As cute and clever as store-bought greeting cards are, there's something incredibly thoughtful that can be felt in a homemade birthday card from a friend or loved one. Not only does the act of creating DIY birthday cardsgive you the chance to slow down from the business of life and reflect on what you cherish most about the people you're celebrating, but the one-of-a-kind touch will be super memorable for your recipients as well.
Even if you're not the craftiest person, don't fret, because we've put together a straightforward guide on how to craft your own DIY birthday card for your besties and S.O.'s. Step into the world of DIY magic as we embark on a quest to create birthday cards that will leave your recipients in awe. From unexpected pop-up surprises to mind-bending interactive features, discover fresh ways to make birthday cards burst with fun and excitement. Prepare to unleash your inner artist as we dive into all the tips to help you craft unique and captivating birthday cards. And keep reading for some thoughtful text ideas to ensure that your birthday wishes are just as fun as the card design they're on.
Image via Karolina Grabowska/Pexels
Before embarking on your DIY birthday card adventure, gathering all the necessary supplies is essential. A well-prepared crafter is a confident crafter! So, let's make sure you have everything you need to bring your imaginative card ideas to life.
Image via George Dolgikh/Pexels
The card design will function as the first impression that sets the tone for the entire experience. A well-designed card can evoke emotions ranging from joy and excitement to nostalgia and warmth, leaving friends and family in awe of the thoughtful gesture.
Handmade Watercolor Design:
Express your artistic side by creating a handmade watercolor masterpiece for a genuinely one-of-a-kind birthday card. Start with a blank cardstock or watercolor paper as the base, and let your creativity flow. Use watercolors to paint a vibrant and personalized design, such as flowers, balloons, or a recipient's favorite hobby or color palette. Add a heartfelt birthday message inside to complete the card.
Pop-Up Surprise:
Add an element of surprise and delight to your card with a pop-up feature. Cut out a simple pop-up mechanism using cardstock or colored paper and attach it to the inside of the card. Then, unleash your creativity by designing and cutting out fun shapes, such as cakes, candles, or balloons, and attach them to the pop-up mechanism. When the card is opened, the surprise element will make the birthday celebration of your loved one even more memorable.
Quilled Creations:
Quilling is a paper art technique that involves rolling and shaping thin paper strips to create intricate designs. Use quilling techniques to create beautiful and delicate patterns, flowers, or even personalized messages on your birthday cards. Experiment with different colors and shapes to bring your design to life and make it truly unique. The recipient will appreciate the time and effort put into crafting such an elegant and artistic card.
Hand-Stitched Greeting:
Consider incorporating those skills into your DIY card if you enjoy sewing or embroidery. Use a needle and thread to create hand-stitched designs or patterns on fabric or cardstock. You can stitch the recipient's name, a birthday message, or even cute motifs like balloons or cupcakes. The texture and charm of a hand-stitched card will make it a cherished keepsake.
Interactive Slider Card:
Create an interactive slider card to take your birthday card to the next level. Use cardstock to make a slider mechanism that reveals a hidden message or image as it is pulled. Write a heartfelt message or attach a memorable photo that slides out when the recipient pulls the tab. This interactive element adds a playful touch to your card and makes it truly engaging.
Image via June/Pexels
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As a bonus, consider creating a DIY envelope to complete the package. Choose decorative paper or repurpose materials like magazine pages or fabric scraps to craft a unique envelope that adds creativity and thoughtfulness to your handmade card. Personalize it by adding hand-drawn designs, stamps, or calligraphy for an extra special touch.
So, there you have it! DIY birthday cards offer endless possibilities for fun, creativity, and the chance to unleash your imagination. With just a few simple steps, you can create customized and sincere cards that will bring joy to your loved ones on their special day. Remember, the beauty of DIY is that there are no limits or rules. Let your creativity run wild, experiment with different techniques, colors, and textures, and, most importantly, have fun. Happy crafting!
For more crafty ideas, check out all of our DIY ideas on Brit + Co.
