**Materials Needed:** 

- 8-1/2" x 11" cardstock (for the card base) 

- Patterned paper for layering 

- Coordinating cardstock for the belly band 

- Stamps, dies, ephemera (optional for embellishment) 

- Adhesive (tape runner, liquid glue, or double-sided tape, hot glue gun) 

- Paper trimmer and scoring tool 

- Scissors 

- Embellishments (ribbon, enamel dots, etc.)

**Step 1: Create the Gatefold Card Base** 

1. **Cut the card base:** Start with a piece of 8-1/2" x 11" cardstock. Cut it down to **5-1/2" x 8-1/2"**. 

2. **Score the card:** Using your scoring tool, score at **2-1/8"** from both ends along the 8-1/2" side. This will create two equal flaps that fold inwards. 

3. **Fold the flaps:** Gently fold along the score lines, ensuring the edges align perfectly, forming your gatefold.

**Step 2: Layer the Inside and Outside Panels** 

1. **Cut the inside panel:** Choose a piece of patterned paper for the inside. Cut it to **4" x 5-1/4"** to fit in the center of your card. 

2. **Cut the front panels:** For the two outer panels, cut two pieces of patterned paper to **1-7/8" x 5-1/4"**. These will be added to the front flaps. Cut another set for the inside side flaps.

3. **Adhere the layers:** Attach the patterned paper to the inside and front panels using adhesive.

**Step 3: Make the Belly Band** 

1. **Cut the belly band:** From coordinating cardstock, cut a strip measuring **2-1/2" x 9-3/8"**. 

2. **Score the belly band:** Score the strip at **2-1/2" flip and score again at 2-1/2"**. 

3. **Wrap the belly band:** Fold along the score lines and wrap the strip around the gatefold card. The band should be snug but not tight. Secure the ends where they overlap.

**Step 4: Decorate the Belly Band** 

1. **Add layers or embellishments:** You can layer with a piece of coordinating patterned paper, cut to **2-1/4" x 4-1/16"**, and add die-cuts, stamped images, or ephemera to the front for decoration. 

2. **Finish with embellishments:** Add ribbon, enamel dots, or any other embellishments to enhance the look.

Thank you for watching!