A generation ago, people wrote notes – as in handwritten notes. Everybody did it. Thank you cards, special occasion cards, love notes, letters to share news, drawings, poetry, or lovely ramblings to connect with each other – the handwritten note was a valued practice.
Senders expressed all types of sentiments with colorful words and beautiful penmanship, typically a stylish cursive or personal blend of print and cursive. In fact, you probably identified a sender simply by the penmanship on the envelope.
The lost art of handwritten notes – taking pride in penmanship and poetry.
Yes, it was common to add handwritten notes to birthday cards, dash off postcards from faraway places, pen heartfelt thank-you notes, and carefully craft your family’s annual Christmas card re-cap. Why? Personal notes showed appreciation – a human touch crossing many miles or just going next door.
Besides giving someone a way to share and connect, handwritten notes can help build history in relationships, reiterate memories and stories, and serve as time capsules, of sorts.
Today, a gift or act of kindness more likely elicits a thumbs-up or smiley face text in return. It may be quicker, but is it as satisfying as finding a handwritten envelope in your USPS mailbox? Not for those who appreciate the personal touch.
Want to make someone’s day? April is national card and letter writing month; May Day and Mother’s Day are just around the corner. So now’s your chance! Pen your own handwritten note and drop it in the mail to someone special.
How do you make your handwritten notes memorable for loved ones? Below are a few of our ideas to turn a little note into a real keepsake.
How to write an unforgettable handwritten note, cherished long after it’s opened:
- Start with a top quality card or pretty paper. Check local gift shops, your favorite artists, Etsy, or try your own hand at creating unique stationery. You can find a few of our favorite cards on the Root and Bloom Etsy shop here.
- Think about what you want to express before writing. That pre-planning always helps, doesn’t it? Use neat and readable penmanship – no erasing, no cross-outs. 🙂
- Convey personal, heartfelt thoughts – create a memory! Consider what your recipient values and make a point to find a connection.
- Creativity is memorable – strive for uniqueness in appearance AND with your words. Opt for descriptive, bold words over the common “nice,” “good” or “great.”
- Small surprises delight readers – add something unexpected! Add some “extra” with the unexpected. Have fun! We’ve enjoyed envelope enhancements like artwork, doodles, or unique stamps so the the mail looks extra fun. Find your favorite ways to add little personal touch!
DIY your own handwritten notes! We love the ease and customization of watercolor.
Want to DIY your own watercolor stationery for handwritten notes, personalized cards and letters? It couldn’t be easier.
- You can find watercolor cards and envelopes at most art and craft stores, and on Amazon.
- Using painters tape, tape off a section of the envelope where you plan to address your envelope.
- Paint away.
- When paint is dry, peel off the painter’s tape and address your envelope.
- Happy creating!
Blank greeting cards for heartfelt messages.
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