Valentine’s Day is coming up soon, and with it comes an opportunity to extend some love and kindness. You may recall our Special Delivery project from years past, which we’re delighted to say is now an Etsy tradition. We’ll be working with Citymeals-on-Wheels to bring nutritious meals, handmade greeting cards, and companionship to elderly New Yorkers this Valentine’s Day.
Sounds great! How do I get involved?
Easy! We need your help to supply the cards. Citymeals-on-Wheels
We think that crafting is way more fun with friends, so we invite you to throw your own Craft Party in your corner of the world. All you need to do is visit Etsy’s Meetups Everywhere page, join a Special Delivery Meetup where you live, invite your friends and neighbors, make some heartfelt cards and mail them our way. Don’t forget to share photos of your gathering in action too!
If you don’t have time to make cards, you can buy them and have them delivered to us. The deadline for us to receive the cards is Tuesday, February 7, 2012.
There are a few other important guidelines for this, so please carefully read the FAQs below.
I’ve made or bought my beautiful Valentine’s card for Citymeals-on-Wheels. Now what happens?
Special delivery! We will collect all the cards and bring them to Citymeals-on-Wheels, where each will be delivered with a meal in time for Valentine’s Day. Several of the Etsy Admin will be volunteering at the Citymeals-on-Wheels’ Senior Center’s Valentine’s Day party. We’re going to help decorate, serve meals, and spend quality time with our neighbors.
How else can I contribute?
You can also help by donating to Citymeals-on-Wheels or by volunteering or donating to your local organization.
Where do I send the cards to?
Please mail your handmade or vintage cards to:
Etsy
Attn: Katie Rose Crosswhite
55 Washington St.
Suite 512
Brooklyn, NY 11201
When do the cards have to arrive at Etsy?
The deadline is Tuesday, February 7, 2011. This is important!
Are there any rules about what the cards should look like?
Yes. Please follow these guidelines, otherwise we can’t use your card(s):
- No glitter! This creates food safety issues.
- Please make your cards cheerful by using bright colors. You can decorate cards using paint, crayons, markers, pastels, collage or anything else you can think of.
- Please avoid dark backgrounds and religious symbols.
- Please write clearly in large print and avoid using the abbreviation “V-day.” Please say “Valentine’s Day.”
- You should not give out your address or suggest that the recipients write back to you. Initiating an ongoing correspondence is not appropriate.
- Please make sure that the cards are appropriate for the intended audience. That is to say, pretend it’s for your sweet sweet grandma, not your snarky, angst-ridden teenage brother.
How many cards should I send?
As many as you want!
Is this open only to Etsy sellers?
Nope. This is open to anyone who wants to help brighten someone’s day.
What’s that deadline again?
We need to have all of the cards in our hands by Tuesday, February 7, 2011. Thanks!
135 comments
Sign in to add your ownKrystyna81 says:
such a great project - love that it's back again!
125 days ago
TheUntamedHeart says:
What a great idea!
125 days ago
Asarum says:
love this idea, I'm going to gets some ideas flowing. thanks for doing such great and meaning for work!!!
125 days ago
riverluna says:
Great idea!
125 days ago
RetroRevivalBoutique says:
The no glitter rule made me sad for a second, but I guess I understand people not wanting glitter to get in their food,lol...anyway, count me in! :D *Runs off to the craft room*
125 days ago
TheIDconnection says:
Super idea! Thanks
125 days ago
jammerjewelry says:
Wonderful article thanks so much for sharing
125 days ago
BirdcageCards says:
I had so much fun crafting special cards for this event last year. I wouldn't dare miss out on the fun again! Count me in ♥
125 days ago
TheBloomingThread says:
awesome way to spread the love! ♥
125 days ago
MerCurios says:
Totally participating!! Thanks for the opportunity Etsy. xo
125 days ago
TheMillineryShop says:
This is the sweetest, most thoughtful pay-it-forward project ever. Kudos. Seriously.
