Here are some ideas for getting postcards and stamps

Options for Postcards:

Using the script you receive from Activate America, we recommend postcards that have one side entirely blank for your hand-written message—that way you don’t have to worry about running out of space.

1. Download the Third Act postcard. You can print-at-home, or take the PDF file to a local copy shop to print there. To print-at-home, use 80 lb (12 pt) cardstock (ideally please use FSC-certified paper with recycled content). Note: The address and stamp go on the front side where the image is; write your message to the voter on the blank back side. There are two options linked below, a file sized for a single postcard, and a file that holds 4 postcards on a piece of 8.5×11 paper. Your print shop will tell you which they prefer to use!

   

   

   Your file will open in a new tab within your internet browser. Click on the download button or print icon to save the PDF as in the screen shot below.
   

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2. DIY/ buy from a local stationery store. They may carry postcards, index cards or cardstock to cut into postcards. See these regulations for DIY postcards (and more here), and choose cardstock that is 80 lb (12 pt). More than 80-100 lb may be difficult to print on a home printer. To use a postcard stamp, the card must be at least 3-1/2 inches high x 5 inches long, and maximum of 4-1/4 inches high x 6 inches long.
   

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3. Purchase postcards online. If you are purchasing postcards online (acceptable images/words), please ensure you can receive them with enough time so you can mail your postcards by the deadline(s) given to you by Activate America in the email with the postcard script and instructions.

• CLICK HERE to buy postcards online from the U.S. Post Office. Note – the Post Office may take a long time to fill your order, so give yourself a few weeks lead time to receive them.  Or if you go to the Post Office in-person to buy stamps, you can also ask if they sell postcards.
• Buy online from ETSY.
• Buy and pick-up packs of 100 postcards for $5 if you are in the SF/East Bay Area in California (no shipping, pick up in El Cerrito, CA only). See cards here. Email postcardingkits@gmail.com to place an order.
• See Activate America’s resource page on getting postcards and stamps. 

Stamps/Post Office:

• CLICK HERE to buy postcard stamps from the U.S. Post Office (51 cents in Fall 2023). Current designs are barns, coral reefs, and sailboats.
• Where it is safe to buy in-person, check if your local U.S. Post Office carries postcard stamps.
• CLICK HERE to find your nearest U.S. Post Office