A guide to using my Thank You Cards

s small business owners, we’re always looking for thoughtful, memorable ways to make customers feel appreciated without adding hours to our workload. That’s why I designed this free printable Thank You card: something simple, joyful and personal that you can pop into orders, hand to clients, or use at craft fairs and pop-ups.

But once you’ve downloaded the files, what next? In this post, I’ll walk you through how to print them at home or professionally, what the different file types mean, and how paper choice can completely change the final result.

What’s Inside the Download

• Print-at-home PDFs (A6 size)

• Print-shop PDFs with crop marks and bleed

• Web-ready PNG + SVG files (for digital thank you messages)

• Mock-ups to help you visualise finished cards

• Print instructions

Everything has been hand-illustrated by me, all packaged and ready to use straight away.

Understanding the File Types

A quick (jargon-free) guide:

PDF (Print Files)
Best for printing — keeps everything crisp and aligned.

• Use the version with crop marks for professional printers

• Use the standard PDF for home printing

PNG (Web Use)
Perfect for emailing, Instagram, Shopify, Etsy, newsletters, and stories.

SVG (Scalable Graphics)
These stay sharp at any size — ideal for Canva, logos or resizing

How to Print at Home

1. Open the PDF file

2. Select Actual Size or 100% scale (not “Fit to Page”)

3. Choose Best Quality or Photo Printing in printer settings

4. Print onto thicker paper/cardstock — ideally 250–350gsm

5. Trim using scissors, a paper trimmer or craft knife + ruler

Home Printing Tips

• Test on plain paper first to check alignment

• Use uncoated/matte cardstock for a more premium feel

• Let ink fully dry before stacking cards

• Recycle any test prints

Great if you need smaller quantities or fast turnaround

How to Use Canva or Adobe Express

1. Open Canva → Create A6 document

2. Upload the PNG or SVG

3. Add text, discount codes or handwritten space if you wish

4. Export as PDF for printing

This is perfect if you want multiple variations or seasonal notes.

Using a Professional Printer

If you want the most polished finish, a print shop is a brilliant option. Look for printers that offer:

• A6 postcard or greetings card printing

• Thick card options (300–400gsm)

• Recycled or FSC-certified papers

• Short-run quantities (25–200)

• Rounded corners or special finishes if desired

Reliable UK Options

• Solopress — Professional quality, excellent service

• Print.Work— high-quality + sustainable papers

• Doxdirect — affordable with great customer service

• Your local independent print shop — often fastest, most personal

Upload the Print-Shop PDF with bleed and crop marks — they’ll know what to do.

Paper Choice Makes a Difference

This is where the magic happens; the same artwork can look completely different depending on the paper. I've mocked up some cards in various papers on the image above. Can you see the difference between the colour and texture of the cards?

• Matte / uncoated card → soft, natural, tactile

• Recycled stock → slightly speckled, eco-friendly, great character

• Silk or satin → smooth, modern, vibrant colours

• Textured papers (linen, laid, hammered) → handmade, craft-inspired

If you're unsure, order a paper sample pack, most printers offer them.

I’d Love to See Yours

If you use the cards, please tag me @bylindsey.design on Instagram or Facebook. It genuinely makes my day seeing them out in the world.

And if you have questions (printing, paper, Canva, branding) just ask. I’m always happy to help.