Break out the stamps and practice your penmanship for a pastime that never goes out of style. While everyone else is giving thanks gathered 'round a turkey dinner this month, go the extra mile to make sure the people you count on know how much you appreciate everything they do all year long.
1 | Special delivery.
Leesport-based designer Katie Smaglinski combines her own photography with thoughtful text and a flourish of illustration to capture the mood of the moment. Thanks a Bunch card by Penmerry Design, $2.50 each, available at the GoggleWorks STORE or custom order online, 201 Washington St., Reading, 610.916.3899. penmerry.com
2 | Steeped in gratitude.
Give thanks for good friends who are always there with tea and sympathy with a simple handwritten message tucked into a quaint card. Two-color prints slip neatly inside a brown kraft paper envelope. Teacup cards by Typothecary Letterpress, $6 each or $22 for a set of four, MADE Jewelry Boutique and Studio, 512 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.741.6676. madejewelryboutique.com or typothecaryletterpress.com
3 | Tastefully chic.
Fine details, down to intricate floral patterns inside some envelopes, give these personalized cards luxurious flair. Keep some on hand for correspondence or gift a set for a chic present with a personal touch. Personalized cards, $1.50-$3.50 each, Taste Buds on the Avenue, 530 Penn Avenue, West Reading, 610.374.5140. tastebudsontheavenue.com
4 | Be kind.
A favorite among parents and teachers, these kid-friendly designs help inspire handwritten thank yous early — you can even incorporate a unique doodle for children to color. Gentle messages of thanks and encouragement are perfect for teachers who want to give an extra ego boost to a star pupil. Pad of 100 sheets on recycled paper, $8-$10, Kind Living Designs, 610.223.0304 or kindlivingdesigns@gmail.com to order. Online boutique at kindlivingdesigns.etsy.com
5 | Artisanal animals.
Show off your quirky side with a card that's anything but pedestrian. Designs run the gamut from kitschy animals dressed to impress to dainty florals inspired by the area's Pennsylvania Dutch heritage. All cotton paper cards are printed by hand on vintage platen presses. Walrus in a Waistcoat by Paisley Dog Letterpress, $4.50 each, available at GoggleWorks STORE or custom order online, 201 Washington St., Reading, 1.877.223.1437, ext. 706. paisleydogpress.etsy.com or paisleydogpress.com
