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Card Base Quick Tips








We all love making those fancy card bases for those extra special cards. They are the foundation of our cards. To make card bases, the most important thing to remember is to use heavy card stock as your base. Never use anything under 65 pounds. I have found that using the fancier folds, I prefer to use 80 pounds or above. That makes a much sturdier base.

You can buy common card bases in different sizes. These bases do save you time but can be costly. 

Another alternative is to cut your cards on your electronic cutting machine. Most of the computer programs attached to these have card bases built in to their programs. I like to cut a bunch ahead of time and have them on hand.

You can also subscribe to monthly card kits. Usually, these kits contain everything you need to make cards. Some include access to videos that help you learn new techniques. They can be pricey, but you can also learn a lot and have everything you need on hand short of some tools.

Here are our favorite ideas for making your own card bases.
  • A good bone folder is essential to getting crisp folds
  • A scoreboard is handy to measure quickly and get even lines. You can use a ruler and a pencil as well
  • Cutting your paper with a good paper trimmer makes even cuts

Picking The Right Card Size

  • Bigger card sizes are perfect for birthdays, invitations, and thank you cards. These are cards where you may have a lot of information on the front.
  • Remember, if you use a usual card size, it may not fit into a standard envelope. 
  • Always think about the amount of postage a larger card may require. If in doubt, have the post office weigh it. There is nothing worse than having a card sent back to you for insufficient postage, 

Lets Start With The Basics

Single Fold Card Base: a simple piece of cardstock folded in half. It can either be a top fold (opens vertically) or a side fold (opens like a book).m

Gate Fold Card Base: Two ends fold inwards to meet in the center (like gates). Can be embellished with belly bands, closures, or layered panels.

Z Fold Card Base: The card is folded in a zigzag pattern (accordion-like, three panels). Creates a dynamic opening.

Accordion Card Base: Multiple panels folded back and forth like an accordion. Great for storytelling or multi-page designs.

Tri Fold (Brochure) Card Base: Similar to a pamphlet; two folds create three sections.



Interactive Fold Ideas

Easel Fold Card Base: Front panel stands up like an easel when opened. Often used for display cards or sentiments.

Step Fold (Center Step or Side Step); Features a series of stepped layers that add dimension. Center Step: Middle section steps out, sides stay low. Side Step: Steps are on one side.

Pop-Up Fold Card Base: Inside of the card has elements that pop up when opened.

Shutter Card (Peek-a-boo Card): Inside features shutter mechanisms that reveal a hidden sentiment or image when opened.

Wiper Card Base: As you open it, a small hidden piece "wipes" or flips up into view.

Flip Fold (Swing Card): Uses a die cut to swing a central panel when opened.



Advanced And Creative Card Folds

Twist And Pop Fold Card Base: Opens with a twisting motion and pops out a multi-panel feature.

 Gate Fold Variations: There are double gatefolds as well as diagonal gate folds. Adds angles or extra layers.

Explosion Fold Card Base: When opened, a large, folded shape (like a star or heart) "explodes" open.

Waterfall Fold Card Base: Pull-tab mechanism flips through a series of panels/images in sequence.

Bridge Fold Card Base: A card with a “bridge” connecting the front flaps—creates a 3D scene.




More Fun Folds

Dutch Fold: Top flap opens upward; bottom flaps open outward—creates multiple reveal areas.

Tower Fold / 4-Panel Fold: Creates a vertical standing tower with panels on each side.

Teepee Fold :Three triangular panels joined into a 3D standing card.

Box Card (Card in a Box): Pops open into a box shape with flaps—often used for 3D scenes.

Flip Fold (Swing Card): Uses a die cut to swing a central panel when opened.





There is so much more to this topic. Here are some ideas, tips and resources to learn more about all of the choices that you have to make amazing card bases.


Front Flap Greeting Card

                                                 Card Shape Resources



Thank you for stopping by today. We appreciate you spending time with us. We always look forward to hearing from you, so what not drop a comment here. 
Share a thought, comment or idea with the community. 

Happy Crafting!

Linda

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