Overview
A cherry blossom pop up card is a card that lifts open to reveal a 3D representation of a cherry blossom tree. Mostly used for occasions such as Mother’s Day, Father’s Day or for a special birthday, these cards offer a unique and memorable surprise to the receiver, as well as requiring only a few simple materials to make.
Materials Needed to Make a Cherry Blossom Pop Up Card
Constructing a pop up card of any kind requires certain supplies and materials. To make a cherry blossom tree pop up card one will need cardstock, scissors, craft knife, scoring board, a design for the exterior of the card, secure adhesive, and craft glue. Glitter, extra embellishments and stickers or stamps may also be added depending on what the cardmaker desires.
Steps to Make a Cherry Blossom Tree Pop Up Card
1. Cut two pieces of cardstock to the size desired for the card, either one large piece or two separate pieces.
2. Score one piece of cardstock inset by one fourth of an inch to create a folding line.
3. Create a design for the outer surface of the card. This can be a drawing or a painting of whatever the maker desires, though a tree or trees is a popular choice.
4. Print an image of a cherry tree onto colored paper.
5. Affix the tree print onto the inward side of the card.
6. Using a craft knife, cut away the center of the tree print, leaving the image largely intact.
7. Re-secure the edges of the tree to the inner surface of the card.
8. Cut along the scored impression to create a point where the card opens.
9. Affix the other piece of cardstock to the back of the open card.
10. Cut along the score line from one fourth of an inch off the edge of the card.
11. Affix the extra fourth of an inch piece of cardstock onto the inside of the card and secure with adhesive.
12. Artfully open the card and add any extra embellishments.
Expert Opinions on Making Pop Up Cards
Pop up cards are an increasingly popular way to express sentiments to friends and family around the world. Many experts believe they are a great form of art that can be personal and meaningful in nature. As Koala Form explains, creating one is a “creative, fun and versatile way to celebrate any special occasion to make it truly memorable.”
In addition to allowing makers to express emotion through art, many professionals have attested to the use of cherry blossom pop up cards being a great way to create a three dimensional improvement over a standard flat card. As Papelwiz expounds, it allows for them to “[tell] a story through 3D images” and to “stand out from other greeting cards.”
Special Techniques for Working with Cards
When working with pop up cards, certain techniques should be utilized in order to ensure they open without difficulty. According to Naivre, a paper engineer in the United Kingdom, “pop up makers should always make a space or an air gap on the construction, in order not to cause a friction that damages the movements of the card” once it is opened. Doing so sandwiches all pieces of cardstock between materials without creating too much pressure and ensures the card opens without any damage.
As such, when creating a cherry blossom tree one should ensure that the tree is affixed flush to the paper, yet not so tightly that the paper has no room to expand outward. This can be helped by adding adhesive on the edges of the cardstock and slightly our lifting the image in the center to avoid crushing it.
Variations and Different Design Possibilities
When creating a cherry blossom tree pop up card there are many variations which can be created to make the card feel more personal to the receiver. For one, the perspective from which the card is viewed can be altered through rotation of the tree’s axis. Additionally, the outer design elements can be changed and even multiple trees can be utilized for added depth.
The cherry trees themselves don’t always have to be of the same color or variety. Cards can also be made with several different kinds and colors of cherry trees, creating a layered look which allows for more creativity with the design.
Effects of Light Upon the Card
Once the card has been assembled light can be a powerful tool in altering the view of the card. As light passes through, so too do the shadows, which can create a cascading effect on the paper. This is best achieved by placing a light source behind the card, though spotlights and lightbulbs may also be utilized within reason.
Light also has the ability to bring out the vibrant colors of the card. One may wish to try utilizing multiple light sources of different intensities depending on what mood they want the card to evoke. For example, softer colored lights tend to give the feeling of warmth while pure white light may be used to bring out stark shapes and contrasts.
Cherry Blossom Card Crafting and Special Occasions
Cherry blossom 3D pop up cards can be sent out for many different special occasions or celebrations. For instance, one can give the card to their mother or father on Mother’s day or Father’s day. Alternatively, it can also be a nice way to celebrate a special anniversary for a couple. The cards can even be sent out to congratulate someone who had an important achievement or even just to encourage them.
Cherry blossom cards can also be sent out for other occasions such as birthdays, graduations, weddings, engagements and anniversaries. Finally, these cards also make for thoughtful pieces of art which can be kept for a long period of time and viewed on any given day.
Making a Cherry Blossom Tree Pop Up Card at Home
Making a cherry blossom tree pop up card at home is an affordable and easy way to make a memorable card with minimal effort. With the right materials and techniques, anyone can create a lovely blossom tree which can be enjoyed by anyone who receives it. Furthermore, because the material cost is not too high and the process is not overly complicated, these cards can be made in large batches if plans to give out gifts are needed on a large scale.
Decorating with Glitter and Embellishments
Adding extra details such as glitter, ribbons and stickers is a great way to make the card feel more personalized. Glitter can be used to bring out the edges of leaves or to make the trees look more dynamic. Embellishments can also be used to bring out the atmosphere of the card and easily draw one’s attention.
Finally, stickers and stamps, such as those of a person’s name or initials, can also be added with ease. Using stamps to leave a message or initials of the giver on the card is an excellent way to make the receiver feel more connected to the gift.
Creating 3D Cherry Blossoms
Making 3D cherry blossoms, when properly done, can add an extra level of drama to the card. To do so one should cut out shapes of blossoms and leaves with a craft knife and create ridges which will lift the paper away from the card when it is opened. By doing so, a layer of three-dimensional paper will be added to the card, creating a powerful and lasting display.
Presenting the Card
When presenting the card, care and detail should be taken in order to ensure that the recipient is able to properly open the card with skill. As such, it should be handed directly to the recipient with instructions for opening clearly given. This will ensure that the 3D effect of the card is not ruined and that the receiver is able to fully experience the wood’s power.
Storing the Card
To store the card one should take extra caution as it is a delicate item. Instead of just throwing it away, it should be stored in a box or a envelope which won’t affect the integrity of the card. This will allow one to store it safely for many years, allowing them to remember the special memory associated with the card.
