Easter Shadow Box (Cricut Layered Paper Tutorial)

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This Easter shadow box is a layered paper project that looks way more complicated than it actually is once you understand the process. In this class, you’ll design your own shadow box layout inside Cricut Design Space, create layered egg cutouts using offset and slice, and assemble everything using cardstock and foam adhesive for depth.

This is a great project if you’re ready to move beyond flat paper crafts and start building dimension into your designs.

Step 1: Shop the Supplies

Materials

• Shadow box frame (10 x 10)
• Cardstock (solid, glitter, and/or double-sided)
• Adhesive foam dots or foam tape

You can shop all of the Day 2 supplies in 1 place here.

Tools

• Cricut cutting machine
• Fine-point blade
• 12 x 12 cutting mats
• Brayer
• Glue runner
• Clear craft glue
• Tweezers (optional, helpful for small pieces)

Step 2: Download the Files

This project uses an SVG set provided for the class, including the bunny, flowers, grass, and decorative elements. Download the SVG from the link in the description and upload it into Cricut Design Space before starting your layout.

Step 3: Watch the Video Tutorial

In the video, you’ll see how to: – Design a custom shadow box layout from scratch – Create layered egg cutouts using offsets – Build depth with cardstock and foam adhesive – Assemble a shadow box step by step.

Design Space Skills You’ll Learn in This Project

This class focuses on building layered paper designs and planning projects with depth.

You’ll learn how to:

• Start a project on a blank canvas
• Resize shapes accurately to fit a physical frame
• Upload SVG files and ungroup elements
• Use Offset to create multiple layered cutouts
• Stack and manage multiple design layers
• Use Align and Center to keep layers consistent
• Use Slice to cut designs out of background shapes
• Duplicate layers to reuse designs across multiple levels
• Group and ungroup elements to stay organized
• Change colors to plan cardstock usage
• Prepare multi-layer cardstock projects for cutting

These skills apply to shadow boxes, layered signs, framed art, and dimensional paper projects.

Step 4: Cut and Assemble the Shadow Box

Once your design is complete:

• Resize the base square slightly smaller than your frame (approximately 9.75 x 9.75)
• Set mats to 12 x 12
• Choose Heavy Cardstock (or appropriate setting for your materials)
• Cut all layers, referencing Design Space to keep pieces organized

For assembly:

• Remove the backing from the shadow box frame
• Glue the solid background layer directly to the backing
• Use foam adhesive on the next layers to create depth
• Stack layers in order, checking alignment as you go
• Attach decorative elements using glue or foam dots
• Flip the assembled piece carefully and place it back into the frame
• Secure the frame backing

Your Easter shadow box is now finished.

Project Tips

• Making the base layer slightly smaller prevents fitting issues
• Use foam adhesive sparingly but strategically for support
• Reference your Design Space layout while assembling
• There’s no single right layout — adjust placement to fit your style

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