I wanted to make a birthday card for my husband, but most of the designs I had in mind felt way too girly – lots of pinks, florals, and frills. This time, I wanted something a little more masculine but still handmade, simple, and fun.
This design is so easy that anyone can do it. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable – you can change up the colors or add details to make it your own.
Supplies Used
- Cardstock: (Strathmore Bristol or watercolour paper works great) or a pre-made blank card
- Marker or highlighter: I used a green Zebra Mildliner
- Pen (black): I used a 02 Micron
- Washi tape: I used one from my own collection!
- X-Acto knife: This is optional – for clean tape edges
Rather watch than read? Check out the full video by clicking the video below!
Let’s Get Started!
Grab your supplies, and let’s get going!
Step 1: Prep Your Card
If you’re cutting your own paper, trim it to size but don’t fold it just yet. Keep it flat so it’s easier to decorate.
Mark the center fold lightly so you know where the front will be.
Step 2: Mask the Writing Area
Tear pieces of washi tape and stick them down in a square or rectangle where you’ll later add your lettering. If you want crisp edges, lightly score the tape with an X-Acto knife against a straight edge and peel away the excess.
This creates a clean “window” where your design won’t bleed through.
Step 3: Make the Gingham Pattern
Using your marker, draw vertical lines across the card. Keep them roughly the same distance apart, but don’t stress about perfection – slightly uneven spacing makes it feel more handmade.
Turn the card and repeat with horizontal lines. The result: a simple, fun gingham pattern.
Optional: To make the pattern pop, go back and darken the intersections of the lines with your marker.
Step 4: Add the Lettering
Peel off the washi tape to reveal a clean space. Outline it loosely with your black pen for a sketchy, playful look.
Then, letter your message – I wrote Happy Birthday with Micron pens, mixing angled “Happy” with a thicker “Birthday.” You can also add the recipient’s name or keep it simple.No calligraphy skills? No problem. Regular lettering works just as well. (But if you do want to learn calligraphy, I have a free crash course you can check out!)
Step 5: Customize
At this stage, you can leave the card as-is, or add personal details. For mine, I created a little paper-cut golf bag and clubs, since my husband wanted a golf bag for his birthday.
You can adapt this to suit any personality or hobby – or keep it minimal and classic.
That’s a Wrap – Your Finished Card!
And that’s it! A super simple card design that feels masculine but can be customized in endless ways. Change the colors, swap the lettering, or add fun cut-outs – it’s a template you can use again and again.
I’d LOVE to see your creations. Tag me on Instagram: @thehappyevercrafter
And finally, your dad joke…
What kind of car does an egg drive?
A yolkswagen.
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