You’ve Got Mail: 17 DIYs for Super Stylish Stationery

Hidden among a pile of bills and catalogs, a hand-written card arriving in the mailbox is quite the treat. And in the days of email, text, ping and emoticon communication, having something like this to hold onto is a rare occurrence. That’s why we’re big fans of the good ol’ fashion snail mail. Want to know how to make that hand-written card even more special? Just DIY it! We’ve rounded up 17 simple DIYs for handmade cards, envelopes and stationery so you can send your salutations in style. With everything from washi and glitter to stamps and pop outs, these cards are sure to make anyone feel *extra* special.

1. Scripted Washi: Take your stationery game to the next level with this scripted washi tape. Just carve out whatever fits your fancy for a unique card that looks store-bought. (via Omiyage Blogs)

2. Lined in Glitter: Add a bit of umph to plain brown cards with a pretty line of gold glitter. A punchy stamped greeting doesn’t hurt anything either. (via Luri and Wilma)

3. Food Stamps: Make some classy cards with an unexpected DIY tool: a head of radicchio. The cut off end makes for one elegant floral stamp. (via Martha Stewart)

4. Birthday Shapes: If it isn’t obvious by now, we love the oh-so-versatile washi tape. Cut fun birthday-themed shapes for the ultimate DIY Bday card for your bestie. (via Omiyage Blogs)

5. Ombre Watercolor: Brighten up simple white paper with a wash of watercolor. Then write a fun message over top in “liquid frisket,” a latex masking fluid that dries clear and is easy to peel away. (via Damask Love)

6. Beautiful Blooms: Make a statement envelope by folding intricate floral paper using a template that’s easy to find at your local craft store. We’re thinking we might just do this with all of our favorite patterned papers. (via A Fabulous Fete)

7. Wave Your Flag: Here’s another awesome way to use washi tape: Cut small strips of tape into flag shapes to use as bunting. Then string ’em across a blank cut of paper for a festive notecard. (via Decorator’s Notebook)

8. Heart Stopper: Want to show a little love to someone special? Follow this clever DIY to form a sweet pop-up heart card. (via Brit + Co)

9. Marbleized: This smart DIY uses contact paper to create a beautifully marbled envelope. Now who wouldn’t be psyched to open that? (via Fall for DIY)

10. Flower Power: Enter the third dimension when you follow this fun tutorial for a pop-up floral bouquet card. The best part? It’ll last much longer than real flowers. (via Martha Stewart)

11. Totally Edgy: Washi tape strikes again. This time the tape dresses up envelopes by adding a little something extra to the edge. And how precious is that doily? (via Omiyage Blogs)

12. Pattern Play: Use common household items to create funky patterns for your stationery, like the twine-turned-stamp above. (via SF Gate)

13. Glittery Greetings: Say it in glitter — these gold embossed cards look totally high-end, but you can easily make them at home. (via Damask Love)

14. Bright Lines: Keep your stationery looking both minimal and memorable by lining the edges of cards and envelopes in bright poster paint markers. It adds just the right amount of pop. (via Martha Stewart)

15. Cool Calligraphy: Put your lettering skills to the test by addressing an envelope in contrasting colors and scripts; this blog has some solid tips for hand-lettering newbies. (via Oh So Beautiful Paper)

16. Gilded in Gold: Gold dots make everything better. A pencil eraser and gold paint are all you need to add a bit of glam to some plain cards or envelopes. (via Classy Clutter)

17. Paper Balloons: Pop-up cards don’t have to be complicated. This easy-to-follow DIY keeps the work minimal but the appearance high-impact with cute, colorful balloons. (via Oh Happy Day)

18. Golden Surprise: Keep the goods hidden until your lucky recipient opens her card. Once she takes a peek she’ll be dazzled by fancy gold glitter and a whole lotta love. (via Funkytime Magazine)

Which stationery DIY are you dying to try? Tell us in the comments below!

