I’m headed to a baby shower this weekend, which means I need a card. And if you know me at all, you know I don’t do store-bought cards. Why would I, when it’s so easy (and fun!) to make my own?
This project is quick, customizable, and doesn’t require fancy supplies. If you’ve ever wanted to add a handmade touch to a baby shower gift, this card is perfect.
Supplies Used
- Paper: Cardstock or watercolor paper, cut and folded to card size
- Paint or markers: I used watercolour paints in light pink, blue, and yellow, but any colors (and even markers) work
- Brush + water (if using watercolour)
- Pens for lettering: I used a Sharpie and a 08 Micron
- Pencil + eraser
Rather watch than read? Check out the full video by clicking the video below!
Let’s Get Started!
Materials are super simple – use what you have!
Step 1: Create the Background
Unfold your card so it lays flat. Using a very diluted wash of watercolor (lots of water, little pigment), paint soft pastel circles across the card.
- Keep them light and airy – perfect for a baby shower vibe
- Vary the placement, let some circles run off the edge, and even overlap them
- Don’t stress about perfection – lighter and looser looks better here
Repeat with each color until your card has a scattered pattern. I used pink, blue, and yellow, but you can customize it based on the baby shower theme or colors.
Step 2: Let it Dry
Set your card aside until it’s fully dry before adding lettering. Trust me, this step is worth the patience.
Step 3: Add the Lettering
Decide which side of your card you want as the “front.” Since the watercolor pattern is all over, you can choose whichever looks best.
I lettered “hello little one”, but you could write anything:
- “Congratulations”
- “Hey baby”
- “Happy Baby Shower”
Tips for Lettering:
- Sketch your words lightly in pencil first if you want extra guidance.
- Use faux calligraphy with a Sharpie: outline the letters, then thicken the downstrokes. (If you’re brand new to faux calligraphy, I have a full tutorial on that!)
- For the smaller words (“little one”), I used a Micron pen for a more delicate look.
To keep things straight, I used my secret weapon: a laser level. It projects a line across the card so I can keep my lettering even—or purposely angled. If you don’t have one, pencil guidelines work just as well.
Step 4: Personalize and Finish
Add little details (I threw in a tiny heart under my lettering), erase any pencil marks, and you’re done.
The result: a sweet, minimal card that looks thoughtful, handmade, and way more personal than anything you’d find in a store.
Optional: Variations
Use markers instead of watercolor. Water-based markers (like Tombows) can be blended with water to mimic watercolor.
Switch up colors. Go with pastels, bold brights, or even monochrome to match the nursery theme.
Customize the message. Write the baby’s name, add a date, or include a short quote.
That’s a Wrap – Your Finished Card!
At the end of the day, this card isn’t about perfection it’s about the thought behind it. Handmade always feels more personal and special, and the best part? It takes less time than a trip to the store.
I’d LOVE to see your creations. Tag me on Instagram: @thehappyevercrafter
And finally, your dad joke…
I wanted to make a joke about retirement…
It didn’t work.
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