Why you should pick up a greeting card today
A postcard too. It’s the perfect chance to express yourself, say Hoong and Michelle of The Gentlemen’s Press and HRVST.store in Singapore
Am I the only one who thinks greeting cards and postcards are fun? (Probably not.)
It’s not just because I love their designs and convenience. I love the idea of writing a unique message to someone as well.
I try to send a greeting card or postcard to a close friend for a special occasion, and make it more personal. I know they’d appreciate it, instead of me just giving them a gift. (It’s also perfect if you want to keep things short and sweet.)
I like receiving greeting cards and postcards too. Nothing beats reading someone’s thoughts and words, and in their own handwriting no less.
Though I have to admit that I haven’t done this in a while, so I feel kind of guilty. But it’s okay, because now I have more than enough reason to restart this habit.
Hoong and Michelle – and their pretty greeting cards and postcards – serve as my reminders.




The husband-and-wife team, who are parents to four boys and one girl (with two of the boys and the girl being cats), are the brains behind The Gentlemen’s Press and HRVST.store in Singapore.
The Gentlemen’s Press is a design and print studio that uses different print techniques to create custom greeting cards, postcards, invitations and brand collateral. HRVST.store is their online shop, where you’ll find special cards, stationery, posters, paper gifts and more.
They’ve shown me that I can get inspired with greeting cards and postcards (or even paper and prints in general) again – and that I can also create my own to give away (with their help, of course).
Can they inspire you? Read on for their insights and tips, and they just might.
What kind of memories do you have that are tied to greeting cards, postcards, paper and prints?
Hoong and Michelle: “We remember carefully choosing cards at the bookstore as kids – always going for something textured or gold-foiled, even before we knew what letterpress was. There’s something nostalgic about holding a message in your hand, especially when it’s written just for you.”

What would make you pick up a greeting card or postcard?
“Tactility – a nice paper stock, maybe an impression or a curious fold. Sometimes it’s just a great line that makes us smile or pause.”
What excites you the most about the process of creating greeting cards and postcards?
“The translation from flat artwork to something you can feel – especially with letterpress or foil. Watching that first pull off the press never gets old.”
What do you wish people knew about paper; running both of your shops; and custom printing?
“Paper isn’t just paper – it can change how a message feels. Running both shops means switching hats a lot: We’re printers, designers, shippers, and sometimes therapists to nervous clients. Custom printing takes time – not just production, but listening, testing, refining.”
Your top custom printing facts for beginners or customers
“Not all papers work with all techniques. And yes, ink can feel different depending on the method.”
Important questions to ask a print studio (so you can choose the right one for your needs)
“Ask what technique they recommend – a good studio won’t push what’s easiest or most expensive, but what’s best for your idea.”
Your favourite print techniques
“Letterpress and hot foil. One leaves a dent, the other catches light.”
Your favourite finishes
“Lately, 3D embossing – the difference vs normal embossing always surprises people.”




Tips for designing greeting cards and postcards
“Design for the format, not just for visuals. Think about where it folds, where someone will hold it, how it will be read.”
Elements of a great greeting card
“A little personality, a touch of surprise, and just enough room for someone else’s words.”
Elements of a great postcard
“Iconic imagery or design – and a back that actually invites someone to write.”




Most unusual greeting card, postcard, or print art that you've come across
“Our collab with Art/ST Records and the sound recording of our Heidelberg press cut into a vinyl – the packaging, print and stickers that came with it.”
The last time you sent a greeting card or postcard
“Two weeks ago. We mailed postcards for visitors to our art fair in Unfold Shenzhen 2025 back to themselves and their friends.”
How to repurpose greeting cards and postcards
“Frame them, cut them up into tags, or write over them like layers of graffiti.”
How to use posters as wall art
“No need to frame them perfectly – even clips or washi tape will give them a casual charm.”
Tips to collect, preserve and store stationery
“Store them flat, away from sunlight, in an acid free sleeve/package, and maybe don’t hoard too many (but we’re guilty of that too).”
The positives of writing down your thoughts on paper
“You slow down. You mean it more. And it somehow stays with you longer.”
Do’s and don’ts of writing on greeting cards and postcards
“Do: Just write. Don’t: Overthink it. A sincere sentence beats a perfect paragraph or perfect handwriting.”
Unique ways to personalise custom paper prints for oneself and others
“Add initials, pick a colour that means something to you, or emboss a tiny symbol only you understand.”
And lastly…
Do you think some people have forgotten the value of greeting cards and postcards? Why do you think we should use greeting cards and postcards more often?
“Maybe. Or maybe people just need reminding. In a world of pings and alerts, a handwritten card feels extra real. It slows things down in the best way.”
Why not brighten up someone’s day and get that greeting card or postcard ASAP?
The Gentlemen’s Letterpress is at 50 Genting Lane, #07-02 Cideco Industrial Complex, Singapore 349558. Find them here and on Facebook and Instagram. Check out HRVST.store here and on Instagram. Product photos courtesy of HRVST.store.