Cutout Ideas for Parties & Events

A cardboard cutout is the cheapest way to give a party a talking point and a photo moment in one. Here are the ways people actually use them, from themed birthdays to fundraisers, so you can pick a hero prop that fits your event.

Ideas by party type

Themed birthdays: a cutout of the guest of honour's favourite footballer, popstar or film star sets the whole theme in one prop.
Milestone parties: a lifesize cutout by the entrance welcomes guests and doubles as a backdrop for photos.
Office and leaving dos: a cheeky cutout of a colleague (or the boss) always lands a laugh.
Fundraisers and quiz nights: a well-known face draws people to your stall or table and gets shared online.
Sports screenings: stand your team's star player next to the big screen for match day.

Photo moments that get shared

A face-in-hole stand-in turns every guest into the star.

The cutouts people remember are the ones they pose with. Build a simple photo corner:

Use a face-in-hole stand-in so guests become the character.
Add a handful of handheld photo props for speech bubbles, glasses and hats.
Set a backdrop board behind for a full scene, then leave a phone stand or ring light nearby.

Give the corner good light and a clear bit of floor, and it will run itself all night.

Frequently asked questions

Are cardboard cutouts reusable?

Yes. Stored flat somewhere dry, a cutout lasts for years and comes out for birthday after birthday. Fold the strut back in and lay it flat to keep it in shape.

Can I use cutouts outdoors?

For short spells on a dry, still day, yes. Keep them out of rain and wind, weight the base, and bring them in afterwards, as cardboard does not like damp.

Find your hero prop in lifesize cutouts, build a photo corner with face-in-hole stand-ins and photo props, or match a whole scheme in party themes.

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