Saturday, October 4, 2025

CARD DESIGNS AND STYLES

  

Depending on your message and the mood you want to convey, there are a variety of styles and designs you may be more prone to buying when you are picking up that special card.

I have chosen to briefly discuss 9 on them. 

Down below there are examples of  the 9 designs styles.

There is also photos down below .

Starting from the top row form left to right

you'll be able to see the examples.

 

1.Retro Vintage style that was popular during the 1950's⁠.

This design style reminds of my childhood

 

2. Abstract cards perfect for the true art lovers.

These types of cards can often be saved and framed by the recipient

 

.3 The Gothic style card often makes it's appearance around Halloween. However this style can be popular around valentines day because it often uses black sexy lace to make a statement.⁠

Often these cards have a "Moulin Rouge" vibe to them

 

4 The Mdern Contemporary style

is the one I am more prone to creating. ⁠

These cards are noted for being simple usually

one layer cards with not a ton of embellishments

.⁠

5.Art Deco, also called "Style Modern Movement"  in the decorative arts and architecture that originated in the 1920s

 

6 Steam Punk style! Steampunk is a retro futuristic style that is inspired by 19th-century industrial steam-powered machinery.

It's a kind of grunge of the 1890's

 

7.Shabby Chic is a style noted by it's multiple layers of lace, flowers,ribbons and embellishments such as pearls and gems. Very pale pastel colors are used to create this very ornate look.

 

8.Rustic Style is a natural looking style usually made from kraft paper

.The illusion of real wood can sometimes give

that look together with fibers like burlap and twine.

 

 

9 Zentangle style is an abstract drawing created using repetitive patterns. Many of the Adult coloring books are zentangle designs.


Next time you go shopping at a retail store or get a handmade card,

see what type of card design style it is.




Sunday, September 14, 2025

Myths and Misconceptions About Sending Cards

 Over the years, a few myths have crept into the way people think about buying and sending cards. Many of these ideas took root when email first became popular and seemed to promise a faster, easier way to stay in touch.

Of course, email has its place—especially in the business world. It’s efficient, widely used, and often the primary way companies communicate. But when it comes to personal connections, email can feel a bit impersonal. Cards and letters, on the other hand, have a way of reaching the heart and deepening relationships.

One common misconception is that sending a card is a waste of time and money. Admittedly, if you send a card to someone you barely know, it might be read once and tossed aside. In that case, yes—it may feel like a waste. But sending a card to a close friend or family member? That’s never wasted. It’s an investment in the bond you share, a small gesture that carries great meaning.

Just before Mother’s Day, I ran a poll on Instagram and asked moms what they would rather receive: an email or a card from their child. The answer was unanimous—a card. What surprised me most was that even younger moms in their 20s and 30s—many of whom had never written letters or sent cards to their own mothers—still longed for the tangible sentiment of a card.

Another misconception is that an email can be “just as good” as a card. The truth is, you can’t hold on to an email. You can’t tuck it in a drawer, place it on the fridge, or keep it as a lasting keepsake. A card, however, becomes a treasure—something to return to again and again, carrying with it the warmth of the person who sent it.

Feel free to share your thoughts below.


 

Monday, September 1, 2025

5 Traits of Letter Writers & Greeting Card Lovers

 Over the years I have come to realize that those that enjoy writing letters,sending cards & own stationery sets have 5 traits in common. They are:⁠

1. Female....about 98%
2. Over the age of 45...older woman who went to school and learned the value of sending cards as a form of proper etiquette
3. Value relationships with people...they see the value in connecting with other human beings and the importance of keeping and fostering that relationship
4. Enjoy writing and sending cards & letters...taking pleasure in the pure action of siting down and taking time to express love, concern for others in writing.
5. Enjoy keepsakes...... my ideal customer understands
the value of creating a memory by providing a tangible keepsake to be passed on as well as holding on to things of sentimental value
*
Do you have any of these traits?

Saturday, July 19, 2025

What's In Your Mailbox?


