Part of living graciously is gratitude, and I like to send thank you cards whenever I can. I used to buy multi-packs of pre-printed cards, but it’s so much more meaningful to make my own at home. After all, nothing says “thank you” and “I did it myself” like a do-it-yourself thank you card!

You don’t need your own letterpress to make beautiful cards at home. I make mine with nothing more than basic printer paper and assorted pens and highlighters. Let me show you how it’s done!

Step 1: Supplies

Most of this can be acquired at your nearest office supply store after you’ve cashed the weekly check from your dad, or just use whatever you have on hand!

Step 2: Design

I like to take a pre-printed card and carefully trace it in pen. It’s a wonderful way to make sure all of the design elements are in balance with one another while giving myself something to do with my hands other than drinking.

Step 3: The Message

I eschew big words in favor of being as simple and sincere as I can. This is a card I wrote for a very dear friend, the kind to whom you can never say thank you enough. I know she’ll feel my emotions when she reads it.

Step 4: Seal and Send

Here’s a fun idea: instead of using the adhesive strip to seal your envelope, try a festive scrap of Scotch tape. A postage stamp (which, pro tip, can be purchased in a handy multi-pack at your nearest post office) completes the look. Now it’s off to the mailbox for your favorite domestic employee while you kick back and bask in the glow of your great work. Gratitude feels so wonderful, doesn’t it?