If you’re anything like me, your checking account’s grand total is $17.12 right now. Thanks to Christmas presents, the numerous bottles of Barefoot Pinot Grigio for Wine Nights (because all your girlfriends were home for break and really, what else was there to do?), and this most recent semester’s demand for expensive textbooks- you are broke.

BUT- a lack of funds does not mean you have to excuse yourself from a lack of Valentine’s Day loving!

A simple, inexpensive, HOMEMADE card is the best way to show the people you care about some extra love, and maybe, if you’re lucky, this thoughtfulness may inspire a little money transfer to your wounded bank account from Mom and Dad...if you know what I am talking about.

So let’s get started, here are the supplies you are going to need:

-Blank notecards/envelopes (I purchased the white cards from Target & the colorful cards from Home Goods)

-Stickers (Home Goods, Target & Hobby Lobby are all great locations to hunt for stickers. Sticker pages range $.50-$4.99)

-Black Sharpie Marker

-Colorful Markers (Target)

-Stamps (Available at your local post office)

How to create:

Step 1: Using the black sharpie, draw a pattern or image. Use colored markers to enhance your design.

Step 2: Place stickers on as overlay to the pattern.

Step 3: Add a quote or phrase to the inside.

Step 4: Customize letter.

Step 5: Get a little creative with the address. A few more stickers can't hurt!

Step 6: Seal and send it on it’s way.

Surprise your grandparents, aunts/uncles, moms and dads, even old friends- because everyone deserves a Valentine this year.

Here are some other examples from my batch of cards this year!