There’s something timeless about a sharp tuxedo, and today, I’m excited to show you how you can translate that classic look into a card design that’s both stylish and easy to make. Whether you need a masculine card for a special occasion or a more playful take for a variety of celebrations, these tuxedo-inspired cards are versatile and fun to create.
We’ll start with a traditional card base of Smoky Slate cardstock,. From there, we’ll use the Paper Trimmer to mark two spots on the front of the card—the first at 1-1/2″ on the top front of the card and the second at 3-1/2″ on the front side of the card. With the scoring blade, we score from one mark to the other, giving the front of the card the illusion of a sharp lapel.
Next, we add a Basic Black cardstock panel to the back of the card front, centering it, and adhere it in place. Then, fold over the top section on the score line, creating a “lapel” effect that’s both sleek and stylish. We secure it with dimensionals to make sure it stands out. Inside the card, a large Basic White panel is folded at the score line and adhered. A Basic Black strip runs along the bottom of the inside of the card, adding a touch of elegance.
To finish, “buttons” were created from the Party Alphabet die cuts, cutting two 1/2″ circles, and adhering them to the front of the card with dimensionals. The sentiment “Best Wishes” from the With You In Mind stamp set is stamped in Memento Tuxedo Black ink and die cut with the Nested Essentials Die Cuts, making the perfect finishing touch to the card front.
For the second card, it begins with a Smoky Slate gate fold base. We create lapels by measuring and marking at 1″ and 3-1/2″ and folding Basic Black over the front. After adhering these pieces with dimensionals, the card takes shape with a distinctly dapper look. The front also features two die-cut buttons, and we add some depth by sponging the entire outside with Smoky Slate ink using a sponge dauber.
We also add a fun “pocket” made from a piece of cardstock with angled bottom corners, sponged for that extra touch of detail, and adhered to the right front of the card with dimensionals. Inside the card, we use the same layering technique as the first design, but this time, the sentiment “Best Wishes” is stamped at the bottom left inside the card, so it’s only visible when the card is open.
To give this look some fresh variations, I’ve also created a card using Timeless Plaid DSP combined with Basic Beige cardstock for a soft, warm look. Inside, I layered some DSP and cardstock, adding an Early Espresso mat around the Basic White inside panel. The front features two buttons and a new sentiment—”You’re the Most Awesome” from the Trusty Tools stamp set—stamped in Early Espresso ink and die-cut with the smaller rectangle from the Nested Essentials dies. “Thank You” from the same stamp set is stamped on the front of the card in the card-in-a-card style.
The second variation is a gatefold design in Misty Moonlight, also using the Timeless Plaid DSP. The card features three buttons, and the sentiment “Happy Birthday” from the With You In Mind stamp set is stamped in Misty Moonlight ink inside the card-in-a-card.
Finally, for a feminine example, I created a side-opening card with a Bubble Bath card base and a floral pattern from the Florals in Bloom DSP on the lapel. The front sentiment, “It’s Your Day,” is stamped in Memento Tuxedo Black ink, with “Celebrating You!” on the front of the card inside. Inside the card, you’ll find the sentiment “I Love That I’ve Known You For So Many Birthdays!” with a Basic Black mat around the inner card for a polished finish. All these sentiments are from the Coneflower Celebrations stamp set.
These tuxedo-inspired cards are a great way to add a personal, sophisticated touch to any occasion. Whether you’re crafting for a man, a woman, or anyone in between, these designs can easily be adapted to fit your needs.
Here’s the step-by-step video for you:
Don’t forget, there’s a free downloadable PDF of today’s project available – be sure to grab it and recreate these stunning cards at home!
Paper Party Live is coming up on Thursday – July 24, 2025 @ 8 pm EDT
What you’ll need to make the adorable must-have 3-D Item I have planned:
- Any DSP or patterned paper of your choice measuring 11″ x 4″
- Ribbon that coordinates
- Your choice of punch or die cut for sentiment
- Stamp set and coordinating inks of your choice
Happy stamping!
Supplies Used for cards in the video (also listed on the PDF):
I really like this design. It is perfect since I make cards for seniors.
Thanks, Joan! I’m so glad this design speaks to you and sparks your creativity! It’s such an easy and fun type of layout to use! I’d love to see what you end up creating if you ever want to share.