From running on 3 hours of sleep to constant diaper changes, mamas do so much. We've teamed up with @diapergenieofficial for a special Mother’s Day gift to make things easier for new moms: receive a FREE Diaper Genie Select Pail with square refill technology, plus enough refills to get you off to a great start! The giveaway will consist of one Select Pail + four Jumbo Refills for an associated value of up to $118. Say goodbye to diaper odors in style with this sleek, easy-to-use pail. The winner will also receive a $500 Amazon gift card to shop for all their baby and household needs. Check the deets below!
Enter to win a new Diaper Genie Select Pail and four Jumbo Refills here. Giveaway ends on May 31. One lucky winner will be announced on Wednesday, June 5.
Good luck mamas! #DiaperGenie #MothersDayMagic
We're thrilled to kick off our new Jetset Journeysseries, where we turn the best U.S. cities to explore this year into our own personal playgrounds. This is not just a travel guide but a way to spark your creativity and your wanderlust for weekend and week-long travel. Pack your bags , join us here every week, and get jetsetty this summer.
You’ve got 48 hours in New York — you don’t wanna do the typical tourist trap amusements, but you also don’t wanna skip out on some absolute Big Apple classics. With some much to consider, it can feel hard to know where to start. Lucky for you, I’ve got your back. As someone who’s lived here for years — and is very picky about how she spends her precious time, might I add — I’ve got the best tips for how to stay, eat, and experience NYC like a local.
Photo: William Vale
My number one recommendation when staying in New York? The William Vale in Williamsburg. Not only are the views captivating, but this luxury experience is right in the heart of one of the coolest neighborhoods in all five boroughs.
Photo: Westlight,
You may wonder, “If you live in the city, why should we listen to you about what hotel to stay in?” As a frequent patron of the exquisite rooftop bar — Westlight, if you’re already wondering — I got to know the hotel well over the years. My husband and I fell in love with the vibe so much that we decided to stay their for our wedding weekend with all our family and friends.
Photo: Haley Sprankle
You’ve got plenty of room options, depending on your needs. You can choose from regular rooms, suites, and a garden suite — all with the option to upgrade to a room with a view of the city, AKA a “Gotham” room. Having stayed in both a suite and a regular room (had to make a return visit for my one year anniversary 😘), I can safely say that they’re both amazing options…just definitely opt for the city views, if possible. It really is breathtaking to wake up to the Empire State Building, whether you’re a local or just visiting.
Photo: Talea
You’ve just checked into your hotel at around 3:00pm, and you’re looking for a little snack and a quick drink. If you’re not already itching to check out Westlight at the hotel, make your way over to Brooklyn Brewery for a classic beer and (potentially) a tour of the facilities! The atmosphere is really chill, and it’s neat to see where (and how) the magic happens. If you’re looking to go even more local — and walk a little further — I would recommend checking out Talea as well! It’s owned and operated by women (yay!), and the Al Denté Pilsner is a perfectly crisp afternoon drink!
Photo: Misi
Once you’ve had your fill of laid-back libations and freshened up for the latter half of your first evening, I’d go ahead and get to the main attraction: dinner. One thing about me? I’m always craving Italian, and Williamsburg is one of the best places to get it. If you’re able to snag a reservation (they release on Resy seven days in advance), I would swing over to Misi. You may have heard of Lilia, their sister restaurant, on TV before, but Misi is often much-preferred among locals. While you can’t go wrong ordering, I’d definitely grab some whipped ricotta crostini, spinach and mascarpone filled tortelli, and the sheep’s milk ricotta-filled gnocchi.
I know it’s only day one, and there are plenty of decadent dessert options at Misi…but I would opt for a gelato elsewhere. Gelateria Gentile is some of the best gelato you can find in the city, and it’s perfect for a little sweet treat to sum up your first day in New York. I love the mandorla and my husband loves the crema antica, but you can’t go wrong with any flavor.
Photo: Black Seed
You can’t come to New York without grabbing a bagel, and Black Seed has some of the best. I’d grab a toasted sesame bagel with the lox and dill cream cheese, an iced coffee, and be on my way! While you can always take a car, hopping on the subway is honestly a breeze from Williamsburg. Make your way over to the Bedford Ave L train station, hop on a Manhattan-bound train, and you’ll be there in no time! Take this train all the way to 8th Ave (just five stops).
