Homemade Thank You Notes, Made With What I Had on Hand

Back to Sunday favorites with two of my favorites, Cindy and Mary Ann! I did a quick post last Sunday, but I must admit it wasn’t the same without my friends! Sunday is a day we all connect on a more personal level than with posts about travel, home decor, or DIY… to name a few topics we cover.

This year, I would love to share more of your ideas on Sunday. If you make a recipe, tackle a DIY, or craft, I would love to see it. Or, if something we talk about sparks an idea, let’s hear it! Perhaps it will become a Sunday post! I will always credit my source (with permission, of course.)

Thank you for being here! I so enjoy the connections I’ve made, both online and in real life! Now, let’s talk about those homemade thank-you notes! I wish I could send one to each of you!

There’s something especially meaningful about a handwritten thank-you note, and even more so when it’s made by hand. This little project came together using supplies I already had on hand.

The supplies I keep on hand to make cards & notes

• Watercolor paper
• Watercolor paints and brushes
• Paper trimmer
• Envelopes
• Thin black markers
• Artist pencils
• Eraser
• Or, this set would be a great place to start. (includes watercolors, brushes, and a small pad of watercolor paper).

I started with watercolor paper, a thin black marker, and a small set of watercolor paints. Because I already had envelopes I liked, I used a paper trimmer to cut the paper down to size first. Working with what you have on hand not only makes the process easier, it keeps the whole project relaxed and enjoyable.

Before painting the actual cards, I spent a bit of time practicing. I sketched the Eiffel Tower a few times on scrap paper, getting comfortable with the shape and proportions. Once I felt ready, I lightly drew the tower directly onto the watercolor paper with a pencil, then went back over it with a thin marker: nothing perfect, just simple lines to guide the painting.

Next came the watercolors. I kept the palette minimal and let the paint do what it does best. A loose approach works beautifully here; the small variations from card to card are part of what makes them feel special.

Trim your cards, layer, and write a note on the back.

After the cards dried, I used a paper trimmer to cut the cards to fit my envelopes exactly. This step makes such a difference — clean edges and a consistent size help the finished notes feel polished, even though they’re handmade.

I had some tiny, sticky foam squares that I cut to mount the smaller card on top of the larger card. (If you do this, you may need to add extra postage if sending in the mail.)

Once the cards were trimmed, a note was written on the back, and the cards were ready to slip into envelopes and be sent off. A small project, but one that feels thoughtful and personal from start to finish.

Homemade thank-you notes don’t need to be elaborate. A few simple supplies, a little practice, and a design you love are really all it takes.

A few more Sunday favorites to share

I have already started cleaning my closet, which is something I do at the start of every year. Most of the clothes I wear can be worn year-round, with a few exceptions. One thing I am always on the lookout for is quality T-shirts. Both long and short sleeves.

Are you familiar with the brand AYR?

AYR has really beautiful T-shirts. They are the perfect weight. I can layer under them or wear them with nothing but a bar. They are a little heavier than your typical Tee, but not like a sweatshirt. You can do a front tuck or leave them loose. I cannot stress enough how versatile they are. Of course, I love the stripes, and they have so many gorgeous colors, but I love a solid Tee too! Like Seashell (the perfect off-white), and Asphalt (black).

The Practice Tee is available in two knits. The heavier Dime Knit™ fabric is great to wear on its own, while the Spa Knit™ is excellent for layering.

KULE

I just got this sweater in camel to wear with jeans and white jeans. It’s a gorgeous sweater, so I’m thinking of ordering this color, which is on sale. I’ll wear it with this tank.

That’s all for me this week–let’s check in with Mary Ann & Cindy

Cindy Hattersley Design

Read Cindy’s Sunday post here.

Classic Casual Home

Read Mary Ann’s Sunday post here.