Get creative with these easy DIY birthday cards! They are perfect for adding a unique, handcrafted touch to every celebration.
Why you should give a homemade birthday card?
If you’re here I probably don’t need to do that much convincing. But for those who are hesitant, there are so many reasons why a DIY card is a good idea for birthdays, holidays, and even party invitations:
The personal touch brings joy. Imagine the joy on your loved one’s face, knowing you crafted a card specifically for them. That personal touch speaks volumes, doesn’t it? Plus if you’re giving money, the card is part of the birthday gift.
Crafting cards at home is cost-effective. With materials likely already within your reach, the days of splurging $4-8 on a single card are over, especially when you have a calendar full of celebrations.
You have more creative control. The hunt for the perfect card can be endless – either the birthday message is off, or the design doesn’t resonate. By taking the DIY route, you’re in the driver’s seat, steering towards a creation that’s 100% your recipient.
You can use up extra craft supplies. Birthday cards don’t require a lot of material. You can use ribbon and paper scraps, the tiny bit of glitter left in the container, and the stickers your kids never touched.
If you’re doubting your craftiness or think you need fancy tools, put those thoughts aside. I’ve curated a list of 25 straightforward, guide-laden birthday card projects that prove otherwise. No costly gadgets needed – just your willingness to try.
For those gearing up for a party, why not dive into our DIY party or birthday decor guides? They’re brimming with inspiration to elevate your celebration.
Ready to try a handmade birthday card? Give this list a look and then let me know what you love in the comments!
DIY Birthday Cards
Make someone's big day extra special with one of these impressive handmade birthday card ideas!
Cute Cupcake Card
Instead of giving out store bought cards, try mixing things up with a handmade one. Isn’t this DIY cupcake birthday card super cute and fun?
Easy Watercolor Card
No painting skills required for these cards, and no special tools. Kristina made these watercolor birthday cards using an inexpensive Crayola watercolor set!
Giant Greeting Cards
Learn how to make oversized greeting cards the easy way! Make these for Christmas, birthday, graduation, baby showers, and more. Can you believe they are made using cardboard?
Happy Birthday Banner Box
Give the birthday boy or girl a cute banner they can hang up after their special day. They will cherish this much longer than a card!
Secret Message Card
Learn how to make a surprise message card using card stock and metallic pens! This card is perfect for birthdays and holidays. Such a great kids’ craft project.
HOORAY Gift Card Holder/Card
No time to shop for a gift? Get a gift card and give it in this bright little gift card holder/card! It is the perfect gift for anyone on your list, and for any occasion.
Thumbprint Birthday Balloons
Cardstock paper, Sharpie markers and a few washable ink pads are the basis for this card. Get the kids involved by using their thumbprints for the balloons!
Embroidered Cards
These DIY embroidered cards are a lot of fun to make and are impressive to give! You could even get kids involved in punching the holes or doing the embroidery.
Pop Up Rainbow Card
Use the free template provided to cut out the pieces needed for this pop-up card. Super easy with a big impact!
Playing Cards
I love the idea of using playing cards to show the age on a birthday card! Simple and it looks great.
Letterboard Cards
Melissa created these letterboard style birthday cards by making her own letter stickers. You could also purchase stickers if you can find a font you like!
Washi Tape Birthday Card
If you can put tape on paper, you can make this DIY Washi tape birthday card! So easy, and you get to use your pretty tape.
Quick Balloon Card
Just cardstock paper and string! If you don't have a birthday stamp, you can write 'Happy Birthday" on the card. No need for beautiful hand-lettering skills, just basic writing is fine!
Birthday Card Accordion
Kara created this for her husband who was deployed during his birthday. She put 7 cards — 1 for him to open each day of his birthday week. You could also fill it with photos or drawings!
Sprinkles Lollipop Card
This homemade card featuring sprinkle-topped lollipops is so easy to make! You can use these cards for birthdays, showers and invitations. Sprinkle crafts are fun!
Last Minute Greeting Cards
One watercolor shade and some paper... that is the minimum requirement for these easy cards. You can use a stamp or just write out "HAPPY HAPPY BDAY!!' yourself.
Pom Pom Ice Cream Cards
Pom pom crafts are great! Download the free printable 'Happy Birthday' background and then add in your pom pom scoops of ice cream.
Birthday Shaker Card
You can't go wrong with a card that has sequins! Especially one that is a shaker card. Get the free printable to make this fun interactive birthday card.
Button Birthday Card
Cute and simple card with a 3D effect because of the buttons. So easy your kids can make it!
Glitter Pop-Up Card
I'm pretty sure glitter and sparkles are the best way to celebrate someone special.
Paper Scrap Cards
This card is for the paper scrap hoarders out there (you know who you are). Use up a few of your precious scraps to make a DIY birthday card or two!
Easy Stamped Card
No need to buy expensive stamps you might not use again. This birthday card was made using a pencil eraser as a stamp!
3 Cards in Under 5 Minutes
These dual brush pens from Tombow make birthday cards super easy! See how you can make all three cards in under 5 minutes.
Pop Up Watercolor Flower Card
Make this beautiful pop-up card using the free printables Ananda has provided. It takes a bit of cutting and time, but is definitely worth it!
3D Cat Card
Use the free pop up card printable provided or follow the step-by-step instructions to make your own cute cat birthday card! Cat lovers will squeal with delight when they open this card.
Did you enjoy these DIY birthday card ideas? Then you should check out these DIY card and gift related ideas:
Naomi Pemdas
Sunday 3rd of March 2024
This was so helpful thank you so much
Elianna Smith
Sunday 3rd of March 2024
Thank you for some last minute ideas!