Photo: Artists & Fleas
Once you’re off the train, make your way to Chelsea Market. If you’re wondering why a local would go to a touristy place like Chelsea Market, hear me out: Los Tacos Numero Uno. The line is long, but when I say these tacos are worth the wait…I really mean it. Plus, there’s plenty of shopping at awesome spots like Artists & Fleas to occupy your time until you’re ready to actually eat those tacos for lunch.
Photo: Timothy Schenck for High Line
After snacking and snaking your way through the market, I like to take a stroll through the High Line park. The gardens are lovely in the warmer months, and it’s a nice way to get some fresh(ish) air above all the city traffic as you make your way uptown. The park ends right at Hudson Yards, so if you didn’t get your shopping fill before — or you’re craving a little tapas from Mercado Little Spain food hall — you can check that out, too!
Photo: Haley Sprankle
This evening, I’d make time to see a Broadway show, so timing is gonna be important. You could honestly see anything and have a good time — the beauty of live theatre! — but I would recommend checking out Hadestown if you can. The storytelling and music is incredibly inventive, and it’s moved me every single time I’ve seen it. On a Saturday night, that show will start at 8:00pm, so you’ll wanna grab an earlier dinner at around 5:30pm beforehand.
Photo: Carmine’s
There are plenty of restaurants in the Theatre District, but not all are created equal. Don’t get me wrong, Carmine’s and Tony’s Di Napoli are yummy and reliable, but you just had Italian last night! Let’s get a little classic New York Chinese food. Head over to Dim Sum Palace and order dumplings and shumai to your heart’s content! I’d certainly pair this with a lychee martini, but to each their own!
Photo: Glass House Tavern
Dinner and the show are done, but I just know you’ll have plenty to talk about. Grab a post-show drink over at Glass House Tavern — you might even see a Broadway star or two there! I may or may not have seen Glee’s very own Alex Newell singing at the bar with their friends a couple years ago…
Photo: Haley Sprankle
I totally love a savory breakfast moment, but pastries are an absolute must on vacation. Get up early and take a car (or the L to the G train) to Radio Bakery. The pastries here are everything you’ve ever wanted — maple and sausage croissants wrapped up so you get the perfect bit every time, earl grey morning buns that are just the right amount of sweet, and the ever-elusive vanilla custard croissant that’s not always there, but is always delicious. Need I say more? Once you’ve enjoyed your pastries and a little coffee, make your way back to the G train and ride it all the way to the Bergen St stop.
Photo: Arthur Brognoli
Yesterday was wonderfully Manhattan-filled, but I’d opt for another Brooklyn moment in Carroll Gardens. If I could own an apartment anywhere in the city, it would be in Carroll Gardens. It’s a quaint area with great food, great bars, and great people. I’d grab an iced coffee at D’Amico (it’s seriously some of the best coffee in NY) and walk around the neighborhood to make stops in local antique shops like Yesterday’s News. Then, because I’m always thinking about what I’m gonna eat next, I’d go on over to Frankie’s 457. The sweet potato ravioli in parmesan broth and cavetelli with hot sausage in browned sage butter are must-haves in my house. Wrap up your meal with their delicious tiramisu, and you won’t be sorry!
Photo: Megan (Markham) Bucknall
Given that this is likely Sunday, and you’re headed out this evening, I’d grab a car and make my way back to the hotel. If you feel like you need one last little snack for the road, snag a slice from Fini Pizza (definitely the white slice) or Joe’s Pizza (classic cheese). And voila! You’ve had a pretty perfect 48 hours in the greatest city in the world! Cheers!
Main image: Shutterstock
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After compiling my vacation reads, I'm *finally* ready to start combing through Reese Witherspoon's Book Club list. Her revelation about reading books in her cover feature interview with Harper's Bazaar made me realize I need to step my game up ASAP.
Her admirable hobby - that's since led her to create a bourgeoning book club— continues to highlight books with women at the center, girl does she have a great eye for stories that fit every mood. To date, her book club list has amassed over 90 titles of romantic beach reads, thrillers, and more.