When it comes to New Year rituals, the naysayers might scoff, but we know there's something utterly transformational about kickstarting the year with a fresh calendar in hand. Admittedly, it might end up buried in your tote by March, or you'll find it snuggled among the books you've been planning to read. So, why not switch things up this time? Skip the planner that may play hide-and-seek and go for a wall or desk calendar instead. The best part? These stationary stunners are immune to getting lost during transit or making you feel guilty for missing that daily itinerary. We've rounded up a flock of unique options that'll keep your ducks in a row, no matter what life throws at you.

Wall Calendars

Opalhouse 2024 Wall Calendar

Add a touch of boho chic to your decor with this visually stunning wall calendar from Opalhouse. It's not just a calendar; it's a piece of decor for your space.

The Everygirl x Day Designer 2024 Wall Calendar

Collaborating with The Everygirl, Day Designer brings you an elegant wall calendar that marries functionality and style. Stay organized in the most fashionable way possible.

Houseplants Foil Poster 2024 Wall Calendar

Embrace the plant mom life with this foil poster wall calendar. Each month showcases a unique houseplant, making it an excellent choice for green thumbs and wannabe plant parents.

Rifle Paper Co. 2024 Greetings from Around the World Wall Calendar

Transport yourself to far-off places with this Around the World Wall Calendar by Rifle Paper Co. Each month features greetings from a different country, perfect for travel enthusiasts.

Blue Sky Meadows 2024 Wall Calendar (Kelly Ventura For Blue Sky)

Let this navy blue and floral design help you tackle your important projects in style.

Phoebe and June Shops & Markets 2024 Wall Calendar

This adorable wall calendar makes us want to live our best soft girl lives.

Wild House Paper Intentional Calendar 2024

Wild House Paper's Intentional Calendar is all about setting goals and crushing them. Stay motivated and track your progress with this inspirational gem.

Papier The Month Of Calendar

Papier's Month Of Calendar is a wonderful way to celebrate life's little moments. Customize it with your favorite photos and memories to make each day special.

Aesthetic Minimalistic 2024 Wall Calendar

Keep it simple and stylish with an Aesthetic Minimalistic Wall Calendar. It's a great choice for those who appreciate clean lines and a clutter-free look.

Live Oak Print Mountain 2024 Wall Calendar

Want to spend more time in nature next year? Let this 2024 calendar help you map out your vacation days.

SofestoreShop 2024 Groovy Pink Calendar

2024 calendars should be fun and aesthetically pleasing, so add this groovy pink design to your cart today!

Papier Multi Photo Personalized 2024 Wall Calendar

Bring a slice of home to your office with this personalized wall calendar.

Desk Calendars

Day Designer Wild Blooms 2024 Desk Pad Calendar

For those who prefer their planning right in front of them, the Wild Blooms desk pad calendar from Day Designer is an absolute must-have. It's like having a stylish bouquet on your desk every day.

2024 Good Boys Easel Calendar

Prepare for your heart to melt with this adorable dog-themed easel calendar. Every month features different good boys to keep you smiling all year long.

Rifle Paper Co. Blossom Appointment Calendar

Rifle Paper Co. is back with their signature whimsical style in the Blossom Appointment Calendar. Plan your days with a touch of floral elegance.

Hadley Designs Doodle Large 2024-2025 Desk Calendar

This desk calendar is for the girlies who finds themselves doodling during their zoom meetings — we see you.

Pen+pillar For Cambridge 2024 Desk Calendar

We can't get enough of floral 2024 calendars.

Trends International Inc. Harry Potter 2024 Desk Calendar

Immortalize scenes from the Harry Potter franchise on your desk — at least for 12 months.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Jasmine Williams.

Header image via Anthropologie

Alyssa Rivers heads up the widely-popular recipe blog, The Recipe Critic, but you’d never guess it started as a simple hobby. Garnering around 10 million pageviews a month, The Recipe Critic boasts a massive library of delicious, restaurant-tier recipes that are still super approachable and easy.

