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5 Tips for Postcard Design: Art Direction from an Art Director

Written By: Elisha Yvonne Velasco | Published on January 12, 2025

Postcards may be small and simple, but they're an excellent way to connect with people. To design postcards that stand out from the pile, it's important to have the perfect balance of creativity and strategy.

So how does one get started? We had the pleasure of chatting with 48HourPrint.com's art director, KD Macalinao, a designer with 15 years of experience creating impactful visuals under her belt. She shared her essential and foolproof tips on how to create stunning and effective postcard design. Read on and get ready to spark creativity with KD’s help!

  1. Less is more.
    When it comes to postcard design, KD emphasizes keeping it simple and being intentional with your design. You can do this by avoiding clutter and only including elements that serve your brand or message a purpose. Don’t add unnecessary graphics, text, or shapes just for fluff or to fill space. If you want your readers to focus on your message, a clean, organized layout is key.

  2. The message is important.
    Your postcard is only effective if it gets your message across. KD stresses the importance of knowing what you want to say and saying it clearly. A postcard’s space is limited, so it’s best to keep your message concise. Ensure that your copy is easy to understand and stick to one call-to-action.

  3. Choose the right typography.
    Fonts are not just used for decorative purposes — they set the tone for your design. KD advises choosing a font style that aligns with your message. For example, fun and playful fonts are great for school assemblies and dances, while sleek and modern fonts are suitable for conventions, conferences, and similar professional events. Prioritizing readability is also crucial in postcard design. Fancy fonts may seem attractive at first glance, but they defeat the purpose of your messaging if they’re hard to read.

  4. Think about art direction.
    Besides typography, KD suggests incorporating visual elements to convey ideas or emotions. Use graphics and illustrations that help explain and enhance your message and match your postcard’s theme. You can also include textures and patterns to add depth without cluttering the design.

  5. Use colors wisely.
    Never underestimate the psychology of colors. According to KD, choose colors based on the mood or emotion you want your postcard to evoke. When used correctly, colors can draw attention to your design and effectively convey the emotions you want your audience to feel. Ensure harmony in your chosen colors so nothing gets washed out and your design pops.

Conclusion

Designing a postcard is all about finding the right balance between creativity and strategy. With KD's expert tips, we hope you can create an eye-catching and impactful postcard, whether for promotions, events, or personal greetings. With the right approach, your postcards can leave a lasting impression and engage your audience.


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