125 days ago
theroyal says:
this is great.. thank you for helping us get involved.. :)
125 days ago
layracreations says:
Great project. I will send mine ♥♥♥
125 days ago
theroyal says:
and speaking of getting involved, thank you so much for putting up a banner about sopa... i wish the law about detaining american citizens indefinitely without trial had this much coverage before it passes on new years this year....
125 days ago
Grafxquest says:
<3 <3 love love LOVE love it! Pay it forward! 2012 is the year to pay it forward before it ends (according to the Aztec calendar anyway) LOL What a great way to go about it! I am so IN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! --------<---<@
125 days ago
WintergreenDesign says:
This is a very lovely idea : )
125 days ago
cutiepiecompany says:
So glad this is now a yearly tradition! Going to get my cards ready this week.
125 days ago
expressyourself says:
This is a great idea : O)
125 days ago
MegansMenagerie says:
What a wonderful idea!!!
125 days ago
volkerwandering says:
Wish I could be there!
125 days ago
thevicagirl says:
I hope this does some good in the much needed areas.
125 days ago
marieowltoinette says:
What a wonderful idea on how to brighten someone's Valentine's Day!
125 days ago
uniquefabricgifts says:
This is wonderful!
125 days ago
KisforCalligraphy says:
Waving to Milly cutiepie! So happy you are doing this again! Where's Adam? And the link to the Special Delivery Flickr group? http://www.flickr.com/groups/980812@N20/
125 days ago
peacesofindigo says:
Brilliant! My boys and I are in~
125 days ago
peshka says:
Great idea! Thanks
125 days ago
liisakaarsoo says:
if we make multiple cards can they all be sent to etsy in one envelope?
125 days ago
myvintagecrush says:
Nice!
125 days ago
BagNoir says:
Wonderful idea!!!
125 days ago
SummerSaylor says:
what a great idea. I am going to send you a card!
125 days ago
AvantCarde says:
What could be more fitting than for us (as a 'card' company) to donate !! ... we'll be sending lots and also promoting this via our Facebook page and via our shop announcement in an effort to raise further awareness ...
125 days ago
heartdosheart says:
this is a great idea. I have a question do I sign my name or do i just leave the card blank
125 days ago
KettleConfections says:
Great idea - perfect time to use our crafting-printmaking-rubberstamping skills for a good cause!
125 days ago
kareninnh says:
This touched my "heart" :) I'm sending this Etsy page to all my friends whol can use a pair of scissors and dab a lil glue. Great idea... All we need is LOVE!
125 days ago
WhisperingOak says:
This is such a great idea. Always good to share your art with others
125 days ago
Mina1130 says:
I don't have a "sweet sweet grandma". She's more "snarky and angst-ridden". ;) I'll see what I can come up with that'll be appropriate though. :)
125 days ago
Wingnut51 says:
This is an awesome idea :] Back when I was in school we use to do something like this in my French class every Valentines Day except we would send them to Military Vetrens. It always made me feel good.
125 days ago
Bostoncharm says:
How do we sign the card? Just say.." Best Wishes from the Wiktorek Family"??
125 days ago
PlumeriaPapercraft says:
What an easy way to spread some love! <3 <3 <3
125 days ago
PlumeriaPapercraft says:
What an easy way to spread some love! <3
125 days ago
nearmoderndisaster says:
such a great tradition! happy to be a part again.
125 days ago
deadxgirlsxdontxcry says:
Etsy should "spread the love" to those in need for every holiday!
125 days ago
TangBaby says:
hooorray! I've been on the lookout for this again this year, glad etsy is doing it again!
125 days ago
shizendesigns says:
What a wonderful idea! :)
125 days ago
ThoseThreeWords says:
Wonderful! Happy to participate again this year!
125 days ago
Oyeta says:
What a great idea!
125 days ago
eiselein says:
Will the cards be opened? If so, can I put multiple cards in a big envelope? If not I'll keep them in their own envelopes. Thanks!
125 days ago
MyogaStudio says:
lots of cards to choose from for sure!