Alyssa’s passion for no-fuss recipes grew from her role as a wife and mother to four kids. She knows it’s not always easy to get food on the table for multiple mouths, which is why her debut cookbook, The Tried & True Cookbook: 150 Quick and Easy Recipes for Busy Families, highlights attainable meals for families.

“If I see a recipe that has several ingredients or takes a lot of time, I know that that's not going to be achievable for a busy mom of four kids, like myself,” she says. “I really tried to make all of the recipes be family-friendly and relatable with minimal ingredients and just really delicious but will become a regular rotation.”

And the recipes really are delicious. From creative digs like Alyssa’s Sesame-Crusted Miso Honey Salmon Bowls to her one-pot pastas like Creamy Chicken Mushroom Florentine, The Tried & True Cookbook has everything your easy weeknight meals need to succeed.

The Tried & True Cookbook: 150 Quick and Easy Recipes for Busy Families comes out March 26, 2024. We’re highlighting the recipe for Swedish Meatballs in this article, which is a total go-to for Alyssa and her family.

About The Recipe Critic

Photo by Erin Thunell

The Recipe Critic started out as a small blog that Alyssa created after moving cross-country from Utah to North Carolina. Though she was far away, the blog connected her Utahn friends and family members to her most-loved recipes.

“Interestingly enough, growing up, I didn't come from a cooking background,” she says. “It really wasn't until I had to learn for myself and cook for myself and for my family. That's when the love for cooking started for me.”

And after her efforts with The Recipe Critic started showing monetary returns, Alyssa was so excited about its potential – she lets that feeling guide her even today.

“Honestly, if you would have told me when I started it that I would be here today and have one of the world's largest food blogs, there is no way I would have ever believed it,” she says. “I try to go back to how amazing it felt in the very beginning when I realized that I could contribute something for my family.”

The Best Swedish Meatballs Recipe

Photo by Alyssa Rivers

“[Swedish Meatballs] is always a favorite,” Alyssa says. “Every time I make it, I truly believe that it’s one of the best Swedish meatball recipes. The creamy sauce on it is just so good and I could just serve it over noodles for my family.”

For a quick recipe hack, you can substitute making your own meatballs for frozen meatballs, Alyssa says.

“It honestly tastes like it’s from a restaurant, and you can ‘wow’ your family thinking it was a lot more complicated than it is.”

Let’s get into the recipe!

Ingredients:

  • 1lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1⁄4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1⁄4 tsp ground allspice
  • 1⁄4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1⁄4 cup finely chopped white or yellow onion
  • 1⁄2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1⁄2 tsp salt, plus more to taste
  • 1⁄8 tsp freshly ground black pepper, plus more to taste
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 5 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Directions:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, allspice, nutmeg, white or yellow onion, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and egg.
  2. Portion the beef mixture into 12 large meatballs or 20 small meatballs, and roll into shape.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Add the meatballs in batches, and cook, turning continuously, for 5 to 8 minutes or until brown on every side and cooked through. Transfer to a plate, cover with foil, and repeat with the remaining meatballs.
  4. Add the remaining 4 tablespoons butter and the all-purpose flour to the skillet, and whisk for 2 or 3 minutes or until it turns brown. Slowly stir in the beef broth and heavy cream. Add the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes or until the sauce starts to thicken. Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Add the meatballs to the skillet, simmer for 1 or 2 minutes, and serve.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Excerpted from The Tried & True Cookbook reprinted by permission of DK, a division of Penguin Random House LLC. Copyright © 2024 by The Recipe Critic LLC.

Are you in a rut trying to figure out a cute Valentine's Day card for your little one to DIY? Well, we've got 11 perfect solutions for you! We scoured the web for the cutest handmade cards for your kids to hand out (or snail mail) this Valentine's Day. Happy making!

