How to start a greeting card business from home in 2024

[@madsjYT]

I know you said to not focus on paper so much but I do have a quick question. What type of paper would you recommend - coated or uncoated? We use an inkjet printer and have been struggling to a paper that ticks the boxes we are looking for - dark blacks, vibrant colours, and a finish that we can score easily on by hand. So far we have tried a plain paper, satin finish, and luster finish.

[@EasySundayClub]

perfect timing for this question because my video coming out tomorrow (9/23) will address this exact topic 😉!

[@madsjYT]

@@EasySundayClub Excellent!!!

[@DebbieOrlando-z5h]

I worked for a major greeting card company for years and the number one counter-card “holiday” is Mother’s Day

[@EasySundayClub]

great insight, thank you!

[@hemeraldhappy7166]

Thank you for your tip, do you know the name of the transparent bags where they put the greeting cards that is not plastic, the same they use to pack the bouquet of flowers. Thanks again.

[@DebbieOrlando-z5h]

@@hemeraldhappy7166 Did you mean a glassine bag? Those were used back in the day for film negatives. I’m sure you can do a search and see what those are.

[@nieladrew]

@@hemeraldhappy7166Is it cellophane?

[@deepbananna]

@@hemeraldhappy7166 in the UK we call them cello bags, not sure if they’re called something else in other parts of the world

[@learningkeys21]

I was just talking with a friend today who picked up 2 cards at 9.95 each. I told him I could make cards and he said make me some and help me save money! lol. Just had your video show up on my feed. There are no accidents…. THANK YOU for such great thorough information!

[@EasySundayClub]

What a coincidence ;). But oh wow 9.95 a card, in what currency?

[@learningkeys21]

@@EasySundayClub USD, sold at Whole Foods with plastic wrap and envelope…

[@morgannwilliams967]

If it’s your original artwork and even your original writings, that price is plenty worth it. Don’t cheapen your worth.

[@lamontmccaskel6078]

It’s gonna cost 109.95 to make one card 😂…but, it’s so worth it.

[@belindamoore3643]

@@lamontmccaskel6078so true! 😂😂

[@wendys.2012]

This is so useful. I am about 5 months into my process and I could not agree more with so many points you made. My main takeaway is that even if you are not completely happy with part of your process, there will be opportunities to change it down the road. I have been blown away by people I just met offering to help when I tell them what I am working on. When I mentioned to someone that I wasn't yet ready to sell at a farmers' market, she offered to let me sell at her booth. One customer service rep at a paper company asked for my shop info. So speak up because you never know where it will lead. Thank you so much for your video series.

[@EasySundayClub]

yes I was pleasantly surprised and grateful for all the help I got from people I didn’t even know that well. Sounds like you’re off to an excellent start on your creative business journey!

[@marywarren1209]

I've made cards for many years and while many of my friends kept encouraging me to sell them, the idea of figuring out how to begin took more energy than I had. This video was clear and simple to follow. Thank you so much. Who knows what tomorrow will bring!

[@EasySundayClub]

thank you! glad to help simplify the process for you.

[@richardmale3191]

Dear Ms Zhang, thank you. That was an outstanding KZbin clip. I'm a retired graphic designer in my late seventies and, having taken several years off doing nothing at all, I'm thinking about doing something creative which doesn't involve tight deadlines and fussy clients! Perhaps at this stage in my life just thinking about it will be as far as I get but if there's anything that will motivate me to take things further it's this clip. Well done!

[@truthhearit1471]

Love the microphone stand😂.. you should keep switching them out each video to see if people notice. A new toliet brush or plunger, fly swattee, ladle would all be fun.

[@EasySundayClub]

This person gets it! ☝️

[@truthhearit1471]

@@EasySundayClub who says you can't have a little fun while working.

[@meg-some]

Thanks for covering the environmental part. I'm glad card makers consider that.

[@jillianclemmons]

So helpful! You're one of my absolute favorite channels to follow on KZbin and I love that you're using a paintbrush as a mic stand:)

[@EasySundayClub]

Hahaha finally someone noticed 😆. And thank you for your kind words and support!

