DIY Watercolor Postcards (Easy Beginner Tutorial)
In this post, we’ll walk through how to make your own DIY watercolor postcards, from painting to mailing, plus easy ideas if you’re not sure what to paint.
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Watercolor painting is one of those crafts I find to be super relaxing, but honestly, hadn’t made the time for lately. It’s kind of gone on the back burner ever since I started diving into new crafts, like my DIY dog toys, which took up a lot more time than I expected.
But recently I’ve been getting into sending mail again, and I thought it’d be fun to not only send cards, but make my own postcards too.
Alongside making upcycled postcards, I recently came across a tutorial from @the_playschool_artist showing the cutest little very hungry caterpillar design, and I knew I wanted to recreate it. That one project ended up pulling me right back into my love of watercolor, and now I’m hooked on making DIY postcards to send with my own watercolor paintings.
And I’ll be the first to admit, I’m no expert when it comes to watercolor. I’m a complete beginner, and I’ve had the same paint set for years now, which honestly just shows how little I use it. 😅 But every single time I do pull out my paints, I’m reminded how much I love watercolors.
This is a super simple craft that requires very few materials, which makes it perfect for beginners. It’s also a great little project when you want something quick and relaxing to do at the end of a busy day.
Supplies You’ll Need
- Watercolor paint
- Watercolor paper
- Pen or thin marker (affiliate link)
- Scissors or paper trimmer (affiliate link)
- Optional (but super cute): rounded corner punch
How to Make Watercolor Postcards
Step 1: Cut Your Postcard Base
Cut your watercolor paper down to postcard size. I usually go with 4 x 6, but if you’re planning to mail yours with a postcard stamp, USPS guidelines say your postcard needs to be between 3.5 x 5 inches and 4.25 x 6 inches (anything bigger gets bumped up to letter rate).
If you want to add a little something to your postcards, this is also a great time to run your corners through a rounded corner punch for a softer, more finished look.
Step 2: Paint First, Lines Second
It might seem backwards, but I always paint before I draw my address lines. That way, my painting has plenty of time to dry fully before I add anything else, so I don’t risk any water bleeding through and messing up my lines.
There’s truly no limit here. You can paint on the front of the postcard with a theme based on the season, your own interests, or the person you’re sending it to.
Once your painting is dry, you can also add a little message right on top of it with a pen, or even a stamp, if you want to get extra creative.
Step 3: Add Your Lines and Details
Now, flip the card over to the back and draw your lines. Draw one vertical line down the middle, then add three or four horizontal lines on the right half for the address.
From there, you’re ready to write your message and address, add a stamp, and send it on its way!
Elevating Your Paintings
Now, I already know what you’re thinking: “But Marlene, I’m not a painter.”
Girl, don’t worry about it. Neither am I!
Watercolor is so forgiving, and honestly, this isn’t about being perfect anyway. It’s about giving yourself a little time to unwind, and creating something that lets someone know you were thinking about them.
Pro tip: if you want your painting to look a little more put together, add some pen to it once it’s dry. I don’t know exactly why, but adding a few details with black pen makes a huge difference. You can use it to outline shapes or emphasize part of your painting. Just look at the difference it makes.
Easy Watercolor Postcard Ideas
Not sure what to paint? Here are some simple ideas to get you inspired. Remember, you don’t have to overthink it. Just start!
Spring: flowers, bees, bunnies, rainbows
Summer: sun, ice cream, ocean waves, palm trees
Fall: leaves, pumpkins, ghosts, a cozy mug
Winter: pine trees, snowmen, penguins, candy canes
Anytime: simple patterns (polka dots, stripes, hearts), flowers, food, animals
Final Thoughts
DIY watercolor postcards are such a simple, low-pressure way to slow down and make something meaningful. They don’t take much time, they don’t require much skill, and they end with someone getting a little handmade surprise in their mailbox. Honestly, it doesn’t get much better than that.
If you loved this idea, check out 5 Easy Relaxing Craft Ideas To Recharge After A Long Week.
