Tutorial - Building Block Cards

Building block cards get their name from the square shapes that "pop up" when the card is open. They are handily placed to hold a sentiment made of individual letters, or even little images or embellishments. Usually these cards are created by cutting slits directly into the card base and then folding them inside. The method I want to show you today actually uses four strips of cardboard that are adhered to the card base in the same position as the traditional style.

1. Start with a piece of card stock measuring 53/4" x 111/4". Place it horizontally on your score board and score at 33/4" and 71/2". Make a mountain fold on the first score line and a valley fold on the second score line so that you end up with a Z-fold card.

2. Cut four pieces of card stock to measure 11/4" x 5". I've used the same card stock as my base, but feel free to experiment with other colours for a different look.

3. Score each strip at 11/4", 21/2" and 33/4" then fold along the score lines.

4. Starting at the top edge of the card, measure and mark your card base along the valley fold at 11/4", 11/2", 23/4", 3", 41/4" and 41/2".

5. Apply glue or double sided tape to one end of the first strip. Secure it between the top of the card and the first mark you made, keeping it flush with the top of the card and with the rest of the strip facing toward the right hand side. See the photo below.

6. Repeat with the remaining strips using the marks you made earlier to line them up. 

7. Bring the first strip back over to the left hand side and apply glue or double sided tape to the end square. See the photo below.

8. Bend the strip over and secure it to the centre piece of the card, matching the first end you secured. A little box will be formed.

9. Repeat with the remaining three strips until you have four little boxes or "building blocks" in the centre of your card.

10. All that's left is the decoration! Have fun.

Stamps: