What To Do With Old Postcards: Creative Ideas And Tips

Old postcards can be a treasure trove of memories and history. Whether they were passed down from a relative or found at a flea market, vintage postcards offer a glimpse into the past and can be a valuable addition to any collection. But what should you do with old postcards once you have them?

One option is to display them. Vintage postcards can make great wall art and can be framed or hung on a bulletin board. They can also be used to decorate a scrapbook or journal. If you have a large collection, consider rotating them out periodically to keep your display fresh.

Another option is to use them for correspondence. Sending a postcard with a vintage image can add a unique and personal touch to your message. You can also use old postcards as gift tags or bookmarks. Just be sure to make copies if you don’t want to part with the original.

Preserving and Storing Old Postcards

Preserving and storing old postcards is essential to maintain their quality and longevity. Postcards can be delicate and susceptible to damage, so proper storage is crucial to prevent deterioration. Here are some tips on how to preserve and store old postcards:

Proper Storage for Postcards

The first step in preserving postcards is to store them in a safe and dry place. A postcard album is an excellent option for storing postcards. It is specifically designed to protect postcards from dust, moisture, and other harmful elements. Postcard albums come in various sizes and styles, including binders, folders, and boxes.

When storing postcards in an album, it is essential to use acid-free and lignin-free pages. Acid and lignin can cause postcards to deteriorate over time, leading to discoloration and brittleness. It is also crucial to avoid overcrowding the album pages. Overcrowding can cause the postcards to bend or warp, leading to damage.

If an album is not available, postcards can be stored in acid-free and lignin-free folders or envelopes. It is best to avoid storing postcards in plastic sleeves or PVC, as they can cause damage to postcards over time.

Digitizing Your Postcard Collection

Digitizing postcards is an excellent way to preserve and share them with others. Scanning postcards is a simple process that can be done using a scanner or a smartphone camera. Once scanned, postcards can be stored on a computer or cloud storage for safekeeping.

When scanning postcards, it is essential to use a high resolution to capture the details of the postcard accurately. It is also crucial to handle postcards with care when scanning to avoid damage.

In conclusion, preserving and storing old postcards is essential to maintain their quality and longevity. By following these tips, postcards can be enjoyed for years to come.

Creative Uses for Old Postcards

Old postcards can be a treasure trove of memories and a great way to add a touch of vintage charm to your home decor. But what do you do with all those postcards you’ve collected over the years? Here are some creative ways to upcycle your old postcards:

Creating a Postcard Collage

If you have a collection of postcards from a particular place or time, why not create a postcard collage? You can arrange the postcards in a grid pattern or create a more free-form design. Use a glue stick or Mod Podge to affix the postcards to a piece of cardboard or foam board. Once the glue is dry, you can frame the collage and hang it on your wall.

Postcard Origami

Origami is the art of paper folding, and postcards can make great origami paper. You can fold postcards into cranes, boxes, and other shapes. You can also use postcards to create origami decorations for your home or to give as gifts.

Postcard Gift Tags

Old postcards can also be repurposed as gift tags. Cut the postcards into small rectangles or other shapes and use a hole punch to create a hole for string or ribbon. You can write the recipient’s name on the back of the postcard or attach a small tag with the name written on it.

Postcard Scrapbooking

If you enjoy scrapbooking, old postcards can be a great addition to your pages. Use postcards to create borders or to add interest to your pages. You can also use postcards as backgrounds for your photos or to create journaling blocks.

In conclusion, there are many creative ways to upcycle your old postcards. Whether you create a postcard collage, fold postcards into origami shapes, use postcards as gift tags, or incorporate postcards into your scrapbooking, you can give new life to these vintage treasures.

Displaying and Decorating with Postcards

Postcards are not just for sending messages to loved ones; they can also be used to create beautiful displays and decorations in your home. Here are some ideas for displaying and decorating with postcards:

Framing and Displaying Postcards

One of the easiest ways to display postcards is by framing them. Postcards can be framed individually or in groups, and can be hung on walls or placed on shelves. When choosing frames, consider the style of the postcards and the decor of the room. Simple frames work well for vintage postcards, while more ornate frames can be used for postcards with intricate designs.

Creating a Postcard Gallery Wall

A gallery wall is a great way to display a collection of postcards. Choose postcards that have a similar theme or color scheme, and arrange them in a grid pattern on a wall. To create a cohesive look, use frames that are the same color or style. A gallery wall of postcards can be a great conversation starter and add a unique touch to any room.

Using Postcards in Wedding Decor

Postcards can also be used in wedding decor. They can be used as table numbers, place cards, or even as part of the wedding favors. Vintage postcards can add a touch of nostalgia to a wedding, while postcards with scenic views can be used to create a travel-themed wedding. Postcards can also be used to create a unique guest book by having guests write messages on the back of the postcards.

In conclusion, postcards can be used in a variety of ways to create beautiful displays and decorations. Whether you choose to frame them, create a gallery wall, or use them in wedding decor, postcards can add a unique touch to any room or event.

Selling and Donating Old Postcards

If you have a collection of old postcards that you no longer want to keep, there are several options available to you. You can sell them, donate them, or even give them away to friends and family. In this section, we will explore the various ways you can sell or donate your old postcards.

Determining the Value of Vintage Postcards

Before you attempt to sell your old postcards, it is important to determine their value. The value of vintage postcards can vary greatly depending on several factors, including their age, rarity, condition, and historical significance. Some postcards from the early 1900s can be quite valuable, especially if they feature rare images or were produced in limited quantities.

To determine the value of your old postcards, you can consult price guides, online auction sites, or even postcard dealers. It is also a good idea to get your postcards appraised by a professional appraiser, especially if you have a large collection or if you suspect that some of your postcards may be particularly valuable.

Selling Postcards at Antique Shops

One option for selling your old postcards is to take them to antique shops. Many antique shops specialize in vintage postcards and other ephemera, and they may be interested in purchasing your collection. However, it is important to note that antique shops will typically only buy postcards that are in good condition and that have some historical or cultural significance.

When selling your postcards at antique shops, it is a good idea to have an idea of their value beforehand. You should also be prepared to negotiate on price, as antique shops will typically offer you less than the full value of your collection.

Donating Your Postcard Collection

If you would like to donate your old postcards, there are several options available to you. Many museums, libraries, and historical societies collect postcards as part of their collections, and they may be interested in acquiring your collection. Donating your postcards to a museum or library can be a great way to ensure that they are preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Another option is to donate your postcards to a charity or non-profit organization. Some organizations may use your postcards to create art projects, while others may sell them to raise funds for their cause.

In conclusion, there are several options available to you if you have a collection of old postcards that you no longer want to keep. Whether you choose to sell them or donate them, it is important to determine their value beforehand and to choose a reputable buyer or organization.