If you run a Kickstarter campaign or a Patreon, you already know how vital it is to make supporters feel appreciated. One of the easiest, most affordable ways artists do that is with custom postcards.
Postcards work as thank-you notes, rewards, updates, and even collectible mini prints — all without blowing your budget.
Why Postcards Work So Well for Kickstarter & Patreon
Artists love postcards because they sit right at the intersection of art print and personal message. They’re easy to ship, inexpensive to produce, and feel far more personal than a generic email update.
- Low-cost reward option
- Easy to mail or include in packages
- Perfect for artwork, illustrations, or photography
- Scales well for growing supporter lists
Many creators use postcards as entry-level rewards or surprise bonuses for loyal backers.
Print Postcards for Your Campaign
How Artists Use Postcards as Rewards
Postcards are one of the most flexible and affordable reward options for artists running crowdfunding campaigns or membership programs. Below are common and creative ways artists use postcards as rewards for supporters, backers, and patrons.
Core Postcard Reward Ideas
- Thank-you postcards sent to every backer or patron
- Exclusive artwork postcards not available in shops
- Monthly postcard rewards for Patreon supporters
- Signed postcards for mid-tier reward levels
- Numbered limited edition postcards for premium supporters
Collector and Engagement Ideas
- Postcard series released over multiple months
- Seasonal postcard collections featuring new artwork
- Mini art print postcards designed for standard frames
- Front-and-back artwork designs with notes or stories
- Artist commentary postcards explaining the artwork
Kickstarter-Specific Postcard Rewards
- Stretch goal postcards unlocked at funding milestones
- Campaign celebration postcards when funding goals are reached
- Behind-the-scenes sketch postcards from the creative process
- Concept art postcards showing early drafts and ideas
- Backer-exclusive alternate color versions of artwork
Patreon-Friendly Postcard Uses
- Welcome postcards for new patrons
- Anniversary postcards for long-term supporters
- Tier-specific postcard designs based on support level
- Handwritten note postcards for top-tier patrons
- Supporter-voted postcard designs chosen by patrons
Marketing and Hybrid Reward Ideas
- Postcards with discount codes for future purchases
- QR code postcards linking to private content or updates
- Event reminder postcards for launches or exhibitions
- Thank-you postcards included with merchandise shipments
Premium and Limited Edition Postcard Concepts
- Foil-accent or specialty finish postcards for special campaigns
- Oversized postcards designed as statement art pieces
- Signed front artwork with branded informational backs
- Hand-finished postcards with stamps, embossing, or doodles
- Bundled postcard sets offered as campaign add-ons
International-Friendly Postcard Rewards
- Lightweight postcards to reduce international shipping costs
- Envelope-free postcard rewards for simpler fulfillment
- Flat-mail postcards suitable for global delivery
- Localized thank-you messages for international supporters
Best Postcard Sizes for Campaign Rewards
Choosing the right size depends on how you plan to ship and display your postcards.
- 4x6 – Budget-friendly and easy to mail
- 5x7 – Popular for art fairs and collectible rewards. Seems more valuable.
- Oversized postcards – Great for bold artwork or limited editions. 6x9 and 6x11 may be inexpensive alternatives to 8x10's,
If your supporters are collecting your postcards as mini prints, slightly larger sizes tend to feel more premium.
Paper Choices Artists Love
Choosing the right paper stock is just as important as the artwork itself. Artists tend to favor postcard papers that enhance color, texture, and durability while still fitting their budget and shipping needs.
Gloss Cardstock (110#, 120#, or 16pt)
Gloss cardstock features a shiny, reflective coating that makes colors appear more vibrant. Artists often choose gloss for illustrations, photography, or artwork with bold colors and high contrast. This finish is ideal when visual impact and brightness are a priority.
Matte Cardstock - (100#, 130#, or 16pt)
Matte cardstock offers a smooth, non-glare finish that feels modern and refined. It works especially well for minimalist artwork, muted color palettes, and designs with fine details. Artists also like matte postcards because they are easier to write on for handwritten notes or signatures.
Uncoated Cardstock (100#, 130#, or 16pt)
Uncoated cardstock has a natural paper feel with no surface coating. This option is popular with illustrators, printmakers, and artists who want a tactile, handmade look. It absorbs ink slightly more than coated stocks, giving artwork a softer, organic appearance.
Recycled Cardstock (80#, 100#, 16pt, 18pt)
Recycled cardstock is made with post-consumer materials and often has a subtle natural tone or texture. Artists who value sustainability choose this option to align their rewards with eco-conscious branding while still delivering a sturdy, professional-quality postcard.
Heavyweight Premium Cardstock (18pt)
Heavyweight cardstock provides extra thickness and rigidity, making postcards feel more like mini art prints than standard mailers. Artists frequently select this option for limited editions, signed rewards, or premium Kickstarter and Patreon tiers where perceived value matters.
Alternative Papers
For artists who want their postcards to stand out, alternative papers provide unique finishes that make each piece feel special. Specialty options like metallic gold and metallic silver cardstock catch the light beautifully, adding shimmer and a premium look to your artwork. These papers are perfect for limited edition rewards, Kickstarter stretch goals, or high-tier campaign backers, helping artists make a lasting impression with every postcard.
How Many Postcards Should You Print?
A simple rule artists follow is to print slightly more than their current supporter count.
- New Kickstarter campaign: supporter count + 10–20%
- Monthly Patreon rewards: exact tier count + extras
- Stretch goals or surprises: small surplus for late backers
Printing a few extras gives you flexibility without adding much cost.
Design Tips for Campaign Postcards
- Keep artwork full-bleed for maximum impact
- Leave space on the back for a short message or branding
- Add your website or social handle subtly
- Use consistent sizing across campaigns for collectors
Think of postcards as tiny ambassadors for your art — they often end up displayed, saved, or shared.
Are Postcards Worth It for Creators?
For most artists, postcards are one of the highest ROI printed rewards available. They’re affordable, personal, and easy to scale as your audience grows.
Whether you’re thanking first-time backers or rewarding long-term patrons, postcards strike the perfect balance between meaningful and manageable.
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