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If you think the birthday present is the main event, think again: The card is where the heart is. A thoughtful birthday card is a place where the meaningful sentiments go, the place where you get to communicate just how much the celebrant means to you. And a last-minute drugstore card doesn't always send the message you want to convey — so think ahead.
If you have the inclination, supplies, and skill set, a homemade greeting card is always a unique way to go. And there are plenty of options to choose from if you're making a birthday card at home. These DIY birthday card ideas include a range of options for every loved one on your list, from kids to grownups. (Some projects are simple; others are more suitable for advanced crafters with die-cut machines.) And if you're looking to take the easiest route possible, there are plenty of customizable, printable templates you can buy, just waiting for you to write the perfect birthday card message and seal it with a kiss.
Whether you're looking for a birthday card that's funny, punny, poignant, or just plain cute, these clever birthday card ideas will help you deliver the perfect greeting to all of your special someones — and we bet they'll save these cards long after the birthday cake has been devoured, the gift wrap has been recycled, and the presents long forgotten!
1
DIY Embroidered Birthday Card
Create these charming and impressive DIY birthday cards using colorful embroidery floss.
2
DIY Letterboard Birthday Card
The letterboard motif for this DIY card couldn't be any more on trend. (Your birthday card is guaranteed to end up on Instagram!)
3
Scroll-Style Birthday Card
When you have a lot to say and want the very format of the birthday card to communicate importance, write it on a scroll.
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4
DIY Die-Cut Birthday Card
These birthday cards get an intricate (and expensive!) collage-like look with die-cut paper components.
5
Sprinkle Lollipops Birthday Card
Use real sprinkles and lollipop sticks to create this charming treat motif for birthday cards and even gift tags.
6
Printable Modern Birthday Cards
These printable birthday cards have a modern look in black and gold that is versatile enough for just about everyone.
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7
Simple DIY Birthday Cards
Here's an array of versatile DIY birthday card ideas that look fancy with three-dimensional detailing — but they're quite simple to make with materials like birthday candles, twine, and cut paper.
8
"You're a Gem" DIY Birthday Card
You need some special supplies to hand-draw this card on black paper, but the result is so cool and chic.
9
DIY Popup Card
No matter how old you are, a pop-up birthday card is sure to bring a smile. This DIY version is festive and cheerful, and easier to make than you think.
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10
FantasticalFunShop Colorable Printable Birthday Card
Last minute? No problem. Print this colorable card instantly — it even comes with a printable, foldable envelope.
11
ThePrintableBakery Funny Printable Birthday Card
This funny printable card is a cheeky nod to these, er, unprecedented times (without taking itself too seriously).
12
SRdesignsUK Pop-Up Unicorn Birthday Card Cut File
12
SRdesignsUK Pop-Up Unicorn Birthday Card Cut File
Choose your own paper (glitter! rainbow!) to print out this downloadable SVG file — once the design is cut, the butterflies fold together for a cool pop-up effect.
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13
YourPrintWisdom Printable Coloring Birthday Card
Print this card and get the kids involved with creating a personalized masterpiece.
14
PaperGardenGifts Printable Pop-Up Castle Birthday Card Template
14
PaperGardenGifts Printable Pop-Up Castle Birthday Card Template
Wish them an absolutely magical birthday with this printable template from which you can create a pop-up castle card.
15
DesertSVGDesigns Customizable Die-Cut Birthday Card Template
15
DesertSVGDesigns Customizable Die-Cut Birthday Card Template
Use this digital download and your die-cut machine to customize a birthday card with their very own name.
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16
LovePaperRainbow "Adulting" Printable Birthday Card
16
LovePaperRainbow "Adulting" Printable Birthday Card
The struggle is real! This printable card shows your friend, sibling, or co-worker you totally get it.
Listen, aging happens. Joking about it helps. (So does cheese!)
RELATED: 35 Cheese-Themed Gifts That Aren't Just a Block of the Month Membership
18
WoodenspooncraftShop Personalized Birthday Bunting Card
18
WoodenspooncraftShop Personalized Birthday Bunting Card
Spell out their name in bunting with this charming three-dimensional personalized card.
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19
ThePaperRosesCo Personalized Floral Cut-Paper Card
19
ThePaperRosesCo Personalized Floral Cut-Paper Card
This floral cut-paper card is a frame-worthy jaw-dropper. Personalize it with the recipient's name for a dramatic reveal when they open the envelope.
20
chronicallyclever Retro Record Player Birthday E-Card
20
chronicallyclever Retro Record Player Birthday E-Card
If they're old enough to know what this is, they're old enough to enjoy this punny card!
Alesandra Dubin
Contributing Writer
Alesandra is a digital travel and lifestyle journalist based in Los Angeles whose work has appeared in Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Prevention, Insider, Glamour, Shondaland, AFAR, Parents, TODAY and countless other online and print outlets. Alesandra has a masters degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor’s degree from UC Berkeley. An avid traveler, she trots the globe with her husband and their twins.
