How To Make a Christmas Tree Pop-Up Card

In today’s fast-paced world, we often forget that family and home are at the heart of any holiday celebration. Save money and enjoy a family project by creating your own holiday cards. A simple and easy option is the Christmas tree pop-up card. Make one with your kids by following these simple steps.

1. Decide upon the size and look you want for the cards. The easiest cards to make use 8½” x 11” card stock that is folded in half. You can choose a smaller size of card stock if you prefer.
2. Fold the card stock in half. You can work with lengthwise for a tall card or fold the other way for a more square looking card.
3. Draw a tree shape on the green construction paper. The tree should be smaller than the card, roughly ¾ of the size of the card.
4. Cut out the tree. Using scissors, cut out the tree.
5. Make the tree sturdier by gluing it to another piece of card stock. Let the glue dry. Draw 2” long tabs on the card stock, one on each side of the tree. Cut out the tree and tabs. You should have a green tree with two white tabs.
6. Decorate the tree. Using markers, crayons and any other decorative elements such as stickers shaped like ornaments or ribbon to simulate garland. Use glue to secure the ribbon once you have chosen the look you are going for. This is the part your kids will enjoy most. If making several cards, decorate the trees all at the same time to experiment with different looks. Be sure to let the glue dry completely before moving on to the next step.
7. Fold the tree and tabs. Fold the tree in half vertically with the green side on the outside. The white sides should touch. Make a crease with the fold. Then fold each tab down (toward the white side not the green side). Fold the end of each tab ½” from the bottom (not the tree side).
8. Position the tree over the card green side up. Line the center of the tree up with the center crease in the card so that when the card is folded, the tree also folds in its designated position.
9. Glue the tabs. With the tree in place, put glue on the underside of the ends. Place the ends onto the undecorated card surface. Hold the tabs down and the tree above the card until the glue dries.
10. Decorate the card with your message. Add a message onto the white card stock to put the final touches on the card. Then decorate the front and rear cover to your desire.
11. Fold the card, then unfold and watch it pop up. If you have let the glue dry each step along the way, then when you open the card the tree should pop up.

Making a Christmas tree pop-up card is as simple as following these simple steps. Have fun and be creative decorating the card to suit your personal style.