This delightful birthday card features a beautifully layered hummingbird that seems ready to take flight right off the cardstock. The design uses the stunning Lovely Layers: Hummingbird Honey Cuts die set, which creates incredible depth and dimension through multiple paper layers.

The hummingbird becomes the star of the show with its intricate details and vibrant colors. I chose soft, cheerful hues that reflect my mom’s warm personality—gentle greens for the body, delicate pinks and corals for accent colors, and a touch of shimmer to catch the light just like a real hummingbird’s iridescent feathers.

The card design incorporates elegant framing elements that draw attention to our feathered friend while adding a sophisticated touch. A heartfelt birthday sentiment completes the design, making this card both visually stunning and emotionally meaningful.

How To Make The Happy Hummingbird Birthday Card

Creating this special birthday card is easier than you might think! Follow these step-by-step instructions to craft your own beautiful hummingbird card.

Step 1: Prepare Your Base

Start with a non-standard card base, 4 3/4″ x 6″ in a neutral color like cream or white. I went with this odd size because I wanted the card to be a little bigger than the die-cut frame that I’m using for my background. However, you can certainly go with a standard A2 card base so that you don’t have to make a custom envelope. Either way you’ll create the perfect backdrop for your colorful hummingbird to shine. Read “How to Make a Card Base” for help with this step if you need it.

Step 2: Cut Your Hummingbird Layers

Using the Lovely Layers: Hummingbird Honey Cuts die set, cut all the pieces from your chosen cardstock colors. The layering guide that comes with the dies will help you understand which pieces create which parts of the hummingbird. Cut the base layer from your main body color, and use coordinating shades for the wing details and accent pieces.

Pro tip: Blend shimmery inks on white cardstock to create a magical color scheme for your hummingbird.

Step 3: Create Dimension with Layering

Begin assembling your hummingbird by starting with the largest base layer. Apply small dots of liquid glue or use foam adhesive squares between layers to create depth. The beauty of this die set lies in how each layer builds upon the last, creating a three-dimensional effect that makes your hummingbird appear to hover above the card.

Step 4: Add Special Details

Use a small black marker or cardstock to create the eye, and consider adding a tiny black gem for extra sparkle. The beak can be cut from orange or yellow cardstock for a pop of color (however I chose to go with dark gray). These small details bring your hummingbird to life.

Step 5: Design Your Background

Create an ornate background using a frame die set, or keep it simple with a soft color wash. The background should complement your hummingbird and draw your eyes toward it without overwhelming it.

For this card I use a deep forest green for the first layer to create a lovely frame. The second layer is die-cut from a watercolor panel from my stash (I always add a little water to ink that is left on my work surface and then sop it up with a piece of watercolor cardstock). You can use gold watercolor paint to enhance the beautiful frame of the second layer you can use gold watercolor paint . Pop this layer up with foam tape or strips for some added dimension.

Step 6: Add Your Sentiment

Choose a birthday sentiment that feels right for your recipient. Heat embossing it adds a little more shine. Position it thoughtfully on your card—perhaps at the bottom or along one side. Use stamping, die-cut letters, or beautiful handwriting to add this personal touch.

Step 7: Final Assembly

Mount your completed hummingbird onto your card base using foam adhesive for extra dimension. Step back and admire your beautiful creation before adding any final touches like small gems or a subtle shimmer.

The Happy Hummingbird Birthday Card Supply List