Easel Cards are a WOW Every Time

Cardmaking is more than paper, ink, and adhesive—it’s a soothing, creative outlet that reminds us of the beauty in slowing down. It’s an intentional act of kindness that allows us to turn small supplies into big smiles. Today, I’m sharing a vibrant and cheerful Mediterranean Blooms Easel Handmade Card tutorial—a perfect way to brighten someone’s day with a handmade touch and a heartfelt sentiment.

This card features sunny citrus blooms paired with rich navy tones, creating a fresh Mediterranean vibe. The easel style adds dimension and functionality, making this card one that your recipient will proudly display. Plus, the process of making it is just as enjoyable as giving it away.

You’ll also see two more color versions using Pumpkin Pie cardstock and Daffodil Delight cardstock. All three are lovely cards you can create.

Supplies You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this handmade card:

• Stamp Set: Citrus Blooms
• Cardstock:
  • Night of Navy: (1) 4 1/4″ x 11″, scored at 1″, 2″, and 6 1/2″; (1) 3″ x 11″, scored at 5 1/2″
  • Basic White: (2) 4″ x 4 1/4″; (1) 2″ x 3″
  • Daffodil Delight: (1) 2″ x 3″
• Designer Series Paper (DSP): Mediterranean Blooms 12” x 12”
  • Citrus print: 4″ x 4 1/4″
  • Mini Plus Sign: 2 3/4″ x 4 3/8″
  • Diagonal Plaid: 3/4″ x 4″ and 1/2″ x 4″
  • Fussy cut a lemon bouquet from the DSP
• Ink: Night of Navy
• Dies: Something Fancy Dies
• Embellishments: Opal Rounds Assortment
• Adhesives: Stampin’ Seal, Dimensionals, Adhesive Foam Sheets
• Tools:
  • Paper Trimmer
  • Bone Folder
  • Paper Snips
  • Cut & Emboss Machine

Step-by-Step Directions for this Handmade Card Tutorial

1. Create the Card Base

Begin with the 4 1/4″ x 11″ Night of Navy cardstock. Score at 1″, 2″, and 6 1/2″. Burnish those score lines well with a bone folder to create crisp folds.

Adhere the 4″ x 4 1/4″ citrus patterned DSP to the center section of the base. This will be the back layer, visible behind your easel panel when the card is open.

If you are so inclined you can also stamp the two images you see in the upper right corner of the inner layer below for an added decorative touch prior to adhering the Basic White layer to the inside of the base. Then adhere the 1/2″ x 4″ strip of Diagonal Plaid DSP for a decorative touch. You still have plenty of room to write your personal message inside.

2. Prepare the Easel Mechanism

Take the 3″ x 11″ Night of Navy piece, scored at 5 1/2″. This will be your easel panel.

Attach the Mini Plus Sign DSP (2 3/4″ x 4 3/8″) to the front portion of this panel, making sure you leave a 1/8″ margin from the fold line and edges.

Now adhere this easel piece to your card base:

• First, attach the front panel to the 1″ folded section on the card base, centering it.
• Then, add adhesive to the bottom 1″ of the back of the easel and line it up with the back panel of the card base to secure everything in place.

3. Decorate the Front

To give the easel a finished look, adhere the 3/4″ x 4″ Diagonal Plaid DSP strip along the bottom front of the easel. This creates a cohesive finish and hides any seams.

Stamp your sentiment from the Citrus Blooms stamp set onto the 2″ x 3″ Basic White cardstock using Night of Navy ink. Die cut it using the Something Fancy Dies.

Layer this sentiment onto the Daffodil Delight cardstock and trim closely with a paper trimmer for a polished look. Use a piece of Adhesive Foam Sheet to raise the sentiment for strong support and dimension.

4. Add the Citrus Focal Point

Fussy cut a double lemon image from the Mediterranean Blooms DSP. Use Dimensionals to pop it up over the center panel, overlapping slightly with the raised sentiment tag. This adds gorgeous depth and interest.

5. Finish with Embellishments

Place three Opal Rounds on the front panel to add sparkle and texture. The subtle shimmer complements the bright lemon tones and deep navy background beautifully.

Tips and Tricks

• Fussy Cutting Tip: Turn the paper—not your scissors—when cutting detailed images for smoother curves and cleaner lines.
• Layering Easel Cards: Always dry-fit your layers before gluing to ensure alignment, especially when working with multiple folds.
• Foam Sheets vs. Dimensionals: For elements like the sentiment tag that need to support other layers (like the citrus bouquet), use an adhesive foam sheet for maximum stability.

Why This Card Matters

The beauty of a handmade card lies in its intention. This Mediterranean Blooms Easel Card doesn’t just say “You’re the best kind of person”—it shows it. The cheerful lemons, sunny florals, and elegant layout offer a small but meaningful reminder to someone that they matter.

Whether you’re sending it to a friend who’s going through a rough patch, or just want to spread a little unexpected joy, this card is a lasting gesture of kindness. Every time the recipient glances at it on their desk or shelf, they’ll be reminded of your thoughtfulness—and that’s what cardmaking is all about.

Check out these other Fun Folds card designs to try: https://thekindcardmaker.com/mediterranean-blooms-curtain-call-fun-fold-valentines-card/ or https://thekindcardmaker.com/thank-you/ or https://thekindcardmaker.com/tri-panel-fun-fold/

Thanks for stopping by! I hope you enjoy this handmade card tutorial!