Try This! How to Make an Exploding Envelope with a Scoring Board

Hello dear friends, I have a REALLY fun cardmaking project to share with you today. It begins with a simple handmade envelope using a scoring board. But this envelope will contain an unexpected surprise. (No, it's not filled with cash OR a glitter bomb.) Let's take a look and I'll show you all the tips, tricks, and the secret inside! 

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Getting Started - How To Make An Envelope

Have you ever made your own envelopes using a scoring board? I'm a big fan of my FSJ Scoring Board but you can use any brand of scoring board you have. Each one is a little different, but if you need a refresher/want to learn more about the FSJ Journey Scoring Board, click here for my simple tutorial.

To begin this project, make an envelope in any size you'd like. (TIP: Don't have a scoring board? Gently disassemble any envelope you have and use it as a stencil to make your own from scratch!) This one is a standard envelope for a 4.25x5.5" card. It's fun to play with different sizes though! Once you score and fold your envelope - don't seal it up. Why? Because it's time to add the surprise inside....

Let's Look Inside 

The envelope IS the card on this fun handmade project and there are so many surfaces to create with. Does this feel overwhelming? Let's think about it - the main rectangle of your envelope is the same size as a card. So tackle the layout as if you're creating a card. As you're creating, think about the flaps and how to incorporate them into your design. Your exploding envelope can be packed with embellishments, die cut shapes, stamped images, pockets and more - or you can keep it pretty clean and simple.

I love to add mini envelopes and pockets to add a gift card, notes or even photos. These exploding envelopes are really fun to theme for birthdays and graduation too. After you're done decorating the inside of the envelope, fold it up and then decide how to handle the front. I like to wrap a strip of patterned paper around it like a belly band or maybe some fabulous ribbon with a big bow. For this card, I added a great big die cut flower too. The recipient can just slide the band off and open the envelope.

Would you like some more inspiration? This is an Easter Exploding Envelope that I created for FSJ + Spellbinders. Don't miss the video tutorial below, where Kim Kesti demonstrates how to create it, just in time for Easter!

Here's what the envelope looks like when it's closed up. I love the big pinwheel on the front of it! Just make a paper belly band to wrap around it, and then embellish with a puffy bow, paper flower or pinwheel!

Don't miss this video from Spellbinders where Kim Kesti walks you through this project!

Get the Goods!

Looking for dies and supplies to make an exploding envelope? Check out my supply list for the goodies I used - some of them are even on clearance so it's a great time to grab them.  Thanks SO very much for coming by today. If you try out this fun handmade craft, I hope you'll share a link with me in the comments. They are such fun! xoxo

Exploding Envelope Supplies:

Scoring Board

Clover Blooms Die Set

Blooming Details Die Set - on sale!

Breezy Pinwheel Die

Scalloped Sleeve Pocket Die

Spring Filled Prints 12x12 Paper Pack

Thanks for stopping by today! Was this your first time here? Let's connect again! Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest where I'm sharing crafty goodness all week long. xoxo

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