40 DIY Mother's Day Cards That Show Mom You Care
They are heartfelt and easy to recreate.
Storebought cards can be clever and convenient but nothing beats a handmade card made with love. That’s why we put together a collection of easy Mother’s Day card ideas to surprise mom on her special day. These DIY emblems can act as a precursor for a Sunday of fun or a heartfelt present to bookend the day. Whatever you decide, Mom is sure to appreciate the thought and effort you put into her one-of-a-kind card.
Choose from a range of creative card ideas that include everything from watercolors to 3-D designs, and don’t be afraid to customize it to your (or Mom’s) preferences. Making a pop-up butterfly card? Add her favorite color to the wings!
If you can’t think of what to write inside her Mother’s Day card, we’ve got you covered on that front too. Otherwise, go with something sincere that’ll make her feel special. For more May 11 ideas, check out more of our favorite Mother’s Day ideas filled with crafts, quotes and activities for Mom.
Teapot Card
If mom is your cup of tea, make her this teapot-shaped pull card that reveals a message or a bouquet of flowers upon lifting the lid. Pair this creative card with a tea gift for a well-coordinated present.
Butterfly Card
This pop-up butterfly card is like a gift all on its own that mom can display as a fun piece of seasonal spring decor. Stick to the colors of a standard Monarch butterfly or tie in mom's favorite colors.
Painted Handprints Card
Instead of signing your name, leave a handprint. These crafty card ideas are great for young kids, as they can participate in mom's gift while also creating a sentimental keepsake.
'Gilmore Girls' Card
If you'd compare your relationship with your mom to that of Rory and Lorelai Gilmore from the TV show Gilmore Girls, this is the card for you. Reproduce this printable, and add a Gilmore Girls quotes inside for an added touch.
Watercolor Card
Use this card as inspiration to paint your own watercolor creation, or print it as shown with the watercolor pattern already incorporated for a mess-free Mother's Day card.
Favorite Things About Mom Card
If you want to give mom a heartfelt Mother's Day card but aren't sure where to begin, this flower card has a great format to follow. With six petals that ask you to think of your favorite memories with her, it's a great, approachable way for kids to get personal.
Handprint and Poem Card
A double-hitter, this card comes with space to leave a handprint for mom and a poem that explains your hand's significance. We can't make any guarantees, but we wouldn't be surprised if mom wells up when she receives this sweet card.
Funny Mother's Day Card
Make mom laugh with this silly, printable card that features a unicorn and a funny joke on the front: "You're as magical as a unicorn farting rainbows." The card sets the tone for a day of celebration and light-hearted fun.
Get the tutorial at Tried and True Creative »
RELATED: Funny Jokes to Make Kids, Friends & Co-Workers Laugh
Fastener Mother's Day Card
Wow mom with this easy-to-make card that rotates to uncover your handwritten message. All you need are two pieces of paper, a fastener to secure them together and a little imagination about what to write inside, of course!
Cutout Cards
The perfect card that's sweet and funny — two of your favorite things about the cherished lady in your life.
DIY Giant Card
There isn't a card big enough to fit all the sentiments and feelings you have for Mom, but this giant DIY envelope gives you plenty of room to write a heartfelt message she'll really appreciate.
Get the tutorial at The Merrythought »
RELATED: Here's What to Write in a Mother's Day Card to Best Describe Your Love for Mom
Pop Up Flower Card
Your card might not be the only one she's receiving this Mother's Day, but a colorful 3D pop-up will stand out when lined up on the mantle.
Unicorn Handprint Card
Even the littlest of kids can create this one-of-a-kind card for a one-of-a-kind mom. They can trace their hand to create a unicorn for the star of this truly magical card.
Handprint Caterpillar Card
For the mom with multiple kids, this DIY project calls for something from each one. The final product? A sweet card that will give her the best kind of butterflies in her stomach.
Favorite Child Card
If you know you're the favorite child, there's nothing wrong with simply pointing it out to her in this hilarious card.
Coloring Card
This coloring stencil lets kids get creative and create a unique design that's completely their own. Just give them some crayons and markers and let their imagination run wild. Mom will love hanging the custom artwork on the fridge for all to see.
Blue Patterned Card
When in doubt, a simple "Happy Mother's Day" message always does the job, especially when printed on colorful, patterned paper.
String Heart Yarn Card
You don't need to be an expert crafter to make this card. You just need cardstock, colorful yarn, a large threading needle and a heart template. Once threaded, fill the inside with a note that's equally as sweet.
"Treat Yourself" Mother's Day Card
If you're hosting a spa day for your mom on Mother's Day, then give her one of these on-theme cards in honor of the self-care day.
Paper Flowers Card
On the back of each envelope, she'll find a special message from yours truly. Upon opening, she'll discover the real magic tucked inside: an assortment of colorful paper flowers.
Kate Franke (she/her) is an editorial assistant in the Hearst Lifestyle Group, covering for Woman's Day and Good Housekeeping. She loves all things lifestyle, home, and market related. Kate has a BAJMC in Magazine Media and BA in Writing from Drake University. She is a proud ASME alum whose work has appeared in Food Network Magazine, The Pioneer Woman Magazine, Better Homes & Gardens, Modern Farmhouse Style, Beautiful Kitchens & Baths, and more. Next to writing, Kate’s two favorite things are chai lattes and pumpkin bread!
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