Why is Envelope Calligraphy So Expensive?

This video is a must-watch for anyone who is looking to have addresses written out for a wedding or an event and doesn't understand why envelope calligraphy is so expensive. It will also be helpful for artists who are thinking of offering envelope calligraphy services. In it, I'll offer explanations and information alongside a video of me calligraphing a beautiful black and white envelope. (Shockingly, that envelope takes just under 30 minutes to make from start to finish! 🙈 You can watch the timer ticking up in the video.)
As I mentioned in this video, I haven't offered envelope calligraphy as a service for years. I stopped when I realized the crazy amount of time and energy it takes for me to address an envelope. My hope is that this video serves to explain to non-calligraphers that a lovely envelope isn't the result of easy talent. For calligraphers, the video may serve as a reality check: you're probably better off making projects that require less time and compensate you well, like invitation design.
All that said, it is a true pleasure to make a beautiful envelope, so I often offer envelope calligraphy as a wedding gift for my closest friends and family. I think that if you are a calligrapher who enjoys calligraphing envelopes and/or you can figure out a way to do it quick-ish (i.e. by writing in a bouncy/informal style that doesn't require centering), envelope calligraphy is a good way to make some side income!
Remember, beautiful calligraphy takes a lot of time, skill, and concentration. That's why I mostly create pointed pen calligraphy for my own relaxation and pleasure. Use your skills however they can best serve you! If you're looking to learn how to use a pointed pen, consider enrolling in TPK's Beginner's Course at thepostmansknock.com/catalog/... -- it has 240+ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ reviews from students!
Materials used for this envelope:
💌 Envelope: Cards and Pockets A7 (www.cardsandpockets.com/a7-eu... - affiliate link) in "Ultra Black"
💌 White mechanical pencil (thepostmansknock.com/catalog/...) + black eraser (thepostmansknock.com/catalog/...)
💌 Parallel glider (thepostmansknock.com/catalog/...) - these are tough to find; I'm hoping to have more in stock next month.
💌 Bleed Proof White ink (thepostmansknock.com/catalog/...)
💌 Brause EF66 nib (thepostmansknock.com/catalog/...) + oblique pen (thepostmansknock.com/catalog/...)
💌 Postage stamps (thepostmansknock.com/make-stu...)
💌 MicroGlaze (thepostmansknock.com/catalog/...)

[@Chanterelle137]

Excellent video! We face the same issue in the music business. A professional string quartet for a wedding is costly, based on the years of study the musicians bring to the table, and their investment in instruments, travel, etc. Professional-looking envelopes are handmade items that reflect the amount of time a person has invested in study, equipment, etc. Couture clothing, made by hand, is expensive for that very same reason. Art takes time. I studied calligraphy to learn how to make memorable holiday cards. But as you say, it takes time. I start working on my Christmas cards on the day after Thanksgiving! It's a lot of work, but very satisfying when a friend or family member keeps the holiday card envelope, along with the card, as a memento.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thank you so much for your insightful words! Isn't it interesting how (extremely) similar challenges exist in different creative fields? Like professional string quartets for weddings, calligraphy artists invest years of study, practice, and dedication to their craft. I'm sure that string quartets require even more fuss due to the cost and maintenance of the instruments, the need for travel, and preparation requirements (you can do calligraphy in your pajamas in the middle of the night if you want to ... playing in a string quartet would require nice clothing and grooming)! A quartet is worth every penny (and then some). But I'm digressing, per usual! The handmade nature of professional-looking envelopes further reflects the amount of time and skill that goes into creating them. It's a testament to the dedication and artistry of calligraphers, just as couture clothing showcases the craftsmanship and time invested by skilled artisans. Your personal experience with studying calligraphy to create memorable holiday cards resonates with me. It's true that art, including calligraphy, requires time and effort. Starting your Christmas card preparations on the day after Thanksgiving shows the commitment you have to crafting heartfelt and special cards. The satisfaction that comes from knowing that your friends and family members cherish the card and its envelope as a memento is truly rewarding! Thank you for sharing your perspective and experiences. It's through discussions like these that we can appreciate the value of art, the dedication of artists, and the joy it brings to both creators and recipients. If you have any more insights or stories to share, please feel free to do so. Wishing you continued success and fulfillment in your creative endeavors!

[@leslieshaw4067]

Not ridiculous! Professional! And how cool that it’s a loved and enjoyable “job”!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thanks so much, Leslie!!

[@charlinebosse1099]

What a beautiful envelope. That's half an hour! The writing is so perfect and elegant. I love the white on black that makes it classy. I bought a white lead mechanical pencil to make lines on black paper and erases very well. Pricing is always hard for me to do. I'm more afraid to charge too much than not enough for whatever art I do. I love watching you videos that are very inspiring.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thank you so much for your kind words and for watching the video! I'm thrilled to hear that you found the envelope calligraphy beautiful and that the white-on-black style resonated with you. It's definitely a classy look that stands out. :) I completely understand your thoughts on pricing. It's a common challenge for many artists and creatives. The key is to remember the value of your time, skill, and the materials used. Don't be afraid to charge what you feel your art/calligraphy is worth. It's important to respect your own talent and hard work. It's great to hear that you've found a tool like a white lead mechanical pencil that works well for you on black paper. Tools that make the process easier and more effective are always a bonus. Thank you again for your support and for sharing your thoughts. Comments like yours are incredibly motivating and make creating these videos even more rewarding. Keep up your amazing work with your art, and if you ever have any questions or need tips, feel free to reach out!

