Stamping ground

Melissa Penfold delivers a missive on writing a keepable letter.

- Melissa Penfold

LETTERS are becoming special these days, so they need to be written in the right tone, on the right paper and sent at the right time. A single page – two at most – is ideal, and conveys the right personal touch without imposing on the recipient’s time and eyesight.

GET THE STATIONERY RIGHT Something appropriate for the occasion and circumstances. Good paper can be cheaper than greeting cards. Rather than expensive one-offs, buy a box of decent stuff from a specialist.

WHEN TO WRITE A LETTER Friendly reminders, best wishes, greetings, good lucks, condolences, get wells, congratulations, changes of address, welcome homes – there’s always a reason to write. All thank-you notes, invitations, love letters and birthday greetings should be sent by post. So should juicier letters you want people to keep, laugh at, cherish or even burn. Make sure yours is everything a letter should be – heartfelt, interesting, thoughtful and well-constructed.