Design Shaped Invitations

• Choose a birthday card invitation idea that features a shape to match the theme. When organizing a racing-inspired birthday party, for instance, use stencils or clip art to create cards in the shape of a car, tire, racing oval, speedometer, checkered flag or trophy. Use whimsical fonts with flames or heavily italicized letters to evoke the feel of speed. Inside the card, use a black-and-white border that mimics a finish line and include party specifics and the suggestion to bring toy cars to the party.
  
  

Personalize with Photos

• Design party invitations with a personal touch by featuring a photo of the honoree on the front. For example, design meaningful invitations for a 70th birthday bash by using a recent photo or a baby picture of the guest of honor. You can also use photo editing software to design a collage of images that includes childhood shots, silly candid images, vacation photos and family portraits.
  
  

Add a Dimensional Object

• If you don't mind paying additional postage for bulky mailing envelopes, create birthday invitations featuring props that guests can actually use at the party. If you're organizing a princess birthday bash, for example, make a glittering pink or purple card with a small magic wand, paper tiara or packet of fairy dust affixed to the front. Add a note with the party information that invites guests to bring the item to use during games or activities.
  
  

Create an Interactive Card

• Guests will get a kick out of party invitations that they can put together themselves. Create puzzle cards by making postcard-style invitations with a single layer of cardstock. On one side, design a themed image with clip art, rubber stamps, stickers or pens. On the other, add party details, contact information and instructions. Once the cards are complete, cut them into 4 to 10 pieces with curving, jigsaw puzzle-style cuts. Mail the pieces in a small envelope with "party invitation, assembly required" written on the back.
  
  

Make a Themed Collage

• Create handmade invitations that feature a collage of memorabilia that matches the party theme. For instance, cut snippets from old baseball cards, game programs, peanut bags and ticket stubs. Arrange the pieces so they're slightly overlapping and attach them to the front of the card with double-sided tape. Create the cards individually or make a master card and color copy it onto cardstock to generate additional invitations.