125 days ago
wangu says:
I will make a card tomorrow~sweet idea~
125 days ago
hermajesty08 says:
i'll have to get started right away :]
124 days ago
KellyZarb says:
Wow this is a brilliant idea!!
124 days ago
kathyjohnson3 says:
I love this idea, count me in!!
124 days ago
EliteBridal says:
Great idea, sounds like fun, will do and thanks for sharing!
124 days ago
Fazlinda says:
This project is soo cool!! Might send some...;)
124 days ago
Iammie says:
What a cool project!
124 days ago
silverlily786 says:
hmmm a good way to get the lil ones involved!!!!
124 days ago
CitySistersShop says:
Will definitely send some of our cards! Do you want the cards left blank inside or should we hand write "Happy Valentine's Day" or some other cheerful sentiment? Perhaps just sign the cards with our first name(s)? Do you want envelopes too or just the cards?
124 days ago
LSGLuZO5 says:
Super sweet idea!
124 days ago
ivandeki says:
I've noticed there's also interest in doing this in other parts of the world. Can we figure out a way to extend this idea to other cities?
124 days ago
BanglewoodSupplies says:
Awesome Idea.
124 days ago
PetalPix says:
CitySistersShop says: Will definitely send some of our cards! Do you want the cards left blank inside or should we hand write "Happy Valentine's Day" or some other cheerful sentiment? Perhaps just sign the cards with our first name(s)? Do you want envelopes too or just the cards? Ditto to what she said:
124 days ago
BRANDED says:
i had fun last year making some cards...doing it again this year!
124 days ago
vellumandtrace says:
This is so wonderful! I'm definitely sending one...
124 days ago
ZenBrush says:
I will be sending some too.
124 days ago
RhythmAshimmer says:
Wonderful fun!!! Hope the deadline is in 2012 instead of 2011 like the article says! Cuz im sending some cards!
123 days ago
VintageRedoux says:
I'm sending my cards this week- Thanks so much for the article!
123 days ago
lesley328 says:
I'm in!
123 days ago
HeatherLucille says:
What a wonderful, thoughtful and fun way to give back! It is inspiring to see a business being so socially active and gives all of us a chance to participate in helping someone feel great! Big love to etsy for this sweet project!
123 days ago
KisforCalligraphy says:
For those of you asking, I looked for Admin answers in some of the previous year's blog posts.......................You can sign the cards with your name if you want.......................Do they all need to have envelopes? ---- Either way is fine, it's up to you.......................
123 days ago
OnlyOriginalsByAJ says:
What a fun idea! Can't wait to get started! :)
122 days ago
scandivintage says:
Heart warming - for everyone! :)
122 days ago
madelinefeliciano says:
The world is a much better place, thanks to people who think and see thinga like you do. Wonderful idea!!!
122 days ago
cassie86 says:
Love this idea! I'm on it!!
122 days ago
monkeymoments says:
I would love to send some cards. How do I address the envelope?
122 days ago
marieboutique says:
I'm so excited to participate in this again :)
122 days ago
nicoahsmeem says:
I love this idea. We can all spread the love. I'm in. Imm sending mine out first chance I get. Thanks for the great idea.
122 days ago
opendoorstudio says:
i have participated with this in the past and I know it is appreciated...will try to get working on some more cards for this year! thanks again for doing this Etsy! it is a delight to brighten someones day... if a little handmade card can do that...then that is pretty awesome! :)
121 days ago
PetalPix says:
I am sending some cards - what a wonderful thing for Etsy to do.
121 days ago
nicolewiskow says:
I added this to my Face Book page of 2700 and Twitter as well. We as a family will help. Hopefully my social network will get on board as well. Great idea. This Brooklyn born girl living in Minneapolis is happy to help : - )
121 days ago
HaynesFamilyCrafts says:
I am going to be taking some time out between classes to make and send some cards. This is a great idea. I wonder if there is a program like this for Oregon?
121 days ago
luckyduckdesigns says:
The EtsyGreetings Team will be participating in full force again this year! Hooray!
