Discover how to start penpaling — from finding your first penpal to writing and decorating your letter! This creative guide covers easy steps, stationery ideas, and tips to connect with people around the world through the joy of snail mail.
Hi! I’m Martje — the creator behind @martjes.journal, where I share my love for journaling, stationery, and creative writing. If you’ve ever wanted to make new friends, express your creativity, and slow down from digital life, penpaling is the perfect hobby for you!
In this post, I’ll show you how to start penpaling — from finding your first penpal to sending your first decorated letter. You’ll learn how to connect with others through letters, creativity, and a touch of art.
Step 1 – Find Your Penpal
Before you start writing, you’ll need to find someone to exchange letters with. Luckily, there are many welcoming communities online!
Try websites like Postcrossing.com or Global Penfriends, where you can safely connect with other letter lovers around the world. My personal favorite is to search on Instagram/TikTok hashtags like #penpalsearch, #penpalswanted, or #snailmailcommunity.
When looking for a penpal, think about what kind of connection you want — someone who shares your hobbies, your love for journaling, or even someone from a country you’ve always wanted to learn more about.
Step 2 – Gather Your Supplies
One of the best parts of penpaling is collecting your stationery! You don’t need to buy much to begin — start with what you already have.
Here are some essentials to get started:
- Envelope, glue and maybe a pair of scissors
- Stickers, washi tape, papers – to make your letter more personal. → if you want take a look at the Archer and Olive shop for these items
Pens and markers – I love using Pens Collection – Archer & Olive for adding colorful touches.
Step 3 – Write Your Letter
Now comes the heart of penpaling — writing the letter! Begin your first letter with a friendly introduction of yourself. Tell your penpal who you are, what you love, and why you wanted to start penpaling.
You can write about:
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Your favorite hobbies or creative projects
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A recent adventure or cozy weekend
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Fun facts about you and your current lifestyle
Don’t forget to ask questions — it keeps the conversation flowing and helps you get to know each other better.
Step 4 – Decorate Your Letter
Here’s where your creativity shines! Arrange your stationery, stickers, and washi tape before gluing them down. Try layering paper pieces, adding small doodles, or creating a color theme.
✨ Tip: Mark glue points before sticking everything down — it keeps your layout neat and tidy!
You can also include a few small extras, like a sticker sheet, pressed flowers, or papers as a surprise for your penpal.
Step 5 – Send It & Wait
You’re almost done! Write your penpal’s name in colorful ink, check the postage cost, and send your letter. There’s something truly special about dropping a handwritten note into the postbox and waiting for a reply.
While you wait, why not start creating your next letter design or look for new stationery inspiration? → you can check out the blog and shop from Archer and Olive for more creative ideas :)
Final Thoughts
Penpaling is more than just exchanging artful letters — it’s a creative act of friendship with someone who might live thousands of miles away.
So grab your favorite pens, decorate your first envelope, and start your penpal adventure today! 💌
If you’d like more inspiration, come say hi on Instagram: @martjes.journal or YouTube — I’d love to see your letters and Penpal experiences!
You can also share your Penpal letters using the tags @archerandolive, @archerandolive.community, #AOShare and #archerandolive.
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