Since it's a new year and we're sure you not ready to tackle that many titles, I went through the list to pick the top 26 books worth diving into. Buckle up because they're sure to take our emotions on a ride! After you finish your TBR (To Be Read list), check out 24 Standout Reads From Jenna Bush Hager's Book Club, 20 Captivating Shondaland Book Club Picks, and 16 Must-Reads From The Oprah Winfrey Book Club!
When Marilyn Connolly and David Sorenson fell in love, all they knew is that nothing could shake their foundation. Despite their unwavering hope in the past, their current reality looks differently than they imagined. Their four daughters — Wendy, Violet, Liza, and Grace — each have a unique set of problems that creates of chaos for the family. From the loss of one's husband to the secrets the youngest daughter keeps, the Sorensons are never quite sure what to expect.
In a shocking turn of events, a young man — Jonah Bendt — shows up and reveals that one of the daughters is his mom. He was placed up for adoption some time ago, but he's ready to come home to learn more about his biological family. There may be drama in The Most Fun We Ever Had, but there's still a family who finds a way back to the love that Marilyn and David have always believed in.
Art student Raquel only comes Anita de Monte's story after she starts feeling like she's starting to make a name for herself among College Hill's socialites. The more she learns about how Anita's life was horrifically cut short, she starts drawing parallels between their lives. It's almost like history is repeating itself and it's hitting too close to home.
As Gonzalez alternates between both of their perspectives, Raquel and Anita's lives begin to intersect in a way that makes Anita de Monte Laughs Last the kind of novel that'll have you thinking about it longer after you finish the last page.
Redwood Court reads like a historical love letter to Black families and contains relationships that remind me of my own family. When Mika Tabor starts asking questions about her family's history, she receives much more than her class assignment asked for. The more she listens to her grandparents and observes her parents, she realizes they've been telling her meaningful stories all along. From tales of racism to the sweet grasp of a world that began moving past obvious racial tension, this novel offers a glimpse into the homes of many Black families.
While I often say I'd like to pass down books to my kids, Redwood Court has become something that I feel is mandatory to read.
Reese's Book Club is coming in hot with their first pick of the year! This thriller of a reader is all about "Evie Porter" and her separate identities. One paints the picture of who she truly is, but her job places her in the position of assuming a new name in order to complete the mission given to her by Mr. Smith. She's never met Mr. Smith, her boss, but she has the inkling that her latest mission hits a little too close to home.
Does he know more about her than she realizes and can she successfully fulfill the goal he has for? Buy your copy of First Lie Wins today to find out!
What would you do if you knew a terrible secret that involved the death of one of your best friends? In Before We Were Innocent, Bess and Joni find themselves trying to escape answering this. However, some things are hard to bury — especially when the past comes knocking in the form of Joni. Will the two former best friends be able to maintain their innocence or will they have to accept the truth about themselves?
If the past few years have felt like you've been stuck in a weird time loop, you'll love this page turner by Cesca Major. Maybe Next Time follows Emma as she navigates being a busy literary agent, wife and mother - except she only seems to have time for her career. When her husband is involved in a tragic car accident, Emma finds herself distraught only to wake up and see him alive again.
As the scenario continues to repeat, Emma will have to dig deep inside herself to correct patterns she's been a part of her to save not only her husband but life as she knows it.
Starling House is a daring tale of what happens when dreams meet determination, grit and evil. All Opal wants to do is create a haven for herself and her brother Jasper but she'll have to fight for it once she finds herself in the mysterious mansion of author E. Starling. In the depths of the shadows, she'll come face to face with things that'll test her resilience.
Image via Target
The women of the Rubicon family have a lot to tangle with in Mother-Daughter Murder Night. When powerful matriarch Lana's granddaughter Jack becomes the prime suspect in an unsolved murder, Lana becomes determined to find a killer instead of waiting for her disease to have it's last say. Find out what Nina Simon has in store for the town the Rubicons find themselves living in.
Image via Target
Tom Lake weaves a beautiful tale of remembered love and viewing the humanity of one's parent. When Lara begins to regale her three daughters of a former romance she shared with actor Peter Duke at Tome Lake, they begin to take stock of what they know about their mom as well as their own love lives.