120 days ago
CarasScrapNStampArt says:
We're happy to be involved again! This is the 4th year for my family making cards. So fun! I have 3 mini cards I'll ship for free if anyone wants to participate but doesn't make cards or lives too far. xo
120 days ago
cardwear says:
So glad this has become an annual tradition for Etsy! I will once again be sending a package of cards and if you would like me to send some on your behalf, simply purchase a valentine and let me know in the "note to seller". I also have a specific listing in my shop for Share Your Love and will double your donation for Etsy. :)
120 days ago
Emilianbucks says:
Cards with a cause, I <3 it! I just set the date for a card making party at my place Feb. 3. Anyone in LA wants to join us send me a DM for deets.
120 days ago
twigsprintstudio says:
That is such a neat idea!! I am planning on sending the love!! :)
120 days ago
LilaJo says:
This is so awesome! Can't wait to get some made to send in!!
120 days ago
adammd2010 says:
Absolutely love it
120 days ago
ARTAGADESIGNS says:
I love the idea. I'm in.
119 days ago
katieroses says:
Hi everyone! Thanks for all the support! What an AMAZING community of giving people we have! The cards have started to trickle in and it is truly a heart-warming sight! Keep 'em coming!
119 days ago
handjstarcreations says:
wonderful organization, deserves lots of support!!
119 days ago
alithearchitect says:
My bi-montly craft club took your challenge and made 26 gorgeous handmade cards last night! Take a peek and thanks for this super fun idea for our club! http://alithearchitect.wordpress.com/2012/01/25/share-the-love/
118 days ago
LuchiesBoutique says:
what a great idea...count me in! Will grab the family and create a bunch.
117 days ago
AvantCarde says:
Just mailed some of our cards ... what a great feeling ;)
117 days ago
esskaysquared says:
I totally understand the no glitter rule, but I was wondering if that goes for glitter glue, too. I assume you can't use glitter because it could fall off and get into the food, but glitter glue doesn't flake off like loose glitter, and as far as I'm concerned it's not a craft without glitter!
115 days ago
TheMaineCoonCat says:
SWEET! First ETSY project I get to do! YIPPEE! They'll come! I assume you want envelopes too? Never read about that and not all pics have 'vlopes. Can someone pls say here? tyvm!
113 days ago
AlicesEyesDC says:
I love making cards!!!! good thing i read the part about the no glitter! haha! what a great way to give back and cheer some people up! My daughter and I will be making some this afternoon!
113 days ago
7WishesDreamcatchers says:
This a lovely way to give back! I love you Etsy!
113 days ago
RecraftGifts says:
I'm touched. This is such a great idea! I'm definitely donating some cards from my shop!
113 days ago
VivisEnchantedCorner says:
Love it. I want to be part of this, I guess I better start gettng busy!
113 days ago
VivisEnchantedCorner says:
Love it, I really want to be part of this, I guess I better get busy!
113 days ago
sancynam says:
Excellent! I love making cards... I think I'll invite some fellow crafter pals over to my place this weekend to make some. I live near the Etsy HQ and I'd prefer to drop them off; are there preferred hours for that?
112 days ago
ChocolateCherriBomb says:
guess i'll get on it too! oh, it's 2012 you guys... i got sorta mixed up for a sec!
112 days ago
TastefulThings says:
I love handmade cards ans stationary, These ones are so lovely! Thanks for sharing!
111 days ago
dessertfirstdesigns says:
What a great idea!
111 days ago
BlueMoonLights says:
Such a great idea! I'll make one tonight.
111 days ago
vivikas says:
I am definitely participating, an awesome idea and one that all of us can participate!!!
111 days ago
GratitudeLady says:
I'll for sure send cards! What a lovely thought.
111 days ago
katielynnjewelry says:
A Great project once again Etsy! Youre awesome :)
111 days ago
LivingVintage says:
Great idea!
