Easy DIY Card within a Card

Today I have a fun DIY card within a card design to share that has a WOW factor without all the fuss! It’s so easy to make and such a great way to show off your patterned papers. Plus, I have two different ways you can use this design in your card making.

The cards feature a variety of products from the Nests of Winter suite from Stampin’ Up! However, keep in mind you can use any patterned paper and supplies you have on hand with this card design.

Portrait Style Card

First let’s talk about how to create the portrait style card within a card. Start by cutting a 4-1/4 x 11 inch piece of Gray Granite cardstock. Score the 11-inch side at 5-1/2 inches to create the base of the card. This will be a top folding card.

The Nests of Winter Designer Series Paper, which I used to create these cards, is directional. In other words, you must cut it a certain way in order for the pattern to work on the card. This particular paper has the bird and branch pattern running across the top and bottom of the 12 x 12 inch sheet. Simply turn the paper so the bird pattern is vertical and running sideways. Cut the DSP at 5-1/4 x 12 inches. Next, turn the paper and cut a 5-1/4 x 4 inch piece. This piece will be using to decorate the front of the card base.

Take the leftover 5-1/4 x 8 inch piece of DSP and score the 8-inch side at 4 inches. This creates the patterned paper card for the inside of the card base (the card within a card).

If you are not using a directional paper, you can simply follow the measurements to create the two pieces.

Landscape Style Card

Next let’s talk about creating the DIY card within a card in landscape style. The measurements for creating this card are the same and the portrait style. However, if you are using directional paper, it’s important for the paper to be in a certain direction before you make the 5-1/4 inch cut.

Start by placing the Nests of Winter 12 x 12 inch piece of DSP in your paper trimmer so that the pattern is running across the top and bottom of the paper. Note, the pattern on the top will be upside down. Make the 5-1/4 inch cut, then turn the paper and make a 4-inch cut just as described above. This will create a top folding patterned paper card for the inside. Be sure to watch the video to see the cutting process in action.

For more simple card ideas featuring products from the Nests of Winter suite, check out my previous blog post HERE.

Tutorial & Supplies

Now you have two different ways you can use this design in your card making. For a list of supplies and instructions, feel free to download the printable tutorial.

I hope you enjoyed these card ideas and are inspired to create them with supplies you may already have on hand. Be sure to watch the video for some tips on cutting directional patterned papers. Have a fun and creative day my friends! ~ Lynn