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  • Welcome to TPK! This is your second of 2 free articles. For unlimited access to tutorials and articles, join TPK Premium for less than the cost of a latte.

    A Farewell to Roses (The Illustrated Roses Template, That Is)

    May 9, 2019

    by

    Lindsey Bugbee

    Merchandise

    Spring has hit, and I’m on a clutter-free kick! This year, though, it’s manifesting digitally, and I am determined to clean up the TPK website with some organization and item retirements. The Illustrated Roses Template marks the most recent TPK retirement!

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    A Farewell to Roses | The Postman's Knock

    My goal this spring is to conduct a digital cleanse of the TPK website. To me, the website feels like a super fun room with all sorts of things to look at! Kind of like Ariel’s cave in The Little Mermaid: so many treasures to behold. I, however, have been a bit more sloppy about categorizing those treasures than Ariel was. So, I’m putting on my metaphorical cleaning gloves and taking action! The digital spring cleaning also means a gentle retirement of some items from the TPK catalog, including the Illustrated Roses Template.

    About The Illustrated Roses Template

    In 2015, I created the Illustrated Roses Template. It’s a printable hand-drawn pattern of roses that can be used for tracing or decoupage. I originally made it with a straight pen, Nikko G nib, and India ink. It’s best incorporated into projects that would benefit from a vintage flair or floral elegance!

    Folded Stand Up Card Tutorial | The Postman's Knock

    Since its release, I’ve used it for several projects! Mostly, though, I love it for mail art. I usually shine the template through a light box and an envelope to add embellishment!

    Blue and Gold Roses Envelope | The Postman's Knock
    Try tracing over the roses with two different colors for contrast!

    Project Ideas for the Illustrated Roses Template

    Gift Tags

    In addition to mail art, you can use the Illustrated Roses Template to make gift tags! Just print them out on cardstock and cut them out in a gift tag shape.

    Easy Vintage Gift Tags Tutorial | The Postman's Knock
    You can find a tutorial over how to make these gift tags + a free gift tag template by clicking here!

    Holiday Cards

    They’re also gorgeous when incorporated into holiday cards! Just shine the template up through a light box …

    Vintage Roses Illustration Printable Being Used with a Light Box | The Postman's Knock

    Then use watercolor or colored pencil to add a pop of color!

    DIY Holiday Card + Artistic Envelope Tutorial (Includes Free Banner Printable) | The Postman's Knock
    You can find the full tutorial for this card here!

    Greeting Cards

    If you’re pressed for time, you can always decoupage the template onto a greeting card! The roses can either serve as the card’s subject or they can play a supporting role, as shown in the card below.

    Folded Stand Up Card Tutorial | The Postman's Knock
    This folded stand up card has several layers! The roses catch your eye, but they don’t steal the show.

    Why Is This Template Being Retired?

    I love the Illustrated Roses Template and I continue to use it for projects to this very day! However, it feels out of place in the TPK catalog because it’s the only item of its kind. I’ve never been able to properly categorize it!

    Decorated Envelope | The Postman's Knock

    I also think that, as far as the catalog goes, it’s best to offer things that have a specific purpose. The Illustrated Roses Template is versatile, which can make it intimidating! Really, it all boils down to cleaning up the website and making the user experience more cohesive and logical.

    When Is Retirement?

    I’ll pull the Illustrated Roses Template ($4.25) from the TPK catalog the morning of Monday, May 13th. After that point, it will no longer be available for purchase.

    Calligraphy and Roses on Crane's Lettra Envelope | The Postman's Knock

    This should be the last retirement for at least a couple of months! Right now, I feel like everything that’s in the TPK catalog has a logical place there. 🙂 Next week, I’ll be back to writing tutorials (Father’s Day is coming up!) and making progress on the TPK supplies shop.

    If you have any questions about this template or recent item retirements, please let me know! I’m always glad to hear from you in the comments or via email (lindsey@thepostmansknock.com). Thanks very, very much for reading TPK, and have a great weekend!

