Design a Character Calling Card

For this swap, you are invited to design a calling card for a fairy tale character. The cards may be in any style you like, using images you've created, classic illustrations, vintage clip art, or even just simple, clean graphics.

Most vintage calling cards had very little information on it, usually just the bearer's name, but for this project feel free to add a bit more text--but no address, please, as these would only be included on business cards. Have fun with the language and design, which should reflect the character's personality in some way.

Please send your partner a minimum set of 6 cards printed out on card stock of your choice. Most business card templates are sized around 2" x 3.5" but you're free to decide what works best for you.

Your cards should be accompanied by one written letter addressed to a fictional person to whom this card might be presented. Is your character one of the thieves, calling upon Ali Baba in the guise of an oil merchant? Perhaps he is the flower-prince, paying a visit to his new love Thumbelina. Whatever you choose, please provide a few details through your letter that will give your reader a little background on your chosen fairy tale, although of course it's not necessary to recap everything.

The fine print:

All members in good standing may participate in this exchange. By joining this swap, you pledge to follow through with your commitment and to faithfully communicate with your partner if there is any delay. And please--be sure to rate your partner promptly upon receipt! A gracious caller deserves no less than courteous acknowledgement.

More about the fascinating history of calling cards, as well as great ideas for content and design, can be found below.

The Gentleman's Guide to the Calling Card
Personalized Calling Card Stationery History and Etiquette

Although calling cards have existed around the world for hundreds of years, they became a particularly important part of social etiquette during the 19th century in Europe and North America. Visitors who called upon a home would bring a card engraved with their name, which would be presented to the house servant upon arrival. The servant would give the card to his master or mistress, who would then decide whether or not to receive the caller. Either way, the cards were kept piled high on a silver dish in the foyer, on display for all who visited the home to see--with only the most fashionable names on top, of course.

Photo from Paper Michelle.