed to stand up like an easel. These cards are typically created with two panels, one that serves as the base and the other that is folded to create the easel. Easel cards can be decorated with a variety of embellishments and can be customized for any occasion. Here's how to make a basic easel card:

Instructions

• Cut a piece of cardstock to the desired size for your card. A standard size is 4.25" x 11", scored at 2.75" and 5.5" to create a card that measures 4.25" x 5.5" when folded.
• Fold the cardstock in half at the first score line to create the base of the card.
• Fold the second score line in half in the opposite direction, creating a mountain fold.
• Decorate the front of the card base with patterned paper, stamped images, or other embellishments.
• Attach the folded panel to the front of the card base using adhesive. The folded panel should be attached at the bottom of the panel only, leaving the top of the panel free to stand up like an easel.
• To hold the easel in place, add a small piece of adhesive to the bottom of the easel panel to attach it to the card base.

Variations

• Use different paper shapes for the card base and easel panel, such as circles or squares, to create a unique design.
• Add additional layers or panels to the inside of the card for more space to decorate and write a message.
• Decorate the card with ribbon, buttons, or other embellishments to add texture and interest.

Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own.

Easel Card

Ready to get started?

In summary, fun fold cards are a great way to add an extra element of surprise and creativity to your handmade cards. We discussed several different types of fun fold cards, including gatefold cards, Z-fold cards, and easel cards, each with its own unique style and design possibilities.

With these fun fold card techniques, there are endless creative possibilities to explore. You can mix and match different papers, colours, and embellishments to create unique and personalised cards for any occasion. The only limit is your imagination! So why not try making your own fun fold cards today? Experiment with different styles and techniques, and don't be afraid to get creative with your designs. With a little practice and patience, you can create beautiful and unique cards that will be cherished by your loved ones.