[@KateColors]

I noticed that, too! She practices what she preaches! ❤

[@merakitra]

I noticed too! and you kept changing the background too!

[@AnnCorsaro]

Thank you for your honesty and call for balance👍🏻❤️

[@Jinjinajin]

thank you for preempting my procrastination 😅 appreciate the insight!

[@EasySundayClub]

I know procrastination too well :).

[@EasySundayClub]

If this video seems long it's because I also covered product strategy, marketing, not just the process of making a physical card, since that's the easiest to figure out. Feel free to jump around the timestamps to get to what you want to watch. I also reference a lot of our other videos that dedicate to topics like scanner, printer, photography, digitizing artwork, etc. Check out the video description for links. Leave your questions below. Chances are someone else is thinking it too!

[@papierandcakes2159]

Dear Shana, how lovely is it to see all your innovative creations here in the one video. It has been so much fun playing along over the past years. Have a beautiful day, Barbara 🇦🇺🦘

[@DarleneMitchener]

I so appreciate your advice. It's so kind of you to share your experience with us. It's as though you were reading my mind on some of the questions I have. I wish you continued success! Thank you.

[@maryzamora5989]

Thank you so much for your advice on greeting cards business. It has helped me, but I will revisit it again. I love making greeting cards. ❤

[@cindybaird9589]

Thanks for updating this! I got alot of great info from your prior videos esp on picking out my scanner, printer, and paper cutter (I love that cutter it is worth every penny.). I'm happy with my shop 6 months in, and divide my time (non work time that is) between painting for commissions and art shows and creating things for future print sales. It all changes constantly and that is a good thing!

[@EasySundayClub]

The paper cutter is really great. Yes it can be so fun and creatively fulfilling to wear different hats everyday to build those multiple streams of income. Which is your favorite?

[@kazker5843]

Thank you for good infomation and sharing your experiences. FYI, for those who do not have a scanner, some libraries have them. San Bernardino County Libraries have 2--the one where you lay down the paper and pull cover down is the better quality.

[@rooksmuck]

This was so informative and helpful. Thanks for explaining the A2 sizing - I was really confused about this after watching another card vid. Subbed ❤

[@EasySundayClub]

you’re welcome! this question came up a lot in my last greeting card video so wanted to make sure I addressed it this time.

[@TrishaKabot]

Excellent video! Thank you so much for sharing!

[@machouston6448]

Hello Cathy, I am one of your thousands of KZbin subscribers, and after watching many of your incredible online videos I truly believe that you are an incredible artist and you have so, so much to be proud of. I was wondering if you would consider making a video tutorial on how to setup an online payment system once your Customers or Clients have decided to purchase your Product, whether you are using your own website or on someone else's website preferably your own website. I believe that this kind of video would also be extremely helpful and beneficial, especially for people like me who are very unsure on how or indeed where to even start looking. Your help and advice would truly be very much appreciated if you would even consider my idea, if not it that is ok, but if you could it would be very much appreciated. Thank you in advance

[@EasySundayClub]

Hi Mac, thanks for the positive feedback! As for online payment, if you use a website platform like Shopify or Squarespace, they have the shopping cart, checkout, and payments as preset features so you don’t have to build it yourself! Same with Etsy, Amazon etc.

[@sheresegentles5747]

Thank you for this video.. I really needed this boost. I recently start making greeting cards and these insights are quite helpful.

[@anarissickles9059]

Thank you! Im just starting and you are so inspiring ❤

[@KateColors]

This is really great advice! Making cards has been top of mind lately as I want to transition from working part-time at a local crafts store to working for myself. I'm taking a week off to unearth my home studio and go into business for myself. What timing! Thank you for sharing your experience. ❤

[@melstampz]

So helpful. Thank you very much from a new subscriber. Your videos helped me find a CCD scanner. I was so relieved to find out why my CIS scanner looked awful! :D

[@EasySundayClub]

happy to hear that. Having a good and reliable scanner really makes a big difference in the final product!

[@joyannesloan8384]

I appreciate your intelligence and all of the insights offered in this video

[@EasySundayClub]

Thank you, appreciate your positive energy :)!

