Quick Answer

For a clean shaker card, choose a strong double-sided tape that withstands heat, a foam sheet that creates a deep enough well without bulk, and sequins that fit your card size and theme. Prioritize adhesive strength and foam thickness over sparkle—those are the parts that make or break the card.

Start with the Adhesive: Tape That Holds

The tape you use seals the shaker window and holds the foam in place. It needs to be strong enough to keep the sequins from escaping and thin enough not to add bulk. Look for double-sided tape that is ultra clear and can withstand heat, especially if you plan to use a heat tool nearby.

A tape with a red liner is easy to spot and remove, which helps when you're positioning the foam precisely. If the tape is too thick, it can create uneven gaps where sequins can slip out. Test a small piece first to see how it adheres to your cardstock and foam.

Choose the Right Foam for the Shaker Well

The foam creates the depth of the shaker well. Too thin, and the sequins won't move freely; too thick, and the card becomes bulky and hard to mail. A standard 8.5 x 11 sheet lets you cut custom shapes and sizes, which is ideal for unique card designs.

Consider the weight of your sequins. Heavier sequins need a deeper well, while lighter ones can work with thinner foam. If you're making multiple cards, a single sheet can be cut into several wells, saving you money and storage space.

Sequins: The Star of the Show

Sequins come in various sizes, shapes, and finishes. For shaker cards, you want a mix of sizes and colors to create visual interest. Iridescent sequins reflect light nicely and work well with many color schemes. A 50g pot gives you plenty for multiple projects.

Think about the theme of your card. For a coastal or nautical card, you might choose blues and greens; for a birthday card, bright rainbow colors. Sequins can be used individually with glue for a more subtle look, or poured generously into the shaker well for maximum sparkle.

Decision Rules for Shaker Card Supplies

  • Tape strength: Choose a tape that is ultra clear and heat-resistant to ensure a strong seal and no visible residue. If the tape is not clear, it may show through the window.
  • Foam depth: Select foam thickness based on sequin size and weight. Test with a few sequins to ensure they move freely. Aim for a well that is at least 2-3 mm deep.
  • Sequins size and mix: Use a mix of sequin sizes and colors to create depth and visual interest. Ensure they are not too large for the well. Smaller sequins work better for mini cards.

Key Products for Your Shaker Card

  • Crafter's Companion Red Liner Double Sided Tape (12mm): The Ultra Clear Tape from Crafter's Companion is the perfect tape for all crafting projects, but particularly card and envelope making due to its double sided adhesive that is thin and can run along... Its thin, ultra-clear adhesive is ideal for sealing shaker windows without adding bulk, and it withstands heat, so you can use it near embossing tools without worry.
  • EZMount Static Cling Mounting Foam 8.5 x 11" Sheet: This premium static cling mounting cushion is used to mount your rubber stamp sheets so that they can be used with acrylic blocks. One side has adhesive for permanently mounting your rubber sheet and the other has a static cling coating that bonds temporarily to an acrylic block for use. While designed for stamps, this foam sheet can be repurposed to create a shaker well. Its adhesive side sticks to your card, and the static cling side can hold a temporary cover, making it versatile for crafters who also stamp.

Who Should Use This Guide

Best for

  • Card makers who want to create their first shaker cards and need to choose supplies
  • Crafters who want to avoid common shaker card failures like sequins escaping or tape showing

Not for

  • Crafters who prefer pre-made shaker card kits with everything included
  • Those looking for advanced techniques like multi-layer shaker windows or interactive mechanisms