I have a challenge for you: the next time you’re tempted to send a quick text to say “thank you” or “just thinking of you,” try something different—send a postcard instead.
A postcard is the analog version of a text message—but with heart. It tells someone, I thought of you—and I took the time to show it. More than a message, it becomes a piece of art, worthy of a spot on the fridge, the desk, or the wall. And while your recipient gets a beautiful surprise, you benefit from a moment of peaceful creativity—a small but powerful act of self-care. In today’s article, I’ll guide you through making your own stash of beautiful, ready-to-send postcards for any occasion.
Start with the ~4-minute video tutorial below if you like to see things in action. Then, keep reading for detailed written instructions and photo inspiration to guide your own creations.
The supply list for a DIY postcard is pretty flexible. You’ll need:
Now, position the template over your artwork or decorative paper. Think about composition—what do you want to highlight? When you’re happy with the placement, trace around the template.
Carefully cut along the lines with scissors, or use a paper cutter for cleaner edges. If any pencil guidelines remain, go ahead and erase them.
If you have a bit more time and want to make things easier later on, try adding address guidelines to the back of the postcard. Flip it over, then draw a vertical line about 2.5″ (~6.3 cm) from the right edge to divide the writing and address areas. After that, add four or five horizontal lines to guide your address-writing.
To send your postcard, place the proper postage in the top right corner. If you’re unsure about the rate, just look up “current postcard postage [your country]” online. Then, add your recipient’s address to the right-hand side, and write your message on the left—whether it’s a quick “thinking of you” or a mini letter.
The steps above will serve you well when you’re short on time and want to make something special. If you find yourself with some moments to spare, consider one of the following options:
The postcard below had a clean, modern look that stood well on its own—but that open space in the middle felt like it needed a little love. I kept the shapes just as they were and started thinking about what kind of words might pair well with them.
After a bit of searching, I came across a lovely quote by Georgia O’Keeffe: “I found I could say things with colors and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way.” I had fun experimenting with different lettering styles to keep the tone light and lively. The result? A cohesive postcard with a playful, uplifting feel.
If you find a pretty piece of paper—whether it’s from a magazine, a vintage book, or even wallpaper—you can turn it into postcard art using a simple decoupage technique. Start by cutting or tearing the paper into a shape or design you like. Then, use a thin layer of a sturdy glue to adhere the piece to a postcard base like watercolor paper or card stock. For extra protection, you can put contact paper (affiliate link) over the design.
If you want to start from scratch, begin with a blank piece of watercolor paper. Then, spend some time with your medium of choice and see where it takes you—whether it’s playful brushstrokes, abstract color washes, or elegant hand-lettering. The postcard below features a calligraphy quote written with actual red wine as ink.
If you’re using waterproof materials, your postcard is probably mail-ready. But if you’ve worked with watercolor or non-waterproof ink (like I usually do), you’ll want to protect your design. A light layer of MicroGlaze is an easy way to seal everything in and ensure your art arrives safely.
Making postcards has become one of my favorite little rituals, one that feels restorative and low-pressure. My advice? Enjoy the process, and don’t worry about perfection—handmade always means heartfelt. Now, I have an assignment for you: make a postcard within the next seven days. Send it to anyone who might appreciate it, whether that’s a loved one or someone you’ve never met! (I know that might sound crazy, but hear me out—I don’t know Mike personally, but when I received the postcard pictured below from him, it made my day.)
You already have everything you need to make something beautiful. You don’t need a reason, a holiday, or a perfect design. The only prerequisites are a spark of inspiration and the courage to share it! So: create, connect, and send a little joy out into the world. As someone who has been on the receiving end, I can tell you that it really does make a difference.
Warmly,
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