If you’re looking for a fun, creative way to welcome the New Year, this easy DIY pop-up New Year card for 2026 is such a special handmade option. You can also explore our video tutorial , created by our talented artist Katie , to help you better understand and follow along.
I used my Ohuhu Acrylic Brush Pens to bring this card to life with bold colour, fireworks, and playful details. Let’s get into it!
What You’ll Need
- Ohuhu Nahuku Acrylic Markers
- Ohuhu Akaka Acrylic Markers - Brush & Fine
- Ruler
- Pencil
- Clear string
- Coloured cardstock
- Glue or glue tape
- Star paper punch (or cut stars freehand)
- A blank greeting card
*I used one sized 13.9 × 10.7 cm
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Measure the Pop-Up Tabs
Open your card flat. Using a ruler and pencil, measure and mark small gaps:
- 2 cm apart
- 1 cm long
These will become the pop-up tabs inside your card.
Step 2: Cut the Gaps
Carefully cut along the marked lines to create the pop-up sections.
Step 3: Fold the Tabs
Gently push and fold the cut tabs inward, then crease them neatly so they pop forward when the card opens.
Step 4: Draw Your Text
On a separate piece of paper or cardstock, draw:
- “2026”
- “Happy New Year”
Feel free to sketch lightly first, then go over it once you’re happy.
Step 5: Cut Out Your Elements
Cut out the numbers and text carefully.
Step 6: Mount on Coloured Card
Stick your cut-out elements onto coloured cardstock for extra contrast, then trim around them.
Step 7: Create the Pop-Up Effect
Cut small paper strips and fold them onto themselves.
These folded strips act as spacers to help your numbers pop forward inside the card.
Step 8: Glue Everything Together
Attach the folded strips to the back of your numbers and text. Choose your colours and layout before sticking everything down.
Step 9: Draw Fireworks 🎇
Using your Ohuhu Acrylic Brush Pens, draw colourful fireworks directly onto the inside of the card.
Mix colours, dots, and line work to make it really festive.
Step 10: Create Hanging Stars ⭐
Use a star paper punch (or freehand cut stars) and glue them onto clear string.
Step 11: Attach Stars to the Numbers
Glue the clear string to the back of the numbers so the stars appear to float when the card opens.
Step 12: Final Assembly
Glue all elements into the card, making sure everything pops up nicely when opened.
All Done!
You’ve now created a fun, interactive DIY pop-up New Year card for 2026 — perfect for celebrating a fresh start and sharing something handmade with loved ones.
A huge thank you to Ohuhu for making anything creative possible with their amazing acrylic pens 💙
And Happy New Year to everyone — here’s to a colourful and creative 2026!