    Warmly,

    Lindsey's Signature | The Postman's Knock

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About the author

Hi, I’m Lindsey Bugbee, the illustrator, calligrapher, and author behind The Postman’s Knock (TPK). Since 2012, the TPK Blog has been a vibrant creative space filled with tutorials and lessons on modern calligraphy, hand lettering, and illustration. After publishing The Calligraphy Book, I wanted to elevate the quality of content even further—so I launched TPK Premium. You can join here to receive access to some of the internet’s best creative inspiration and project tutorials.

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88 responses

  1. Merve Avatar
    Merve
    May 13, 2019

    those are beautifully drawn roses!

    Log in to Reply
    1. Lindsey Bugbee Avatar
      Lindsey Bugbee
      May 16, 2019

      Thank you 🙂 XO

      Log in to Reply
  2. Tammie J. Avatar
    Tammie J.
    May 13, 2019

    Beautiful illustration. Glad I grabbed it before it retired (and a lightbox!) Oh, what fun I shall have. Thanks for sharing your talents!

    Log in to Reply
    1. Lindsey Bugbee Avatar
      Lindsey Bugbee
      May 16, 2019

      Thank you! I’m glad you got it too–it’s one of the most fun templates to use via a lightbox. Enjoy XO

      Log in to Reply
  3. Maria Imran Avatar
    Maria Imran
    May 13, 2019

    These are actually so gorgeous!

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    1. Lindsey Bugbee Avatar
      Lindsey Bugbee
      May 16, 2019

      Thank you so much! I am very partial to illustrating roses when I can 🙂

      Log in to Reply
  4. jackie Avatar
    jackie
    May 13, 2019

    i love those roses! they were nice decoratives for gift tags and cards and mail art! yay!

    Log in to Reply
    1. Lindsey Bugbee Avatar
      Lindsey Bugbee
      May 16, 2019

      I am so glad to hear when they’re being used and what they’re being used for! Thank you 🙂

      Log in to Reply
  5. Karen Avatar
    Karen
    May 13, 2019

    Love your blog and hope to one day figure out how to be ¼ as good as you are!!!

    Log in to Reply
    1. Lindsey Bugbee Avatar
      Lindsey Bugbee
      May 16, 2019

      Thank you! Wanna know my secret?? Practice! Calligraphy, illustration–whatever it is!–is difficult for everyone starting out. Stay positive and don’t be afraid to ask for tips. It’s what I am here for 🙂 XO

      Log in to Reply
  6. Jennifer B Anderson Avatar
    Jennifer B Anderson
    May 13, 2019

    Thanks so much for your blog and website. I really enjoy reading it and have learned so much.

    Is there a lightbox that you would recommend?

    Log in to Reply
    1. Lindsey Bugbee Avatar
      Lindsey Bugbee
      May 16, 2019

      You’re so welcome; I am always elated to hear positive feedback from my readers. I would suggest to look on Amazon and check out reviews. The function is more important than the quality. I write about that in this link, too https://thepostmansknock.com/need-light-box-includes-giveaway/

      Hope this helps!
      XO

      Log in to Reply
  7. Penny Amrine Avatar
    Penny Amrine
    May 13, 2019

    I really like your work, and hope that with practice I will learn to make beautiful gifts.

    Log in to Reply
    1. Lindsey Bugbee Avatar
      Lindsey Bugbee
      May 16, 2019

      Thank you! Practice really is the key so you’re starting off on the right foot with the right mindset! XO

      Log in to Reply
  8. Jess Avatar
    Jess
    May 13, 2019

    This is a lovely template, as is all your work. it’s a pity to see it go, just because you don’t have a nice place for it. Maybe do more like it so that it has friend in you catalogue. 😀

    Log in to Reply
    1. Lindsey Bugbee Avatar
      Lindsey Bugbee
      May 16, 2019

      I’m glad you like it! I am excited to share that we will be offering more exciting templates like this very soon! Keep your eyes peeled!

      Log in to Reply
  9. Dinie Avatar
    Dinie
    May 13, 2019

    I love Your work!!

    Log in to Reply
    1. Lindsey Bugbee Avatar
      Lindsey Bugbee
      May 16, 2019

      Thank you so much <3

      Log in to Reply
  10. Heather Kirsten Avatar
    Heather Kirsten
    May 13, 2019

    I love the rose template… and I’ve been following you for a bit, when I began I learning calligraphy… great work and design.. hope to get back into it after I finish yoga training… thank you!

