Hey, Magical Makers!

Nothing says sunshine and smiles like a summer shaker card full of glitter, good vibes, and creativity. In today’s project, I’ll walk you through how I made this bright and beachy Summer Vibes shaker card — complete with layered elements, painted beach scenes, and of course, shaker magic! I've also provided a video below that will help those who are visual learners. Happy making, magic maker!

🧰 Supplies You'll Need:

• Cardstock (white, colored, or patterned for the card base and layering)
• Printed “Summer Vibes” card front design
• Watercolors and gouache paint (for the beach scene)
• Acetate sheet (for the shaker window)
• Shaker elements (sequins, glitter, confetti, etc.)
• Adhesive foam tape (for shaker depth)
• Loklik cutting machine (for cutting out layered or custom pieces)
• Glue / Double-sided tape
• Scissors or craft knife
• Embellishments (starfish, beach icons, sunglasses cutouts)

🎨 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Create the Background

Start by painting a serene beach background on watercolor paper using watercolors and a touch of gouache. I painted mine with soft sandy tones, layered ocean waves, and a clear blue sky — keeping things loose and playful. Let it dry completely.

2. Prepare Your Card Base

Cut and fold a piece of sturdy cardstock into your preferred size (mine is a standard A2). Attach your dried watercolor scene to the inside panel or the back layer of the shaker area.

3. Cut the Shaker Frame

Using your Loklik cutting machine, cut the “Summer Vibes” text and sun window shape from another piece of cardstock. This will serve as the front frame of your shaker card. You can also cut out decorative pieces like starfish and sunglasses to layer later!

4. Assemble the Shaker Window

• Flip the shaker front over and adhere an acetate sheet behind the sun cutout.
• Apply foam tape around the window, forming a sealed border.
• Add your favorite sequins, mini cutouts, or glitter to the window area.
• Seal the shaker by sticking the painted beach background to the foam tape backing.

5. Decorate and Embellish

Now for the fun part! Add die-cut or printed elements like starfish, shades, palm trees, or surfboards to the front of your card. I used dimensional adhesive for a layered, beachy look.

💡 Bonus Tips:

-Theme it up! Try different color palettes — sunset, neon tropical, or vintage beach.

-Add a sentiment inside the card like “Sending sunshine your way!” or “Have a chill summer!”

-Use the Loklik to cut matching stickers or envelope seals for a coordinated look.

📸 Share Your Creations!

If you try this project, I’d love to see what you make! Tag me on Instagram @Sams.Signature or drop a comment on YouTube — you’re all a part of this magical maker community and your creativity inspires me every day.

💬 Stay Tuned for More

Want more mini cards, DIY packaging ideas, or themed shaker cards? Make sure you’re subscribed to my YouTube channel and follow me on socials so you never miss a sprinkle of creative magic! 🌈💌

Until next time,
Autograph Your Style ✍️
— Sam