Hello, Crafters! We're excited to share a fantastic card-making project with you - the Swing Card! This unique design adds a fun kinetic element to your greeting cards. Whether you're an experienced crafter or just starting out, this step-by-step tutorial will guide you through the process. Let's dive in and get creative!

Materials:

Swing card template
Cardstock
Repositionable spray adhesive
Craft knife
Steel ruler (or a trimmer with a pointed blade)
Scoreboard
Decorative materials (die-cut panels, paper flowers, strips of lace, etc.)
Patterned paper strips
Adhesive tape
Handwritten note (for the card's interior message)
Envelope (7x7 inch size)

Step 1: Preparing the Template

Start by using repositionable spray adhesive to attach your swing card template to a piece of cardstock. Ensure a snug fit. Carefully cut around the template's edge using a craft knife or a trimmer with a pointed blade.

Step 2: Cutting and Scoring

With your craft knife and steel ruler, follow the solid pink lines on the template to cut through both the template and the cardstock beneath. Flip the card over and make sure all four corners are cut to release them. Use a scoreboard to create score lines along the dotted lines, excluding the strip down the middle, which should have score lines but no cut lines.

Step 3: Assemble the Kinetic Element

To create the kinetic element, fold the longer edge of the centrepiece to the left, making sure the taller or wider parts are at the top. Mountain fold the first score line and valley fold the second one. This will allow the centre piece to fold and create the swinging motion.

Step 4: Decorating the Card

When choosing what to place in the centre of your card, ensure that it doesn't overlap the gap, as this will affect the swinging mechanism. Trim a die-cut panel (or your chosen decoration) to fit neatly within the rectangle. Attach the decoration in the centre of the rectangle, making sure there's no overlap. Place a white rectangle on the opposite side; this is where you can add a handwritten message.

Step 5: Decorating the Exterior

Decorate the outside of the card with strips of patterned paper. Use a thinner strip for the left side and a wider strip for the right side.

Step 6: Adding Extra Embellishments

If desired, enhance your card with additional embellishments such as paper flowers, strips of lace, or other decorations. Ensure that nothing obstructs the clear gap required for the swinging motion.

Your swing card is now complete and ready to impress! This unique card design adds a special touch to any occasion and is sure to bring smiles to those who receive it. Enjoy crafting your swing cards and have fun experimenting with different designs and decorations.

Watch the full video tutorial here!

Download your template here: