
I recently learned about this new trend called “Pocket Letter Pals.” Have you heard of it? Well, it’s essentially a modern day twist on what we used to call “Pen Pals,” The twist being that this form of snail mail is done with participants who not only share a liking of regular mail but are also creative! Janette Lane, a blogger and paper crafter, came up with this idea earlier this year and it has really taken off.
So, what is a “Pocket Letter”? Well, it is an 8 1/2″ by 11″ nine-pocket page protector that’s filled with fun crafty things like pretty paper, art work, treats, and trinkets such as craft and planner supplies. There is usually at least one pocket that will hold a fun or inspirational quote quote and another that has some information about the sender (if you’re exchanging Pocket Letters with someone you’ve never met before). Another pocket may have a card with questions to the recipient asking simple things like “Do you have a favorite color?” or “What is your favorite movie?”

Once I understood the concept of Pocket Letter Pals, I said to myself “This sounds like fun!” followed by “As if I need another project!” 😉 Anyway, I am totally hooked. I’m exchanging these kinds of letters with some new-found friends and I love it.
Now that I’ve discovered Pocket Letter Pals, my goal is to show others how they too can take part in this craft in a thrifty way. After all, the inspiration for Pocket Letters was the idea of creating a less expensive way to do something similar to “Project Life” (those scrapbook-type photo pages that a lot of people are into.) From my own experience, I can definitely see how this hobby can become expensive, but it doesn’t have to be that way!
Related: 17 Handmade Cards for Cheapskates
How to Make Fun Pocket Letters
(Without Breaking the Bank)
1. Search online for ideas. They’re all free! (I am even sharing content over at my own blog, all FREE!) I am finding that the community of “Pals” is a relatively friendly one. If you find a design or layout that you like, try to recreate it with your own flair.
2. Set yourself some ground rules. If you want to swap letters with strangers, decide if you wish to exchange with someone in your own country or go international. A lot of people choose to stay in their own area to lessen the mailing fees. If you wish to find a group where others are interested in the same thing you can check out the original blogger’s site at PocketLettersPals.com. There are also groups (some private) on Facebook.
3. Find a friend to exchange with who also wants to be budget-conscious. The beauty of this hobby is that you can do a one-time exchange or do it several times. There are no rules. Ask your new or existing friend a few questions and lay down some parameters such as a theme, a color scheme, type (handmade or a mixture of handmade and manufactured treats), and budget. Work out something that both of you can be happy about.

5. Get creative with paper! If you are already a paper crafter, then you may already have a lot to fill those pockets with. For the nine pocket inserts, simply cut up a sheet of paper, or several scrap pieces of paper into playing card sizes (2.5 ” x 3.75″). Some people even use their own drawings and art work to cut up. Other sources of paper include junk mail, magazines, wrapping papers, calendars, greeting cards, ledger papers, photos, and playing cards.

- Washi tape pieces wrapped around a plastic coated card
- Colorful paperclips
- Tiny clothespins
- Colorful little buttons
- Sequins
- Pieces of trim, yarn, and/or ribbons
- Stickers
- Die cuts
- Images cut from magazines
- Stamps
The possibilities are nearly endless!
7. Once your pockets are filled, they’re easy to fold up and insert into an envelope. If you’d like to be crafty, you can wrap the page with tissue paper, a doily, and some twine before putting it into the envelope. If you’re trying to be extra thrifty, keep your letter light and not overly bulky so you are not charged extra at the post office.

If you’re looking for more Pocket Letter Pals how to’s and tips, check out my blog, Annmakes!
What trinkets would you send to your Pocket Letter Pals?
Related: Color Trend: 10 Easy Afghan Patterns in Market Flower Hues
Ann Koeman
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What a fun idea! I have a group of friends who live all over the world. We generally talk online via instagram about knitting, crochet, yarn, spinning, jewelry making, photography, quilting and more! We are a crafty bunch! But I love this one, what a great and inexpensive way to share with friends! I miss getting “REAL” mail, not just the junk and bills, this is a good way to get people to take some time and actually send a letter. Thanks for sharing this.
Great ideas 🙂
I would like to point out that standard/regulation playing card size is 2.5″ x 3.5″ [not 3.75″]. Any larger, and they simply will not fit into the 9 Pocket Sleeves 🙂
I am new to pocket letters, but it looks like great fun…I cannot wait to start!!!
I am new to pocket letters too. I have made only 3 so far and looking for people to swap with. I am a mother of a son and daughter. I will be 60 March 7th. Retired from work and got a lot of time on my hands. I love to craft but I am just starting. If anyone out there is eager to swap with me please let me know.
Hi Edna,
I just learned about Pocket Pals online and I would love to swap with you.
Joan
would enjoy swapping with you. just started myself.
Glad to see I am not the only person that is new to pocket letters! I have to get some supplies first but after that hopefully I will be ready!
I would be willing to swap with you ladies. I am collecting ideas and supplies and plan to create my first one this week for a new calligraphy friend I made last month. Find me on Instagram and send me a private message if you’re interested: @brendaleitzow.