In a world that moves so fast, a handwritten note can feel like a little piece of magic. Good Vibes Snail Mail is my favorite way to slow down, play with color, and send a burst of positivity the old-fashioned way. Delivered straight to someone's mailbox.
This is a simple mixed-media art project that anyone can do, no perfection or experience required! It’s about connection, mindfulness, and spreading a little handmade happiness.
Whether you make one to send to a friend or tuck into your own journal, the process itself is a joyful form of self-care.
What You’ll Need
You can gather your own supplies or grab my Good Vibes Snail Mail Kit, which includes everything you need plus a full video tutorial to walk you through the process step-by-step.
Supplies:
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Mixed media paper (cut to fit your preferred envelope size)
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Paints in your favorite colors
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Stencils, stickers, or washi tape
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Mod Podge or glue
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Pre-typed quotes or affirmations
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Envelopes
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Wax seal stickers
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Paintbrushes and pens
Optional: If you’d like to skip the setup, my kit includes all of this ready to go, so you can jump right into the creative part.
Step-by-Step: Making Your Good Vibes Snail Mail
Step 1: Paint & Play
Start by cutting your mixed media paper to the size that fits your chosen envelope.
Paint colorful abstract designs using your intuition. This part is meant to be playful, not perfect.
Layer stencils, washi tape, or stickers to add texture and pattern. Be sure to paint the envelope, too, leaving blank space for the address areas.
Let your creativity flow and enjoy the process. Think of it as painting a little piece of joy.
Step 2: Add Your Message
Once your paint is dry, choose a quote or saying that fits the occasion and person you are sending it to.
I like to use pre-typed quotes that I glue on with Mod Podge. My quotes include things like:
“Just wanted to remind you how awesome and amazing you are.”
“I hope you woke up today knowing how magnificent I think you are.”
You can also handwrite this if you don't have a printer. Just be sure to use a marker that can be seen over the paint.
Step 3: Write Your Note
Flip your card over and write a short, personal note on the back. Sign it with your name, initials, or even a doodle that represents you.
This is where your energy and intention really come through. Imagine your recipient opening it and feeling seen and uplifted.
Step 4: Seal It with Love
Once everything is dry, address your envelope and seal it with a wax stamp sticker or other decorative closure. It’s a small touch that makes the whole piece feel extra special and intentional.
Step 5: Mail It Off
Pop it in the mail and send your good vibes to that special someone. You are about to make someone's day a little more special. We all need a little reminder every now and then that the people around us think about us, see us, and care enough to send a little love our way.
Why I Love This Practice
Good Vibes Snail Mail is more than just a craft, it’s a mindfulness ritual.
When we take time to create with our hands and share from the heart, we nurture our own creative spirit and remind others that they’re not alone. It’s a small gesture with a big ripple of positivity.
Create Your Own with the Good Vibes Snail Mail Kit
Want to make your own Good Vibes Snail Mail without gathering all the materials?
My Good Vibes Snail Mail Kit includes:
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Pre-cut mixed media cards + envelopes
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Positive quote cutouts
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Stencils, paints, and mod podge
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Handmade wax seal stickers
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Full video tutorial to guide you step-by-step
Shop the Kit Here → Art Kit
Katy's Handpainted Good Vibes Snail Mail packs of four. (These make great gifts too.) Shop here.
It’s the perfect weekend project, gift, or creative reset when you need a little good energy. I hope we all get to share in the joy of opening our mailbox one day to recieve good vibes from our friends. Feel free to share your finished cards with me in the comments or on our Instagram @paintedmothart.
Creatively yours,
Katy Casillas-Gray, mixed media artist | Co-founder The Painted Moth
