Postcards
What it is
Postcards are thanks.io's most popular mailer type. They are full-bleed, printed cards available in three sizes: 4×6, 6×9, and 6×11 inches. Every postcard supports a custom front design, a handwritten-style message on the back, and optional QR codes.
When to use it
- High-volume outreach campaigns where cost per piece matters
- Neighborhood farming and real estate geographic targeting
- Promotional offers, limited-time discounts, and event announcements
- Post-purchase thank-yous and customer retention
- Drip campaigns and evergreen marketing sequences
Postcards are the best starting point for most users - widest template selection, lowest per-piece cost, and they support every automation feature on the platform.
Choosing your size
4×6 - the most cost-efficient size. Best for high-volume sends where per-piece cost is the primary factor.
6×9 - significantly more visual presence in the mailbox than 4×6. Popular for real estate agents, local service businesses, and campaigns where the design needs room to make an impact.
6×11 - the largest postcard format. Maximum print area for bold imagery, luxury branding, and event announcements.
Design specs
| Size | Full-bleed canvas | Safe zone |
|---|---|---|
| 4×6 | 1875 × 1275 px | Keep content 10% from each edge (~188 px left/right, ~128 px top/bottom) |
| 6×9 | 1875 × 1275 px | Keep content 10% from each edge |
| 6×11 | 3337 × 1777 px | Keep content 10% from each edge (~334 px left/right, ~178 px top/bottom) |
The editor shows two overlays:
- Cut line (red) - the outer edge of the printed card. Artwork should extend past this line (bleed) so there are no white borders after trimming.
- Safety line (blue) - the inner safe zone. Keep all important content - text, logos, contact info - inside this line.
See Print Specs & Safe Zones for the full reference across all mailer types.
Design tips
- Full bleed: extend artwork to the edge of the canvas (plus bleed margin) so there are no white borders after trimming.
- Safe zone: keep important content (text, logos, contact info) inside the safe zone shown in the editor.
- Resolution: use high-resolution images. The editor warns you if your image is too low-resolution.
- QR code placement: the editor reserves space for the address block on the back. Don't place the QR code in the address area.
- Top-right message area: if you want content above the address block on the back side, add it through the custom message background image. The handwriting engine does not place text there.
Personalization
Use replacement variables in your Message Template:
%FIRST_NAME%- recipient's first name%YOUR_COMPANY%- your company name%CUSTOM1%through%CUSTOM10%- custom fields from your mailing list
Enable AI Fonts and optionally Realism Mode to make the handwritten-style rendering look more natural.
Tips & best practices
- Run Rate My Content before sending. A clear CTA and a personal opening line consistently drive better response.
- Use 6×9 or 6×11 for campaigns where you want to make a strong first impression.
- Add a QR code so you can track who responded.
- For time-sensitive campaigns, select First Class postage to reduce delivery variability.
Limits & gotchas
- Design spec requirements (bleed, safe zone) vary slightly by size - check the editor overlays.