In the back days, letters and greeting cards used to be the main source of contacting loved ones, expressing our feeling toward them and establishing a conversation with completely new people. Before gadgets have been introduced in our world, people were dependent on this impactful medium of sharing information. Though new smart gadgets and apps have snatched the place of letters and greeting cards we cannot ignore the benefits that writing a letter bring along. No doubt, receiving quick and timely replies is very helpful at times but writing a letter allows us to simply slow down. Keeping this fact in mind, Washington Calligraphers Guild has designed a wonderful program called “Graceful Envelope Contest”. This program is open for entry currently and would like to see applications from students in 1 to 12 grades and adults.
The best part of this program is that it is completely free. So no individual will need to pay an entry fee to become a participant. This program is divided into four categories and only one entry from one person is allowed. The contest comes with separate categories for children. The applications for this program can be mailed to the organization. The purpose of this competition is to celebrate the role of letters in binding people together and promote the art of calligraphy. This contest was started in 1995 by the Smithsonian Institution’s National Postal Museum. Entries should reflect artistic hand lettering and imaginative use of colour and design. All entrants are suggested to incorporate postage stamp(s) into their creation.
Washington Calligraphers Guild was begun in 1976 as a non-profit organization. It houses more than 500 local and international lettering artists with different levels of skills and from different backgrounds. From professional scribes to enthusiastic beginners and non-calligraphers this organization is a team of people who appreciate the lettering and book arts.
Brief Description
For quick information regarding the program, please check out the table given below:
| Organization | Washington Calligraphers Guild |
| Education Level | Adult — Grades 9-12 — Grades 5-8 — Grades 1-4 |
| Subjects | All |
| Award | Varies |
| Access Mode | Online |
| Number of Awards | Multiple |
| City | Any |
| Nationality | Domestic |
| Country | USA |
| Application Deadline | March 21, 2022 |
| Application Fees | No |
| Requirements | Envelope |
Table of Contents
Who is Eligible?
Check out the following rules:
Entries will be judged in these divisions:
- Adult
- Grades 9-12
- Grades 5-8
- Grades 1-4
Only one entry is allowed per person.
This contest is open to all, everywhere, with separate categories for children.
How to Apply?
Applicants will have to create an envelope following the given rules:
- Each entry must be a stamped envelope, either manufactured or handmade, delivered through the U.S. Postal Service. The envelope will not be opened.
- Entries may not be enclosed in a separate envelope or in any protective covering (unless multiple entries are coming from one class).
- Postage of 58 cents applies to envelopes not exceeding 7×9 inches. Standard #10 business envelopes are also permitted, as are square envelopes–but square requires 88 cents in postage.
- Use calligraphy or hand-drawn artistic lettering to address the front of the envelope to.
- On the BACK of the envelope, print your name, address and email, clearly labeled “FROM.” Students must indicate their GRADE (international students: please provide your age). (Students may use their teacher’s email rather than their own.)
The application can be sent to the following address through mail:
The Graceful Envelope
1207 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
Benefits
Winners will receive certificates and their names and entries will be posted online. This program will give candidates the experience of participating in contests and competing with others. It will also help individuals enhance their writing skills.
Application Deadline
Applications are open until March 21, 2022. Please apply before the application closes.
