Creating this charming card is easier than you might think, thanks to the precision of the die cuts and clear layering sequence. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Step 1: Prepare Your Materials

Start by gathering your cardstock in the colors you’ve chosen from the Holiday Expansion Pack palette. You’ll want a sturdy base color for your barn structure, rich green for the trees and wreath, and complementary colors for the holiday lights and other decorative elements. Read How to Make A Card Base if you need help.

Step 2: Die Cut Your Elements

Using your die-cutting machine, cut out all the barn components first. The Country Christmas Barn die set includes everything you need to build the complete structure, so take your time ensuring clean, precise cuts. Next, cut your trees in two different sizes to create visual depth in your scene.

You’ll have to cut an additional door If you want to have your doors open like mine do.

Step 3: Assemble the Barn

Before you begin assembling the barn, mask off the doorway and blend some brown ink to create shadows in the barn. Darkening the shadows around the top and sides makes it look even more realistic.

Heat emboss a nice sentiment that fits inside with white ink and embossing powder.

Begin by assembling the main barn structure. The dies are designed to fit together perfectly, so you’ll find the assembly process straightforward and enjoyable. Take care to align each piece properly for the best results.

To create the hinges for the doors cut the extra door in half lengthwise and score each piece in the center lengthwise. Fold each hinge at the score line. Next, trim the corners off of one side of each of the hinges.

Use a craft knife to cut the two vertical score lines on either side of the door opening. Attache the side of the hinge without the cuts to the back side of the door with liquid glue. Slide the trimmed side through the cuts in the doorway and attach to the back of the barn with liquid glue. Repeat with the other door. Pro Tip: Make sure the doors are even and meet in the center before attaching to the barn.

Step 4: Add the Holiday Decorations

Once your barn is assembled, it’s time to add the festive touches. Attach the wreath to the front of the barn, bows on the doors, position your trees around the structure, and carefully add the holiday lights. These small details make all the difference in bringing your scene to life.

Step 5: Create Your Background

Consider adding a simple background that complements your barn scene without overwhelming it. A subtle snowy ground or soft sky can enhance the overall composition while keeping the focus on your beautiful barn. Splattering is perfect for creating a snowy look and a paste creates the perfect textured dimensional effect for snow on the ground.

Step 6: Final Assembly

Mount your background onto your card base. Then add the completed barn scene, ensuring it’s centered and secure. Add any final touches like another sentiment or additional decorative elements to complete your card.

The Country Christmas Barn Card Supply List