Make your letters shine

A letter is exciting on its own — but a little something extra makes it one your penpal keeps forever. It doesn’t need to be elaborate: often the simplest touches mean the most.

1 million+ members · 195+ countries · 30+ years connecting penpals

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Simple ideas that make a letter special

A little piece of your countryA postcard of your town, a used bus ticket, a recipe, a pressed flower — penpals love what’s unique to where you live.
Decorate itStickers, washi tape, doodles and coloured pens turn a page of writing into something to keep.
Stationery from your travelsBuy paper or postcards when you’re away and write from wherever you are.
Printed photosYour street, your pet, today’s view — a printed photo makes your world real.
Paint a picture in wordsThe weather, the sounds outside, what you ate for lunch — small details bring a letter to life.
Seal it in styleA wax seal is a beautiful finishing touch. How to add one
Fun stationery ideas →

Writing online? Make it special too

Online letters can shine as well. Take your time and write a proper letter rather than a quick note, and switch on Letter view in a conversation to read your messages as full letters. Once trust is established, adults can also share photos with each other.

Gifts: lovely, but never expected

Sending little extras is fun, but it should always be your own choice — a birthday, a holiday, or just to brighten someone’s day. Never ask a penpal for gifts or money, and keep things small, so nobody feels they have to send something back.

Check what’s allowed before you post it: many countries ban seeds, soil, plants, food and liquids. Under 18? Stick to postcards, drawings and crafts, and check with a parent first. Help your letters arrive.

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