Donut You Know Bags

These bags are adorable! Littles can help fill them in with treats and older kids can DIY with their own personal message! (via LittlebeaneBoutique)

Easy and Funny DIY Card

This Valentine's Day card is a winner. Have your little one pose for a photo and combine it with silly mustaches from your local party store. (via Modern Magpie)

Printable Maze Valentine

We love this printable (and interactive) Valentine's Day card! It holds a pencil between the slots and your little can add one for her fave people. (via MadiLovesKiwi)

A Tasty DIY

This is the perfect Valentine's Day card for your little Minion. So adorable! (via Crafty Morning)

A Stylish Card

This barrette card is sweet and easy to make! (via Spoonful)

A Cute And Useful Card

What a cute idea! Don't worry about buying Valentine's Day-themed socks; just purchase white socks and dye them a pink! (via Saltwater-kids)

A Colorful Valentine's DIY

Do you have tons of old broken crayons laying around in various drawers? Well, turn them into new multi-colored crayons by melting them down into heart-shaped molds. (via Whipper Berry)

A Snack-able Gift

Mix things up and try little fishes instead of hearts! Check out the free printable download. (via Bliss Bloom Blog)

Glowing Valentines

These glow-stick cards get the message across brightly! We're loving the Milton Glaser-inspired design. You can download these beauties. (via Kommunicated)

An Interactive Card

We're sure your little ones know all the words to every One Direction song, but this card will teach your children about one of the greatest boy bands of all time. (via Made Everyday)

A Sparkly DIY

Are you and your little one pro DIY-ers? This is the project for you! We love how they added a bit of glitter to the dough. (via Red Ted Art)


Follow us on Pinterest from more DIY ideas

This article has been updated from a previous post.

I could truly shovel spinach artichoke dip into my mouth via chip like there's no tomorrow. When an appetizer is so cheesy, warm, and comforting, I just can't get enough. Luckily, spinach artichoke dip is super easy to make at home, and our recipe yields a restaurant-tier serving of it!

Made with *two* different kinds of cheeses and all the traditional seasonings, you won't want another side dishever again after making this spinach artichoke dip. The best part is it's made quick with the help of store-bought components like frozen spinach and canned artichoke hearts. Let's get into it!

Ingredients For Our Easy Spinach Artichoke Dip

Photo by Antonio Filigno / PEXELS

  • 1 (10 oz) package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
  • 1 (14 oz) can of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

How To Make Easy Spinach Artichoke Dip

Image via StableDiffusion

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well until combined.
  3. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe baking dish, and spread it out evenly.
  4. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dip is hot and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
  5. Once baked, remove the dip from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor!
  6. Serve warm with tortilla chips, crispy bread slices, or vegetables for dipping!

Notes For This Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe

Image via StableDiffusion

  • Using frozen spinach and canned artichokes makes this recipe easier and quicker. You have the option to use fresh ingredients, if you want to!
  • Add a sprinkling of red pepper flakes if you want the spinach artichoke dip to have a kick of spice.
  • Keep an eye on the dip while it bakes, making sure it doesn't bubble over. If you're struggling to get that golden brown layer on the top, broil the dip for a few minutes at the end of its baking time.
  • You aren't totally limited to Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Though these cheeses make for the most traditional flavor, you can throw in some different kinds of cheeses to amp up the taste.

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Lead image via StableDiffusion.

A lot can happen in six months. Think back to October 2023 — what has transformed in your life involving security? Are you living in a completely new paradigm? Did you have to let go of something? That is the nature of what a lunar eclipse can bring. Only this time, on March 25–at the beginning of the Aries Season–you can expect a more narrowed focus in the relationship realm, leaving room for you to power through past obstacles. This lunar eclipse in 5 degrees Libra is the official harbinger of the required need to inspect what has been overlooked in your love story.

How can you witness the Lunar Eclipse on March 25, 2024? Where can it be seen?

Photo by Nick Owuor (astro.nic.portraits) on Unsplash

The penumbral lunar eclipse on March 25 will be a partial lunar eclipse in which the moon passes through the outermost edge of the Earth's shadow. It can be seen in most of Europe, North and East Asia, North America, South America, the Arctic, and Antarctica, according to TimeandDate.com.

