Does every card or note you make look the same? Maybe your phrases and shoutouts need a change of type. Here are some ideas to get you started.
1: The polk-a-dots
It's always helpful to spell out the word(s) first before creating a colorful design in permanent ink! If you're better at eyeballing it, go right ahead, but I often like to trace words in pencil first. Once you've figured out your format, begin making dots until each letter is finished. I kind of like the look of the dots that aren't filled in all the way, but maybe I'm just lazy.
2: Swoops and Curls
Simple but elegant, this is my favorite type. All you have to do is write out your word in capital and/or lowercase letters and then thicken the curves of each letter. Some letters, like a "l" or an "i" are pretty straight, so add little curls at the top or bottom. Hopefully the picture makes it pretty clear what I'm talking about.
3: Unfinished Lines
Super simple, maybe it shouldn't even count as a design, this type doesn't involve any extra shading or doodling. Let's call this the "in a hurry card".
4: Food and Dessert (sounds good already!)
This one is by far the most involved. I wouldn't right a letter with this print, but it's super fun for an attention-grabbing title. 😜 🍩
(apologies for the fuzzy picture)
Pretty much any letter can be crafted from cookies, doughnuts, cupcakes, candy, ice-cream, various fruits, and pizza. Don't stop there! Veggies, pretzels, bacon and eggs, chocolate; what else can you think of?
5: Floral Vines
If you know cursive, fantastic. If not, (like me) just fake it. Connecting letters with loops and swirls isn't hard and honestly a little addictive. Use a green pen/marker to draw the letters, connecting them as you go. Go back and add tiny flowers to finish the forrest fairy look. This might go on your next doodle page rather than your next card!
And that's it! Experiment with these types or find some of your own and jazz up your cards and signs. Whether you like to doodle, print, or design, lettering is fun.