Winter birthdays deserve something extra special, and this handmade card captures that magic perfectly. In this tutorial, I’ll guide you step-by-step through the process of creating a glowing Christmas light background paired with a cheerful birthday sentiment. Using bright ink colors, layered die cuts, and a vellum wreath accent, this design blends festive charm with year-round versatility. 

*Disclaimer: All products used are linked below as clickable images. If a product isn’t listed, it’s been discontinued.

How to recreate this card:

1. Cut a piece of white cardstock to 4 1/4" x 1"; stamp sentiment on it in Seaside ink.
2. On a white A2 cardstock panel, add color using the Christmas Lights stencils. Color each bulb opening with a different color, making sure to alternate colors. Use the same technique for both stencil layers.
   • Stencils 1 & 2: Raspberry Bliss, Mango Sorbet, Sunshine, Citron, Turquoise, Seaside, Hydrangea
3. Die cut the Christmas Lights coverplate with white cardstock and poke out the bulbs. Adhere it to the colored panel, ensuring the color is visible through the bulb holes. 
4. Punch a 3/8" hole out of white cardstock to create your own stencil. Lay it over each of the bulbs and lightly ink blend a glowing circle with the corresponding color. Dab off most of the color from your brush for a lighter, glowier look. 
5. Adhere the sentiment strip to the upper third of the panel.
6. Die cut the wreath and bow from vellum.
7. Use a small amount of glue to adhere two layers of the wreath and the bow to the card front. 
8. Cut and fold an A2 top-folding card base from white cardstock.
9. Adhere the decorated panel to the card base.
10. Glue an iridescent drop to the center of the wreath.

I’d love to see your take on this glowing winter birthday card! Be sure to tag us on Instagram with your version of this design so we can celebrate your creativity. 

Try switching up the color palette for a completely new look, from soft pastels to bold jewel tones.

Now it’s your turn to bring this festive design to life—let your creativity glow!