[@charlenejohnson6467]

Thanks, I needed that. I've had in the back of my mind to start selling the cards I enjoy making. Now it time to figure out how to price them. Thank you so much. Looking forward to see your other videos.

[@cumberlandroadart4287]

I watch your videos even if the main topic isn't what I need to know because I get some gem - always. Thanks for sharing your experiences and knowledge.

[@EasySundayClub]

thank you, you are too kind! 🥹

[@cumberlandroadart4287]

@@EasySundayClub 😀

[@ktremmy]

Good to see you here again. I also enjoy your newsletter

[@EasySundayClub]

thank you for subscribing to my newsletter!

[@chromagraphphotoart]

I must admit, I dithered before committing to watch this video as I've watched so many that gloss over the realities. However, yours contains good honest advice and debunks some of the myths. As for me, I already have some presence in some of these places, so have a base. It just needs re-alignment as I'm currently more focussed to fine art. I also have a Botany degree which will help me as I am going to focus on Botanical photo greetings cards. Hoping also to attend some craft fairs soon, but more seriously in the autumn and Winter. Thanks.

[@EasySundayClub]

autumn and winter are busier times at craft fairs for sure. thanks for giving this video a chance :).

[@rmclarke15]

Lovely to see and hear you again!

[@EasySundayClub]

Welcome back to my video! :)

[@KaliHuntArt]

Thanks. Going to go in this direction

[@Nina_2288]

What a nice video! Thank you for the ideas 🌸🌸

[@Truenergy13]

Thanks!

[@EasySundayClub]

thank you so much!

[@glittergrandma]

Excellent video ! Many thanks.

[@EasySundayClub]

Thank you too!

[@withtene]

this is perfect timing as i really want to start my business this summer!! amazing advice!!

[@EasySundayClub]

perfect timing indeed! great time to get started before the busy seasons.

[@truthhearit1471]

​@@EasySundayClubSave your files as tiff and jpeg per photography school.

[@kianas.kaleidoscope]

Thanks so much!!!!

[@EleanorGreetings]

You're awesome, thank you for this!!

[@EasySundayClub]

you’re very welcome!

[@chantalp.146]

Thank you 😊

[@MrsTiffanyGrey]

Thank you! Love your art!

[@EasySundayClub]

thanks for watching!

[@annieaviles4760]

This was exceptional. Thank you.

[@EasySundayClub]

thank you for watching and leaving feedback!

[@artbyjuud]

thank you for this great video. It is very helpful

[@Clemmers316]

Good advice on treating your Instagram account as an online portfolio. And not having great expectations. 👍🏼

[@EasySundayClub]

exactly! it doesn't need to be all or nothing.

[@dianewhitmire]

Very informative thanks

[@nickn8499]

Camera setup is nice!

[@EasySundayClub]

thanks! very recent upgrade :)

[@MountainAirOrganicBeds]

I had to watch this twice. Great video. Subscribed😊 I didn’t see the link to your printers.

[@EasySundayClub]

Yayy thanks for the support and pleasing the algorithm! 😆 My printer link is under “List of Equipment I use” over halfway down the video description.

[@ThrivingQuietly]

Thanks for sharing.

[@EasySundayClub]

Thanks for watching!

[@TeenaHughesOnline]

▼ Hi there, just started watching, but I'm trying to work out why you're holding a clip-on microphone? Would you bo so kind as to share if this is better quality audio doing it this way?

[@EasySundayClub]

no reason other than I want to, just to mix things up :). the audio is fine when clipped on.

[@JulieEbersole]

Thank you!!!

[@amandajennings9991]

Great video! Please can you do a video on how to get into Wholesale and who to target. Also which websites are best for this. Thank you.

[@EasySundayClub]

You can start with these 2 and post comments there if you have further questions! kzbin.info/www/bejne/g5moZmlqd9uph6ssi=fjp-pK-1KsD444cl and kzbin.info/www/bejne/oHLJqHaboKimjqMsi=4r-lPBuMMXnuk3A8

[@j.louisv.123]

wouldn't "find your buyers" consist of being on some sort of internet site to show and sell the cards ? How is this done if a person has no clue on how to sell/promote the cards on the internet ?

