5-Minute Birthday Card Layout

When it comes to creating handmade cards, efficiency and creativity don’t have to be mutually exclusive. In this blog post, I’ll show you how to make 3 different designs using just ONE card layout! Perfect for any skill level, this 5-minute birthday card layout is simple and versatile.

The 5-Minute Card Layout

Using a single layout is a game-changer for card-making. It saves time, provides a solid framework to spark creativity, and ensures quick results. By varying your colors, patterned papers, and stamp sets, you can create cards that look unique while keeping the process simple and streamlined.

The basic layout features 3 different size pieces of patterned paper adhered to a piece of white cardstock. Here are the measurements for the cardstock and patterned paper layers:

• Patterned Paper Layers: 3/4 x 4-1/2″, 1 x 4-1/2″ and 1-1/4 x 4-1/2″
• White Cardstock Layer: 3-1/2 x 4-3/4″
• Card Base: 5-1/2 x 8-1/2″ piece of cardstock; score at 4-1/4″

To create three cards, simply use the Stack, Cut and Shuffle Technique. Start with 3 different patterned papers each measuring 3 x 4-1/2 inches. Start by cutting the stack of papers, down the 3-inch side, at 3/4 inches. Next, make a 1-inch cut. You will end up with the 3 patterned paper layers, 3/4 x 4-1/2″, 1 x 4-1/2″ and 1-1/4 x 4-1/2″, for each of the patterned papers. Shuffle the papers around to create 3 different layouts. Be sure to watch the video to see this technique in action!

You can use this 5-minute card layout to create cards in landscape style as shown above. And, of course, you can use this same layout in portrait style.

Portrait Style Birthday Cards

Next, let’s talk about how to use this 5-minute card layout in portrait style. I have two distinct sets of portrait-style birthday cards that use the exact same size patterned paper pieces, but they are arranged differently across the card front. By varying the arrangement of the patterned paper pieces, you can achieve a fresh new look!

The first set of portrait style birthday cards have a more masculine look by using blues and browns. These colors worked perfect with the images from the Darling Dinos Bundle. The patterned paper layout is arranged, from left to right on the white cardstock, with the 1-1/4, 1, and 3/4 inch wide pieces. The focal point features a stamped balloon cluster, greeting and rectangular die cut shape. The dinosaur is colored with the light and dark shade Crumb Cake Stampin’ Blends.

This last set of portrait style birthday cards uses pastel tones and softer patterns for an elegant look. A simple sentiment banner, accented with a delicate floral die-cut, completes the design. Notice the arrangement of the patterned paper pieces, from left to right, are 3/4, 1 and 1-1/4 inches in width. The opposite arrangement from the dinosaur themed card layouts.

Tutorial & Supplies

Now you have three different ways you can use this 5-minute layout in your card making. The cards feature some brand-new products from the 2025 Stampin’ Up! Jan-April Mini catalog. You can request a catalog HERE. Download the printable tutorial for a complete list of supplies and instructions.

I hope these card ideas inspire you to play around with this card layout using supplies you already have on hand. And if you enjoyed these card ideas, you might be interested in my Birthday Card Making Club. This year’s club packages feature all three of these brand-new product bundles. Learn more about the club HERE and be sure to RSVP by December 31, 2024. You definitely don’t want to miss it!

Have a fun and creative day my friends! Lynn