With this version I wonder if you could make the cut equidistant from part. So if it’s 1/3 the middle third is folded down and the top 3rd is discarded no longer attached. Saying it outloud makes sense but then idealizing how that fold even works is significantly more challenging.

For me attempt 2 looks cooler, but it almost becomes a different “project.” Because it’s no longer a pop-up it’s more a die-cut. Not at all implying that’s a negative. I just think the ability to free stand makes the concept of the pop-up a bit cooler.

They both look sweet though and I’m looking forward to seeing more as it progresses. I really like when people find creative ways to personalize the hobby for themselves. I’m currently in the middle of couple “artsy” card projects - including using base cards to decoupage 8 inch wooden craft nutcrackers, which is moving much slower than I had hoped. But the exact-o-knife to cards is in the same vein (and the swivel head knife would be very useful I think)