Around this time last year, I was finishing up a set of truly awesome letterpress and hand-painted business cards. The client got in touch a few weeks ago for a reprint, but was hoping to invest a little less for the same design.

I’ve merged commercial printing with my letterpress work before, so I knew just what to do. Since the design on the back of the cards didn’t create a significant impression into the paper, I would have that side printed commercially, while letterpress printing the front. We decided to bring costs down even more by also commercially printing the flowers on the front, which of course isn’t as beautiful and unique as the original hand-painted work, but as a small business owner, I get it! And, since I print business cards four at a time, I was still able to incorporate different painted flowers to imbue the cards with some variation. Overall, I think they turned out great and I’m thrilled to be able to offer hybrid services to future clients!

The first batch of new card designs I ordered with my new Boxcar plates are finally up in the shop! I started with a category that is far and away the most difficult to write—and non-negotiable to send—sympathy cards. That probably explains why they were the first to sell out from my Real Talk collection last year.

Everyone loves a good expletive, right?! Except my mom. And your mom. And people who don’t swear like a sailor. Anyway, everyone can agree on this card! Whether you’ve done something wrong or a friend has had a setback, this card is a good one to have on hand! Pick it up here.

This card was actually inspired by a girlfriend’s experience with miscarriage. She said the best, most truthful sentiment anyone expressed to her was from her doctor, who simply said, “This really sucks. You don’t have to be ok right now.” Sometimes the best way to deal with terrible circumstances is to simply acknowledge them instead of sweeping them under the rug.

So when there’s nothing better to say, just say this sucks. Trust me, it will go a long way. Pick up this card here. And stay tuned for more new designs coming soon!