    Log in to Reply
    1. Lindsey Bugbee Avatar
      Lindsey Bugbee
      May 16, 2019

      That’s the beauty of calligraphy–it’s always around for you! Thanks for the comment 🙂 XO

      Log in to Reply
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TPK’s calligraphy starter kit was just featured TPK’s calligraphy starter kit was just featured in @newyorkermag’s “A Holiday Gift Guide: Treasures That Are Old, or Old at Heart”. 🎁 I agree that it makes for a *fabulous* gift ... and it is the gift that keeps on giving, since your recipient will develop the skills to create all sorts of beautiful and satisfying projects. We’re talking gorgeous envelopes, frameable quotes that make a home feel cozy, place cards, sketchbook pages, family trees ... there are a lot of possibilities (and tutorials for those possibilities can be found on the TPK Blog)!

To get a kit, visit the link in my bio and navigate to the “SHOP” tab. If you buy a kit as a gift, let me know right after placing your order (lindsey@thepostmansknock.com). Be sure to tell me your recipient’s name, and I’ll be glad to include instructions for them over how to enroll in the Beginner’s Modern Calligraphy Online Course, which comes with the $125 kit option. ✍️ Happy holidays! 

#thepostmansknock #tpk #calligraphy #moderncalligraphy #calligraphycommunity #calligraphypractice #calligraphytools #calligraphyset #calligraphykit #giftguide #holidaygiftguide #newyorkermag #smallbusinesslove #shopsmall #makersgonnamake #creativegifts #handmadegifts #artgifts #artsupplies #stationerylove #snailmailrevival #envelopecalligraphy #learncalligraphy #artistsontiktok #creativeprocess #holidayseason #giftideas2024
✨Chic Inky Poppies Mail Art✨ – This inky poppy ✨Chic Inky Poppies Mail Art✨ - This inky poppy motif is one of my all-time favorites for filling blank space with drama and elegance. To make it, you use dark ink smudges, loose leaves, and airy petals to build a border that looks intricate but comes together quickly. My go-tos for this style are sumi ink and a touch of gold watercolor for warmth. 

Want to try it yourself? Visit the TPK website (link in bio) and search for “Chic Inky Poppies Mail Art Tutorial.” Happy creating! 🌸🖋️

#thepostmansknock #tpk #mailart #mailartideas #envelopeart #snailmailrevival #snailmailing #snailmailart #envelopecalligraphy #calligraphycommunity #calligraphypractice #pointedpencalligraphy #moderncalligraphy #sumiink #goldwatercolor #penandink #creativeprocess #creativemail #illustrationart #papercraft #stationerylove #artistsoninstagram #artreels #calligraphyreels #mailartreels
✍️ There’s a fresh addition to the TPK Catal ✍️ There’s a fresh addition to the TPK Catalog: The Graceful Ballerina Calligraphy Drill Worksheet 

This ballerina is unique among TPK calligraphy drills in that it’s really not that complicated. After a few simple loops, a flourished tutu, and long strokes to make the legs, you have, well, a ballerina! 🩰 The most difficult part is getting the outline right; but even that isn’t too bad because you’ve got a traceable outline included in your worksheet set.

The beauty of the flourished ballerina? She makes *anything* look elegant: cards, envelopes, gift tags, whatever. My recommendation is to feature her on your next envelope. She’ll add a “wow” factor and allow you to left-justify the address, which is always a relief (no need to bother with centering)!

To find her, visit the link in my bio, then navigate to the Blog!

#thepostmansknock #tpk #calligraphy #calligraphydrills #calligraphyworksheet #moderncalligraphy #pointedpen #pointedpencalligraphy #calligraphypractice #flourishing #flourishedart #mailart #snailmail #envelopeart #envelopecalligraphy #handlettering #creativeprocess #artistsoninstagram #balletart #ballerinadrawing #ballerinaart #inkdrawing #calligraphycommunity #stationerylove #letterwritersalliance #penandink #calligraphyinspiration #learncalligraphy #artistlife #creativeplay
✨I’ve been making these little calligraphy Chr ✨I’ve been making these little calligraphy Christmas trees for years. They’re a go-to whenever I need a quick gift tag, envelope flourish, or something festive that doesn’t require a whole afternoon.