[@shawnosmith8803]

I just started following you and love all the time and effort you both make in creating such informative videos. I also paint in watercolor and you mentioned in another video how you use a specific paper due to watercolor being so transparent. I tried to find it but thought I would ask here. Is it also 100lb paper too?

[@EasySundayClub]

are you referring to the paper I paint watercolor on or print? I paint on much thicker paper 300lb but use a ~100lb for open edition art prints.

[@shawnosmith8803]

@@EasySundayClub I was referring to prints. So thank you for answering. I believe you use 100lb for greeting cards too?

[@EasySundayClub]

@@shawnosmith8803I use 100lb card stock for greeting cards and use thinner matte paper for art prints.

[@shawnosmith8803]

@@EasySundayClub Thank you again. I really appreciate it.

[@chloeperalta4948]

Thanks for this. Question… I noticed that when I print some of my card if I choose JPEG to download when I print it the quality is not as good as when I choose PDF. This is me using canva of course.

[@EasySundayClub]

this is what I found online: Canva exports JPG and PNG images at 96×96 dpi, while PDFs are closer to 300×300 dpi. Some say that downloading as PDF and converting to JPG or PNG can result in clearer results, especially for graphic designs. That’s a bummer it takes that extra step, but hope that helps.

[@ErinEnoArt]

Coming from a printing background here. Placing your image into the card template and saving as pdf is THE way to go. The printer can extract as jpeg if needed but hi res “print quality” selection pdf is the format to send to a printer.

[@AB-tb5yh]

What ink do you use? Does the ink need to be waterproof?

[@barbra429]

My laser printer will not accept card stock, but my inkjet does. The only problem is that inkjet ink will smear. What do you all use?

[@EasySundayClub]

we have an entire video dedicated to inkjet printers on our channel :): kzbin.info/www/bejne/iai9hHawrMuXrMksi=OqJJXicPs7is6bXo

[@struttinyourstuffmobilebou8132]

Do you find that single cards instead of folding cards sell better now?

[@EasySundayClub]

I’ve only made folding cards that are blank inside so can’t say! Single cards would be more like a note card/postcard?

[@j.louisv.123]

20/80 rule, - if 80% comes from 20% product; than where does the rest come from if it does not all come from the product/cards sales ?

[@budaloops]

It means that the top 20% of the cards make up for 80% of the sales. The other 80% of the cards don’t sell as well. So you never now which cards are gonna do well but a few (like 20%) will be what brings in sales for your business. So make enough cards to have a top 20% that generates sales.

[@hemeraldhappy7166]

My big problem is who to sale it once I created.

[@UnbrandedLifestyle]

This is awesome! For your paper trimmer do you usually trim one sheet at a time? Also do you have any thoughts on using Etsy with all the recent changes like fees, and artists concerns of AI art dominating the platform? Is it still a platform you would still recommend?

[@EasySundayClub]

I still recommend for someone starting from scratch because it’s easy to set up vs your own website. The big caveat is people don’t buy greeting cards online nearly as much as in person, so ultimately your goal is slowly get there while building an online presence to be found.

[@UnbrandedLifestyle]

@@EasySundayClub thanks so much for your reply about Etsy! I have a similar paper trimmer as yours and can only cut one sheet at a time. Does yours take more sheets and better precision?

[@EasySundayClub]

I can cut 2 100# card stock stacked, and if I really want to be efficient, I can place another 2 sheets side by side, make sure they’re really aligned against the ruler, and cut 4 sheet aka 8 cards in one swish ;).

[@UnbrandedLifestyle]

I have a related question, if doing wholesale, do you have to get UPC/barcodes? And do you have tips for going this route?

[@EasySundayClub]

from my experience most small shops don’t require your products to come with UPC codes. They’ll add their own barcodes. I did get official UPC codes from GS1 US. You’ll have to maintain an annual renewal fee. Imo I wouldn’t go that route until you’re told by a retailer to do so.

[@OdithiReddy]

How do you pack your cards...to transport them to your customers...