[@nicolejimenez2377]

Thank you Lindsey for explaining all this with such detail! I just started enjoying doing envelopes and would love to make money from it. But when you say that on Etsy they are selling Calligraphy envelopes for $5 a piece... how can I even compete with that! That is rather depressing. Too bad there aren't organizations like there are for lawyers, architects and other professions that protect their professionals by having certain hourly rates that people have no choice but to abide to. There might not be so many starving artists and Calligraphers. 🙂

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Hi Nicole! I completely understand your concern about the competitive pricing on platforms like Etsy. While it's unfortunate that creative professions like calligraphy lack standardized protection and support, there are still people who appreciate and are willing to pay for the value and quality of handmade calligraphy. Building a strong reputation, showcasing your unique style, and finding clients who understand and appreciate the artistry involved will help you establish yourself and command higher prices. Exploring avenues beyond platforms like Etsy, such as commissioned work and local events (plus having your own website -- maybe via Shopify? -- and connecting with professionals like wedding planners), may provide opportunities to connect with clients who understand the true worth of calligraphy. I like to point to Crimson Letters as an example -- see her blog post about why she changed her pricing philosophy here: www.crimsonletters.com/mindset-shift-increased-my-prices-part-2/. Don't lose hope! With persistence, determination, and a commitment to delivering exceptional work, you can find your place in the industry and establish yourself as a respected calligrapher.

[@janef.595]

I really want to make personal calligraphy envelopes for family this Christmas and I've been practicing calligraphy for a few months now. I think at some point I'll buy some cheap envelopes and practice on them before the holidays. Thank you for sharing this video. I'll be using it as a reference for my envelope projects. ❤

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I hope you do! Just a quick word of caution: be careful with the envelopes. Sometimes, flimsy envelopes don't cut it for pointed pen calligraphy. See this article for some recommendations: thepostmansknock.com/where-to-buy-envelopes-for-calligraphy-my-top-5-picks/

[@naderfawzy5958]

First time I watch a video of you and you are awesome you have a very remarkable way of telling things.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thank you so much! That is very kind of you! I am glad that you are enjoying thus far!

[@savillah]

Great explanation, Lindsey! Love your videos & you have a very nice, calming voice.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Haha! It's a midwestern monotone; I'm glad you like it.🤗

[@raelastoddard]

Gorgeous! 🤩 Totally understand the price point. 🙌 Thank you for breaking this down for us! 🥰

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

It's my pleasure!! You can find a written version of the video here: thepostmansknock.com/why-is-envelope-calligraphy-so-expensive/

[@kellywest1032]

Really beautiful! Thanks for the information-it was interesting!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I'm so glad to hear that!

[@tishanarollinson7807]

Thank you for the explanation. It certainly puts it into perspective x

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thanks! I thought it was a worthy topic to explore, for sure. :)

[@ericataylor5042]

You're so helpful to me Lindsay, and I can't thank you enough. I have so much respect for your art, skills and most of all your communication 👏 🙌

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

You are so sweet to say that -- thank you!

[@KaioStryker]

Amazing work as always Lindsey. Thanks for sharing.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I'm so glad you enjoyed this!

[@Artbeneathmywings]

Excellent content in this video Lindsey, thank you so much 😊 I wish more calligraphers understand the value of their work and skills.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

It's tough! I started off charging $1 per envelope in 2012. 😱 There's this temptation to get clients, no matter what the trade-off is. And I do have to say that as a fledgling calligrapher, envelope calligraphy was great practice. But -- as a sole means by which to earn a meaningful income, I don't have a ton of faith in it. Maybe my ideas are expressed a little better in the written version of this video (thepostmansknock.com/why-is-envelope-calligraphy-so-expensive/)?

[@loriprince3342]

Your explanation was on target...the average person doesn't understand all the elements that go into the process of making art - in your case, calligraphy. Thank you for a well thought out and easily comprehensible tutorial of what it really takes to make the beauty of your art. I have friends that are medical illustrators and they actually allowed to charge for an illustration or project based on their time, talent, knowledge and abilities. Fortunately they are recognized as medical professionals so no one really challenges their fees. I wish visual artists could get the that type of recognition for their craft.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

It's so true that many people may not fully grasp the intricate elements involved in the creation of art, especially when it comes to calligraphy! I'm grateful that you found my explanation on point and easily understandable. It's my goal to provide tutorials that shed light on the behind-the-scenes aspects of calligraphy, allowing viewers to appreciate the depth and effort that goes into producing such beautiful art. It's fascinating to hear about your friends who are medical illustrators and how they are able to charge based on their time, talent, knowledge, and abilities. Recognition of their expertise as medical professionals naturally establishes a level of respect for their fees. It's a wish shared by many visual artists to receive similar recognition and appreciation for their craft. As you alluded to, art is more than just a hobby; it involves a lifetime of dedication, continuous learning, and honing of skills. By shedding light on the process and value of the craft, hopefully I can help to bridge the gap in understanding and foster a greater appreciation for the visual arts. Thank you again for sharing your thoughts and for your support! I genuinely appreciate your engagement and encouragement. If you have any further questions or insights, feel free to share them.

[@nathanberg4535]

Appreciate this video so much! Valuable information. I will flag this one & if anyone wants to know why I charge what I do, I can send them this video. Love your work & all your ideas.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I'm so glad that you can use the video to explain! I feel that only in very rare cases are envelope calligraphy jobs profitable (i.e. the White House calligrapher -- they're making enough doing envelopes because they're salaried). So, people who are doing it are really mostly in it because they just love making beautiful envelopes. I applaud you!! For a written version of the article, you can refer people to this: thepostmansknock.com/why-is-envelope-calligraphy-so-expensive/

[@missbellarubens5255]

Very helpful thanks. It insores me to write letters instead of emails

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Glad it helped!