Heartbreak has the potential to make you swear off love, which is something that late night writer Sally Milz knows all too well. She's also a firm believer in the "Danny Horst Rule," the phenomenon where average looking men exclusively date women more attractive than them — until pop star Noah Brewster shows up to host the late night show. Join her for an intoxicating love ride that makes her change her perspective.
If you love a good romance-murder mystery, you'll fall in love with Kya's story. After the town's golden boy winds up dead, everyone in town begins blaming Kya for his murder. With heartbreak and triumph woven throughout, Where The Crawdads Sing will become the summer read you can't put down.
Even when forbidden, love seems to find a way in The House of Eve. 15-year-old Ruby is set to be her family's first college attendee, until it appears a scandalous affair will bring her back into poverty. Meanwhile, Eleanor's in love with William, a member of an elite Black family in D.C. that doesn't let just anyone in. The lives of both women will collide in an unexpected way as they forge their own paths.
Maya witnessed her friend's sudden death in the woods seven years ago. Now, with nothing except a few hazy memories, she's determined to figure out what she saw, and who's behind it. The House In The Pines is proof that sometimes our past — and their secrets — don't stay dead.
Life can feel like a dumpster fire sometimes which is why Tiny Beautiful Things feels like a soothing hug. If you love advice columns, you'll love the beautiful compilation of questions "Dear Sugar" answers within the pages as Clare sets out to offer advice while her own life falls apart. After you read the book, check out our interview with Sarah Pidgeon, who stars in the Hulu series!
New friends Mia and Elena are pitted against each other when everyone in town splits over a custody battle. Adapted into a mini-series on Hulu at the beginning of the pandemic, Little Fires Everywhere is a tale that shows everything isn't always what it seems, and there are always secrets to be discovered.
Wrong Place, Wrong Time is a novel that explores the lengths a mother is willing to take to prevent her son from doing something unspeakable. Will she be able to piece together clues in time or will all hope remain lost?
This titular novel turned Emmy award-nominated Amazon Prime series Daisy Jones & The Six explores the rise — and fall — of a legendary (and fictional) band.
This heartwarming book about life at the River Valley School for the Deaf, and all of its students with completely different backgrounds, will make you laugh and cry with its beautiful depiction of human connection.
If you've never liked hearing "How can you hate from outside the club? You can't even get in," you'll be glad you're not a part of this members-only society. The club has been pushed to its limit and everyone has something to hide.
Nan infiltrates Agatha Christie's home in 1925, intent on luring her husband away. There's something about love, affairs, and dark secrets that make for a good read, and you won't be able to get enough of this tale where things aren't always what they seem.
"She's so lucky" ...or is she? Lucky redefines what it means to be honest when the titular character completes a million-dollar heist, and is left stranded by the very people who taught her how to scam.
When Anna learns the father she never knew is still alive, she travels to West Africa in search of answers. The tale of self-discovery through one's history, as well as the themes of home and belonging, is something we all long to understand at some point.
Families can be complicated, and the Alvarados are no different. If you're looking for a little break from your own family dynamics, you'll get a kick out of reading along as they navigate evacuations, relationship problems, and their father's obsession with the Weather Channel.
What happens when desire spills over and threatens to unravel everything two friends have built? The Paper Palace answers that as Elle must choose between continuing the life she has dedicated herself to and the life she never got to live.
When former lovers Eva and Shane reunite in the midst of their successful literary careers, they find that their chemistry is still as strong as it used to be. But, will the flame fizzle before their lingering questions are answered or will Eva choose vulnerability before Shane disappears again?
What would you do if your significant other disappeared without a trace, only leaving a cryptic note behind? In Hannah's case, she sets out on an unpredictable mission for answers — regardless of what lies ahead. After you read the book, check out our interview with Angourie Rice, who stars in the Apple TV+ series!
Le Sommet is a sanatorium-turned-luxury hotel in the Swiss Alps. Detective Elin arrives to celebrate her estranged brother Isaac's engagement to Laure, and her discomfort turns to all-out horror when Laure goes missing.
DNA tests can reveal new information about our ancestry, but when Abby learns that she has an older sister — and that her older sister is an Instagram star — the women decide to meet up and get to the bottom of why their parents split them up in the first place.
