Making a Matchbook Card

Yesterday, instead of taking down my Christmas Tree, I worked on cards and scrapbook layouts. On January 15th, I am taking part in a Close To My Heart featured product Blog Hop. Watch for more details about the Hop as it will feature scrapbook layouts from the Imagine Book. My layout is done and will post more information on the hop later.

Now on to the matchbook card. I came up with this card and want to share the details on how to make it. The completed measurements of the card are 4 1/2 x 4 1/2 inches.

Start with a sheet of card stock that measures 9 3/4 inches long and 4 1/2 inches wide.

Score the card at the 1 inch and 4 1/2 inch marks.

Punch the edge near the 1 inch score mark. This is optional.

Fold along the score lines. You can see the matchbook beginning to take shape.

Using card stock, cut out the "matches." For my card I used 2 sheets of paper that measure 4 x4 inches and 4 1/2 X 4 1/4 inches. The size of these "matches" can be adjusted for your preference, but they need to be each scored at the 3/4 inch mark.

Decorate the matches. Make sure you remember to decorate the back of the matchbook so that you have a spot to personalize the card. I covered the CS matches on both sides and decorated the fronts.





Begin to assemble the matchbook by aligning the matches on the cover near the punched and scored edge.

Attach the matches in layers starting with the largest match. Use a strong adhesive and keep checking that your matchbook cover will close without bowing. You can use your bone folder to tweak the fold lines so that the card will fold flat. The last step is to apply a line of adhesive on the cove. Make sure that you leave room for the cover to tuck underneath the punched edge.



This is what it should look like with the front cover tucked under.

Now using your paper piercer, poke holes through all the thicknesses in order to add brads that will mimic the staples in the bottom of a matchbook. Then you are free to decorate the front!

And here are the pictures of the completed card both closed and open.

All of the supplies used in this card are Close To My Heart. The stamps and papers are from the brand new, just released Spring Idea Book. The pattern papers are from Veranda and the card stock colors used are Juniper, Creme Brulee and Colonial White. The stamps are from the So Sweet and Thank You sets.

A Matchbook Card is fun and easy. For those of you who can't decide if you like cardmaking or scrapbooking, it is perfect! Let me know how your cards work out! For Now, Happy Crafting!