This 3-D Halloween card uses a classic technique of Paper Tole: layering copies of an image to achieve a three-dimensional effect!

(click here for a larger 3-D Halloween Card image)

Paper Tole is the art of handcrafting three-dimensional pictures using layered elements from multiple, identical flat prints. The most intricate application of this technique involves layering and shaping the paper pieces to achieve depth and shadow. Our 3-D Halloween card simplifies the process to two layers - but the result is still striking!

Some vintage images lend themselves perfectly to paper tole. Look for a bold foreground graphic, a couple of important middle-ground images, and a relatively plain background.

We love this painting by Ellen H. Clapsaddle, with the two mischievous children peering over the huge, carved Jack O'Lantern. You can make this card quickly, with just a few materials.

Materials

• Vintage images (FREE PDF download) printed on matte photo paper or white card stock.
• Foam photo mounts (adhesive foam squares).
• Bone folder.
• Small scissors or craft knife.  A paper cutter is useful for straight cuts.

Instructions for 3-D Halloween Card

1. On the first page of the printed vintage images, score along the left edge of the image with the bone folder.  Fold the paper on the score line. Using a paper cutter or scissors, trim away the unfolded edges of the image.  You will now have an 8" X 6" piece of paper folded to a 4" x 6" card, with the image on the front.
2. Cut out two elements from the two remaining images: one Jack O'Lantern with the boy and girl, and one Jack O'Lantern alone.
   
   
3. Cut the foam adhesive squares into ten small pieces and apply five to the back of the boy and girl image. Attach this to the card face, lining up the cut-out image with the background image.
   
   
4. Repeat Step 3 with the Jack O'Lantern image, attaching it with adhesive squares to the boy and girl image.
5. Write your personal Halloween message inside or print one from the FREE vintage images for our Padded Pumpkin Card!
   

Tips

• Use a 4.25" X 6.25" envelope or make your own custom envelope with your favorite decorative paper. Decorate it with a custom "seal" made from the "Halloween Greeting" scrap left over from your cutting!