3 Ways to Use Calligraphy to Elevate Your Gifts

Calligraphy is more than just “pretty writing” - it’s a way to weave intention, beauty, and personality into every gift you give. I recently interviewed Natalie Winder, about her calligraphy business, Metallic Sunflower on my Greener Gifting Gang podcast and heard how she uses the art of beautiful lettering to add that extra layer of meaning to gifts, events, and special moments.

Inspired by our conversation here are some ways you could use calligraphy to elevate your own gifting or the way your package your giftable products.

1. Create a Hand-Lettered Gift Tag (Don’t Just Use a Sticker)

A hand-written gift tag becomes a keepsake rather than a throwaway.

• Use a calligraphy style to write the recipient’s name or a short message.
  

• Pair the tag with natural embellishments like a small pressed flower, twine, or leaf.
  

• You can even write a micro-poem, affirmation or inside joke rather than “To / From.”
  

This little extra turns a tag into something the receiver might want to hang, keep, or photograph.

2. Let Calligraphy Be Part of the Wrap

Create your own unique wrapping paper look!

• Use a metallic or white gel pen on a darker kraft or black paper for contrast
  

• Write a longer sentiment or even a short message directly on the wrapping paper
  

• Use paper tape or washi tape as “canvases” to hand-letter someone’s name or a quote
  

The wrap stops being just the container and becomes part of the gift experience.

3. Use Calligraphy on Product Tags or Branding Elements
   

If you sell handmade gifts or physical products, calligraphy can elevate your brand in small touches:

• Lettered thank-you cards or “instruction” cards
  

• A personalised note in calligraphy
  

• Use a calligraphy-style font (or your own hand) on labels or packaging inserts
  

These personal touches build a connection with your customer.

Why This Works (From My Chat with Natalie)

• Calligraphy slows you down and forces intention. Rather than just quickly wrapping a gift or card, you pause and think about what the recipient means to you.
  

• It can be adapted to your skill level — even faux calligraphy can look elegant.
  

• These little details make your gifting and packaging stand out from the crowd!
  

If you want to dig in deeper and practice hands-on, book a spot in our upcoming masterclass on Monday 6th October live on Zoom with Natalie where she will share an introduction to faux calligraphy with us.

Or, if you’re not ready for the full class yet, you can download Natalie’s free guide — Begin with a Brush: 10 Top Tips for Beautiful Brush Pen Calligraphy.