What could be more personal than creating custom stationery for a special friend? By choosing specific paper colors, embellishments, and adding their name you are honoring their personality and creating a one-of-a-kind gift. A stationery set can be as simple as a collection of note cards and envelopes, but by adding other letter writing components like labels and pens, or personalizing the stationery with rubber stamps, you create something truly unique.

To take it over the top include a custom return address embosser plate – an easy and elegant way to add a return address to envelopes. Finally, be creative in your presentation – put all of your stationery items into an adorable suitcase, or organize them inside a linen folio.

Here are some things you might need:
• Flat cards & folded cards
• Envelopes
• 8.5″ x 11″ text paper
• Labels
• Stickers
• Pens
• Return address embosser plate
• Rubber stamps – try alphabet rubber stamps to add a name or monogram

As the holidays approach, consider making a set of personalized stationery for family members, or as a thank you gift for a teacher who has made a difference in your child’s life.

p.s. If you’re looking for inspiration on making your own stationery, sign up for our Personal Stationery – Handmade Gifts Workshop taking place at all stores tomorrow – Thursday, November 12.

–Linda
PS colors: chartreuse & pool
Latest fave: Saddle Stitch Notebooks

One of the things that is so stunning about Paper Source is all of the gorgeous fine papers from around the world. I walk in the store and pause to just say “ahh” at the beautiful ladders full of papers. Like many customers, however, I haven’t always been sure what to do with them (especially the papers I buy and save at home because they are “too special” to just wrap a present with). Some people are technically skilled at bookbinding or collaging and make incredible paper projects. My favorite uses are a bit more everyday– accessible techniques that are also inspiring and fun (relying on the artistry of the paper for a great result, rather than any required artistic perfection on my part!). Read the rest of this entry »