What will happen during this lunar eclipse?

Photo by Claudio Testa on Unsplash

During lunar eclipses–a supercharged full moon–illuminates the parts of our lives that require change in six months. With the lunar eclipse taking place in the relationship-oriented sign Libra, the themes this lunation will heighten are love, fairness, balance, and justice.

Luckily, this lunar eclipse will empower us to invite the necessary shifts in our love story as the lunar eclipse will trine in aspect with Pluto. This promises reinvention and the ability to attract authenticity in our relationships. Venus will be the leader of this lunar eclipse as it is the planetary ruler of Libra. Relationships will change, and if the latter of fairness or balance goes undetected, this is the gray area we will experience in love. Leading to convoluted thoughts of, "What if?"

Since Venus is in Pisces, it will shed light and truth regarding our connections. The key to navigating this next phase in your love story has to be done by alignment with the heart. This will secure your confidence as Venus aligns with the commitment planet Saturn the same day. Single or not, this lunar eclipse will propel you to make a decision that aligns with your integrity, empowering you to align with your truth and how you will progress.

In whatever house in your birth chart the lunar eclipse will cross over, it will help you let go of an aspect or situation and attract better opportunities in relationships. The hard part is letting go – are you up for it?

This lunar eclipse will impact the cardinal signs Aries, Libra, Capricorn, and Cancer. Witness the changes if you have 5 degrees in these cardinal signs. Read for your sun, moon, and rising for additional insight.

Lunar Eclipse 2024 Horoscope For Your Sign

Photo by Altınay Dinç on Unsplash

Aries: The veil lifts with your love story. As you dig deeper into your partnership or revisit past unresolved matters, you will find clarity and understanding of what you can do to improve your outcome.

Taurus: Your focus will be primarily on your daily routines and rituals, highlighting the importance of connecting to your body and vitality. If you plan to begin a health regimen or leave a toxic situation, this is the moment to witness positive changes in your life.

Gemini: This lunation will allow you to close a chapter regarding a storyline you no longer wish to live out, whether in romantic patterns or creative projects. Celebrate your past love experiences and witness the healing–opening a new door of a genuine connection.

Cancer: A shift will occur involving your emotional foundation and family connections. This lunar eclipse will inspire changes in your residence or family dynamics.

Unsplash/Adinc

Leo: Reflect on your ideas, communication, and inner connections. A part of you has to evolve to make room for better opportunities, which may involve your perception of the world. Let go and become open to new information to gain better traction.

Virgo: This lunation will invoke revelations involving your views towards money and financial stability. Closing a chapter or refining your skillset will open doors to increasing abundance. Future collaborations and negotiations are favorable at this time – be open-minded.

Libra: This lunar eclipse will shift the importance of paying attention to your vulnerability while incorporating your needs. Lead by your feelings. The people-pleasing tendencies will fade away these next few months, helping you live a more authentic and magical path.

Scorpio: Get ready to explore and release your past unresolved issues. Doing so will enable you to connect with life while genuinely experiencing spiritual renewal. This lunation will ignite limitless empowerment as you do the inner work.

Unsplash/Vasanth

Sagittarius: Observe your networks and friendships. It's time to release activities that no longer serve your growth and find your tribe by being true to yourself. Taking chances and speaking about your passions will help your dreams take flight.

Capricorn: Marks the end of a chapter involving your role. This can manifest as a shift in your position, helping you realize what gifts you'd like to use. Lead by your passion and the purity of purpose to ensure success.

Aquarius: This lunation concludes a phase in your personal beliefs. It will encourage you to explore the uncharted. This could manifest in many ways, such as travel, different courses of study, or going public with your wisdom.

Pisces: Prepare for your chrysalis period. Your intimate connection with yourself or your partner undergoes reflection. Take the opportunity to review long-term plans and resolve old traumas or dependencies. Take this time for yourself and relish the stillness.

Looking for more astrological guidance? Check out your full month forecast by reading your March horoscope for 2024.