Tutorial - Impossible Card

Keep your friends and family guessing with this fabulous mind-bending, one-piece creation that contains a clever "twist". Despite it's name, it's actually very achievable, and in a relatively short time too!

1. Start with a piece of card stock measuring 6" square. Once you understand the general properties of this card it's simple to alter the size to suit the design you want.

2. Place the card stock on your score board and score at 3". Fold along the score line.

3. Place the card stock in front of you with the score line running horizontally. Make a cut from the centre of the scoreline to the bottom of the card stock, 3" from each side. Refer to the photo below for placement.

4. Spin the card stock around so that the cut you made is at the top. Starting from the bottom left-hand corner, measure and mark 11/2" along the bottom of the card stock. Measure and mark another 11/2" along the score line, starting at the left-hand edge. Use a craft knife or trimmer to cut between the two marks, starting at the score line and finishing at the bottom of the card stock. Repeat with the same measurements on the right-hand side. Refer to the photo below for correct placement.

5. Spin the card stock around again so that the single cut is facing you.

6. Hold the left-hand side in your hand and bend it down toward you, allowing the card stock to pivot at the score line. Keep going until the left hand panel (top and bottom) is completely flipped over. Leave the centre panel and right hand panels in the same place.

7. To decorate, cut some patterned paper and card stock slightly smaller than the panels. I used the card base as a template then trimmed off 1/8" all round. These "L" shaped pieces help to stabilise the card along the score line.

You'll also need a centre panel measuring 23/4" square. This is the focal point of the card, so decorate as desired.

The last piece you will need is a strip measuring 1" wide x 5" long. I added a sentiment and some embellishments for decoration.

8. Secure the square panel in place with some glue or double sided tape.

9. Add the "L" shaped panels on either side, covering the score lines, and secure with glue or double sided tape. This is the area where you can add your hand-written greeting or additional stamped sentiments.

10. The final step is to stabilise the entire card with the 1" strip. Ensure the sides of the card are square before securing the strip with glue or tape, taking care not to add adhesive on the section that spans the gap.

The centre panel will easily fold back so you can slip your card into an envelope for postage!

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