Today, I’m thrilled to share something that’s sure to add a bit of bang to your cardmaking repertoire—Explosion Cards! I did this card on my last Paper Party Live. I’ve been having so much fun with this interactive design, and I can’t wait to show you how easy and customizable these cards are. Not only are they a fun surprise for the recipient, but they’re also a great way to use up some of that beautiful Designer Series Paper (DSP) you have in your stash!
An Explosion Card is a type of pop-up card that “explodes” as you open it, revealing multiple panels of fun and creativity! These cards are not only eye-catching but also make perfect gifts, party invitations, or special occasion cards. It’s a design that wows every time, and today, I’m going to walk you through how to make one—along with a few variations to keep things fresh.
I’ve got all the step-by-step instructions in the downloadable PDF listed down below. But here’s a quick recap: to start, I used Blueberry Bushel as my card base, but feel free to use any color you love.
Next, grab a 6” x 6” piece of your favorite DSP (I used the Full of Life DSP for my video version). Score it at 3” from both edges. Once that’s done, turn the paper a quarter turn and score at 3” again from both edges. Now, it’s time for the fun part—cutting! From the top center of the paper, cut down to the 3” score line. This creates the “explosion” effect when you open the card.
It’s fun to open this card. And when making it, it’s important to remember to burnish all the folds – like with any fun fold – it works best when it’s well burnished on the score/fold lines.
And that explosion part looks so COOL!
Adding some ribbon around the bookbinding area of the card adds a fun decorative finish. Of course, all cards look awesome with some sparkle, so I added Rhinestone Basic Jewels to finish everything off!
As you know, crafting is all about personalization! I had such a blast making these explosion cards that I couldn’t resist trying a few different variations. For this version, I used Thoughtful Journey DSP, Mossy Meadow & Gold Ribbon, and a mix of Pretty Peacock and Lost Lagoon ink. The Layered Thoughts and Textured Notes stamp sets added the perfect finishing touches.
This one is my favorite! I used Cute as Can Bee DSP, Daffodil Delight and Basic Black cardstocks, and the Bee Builder Punch to create the adorable bee on the front. The sentiment is from the Meant to Bee stamp set. I finished off the card with Starburst Sequins in white for a fun pop of shine.
Watch the video here and please subscribe to the channel while you’re there:
Explosion Cards are not only a joy to make but are also incredibly interactive and surprising for the recipient. The moment they open the card and see it “explode,” they’ll be amazed. Whether it’s for a birthday, special event, or just because, these cards make a lasting impression.
Next Paper Party Live – Thursday, July 24 @ 8 pm EDT; please join me!
What you’ll need to make this adorable must-have 3-D Item:
- DSP of your choice – 11″ x 4″
- Ribbon that coordinates
- Your choice of punch or die cut for sentiment
- Stamp set and coordinating inks of your choice
I hope you’re excited to give Explosion Cards a try! They’re a fun way to shake things up in your cardmaking routine and a great way to share a little surprise with someone special. If you make one of these cards, I’d love to see it—don’t forget to tag me on social media! Happy crafting, and until next time—let the creativity explode!
Supplies used are also listed in the FREE Downloadable PDF.
For Full of Life DSP Card:
For Thoughtful Journey Card:
For Bee Card:
WOW! These are all just awesome! Nicely done! Thanks so much for joining in the fun at our Neglected Stuff challenge! Good Luck and we hope you’ll come back often.
Darlene
DAR’S CRAFTY CREATIONS
Neglected Stuff Co-Owner
NEGLECTED STUFF CHALLENGE
Thanks, Darlene! The Neglected Stuff Challenge is always so great for reminding me to dig through what I already have. So appreciated, and looking forward to playing along again soon!
Fabulous cards Julia – esp that bee one (love bees on paper not so much in real life)! So happy you were inspired by your favourite song and played along with us this fortnight at Time Out Challenges! Hope you’ll join us again soon!
Hugs, Kate (DT Time Out Challenges)!
Thanks so much, Kate! I appreciate your kind comments. I love bees on paper, too (obviously)! I love playing along with the Time Out Challenges and look forward to the next challenge.