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Anastasiia Tysevych – Czech Republic
Tamara Morton – United Kingdom
Ready to take your handmade cards on an adventure? In this easy Interactive Side Panel Card Tutorial, Graphic 45 Brand Ambassador Evanjelene shows you how to create a clever pop-up card using the Adventure Awaits paper collection. This interactive card design transforms from a beautiful greeting card into a fun surprise filled with space for photos, gift cards, and heartfelt messages. Whether you’re looking for travel scrapbook ideas, interactive card making techniques, or creative ways to use your favorite Graphic 45 papers, this step-by-step tutorial is packed with inspiration to help your creativity take flight. Grab your cardstock, patterned papers, and adhesive—it’s time to embark on a papercrafting adventure that’s anything but ordinary!
“One of my favourite things to do is explore new places and experience new adventures. When I saw the beautiful Adventure Awaits collection from Graphic 45, I knew it would be perfect for a travel themed project.
For this tutorial, I’ve created an interactive pop-out card that looks like an ordinary card when closed, but reveals a fun surprise as soon as it’s opened. The pop out panels provide plenty of space for photos, journaling or special messages, making it perfect for documenting your adventures or gifting to a fellow traveller.
Interactive Side Panel Pop-Up Card Tutorial
Let’s get started!
Part 1: Creating the Interactive Mechanism
This mechanism is the heart of the card and creates the pop-out effect when the card is opened.
Step 1: Cut the Base Piece
Cut one piece of Kraft cardstock measuring 10″ x 2″.
Place the cardstock on your work surface in landscape orientation so that the 10″ side runs horizontally and the 2″ side runs vertically.
Step 2: Score the Short Sides
Working on the 2″ side, make pencil marks at:
* 0.5″
* 1.25″
This divides the side into three sections:
* 0.5″
* 0.75″
* 0.75″
Repeat on the opposite side.
Using a ruler, connect the matching marks and score across the cardstock.
Step 3: Score the Long Sides
Along the 10″ side, make marks at:
* 3.5″
* 6.5″
This divides the strip into:
* Left section = 3.5″
* Centre section = 3″
* Right section = 3.5″
Score vertically at both marks.
You should now have three rectangular sections across the length of the strip.
Step 4: Mark the Triangle
Locate the centre 3″ section.
From the centre point, measure 0.75″ to the left and 0.75″ to the right as shown in the video.
Using a ruler, draw diagonal lines connecting these marks to create the triangular shape shown in the template.
This triangle will become the moving portion of the mechanism.
Step 5: Trim Away Excess Cardstock
Carefully cut away all unwanted sections following the template or video tutorial.
Take your time during this step, as accurate cutting will ensure the mechanism moves smoothly.
Step 6: Fold the Mechanism
Fold along every scored line.
Use a bone folder to create crisp folds.
Open and close the mechanism several times to loosen the folds and ensure smooth movement.
Set aside.
Part 2: Create the Pop-Out Panels
Step 1: Cut the Panels
Cut two pieces of Kraft cardstock measuring:
3″ x 3.5″
These will become the pop-out sections inside the card.
Step 2: Decorate the Panels
Choose your favourite patterned papers from the Adventure Awaits collection.
Trim the papers slightly smaller than the Kraft panels to create a narrow border.
Adhere the patterned papers to the panels.
You can also add photos at this stage if desired.
Step 3: Attach to the Mechanism
Locate the extended arms on the interactive mechanism.
Apply strong adhesive to the arms.
Centre one decorated panel on each arm and press firmly into place.
Allow the adhesive to dry completely before testing the movement.
Open and close the mechanism to ensure both panels move freely.
Part 3: Create the Card Base
Step 1: Cut the Card Base
Cut cardstock measuring:
12″ x 4″
Step 2: Score and Fold
Score at the 6″ mark.
Fold in half to create a finished card measuring 6″ x 4″.
Burnish the fold with a bone folder.
Step 3: Install the Mechanism
Apply adhesive only to the areas indicated in the video tutorial.
Position the mechanism in the centre of the card.
Before pressing firmly, gently close the card to check alignment.
Once satisfied, secure it permanently.
Open and close the card several times to make sure everything works smoothly.
Part 4: Create the Surprise Cover Box
The cover box hides the pop-out panels so the recipient gets a fun surprise when opening the card.
Step 1: Cut the Box Piece
Cut one piece measuring:
6.5″ x 3″
Step 2: Score the Box
Along the 6.5″ side, score at:
* 5″
* 5.75″
* 6.5″
These score lines will create the sides and flap of the box.
Step 3: Fold
Fold all score lines and burnish well.
Test the shape before adding adhesive.
Step 4: Attach the Box
Apply adhesive to the appropriate flap.
Position the box over the pop-out panels as shown in the tutorial video.
Press firmly and allow the adhesive to set.
The panels should now be hidden when the card is closed.
Part 5: Decorate and Embellish
Now comes the fun part!
Decorate the front and inside of the card using:
* Adventure Awaits solids patterned papers
Layer elements for dimension and don’t be afraid to mix patterns and textures.
Add photos, journaling or a handwritten message to personalise your project.
And that’s it! You now have a fun interactive travel themed card that transforms from a simple card into a delightful pop out surprise. Perfect for sharing memories from your latest adventure!
Thank you for stopping by!”
Love,
Craft Tips:
Now it’s your turn to hit the crafty trail! We can’t wait to see where your creativity takes you with the Adventure Awaits collection. Whether you’re celebrating a vacation, documenting a favorite destination, or sending someone off on their next journey, this interactive side panel card is sure to make the trip unforgettable. Be sure to share your finished project on social media and tag @Graphic45 so we can cheer you on and celebrate your creativity. Looking for your next destination? Explore more tutorials, project ideas, and coordinating kits on the Graphic 45 blog. Until next time, keep your scissors sharp, your imagination packed, and remember—the best crafting adventures are always just a fold away!
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