SAEDNEWS: Postcards, like greeting cards, gift boxes, surprise boxes, and more, are among the most popular and versatile gifts that you can give to your friends and loved ones on various occasions.
Designing postcards has been a focus ever since sending these small pieces of cardboard became popular. Today, as everything takes on a digital hue, postcards have also followed this trend. While they are now more often designed and used digitally, the traditional cardboard version still appeals to many people.
History of Postcards
In the past, postcards were highly practical and widely used in the postal and information systems of the time. They were recognized as an early form of communication. The history of postcards dates back to the early 1900s, although there are accounts of unofficial use as early as 1848. In the United States, official authorization was issued in 1861, and John Chalton was granted the rights to print postcards, with all related printing rights linked to him in the U.S.
The first government-issued postcard was printed in 1871. Both sides of the card could be used: one for a message and the other for the recipient’s address. Postal offices could even intervene in the text written on either side. With the rise of the printing industry in the 1930s, postcard production saw a significant surge, allowing companies to experiment with diverse colors and designs. This variety enabled postcards to be used for different subjects and purposes.
Although the use of postcards declined sharply during World War II, fancy and colorful postcards quickly gained popularity after the war. From 1990 onward, with the emergence of mobile phones, email, and other forms of communication, postcards were largely forgotten. Today, however, they have found a new role: often sent along with gifts or souvenirs. This revival has increased interest in learning how to make postcards, attracting enthusiasts eager to master the craft.
Types of Postcards
The text written inside a postcard is entirely related to its theme. Common types include:
Romantic postcards
New Year greeting cards
Birthday cards
Invitation cards
Souvenir postcards (e.g., landscape images)
Decorative postcards (abstract art or works by famous painters)
What Is Postcard Design?
Postcards usually feature a photo and text suited to the occasion, serving as a tool for friendship and connection. They are commonly used for special events like New Year, birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, or grand openings. Invitation cards for events such as inaugurations, dinners, and Iftar gatherings also hold a special place, and professional business owners understand their impact on recipients.
Why Is Postcard Design Important?
Many assume that with digital communication, sending a beautifully written message via mobile makes postcards unnecessary. Yet gifting remains an important tradition in Iran, and giving a printed postcard personalized with the recipient’s name complements this custom.
Materials Needed for Making Postcards
Handmade postcards become particularly useful when a special occasion is approaching. These rectangular pieces are usually made of thin or thick cardboard. They are sent to convey congratulations or a short message. Typically, one side features an image, while the other is blank, offering limited space for writing. Traditionally, they were mailed in envelopes to reach their recipient, with the postal system handling delivery. Today, digital postcards can reach recipients in seconds. Designing them has always been an artistic task, allowing for creative designs for any occasion. Below is a guide for creating a postcard at home:
DIY Golden Postcard Tutorial
Golden postcards are particularly appealing because many women and girls are drawn to shiny, gold colors, making this a delightful and inspiring project.
Materials Needed:
Thick, sturdy white paper or cardstock
Spray adhesive
Gold paint
Gold glitter
Fine brush
Black ink
2-inch punch
Scissors
“Happy Birthday” sticker
Wide brush
Steps:
Fold the paper or cardstock in half.
Use a punch to cut a circular piece of paper. Place it in the center of the card and apply spray adhesive around it.
Sprinkle the gold glitter over the adhesive and wait for it to dry and stick.
Remove the circular paper to reveal a blank space and decorate it using stickers. Instead of glitter, gouache and a brush can also be used.
Postcards as Mobile Visual Art
Postcards have long been recognized as mobile visual artworks, circulating images and information about cities and countries across different nations.