 Do you remember the excitement you felt when you got a card in the mail? How about the joy in knowing that the card was handmade? It was always with great anticipation and joy that we waited to see what the mail carrier would bring. Nowadays our mailboxes are filled with bills & junk mail a far cry from what it used to contain. There was a time when I used to literally enjoy going to the mailbox. It was always an adventure to see what came for me that day.

As the years have gone by , the sense of excitement and joy was replaced with a feeling of dread because going to the mailbox is now the chore of cleaning out the crap the mail carrier. has stuffed into it. I find myself NOT going daily to the mailbox because I know there's nothing worthwhile in it!

I recently asked some of the visitors of my Facebook page to share what about what they get in their mailbox.

Here are a few of the replies

Suzy::

I love receiving handmade cards as I know they have been made with love and especially created for me x

Vanessa: :

Receiving a card in the mail is always a treat!!!

Stephanie:

I used to love getting cards in the mail. Sadly mostly everyone I know sends everything through email

Louise :

The fact that keeping in touch with someone wasn't instant, maybe we didnt take it for granted so much

What's in your mailbox?

Image of a beautifully crafted handmade card with the caption:"Every occasion deserves a personal touch! 💌 Handmade cards add warmth and sincerity to your greetings. Let's spread love and creativity, one card at a time. 

Check out my Etsy shop today

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

The Art of Thoughtfulness: Why Sending Cards Is More Meaningful Than Ever


 

Why Sending Cards Is More Meaningful Than Ever A card takes time. It takes intention. It says, "I was thinking of you," in a way that no email or emoji ever could. For those of us who cherish connection, the act of sending a card is more than just correspondence—it’s an expression of love, memory, and presence.

Many of us remember a mother, grandmother, or church friend who never missed a birthday or anniversary, who always kept a drawer full of cards at the ready. That tradition lives on in us. Whether it’s offering a word of encouragement, celebrating a new baby, or comforting someone in grief, cards help us show up when it matters most. They're physical proof that someone paused their busy life just to reach out—and that still means everything.

And when those cards are handmade? That meaning deepens. Each one becomes a mini work of art—unique, personal, and lovingly crafted. They reflect our values: beauty, care, and thoughtfulness. Your choice to send a handmade card tells the recipient, “You’re worth something special.” It honors the relationship, and in doing so, enriches both lives.

So let’s keep this beautiful tradition alive. Let’s fill mailboxes with joy instead of just bills. In the quiet ritual of picking out the perfect card, adding a heartfelt note, and sealing it with care, we reclaim a bit of slowness and soul. Because sometimes, the simplest gestures leave the longest-lasting impressions.

To help keep this tradition alive I encourage you to visit my Etsy shop where you can choose from several designs that will make your card writing special. 

Here's the link:  https://www.etsy.com/shop/mynotecardsbyirma/

Sunday, June 1, 2025

English vs American Greeting Card Sending

The English tradition of sending greeting cards is deeply rooted in their culture and history.

 While Americans also exchange greeting cards on various occasions, the English tend to send more of them.

One possible explanation for this difference is the emphasis placed on personal connections

 and maintaining relationships in English culture. 

Greeting cards provide an opportunity to express sentiments and well-wishes to friends, family, and acquaintances.

 The English value these connections and often use greeting cards as a means of staying connected and showing care and thoughtfulness.

Additionally, the English have a strong tradition of celebrating holidays and special occasions with greeting cards.

 Whether it's Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, or other significant events, sending a card is seen as a meaningful gesture.

 This tradition has been passed down through generations, creating a culture where greeting cards are expected and appreciated.

It's worth noting that cultural differences and individual preferences also play a role in the variation 

between English and American greeting card practices. 

While Americans may rely more on digital communication or other forms of expression,

the English continue to value the tangible nature of a physical card.

In conclusion, the English tradition of sending greeting cards is deeply ingrained in their culture and reflects their emphasis on personal connections and maintaining relationships.

 This cultural difference, combined with a strong tradition of celebrating holidays and special occasions,

 contributes to the higher prevalence of greeting card exchanges in England compared to the United States.

Don't forget to visit my Etsy shop and see all the amazing cards I have created for all your writing needs

www.etsy.com/shop/MynotecardsbyIrma