How to Make a Christmas Tree Pop up Card (Robert Sabuda Method)

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Last Updated: November 30, 2022 Tested

One of the first things that herald in the Christmas season is greeting cards. You can easily make your own pop-up Christmas tree card to send to family members and friends. All you need to get started is some paper, a paperclip or pen, and a pair of scissors.

Steps

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Print out the full size image on heavy paper, like cardstock or construction paper. An image can be found at robertsabuda.com. Or, you can click the image at right. Click it again on the new page, so that all you see is the image of the card, and print from there.
Print out the image below in a similar manner with heavy paper.

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Take a ruler and line the edge of it up against the center fold line of the card. Use the rounded end of a paper clip (or a ball point pen that has run out of ink) and press it along the dotted line, carefully scoring the card all the way from top to bottom. Score all the other dotted lines on the card as well.
Keep the outline of the tree on the outside so that you can see it.
Then, open the card like a tent and push the segments through to the other side. Turn over to pop them out even more.
Take a ruler and line the edge of it up against the center fold line of the backing card and score down the center with your paper clip.
Set this card aside.
Put a thin line of glue along the right side of the card from top to bottom.
Carefully position the backing card, with the dotted line facing down, on top of the Christmas tree card. Take your time, making sure the edges of both cards match up.
Your pop-up Christmas Tree card is complete!

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Question

Could I use other materials?

Community Answer

Yes, you can use other materials, but be careful when you’re using normal paper, as it can be ripped easily.

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Question

What can I decorate the front with?

Community Answer

Glitter, paint, sequins, and anything else fun and crafty.

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Question

If he loves drawing, what I should give to him?

Community Answer

An art kit would be a good idea. You could also give him different kinds of pencils.

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Tips

Try to use a strong glue or rubber cement, as it will hold better.

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If you want, you can make the card more colorful to enhance the quality of the card.

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It is better if you use tape.

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Tips from our Readers

The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.

If you'd like to draw special details onto the tree, be sure to sketch them out before cutting and popping out the tree.
Glitter can be an awesome way to add some personality to your card!

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