Nothing brings families together like food and age-old rivalries, something that sisters Amanda and Mae learn firsthand when they end up on opposite sides of a cooking competition. If you love hit TV series The Bear, you'll love The Chicken Sisters.
Whether you want to challenge yourself to read a book every couple of days like Reese or choose a few books to get you through the summer, I'm sure you'll find titles to add to your growing library. I already have my eyes on Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and The Club by Ellery Lloyd!
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated.
Header Image via Amazon
Growing up on the Outer Banks means I've gone through my fair share of swimsuits. All it takes is one summer of surfing wipeouts, sun bathing, swimming, and hitting up the shops (because you really do everything in a bathing suit on the OBX) to know exactly which bathing suit brands are worth buying — and which are cheap enough to avoid forever. I took to social media to ask real Outer Banks locals which bathing suit brands they can't get enough of. Keep reading for all the details!
Image via Target
I know y'all love Target just as much as I do — and along with their home decor, cute shoes, and comfy clothes, their bathing suit options are some of my friends' favorites. Target's got a ton of diverse and affordable swimwear options that is full of different styles, sizes, and prices. That means there's something for everyone! I'm obsessed with this Underwire Bralette Bikini Top and High Waist High Leg Extra Cheeky Bikini Bottom.
Image via Aerie
Aerie is perfect for Outer Banks fans because it's one of the most-used bathing suit brands on the show! This store balances style with comfort and casual, and TBH half the swimsuits are cute enough to be tank tops. Their bathing suits will make you feel confident and add a pop of color to your summer wardrobe! This Smiley® String Triangle Bikini Top and Cheekiest Tie Bikini Bottom are a great place to start ;).
Image via Old Navy
Old Navy is a great place to shop for affordable basics, and that definitely extends to swimsuit season. Their bathing suits come in a range sizes, and they're durable, classic, and super affordable (a lot of them are under $20!). They also have just enough Americana edge to live out your '00s rom-com dreams. I can't stop looking at the Zip-Front Bikini Swim Top and High-Waisted Bikini Swim Bottoms.
Image via Body Glove
Body Glove is one bathing suit brand that's just as functional as it is stylish, and it's also equal parts feminine and sporty for any gal who's always on the go. The Free Flow Eli One-Piece Swimsuitis one of my favorite suits because it's so colorful and it's also supportive, which you absolutely need when taking part in a treasure hunt.
Image via AlySwim
If you're looking for the true Outer Banks experience, then you should grab a suit made by someone who grew up there! AlySwim is totally customizable, and a lot of the suits are reversible so you get two looks for the price of one. With trendy patterns and vibrant colors, bathing suits like the Blue Hawaiian Eva Top and Bottoms will make a bold statement.
Image via Rey Swimwear
The bathing suits from Rey Swimwear are as classy as they come, and it feels like there are endless options for colors, patterns, and silhouettes. There are also options for longer torsos, which is such a blessing for us #TallGirls. Sarah Cameron would be all over this Marie bathing suit!
Image via Kenny Flowers
Maaji is the thing of our '90s dreams, and each bathing suit will make you feel the summer magic we crave all year long. I love the Hot Magenta Adhara V Wire Bralette Bikini Top and Sublimity Regular Rise Classic Bikini Bottoms!
Left on Friday is for the minimalists. But just because the swimsuits are simple and elegant doesn't mean they're boring — and the asymmetrical silhouette on the Shoreline Suit proves it.
Kenny Flowers immediately reminds me of Palm Royale every time I look on their site because of the old school vibe and bright colors. I NEED the Acapulco Underwire Bikini Top and High Waist Bikini Bottom!!
Lime Ricki is the place to go if you're looking for modest swimsuits that will also turn heads all summer long. The bold prints and bright colors are both nostalgic and playful, and it's also a really accessible brand. Celebrate your individuality in a suit like the Shell Stripe Ruffle-Strap One Piece.
Korni Jeane lets you mix and match different vibes to create a bathing suit that's unique to you and your personal aesthetic. I'm confident Kiara would love this Bandeau Top and All Ruffled Up Bottoms.
Every cute bathing suit needs equally cute accessories so check out The 5 Most Comfortable Walking Sandals For Summer, Ranked next!
Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Lead image via Kenny Flowers
