The Christmas season may be over, but there’s another holiday I always look forward to: Valentine’s Day! Every year, I like to prepare small gifts, and sometimes homemade chocolates, to celebrate the day of love with my family, friends, or special someone.

When it comes to Valentine’s Day, there are so many fun ways to get creative—from decorations to DIY treat holders to handmade gift cards. I’ve tried almost all of them, but this year I wanted to level up my gifting game with something both surprising and thoughtful.

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That’s when I thought of scratch cards! Scratch cards are exciting on their own because you never know what’s behind each one, and the anticipation is part of the fun. But imagine adding a sweet surprise behind each scratchable spot—something your recipient will genuinely love. That’s exactly what this DIY scratch card is all about. You can include prizes like a free massage, a dinner date, a car wash, or really anything you’d like to give, all wrapped up in a playful, interactive format.

The best part? This project is super fun, creative, and affordable. You only need a few simple items—dish soap and tape—which you probably already have at home. It’s amazing how such simple materials can create something so delightful and memorable.

Why You’ll Love This
How to Make a Scratch Card
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DIY Scratch Card Gift for Valentine’s Day

Why You’ll Love This

Interactive & Fun: Scratch-off surprises make gift-giving playful and exciting

Customizable: Include any prizes or messages to suit your loved ones’ tastes

Affordable: Made with simple materials like dish soap and tape

Thoughtful & Personal: Handmade cards show effort and care, making your gift extra meaningful

Quick & Easy: Perfect for last-minute Valentine’s Day crafting without stress

Check out the full step-by-step instructions and the video tutorial below to make your own DIY Valentine’s Day scratch cards. This is a gift that combines thoughtfulness, fun, and a little surprise—perfect for making your loved ones smile!

How to Make a Scratch Card

Step 1: Make the Scratch Card Base

Cut a 4×6-inch piece of light pink paper, trimming the edges with pinking shears for a decorative finish. Apply glue to the back of the paper, then carefully place it onto a slightly darker pink paper, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edges.
Step 2: Create Heart Shapes and Add Your Message

Draw three heart shapes on the light-colored paper. Write your chosen message or prize inside each heart.
Step 3: Cover Your Message with Scotch Tape

Cut a piece of scotch tape just large enough to cover your message. Attach the tape over the message only—there’s no need to cover the entire heart.
Step 4: Make Your Scratch Off Mixture

Pour some dish soap into a small container, then add red paint—make sure there is more paint than dish soap. Mix well until fully combined.
Step 5: Paint and Add the “Scratch to Win” Label

Paint the hearts with your prepared mixture. Then, on a separate piece of pink paper, write “Scratch to Win,” apply glue to the back, and attach it above of your hearts.
Step 6: Scratch and Reveal

Your card is ready! Tape a coin anywhere around the card, then use this to scratch off the tape to reveal the hidden message, and enjoy the surprise!