They look fancy, but they’re really just simple strokes stacked in different patterns. Truly: once you get the rhythm down, you can make a tree in under 30 seconds. 🎄 

If you want to try them (there are six styles!), the tutorial is on the TPK Blog, and it’s called
“6 Simple Ways to Make a Calligraphy Christmas Tree.” Feel free to google it, or visit: thepostmansknock.com/6-simple-ways-to-make-a-calligraphy-christmas-tree/

It’s very beginner-friendly, video-based, and a great way to get some creativity in during a busy season. I hope you love it as much as I do. 💛

#calligraphy #moderncalligraphy #holidaycalligraphy #calligraphyart #creativelifehappylife #christmascrafts #holidaycrafts #giftwrappingideas #diychristmas #christmascards #calligraphytutorial #finetec #metallicwatercolor #papercrafts #creativepractice #thepostmansknock #holidayinspiration #blackandgold #christmasideas #holidayideas
🎁 These printable gift tags are one of my favor 🎁 These printable gift tags are one of my favorite free printables on the TPK site. Just download, print, cut them out, and — if you want to — reinforce them with a bit of cardstock.

Inside the PDF you’ll find four designs: Festive Frida, Flourished Tree, Pine Boughs, and Merry & Bright. They’re all hand-drawn, and they make even the simplest wrapping look bespoke and artistic. 🎨 

Pro tip: If you’ve got a bit of extra time, add a pop of watercolor or some gold dots; and consider mounting the tag on a contrasting piece of cardstock for extra oomph.

They’re free to download at: thepostmansknock.com/free-super-cool-hand-drawn-printable-gift-tags/ (or visit the link in my stories today). Happy holidays!

#handdrawn #gifttags #printablegifttags #freeprintables #holidayprintables #christmascrafts #holidaygifts #papercrafts #snailmailinspo #mailart #creativegiftwrapping #diyholiday #diygifttags #artistsoninstagram #illustrationartists #thepostmansknock #tpkcommunity #calligraphycommunity #stationerylove #creativecommunity
There’s something extra fun about a card that do There’s something extra fun about a card that doesn’t just open … it comes to life. ✨ This little stand-up tree might look fancy, but it’s totally approachable — relaxing to make, satisfying to embellish, and (my favorite part) it folds up perfectly to pop in the mail. 💌🎄

If you’re looking for a holiday project that feels creative and doable, this is *such* a good one. The printable template does half the work for you, and you can customize the rest with flourishes, white ink, ornaments, or whatever feels festive to you.

The full step-by-step tutorial is waiting for you on the TPK website; just head to the link in my bio and tap “Blog.” I think you’ll have as much fun making this as I did. ❤️

#calligraphy #calligraphytutorial #holidaycalligraphy #flourishedcalligraphy #moderncalligraphy #calligraphycommunity #calligraphypractice #calligraphyart #letteringcommunity #letteringart #papercraft #papercrafting #diycards #handmadecards #holidaycards #christmascards #christmascrafts #snailmail #snailmailrevolution #snailmaillove #creativecommunity #stationerylove #makersgonnamake #thepostmansknock
I love it when I can make simple pointed pen pract I love it when I can make simple pointed pen practice on cardstock ... and it magically turns into a festive card! Find instructions + a printable template for making this “Loop-de-Loop” tree in the TPK 2025 Holiday Calligraphy Worksheet set. 🎄 (Link in bio, then navigate to the Blog!)

#pointedpen #calligraphy #calligraphypractice #pointedpenpractice #holiday #christmastree #treedrawing #doodles #goldwatercolor
Every November since 2016, I’ve looked forward t Every November since 2016, I’ve looked forward to sitting down with a cup of something warm ☕️ and sketching out ideas for the TPK holiday worksheet. This year was no exception, and I think you’ll be pleased with the motifs! They’re designed to bring calm, beauty, and (sneaky) pointed pen practice to your holiday season. 🎄Visit the TPK Blog (link in bio, then navigate to Blog) for details!
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