111 days ago
HenPenDesigns says:
My grandma was a volunteer for many, many years with Meals-on-Wheels here in Ohio. I have many memories of going on her rounds delivering meals when I was little and I STILL remember the excitement & joy it brought to those people. They will appreciate these cards so much Etsy! More than I think you can imagine :) BTW, I'm honored to have my Love + Mail postcard used in this blog post since this project does hold such fond memories for me. Such a wonderful, wonderful project! Completing my cards tonight & mailing my cards tomorrow! Please everyone participate!!
111 days ago
galleryoncentral says:
This is great! I plan on participating and asking my friends too! Thank you Etsy!
111 days ago
FrenchTwistPostcards says:
What a great way to participate for Valentines Day. I definitely am looking forward to doing this ; )
111 days ago
matesrubbish says:
While I'm so thankful that Etsy's provided us with an excellent way to utilize our craftiness for a good cause, it's the comments that make me feel truly warm and fuzzy inside. Seeing fellow crafters being so gung-ho about the idea of donating their time and effort into this project has me so ecstatic that I'm a part of this awesome community! Now I'd better get started if I'm going to hit that deadline!
111 days ago
BurkeHareCo says:
LoveLOVE this idea
111 days ago
wittymelon455 says:
LOVE this! I'm going to have my little siblings to participate! It's always so sweet to see things made by Children! :)
111 days ago
lilinspirations says:
Very nice!
111 days ago
stepbackink says:
What a great idea..
111 days ago
breadandroses2 says:
This is one of the best service projects Etsy promotes! Still time to mail a card.
111 days ago
charmingliltrinkets says:
How perfect that I've spent the past few months working on making cards in my off-time, now I can put my knowledge to really good use. I hope I can get them in by the deadline *fingers crossed*
111 days ago
RecraftGifts says:
What a wonderful idea! Love to support a cause that makes people smile. :) I'm in!
111 days ago
ginassimplethings says:
Such a wonderful idea! Someone bought 2 cards from me for this project!
111 days ago
junkgarden says:
What a wonderful thing to do. I'm in.
111 days ago
Mariapalito says:
I am in !!! I will send some of my favorite cards ! http://www.etsy.com/listing/88686029/valentines-day-card-owl-you-need-is-love
110 days ago
KettleConfections says:
Great idea, love the concept of combining volunteering with crafting, and raising awareness of senior citizen issues.
110 days ago
AcmeFun says:
DOUBLE PLUS GOOD
109 days ago
KisforCalligraphy says:
25 cards sent Priority Mail today....BE MINE!
109 days ago
DesigninginHeels says:
Etsy staff, volunteers, and fellow crafters you truly are an inspiration
108 days ago
wanderwitch says:
I really like this idea. I live in a sheltered housing complex so might ask friends here if I can do something for people here. I agree with DesigninginHeels above. Take care everyone. Louise
108 days ago
Celticcatphotos says:
You can't go wrong with spreading Love!
107 days ago
gailanders3 says:
What a grand project...wish that I had this info sooner. My cards would never arrive on time. Hopefully you will do this again next year. Will look forward to that or some other project. LOVE!!
107 days ago
Emilianbucks says:
Our card making party just finished and was successful and fun! Overnighting the cards tomorrow. Thank you, Etsy, for the inspiration!
107 days ago
shaganebl says:
Really LIKE the idea! Since I read the email a bit late, sending physical cards won't get there in time for your deadline. I have made a DIY template for my customers to use, which I share for free so I thought perhaps you can benefit from these as well if you don't receive enough in the mail. http://wolfindustries.tumblr.com/post/16687978082/diy-cut-fold-blank-card-template-for-hammer
106 days ago
Petal Jewellery from petalgifts says:
This is such a fantastic project. I'm gutted that I've only just found out about it, 3 days after the deadline, but hoping to get involved in future projects like this.
103 days ago
foxegurl266 says:
I would love to see an update on this story like the ones we've seen in past years. How many cards were collected? Were the recepients happy? Do you have an pictures of mountains of cards?
85 days ago
Nadin Sandler from NadinArtGlass says:
wow... loved!
52 days ago