How it Works
-
#1: Write your intro letter
In your Introductory Letter, you can include:
- A short introduction including your first name and where you're from
- Why you were drawn to the project
- A few lines about what brings you joy
- Anything you'd like to know about your reader
-
#2: Send your intro letter
Send your intro letter to any other shop (Letter-Keeper) from the network of The Sunday Letter Project here.
On the front of your envelope, add a stamp and address your envelope as "Dear Penpal" and include the Letter-Keeper's shop address.
On the back of your envelope, write "Return Address", your name, initials, or a pseudonym, and our Jenni Bick store address to make sure your pen-pal sends their reply to our store. -
#3: Wait for a reply
Once a letter finds you a pen pal, replies will arrive at our shop, and we'll hold them for you.
You can also always pop in into our store in D.C. to see if we have received any intro letters, and you can take one to reply to! Your perfect pen-pal may be waiting already!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Sunday Letter Project?
What is The Sunday Letter Project?
It is a global letter-writing initiative started in September 2025 by Rebecca and Karl of Wildflower Illustration Co. It invites people to take a free pledge to write one handwritten letter every Sunday to their friends, loved ones, strangers or themselves.
What is the pledge?
What is the pledge?
You pledge to write one letter each Sunday -to yourself or someone else - as an act of reflection, connection, and calm.
You believe in the power of carving out a pocket of time for yourself, and you're committed to embracing this ritual as a way of creating balance in your life.
Who do I write to?
Who do I write to?
Ultimately - whoever you want. The Sunday Letter Project has put together some ideas on their About page if you are struggling for ideas on who to write to. But to take part in the project, you can write to anyone at all - your parents, children, siblings, strangers, yourself (to read in the future) - the choice is yours!
Is it free to join?
Is it free to join?
The project is completely free to join and is open and accessible to all.
Can children take part?
Can children take part?
The pen-pal part of the project is designed for adults aged 18 and over.
Do I need to include my personal information?
Do I need to include my personal information?
No phone numbers, social handles, or personal contact info in your letters (email is fine if you want to stay in touch).
Write with kindness. That's really the only requirement.
What if I don't get a reply?
What if I don't get a reply?
Sometimes a letter finds its way back, and sometimes it doesn't. We suggest sending just one follow-up letter if not reply has been received, and waiting at least a month before doing so.
