Rod, Reel & Reveal: A Fishing Tackle Box Card to Treasure

Made by Linda Barnes

Father’s Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate the love and dedication of dads everywhere. This year, I wanted to craft something truly special—something that embodies relaxation, nostalgia, and the joy of a peaceful day by the water. Enter my Gone Fishing Pop-Up Card, designed using Stampin’ Up!’s Gone Fishing bundle from the Annual Catalogue (May 2023–April 2024).

A Card That Opens into a Fishing Tackle Box

This isn’t just any card—it’s a complex pop-up creation that transforms into a fishing tackle box, complete with water and fishing elements. The fancy fold mechanism ensures a delightful surprise, making it more than just a beautiful card—it’s an interactive experience.

The tranquil blue background paired with a flowing cursive greeting sets the scene for a serene day at the lake. It’s the perfect sentiment for Father’s Day—a reflection of gratitude, skill, and love.

Materials Used

I carefully selected colors and materials to enhance the theme:

Stamps & Dies

• Stampin’ Up! Gone Fishing Stamp Set & Dies Bundle (Annual Catalogue May 2023–April 2024)

Cardstock & Paper

• Azure Afternoon A4 Cardstock – From the Brights Collection
• Balmy Blue A4 Cardstock – From the Subtles Collection
• Basic White A4 Thick Cardstock
• Basic Black A4 Cardstock – From the Basics Collection
• Crushed Curry A4 Cardstock – From the Regals Collection

Designer Series Paper (DSP)

• Dandy Designs 12″ x 12″ DSP – Retired (Sale-A-Bration 2023)

Ink Selection

• Blueberry Bushel – Regals Collection
• Lemon Lime Twist – Brights Collection
• Cherry Cobbler – Regals Collection
• Crushed Curry – Regals Collection
• Balmy Blue – Subtles Collection
• Cajun Craze – Regals Collection
• Daffodil Delight – Brights Collection
• Azure Afternoon – Brights Collection
• Versamark – For embossing

Additional Elements & Adhesives

• Pearls (Non Stampin’ Up!) – Colored by me using a Copper Clay Write Marker
• Mini Stampin’ Dimensionals
• Multipurpose Liquid Glue
• Fine-Tip Glue Pen
• Foam Adhesive Strips
• Metallics Embossing Powders – Silver

The Creative Process

I wanted this card to mimic the feeling of opening a real fishing tackle box. To achieve this, I designed a multi-layered pop-up mechanism, ensuring each section revealed the tools of the trade—hooks, lures, and shimmering water reflections.

The embossed silver details add a touch of realism, giving metallic elements like fishing weights and tools a life-like shine. Using sponge daubers, I blended shades of Balmy Blue and Azure Afternoon to create a soft water effect, reminiscent of gentle ripples in a pond.

Tools That Made It Possible

Crafting a card with intricate folds and layers requires precision. These tools helped bring my vision to life:

• Stampin’ Up! Clear Blocks
• Stampin’ Up! Bone Folder – Perfect for crisp folds
• Stampin’ Up! Cut & Emboss Machine
• Mini Stampin’ Cut & Emboss Machine
• Paper Snips Scissors – For detailed trimming
• Take Your Pick Tool – A game-changer for handling small embellishments
• Paper Trimmer – Essential for getting precise edges

Why This Card is Special

For me, crafting is more than just assembling materials—it’s about telling a story. This Gone Fishing pop-up card isn’t just a greeting—it’s a heartfelt experience that celebrates fathers who enjoy the tranquility of the great outdoors.

Whether it’s the gentle blues evoking peaceful waters or the intricate tackle box design, each element was chosen with care. It’s a card that says, Thank you, Dad, for the moments of patience, adventure, and wisdom shared over quiet days at the lake.

Have you ever created a fancy fold pop-up card before? I’d love to hear about your experiences and any tips you have for adding interactive elements! Let’s keep crafting and sharing creativity together.

Custom Creations, Made Just for You

I have the Gone Fishing Stamp Set & Bundle and can create a custom-made card in your preferred colors for any special occasion. Whether it’s for Father’s Day, birthdays, or just a heartfelt surprise, I can tailor the design to match the theme and sentiment you envision. Let’s bring your idea to life with a handcrafted touch!