[@EasySundayClub]

check the timestamps; I talk about it in this video.

[@Jyly1]

I love the greeting card idea, but what do you suggest for a person who has no drawing or painting abilities. How would I find artwork to go on my cards? Thank you.

[@ccarbon]

Lean into your authentic creativity and take art classes or learn from videos on KZbin until you can make your own art. Everyone is creative, and you are too. Explore your inner artist and you will manifest greatness. Or partner with artists who sell art on Etsy or social media.

not everybody needs to have a "card" business! hah

[@mones673]

Love this! Thanks for the tips. I appreciate you sharing about product details. Having a template is key. I also like your suggestions for the cards to include in a collection. And, as you recommended, I'm going to do the work and add a new collection to my Etsy shop. Again, thanks for sharing. You rock!

[@EasySundayClub]

sounds great! Yes covering the most popular categories of cards is a good starting point, but if your inspiration strikes on a new idea, go for it.

[@joseywales1150]

What type printer do u use??? I thinking about opening a stationary business. I was looking at the Epson T2170 I think is the number.

[@j.louisv.123]

How doers all this work with "original art" cards ?

[@bcmt1]

such an informative video! wish I had this guidance when I started!! :)

[@EasySundayClub]

thank you, me too :).

[@struttinyourstuffmobilebou8132]

What weight cardstock do you use?

[@misstashxox]

This is an idea I've been toying with for a while but the process always felt really overwhelming. You've perfectly laid out the important notes and made it so easily digestible - I may actually be willing to finally give it a shot! Thank you for creating this incredible resource and for sharing your experience and expertise.

[@EasySundayClub]

I’m so happy to hear that!! Give it a shot, what’s the worst that can happen? :)

[@martinpanco]

Hello, thank you so much for such an informative video. May I ask for an advice regarding printing pls. I recently bought a canon pixma pro 200. I own a wedding stationery business and decided to start printing inhouse but I am really struggling to find a suitable 300gsm cardstock that would work. I tried several but the colours are just terrible. The prints are beautiful on photo paper but on matte cardstock it is terrible. Do you know about any brand that sells inkjet cardstock in Europe pls? Or should i just play with the settings of the printer? If so, what kind of settings, pls? THANK YOU IN ADVANCE!

[@EasySundayClub]

I print all my greeting cards on matte cardstock and found that Photoshop Managed printer settings have good color match. We have a video that shows our printer settings here but we use an Epson: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qpbEdYiCfbB-hqMsi=M1MhMB-8xfBpqshZ. Not sure how applicable it is to your Canon but might be worth checking out.

[@robinschwartz6977]

Thank you! I listened while doing chores. I’ll need to go back and actually watch and listen, and take notes!

[@SealsAndFoils]

Oh wow this had a lot of good information. I’ve been struggling with my word document setup for a2 cards so that photoshop tip is literally a life saver, let alone everything else in this video. Thank you so much. Now if I could just figure out how to get my printer to stop pulling in the paper at a slant lol

[@OfficialArtistryRCraftCorner]

HI I LIKE YOUR VIDEOS, I'm also new at making cards and other crafts. i do have a website and wanted to know what social media can i use to promote my business. i do suffer with severe anxiety and making things helps me keep it at bay, i've never been this happy. Regards Ray

[@EROSNERdesign]

Great content! Thank you.

[@elishahelsel5152]

I've been a graphic designer for years and only done greeting cards for friends and family. I've had some people ask about buying them but I've been so scared of taking the leap. You have so much great detail in this video that makes it seem less daunting to try. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge!

[@EasySundayClub]

great to hear! sounds like you’ve been ready, just need to take that leap of faith.

[@Nori-td5vs]

Hey thank you so much! I will definitely take actions! Have you tried plant derived compostable clear cellophane? I know it exists because my friend uses them to wrap his hippy toothie rolls!

[@EasySundayClub]

I have! The down sides are a few retail buyers told me they break easily which affects the display quality and they’re only compostable in a commercial composter.

[@lisaramscar]

Hi, Thank you for you channel. Great advice and beautiful art.

[@EasySundayClub]

thank you! ☀️