Ever feel like you’re always a little late with birthday cards? No worries, because this fun fold card will make them laugh, even if it’s late! Featuring the adorable A Little Ruffled stamp set by Unity Stamp Company and some colorful Copic coloring, this Z-fold card is easy to make and packed with personality. And don’t miss the video below with all the steps to create this interactive Z-fold card design.

Just A Minute {JAM} Session Videos are short videos with simple ideas or techniques to help spark your creativity. These quick ideas do not require much explanation, but seeing them in action can be the perfect inspiration you need for your next project. Watch it on YouTube.

Featured Unity Supplies

A Little Ruffled USC | OTH

Scallops & Circles Dies USC

Jubilant Tapestry {paper} USC

Compensated affiliate links may be used at no additional cost to you. I greatly appreciate the support if you are inspired to shop using my links. Unity Stamp Company usually has a new sale almost EVERY week. Check the website for details. Stamp sets go on and off sale all the time. If it is not on sale this week, just add the stamp set to your wishlist and wait for the next sale so you get a great deal.

Ack!

This belated birthday card has it all: a quirky, slightly disheveled bird, a playful Z-fold design, and a big Ack! that makes missing the birthday seem like part of the plan. The front of the card opens up to reveal the cheeky sentiment inside, wrapped up in layers of sweet patterned paper. The teal and yellow Copic coloring really makes our feathered friend pop in the best way. I just love how this card makes a late birthday wish feel lighthearted and fun!

What Makes This Card Fun:

• Surprise Inside: The Z-fold opens to reveal a hidden message, adding an interactive element that keeps them guessing.
• Adorable, Flustered Bird Stamp: A Little Ruffled brings out the humor in a belated birthday, making it feel like it’s okay to be a little late!
• Bold, Layered Die-Cut Circles: These layered frames bring focus to the main image, making the little bird and sentiment pop. Try any fun shape to fit your favorite stamps.
• Playful Patterns: A vintage-inspired blue background balances the whimsy with a touch of elegance, so it’s perfect for any age!

Creative Tips & Techniques:

• Interactive Z-Fold Design: The Z-fold adds a fun surprise, giving the recipient something unexpected to open up. Score an 8.5″ x 5.5″ paper at 2.125″ x 4.25″, fold the card in half, and the front flap back to create the Z-fold.
• Copic Coloring Tips: For a fresh, fun look, I used BG10, BG13, BG15, and BG18 for the bird’s feathers, and Y13 and Y15 for the beak and feet. Want a different vibe? Try brown and tan Copics for a masculine look or bright pinks for a feminine twist.
• Pattern Selection: Choose a patterned background to suit the recipient. A bold geometric or plaid pattern can give it a masculine feel, while florals or soft pastels would add a feminine touch.
• Add a Custom Speech Bubble: The Ack! speech bubble is easy to create with a die or punch. It’s a fun little element that brings the bird’s character to life!

Crafty Sales & Events

• Unity’s BIGGEST SALE OF THE YEAR!!! — 60% off SITE-WIDE — 15+ NEW ARRIVALS — FREEBIES with purchase… All happening now at Unity Stamp Company.

• Scrapbook.com — 60% off their exclusives. Highly recommend their foam tape and paper pads. FREE SHIPPIING this week with the code: FREESHIPPING

Thank you for joining me today. I sincerely hope that today’s project inspires you. If you create something, feel free to tag me, @dahlhousedesigns, on social media as I would be thrilled to see it! Plus, join us in the Unity Show & Tell Facebook group to share your Unity creations. It is such a fun and loving group of creators.

Supplies

Some links include affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for the referral but at no cost to you. I greatly appreciate the support should you choose to shop via my links.
Please Note: Product names with ** are suggested supply substitutions if I use something discontinued or hard to find.

Other: Walnut Cream Cardstock {Bazzill}; heart punch {Martha Stewart}

A Little Ruffled USC | OTH

Scallops & Circles Dies USC

Jubilant Tapestry {paper} USC

Tuxedo Black SB | JO

Most Used Tools

MISTI – Original SB | SSS	MISTI – Original – Black SB	MISTI – Mini SB | SSS	White Glass Mat SB | OTH | AMZ	Foam Roll Combo Pack SB
Foam Roll – 2 Inch SB	Stamping Tool SB	Grip Mat 6×6 SB	Media Mat Mini SB | SSS	Mini Stencil Mat** SB
Multi-Use Mat SB	Cutter Bee Scissors SB | SSS	Reverse Tweezers SB	Glossy Accents SB	Glue Bottle SB
Connect Glue SB	Blending Brushes AMZ	Mini Blending Brushes AMZ	Finger Blending Brushes AMZ	Jewel Picker AMZ
Rhinestone Pencil AMZ	Post It Note Tape AMZ	ATG Adhesive Tape AMZ	Big Shot SB	Mini Trimmer SB
White Pen AMZ	White Gel Pens SB | AMZ | EH	Artist-Tac Micro Dot Adhesive AMZ	T rulers AMZ	1.5″ block SB | OTH