Attagirl Gift Card Recipe

Prepare the base

Measure and mark the heavy weight cardstock to create a standard folded card. Typical finished card size is 5 x 7 inches (folded). From an 8.5 x 11 inch sheet, measure and mark a 10 x 7 inch area (or trim to 10 x 7) so the finished folded size will be 5 x 7. Using a ruler and pencil, mark the center fold line at 5 inches. Score along that line with a bone folder or blunt tool to create a clean crease. Fold the cardstock in half along the score so the edges align and press firmly with the bone folder.

Cut and attach front layer

Trim the colored or patterned cardstock to be slightly smaller than the front of the card, leaving a 1/8 to 1/4 inch border of the base cardstock visible (for a framed look). For a 5 x 7 card, cut the front layer to 4-3/4 x 6-3/4 inches. Align the panel on the front and attach with double-sided tape or a thin line of glue. Press firmly from center outward to avoid bubbles.

Create the 'AttaGirl' focal element

Decide how you want the text: hand-lettered, die-cut letters, or stickers. If hand-lettering, practice the word 'AttaGirl' on scrap paper until you like the style. Lightly pencil guidelines on the front panel to center the word. Use a fineline pen or marker to letter 'AttaGirl' in your chosen style; wait for ink to dry. If using die-cuts or stickers, arrange them first to check placement, then adhere in place. Optionally add shadowing or small decorative marks (stars, hearts) around the word with a fine marker.

Add decorative elements

Embellish the front with additional accents: place washi tape along one edge, add small stickers or die-cut shapes, or apply a ribbon across the corner or horizontally beneath the sentiment. If using dimensional elements (like ribbon or layered die-cuts), secure with strong adhesive or tape. Keep elements balanced so the focal text remains clear.

Prepare the interior message

Trim the plain insert paper to slightly smaller than the inside faces of the card (for a 5 x 7 finished card, cut inserts to 4-3/4 x 6-3/4 inches). Plan your message: a short congratulatory note (example: “AttaGirl! So proud of you — keep shining!”), space for a handwritten personal note, and a place to slip in a gift card if desired. If including a pocket for a gift card, cut a strip of cardstock 4-3/4 x 2 inches, fold a 1/4 inch tab on the long edge and adhere three sides to form a pocket on the lower-right interior, leaving the top open.

Attach interior elements

Adhere the insert paper to one side of the interior with double-sided tape, aligning edges evenly. If you created a gift card pocket, attach it to the insert or directly to the card interior using strong adhesive along the sides and bottom only. Test the fit with the gift card or voucher to ensure it slides in easily but stays secure.

Write the message

Using a fineline pen or marker, write your personal congratulatory message on the interior insert. Sign and date if desired. If you prefer, print a typed message, trim it to size, and adhere it in place for a cleaner look.

Final touches

Check the card for any pencil marks and erase gently. Press the card flat under a heavy book for 10–15 minutes if any adhesive areas raised during assembly. Slide the finished card into the envelope. If mailing, add appropriate postage and address neatly.