Father's Day sneaks up fast, but that doesn't mean your message to Dad has to be rushed. Whether he's the sentimental type or the king of corny jokes, the right card can help you say what matters most— even if you don't say it often.

A great handmade card for Dad can do more than say "Happy Father's Day." It can reconnect you two, make him laugh, or say something you don't say enough. If you've picked out one of our cards but you're staring at a blank space inside, this one's for you.

Here are six thoughtful starting points to help you find the right words for your Father's Day card, whether your dad's the sentimental type or the strong, silent kind.

1. Share a Specific Memory

Sometimes the best message is a moment. Write about a fishing trip, a late-night talk, the time he taught you to ride a bike—or failed hilariously trying. Be specific. It'll hit harder than any generic "Thanks for everything" message.

Try starting with:

• "I'll never forget the time we..."
• "You probably don't remember this, but I do..."

Card by Deena S. Ball

2. Say What You Learned from Him

Think about the quiet ways your dad influenced you. Did he teach you how to solve problems? Stay calm under pressure? Grill a perfect steak? Writing it down makes that impact visible and appreciated.

Example prompts:

• "You taught me how to ___, and I use it every day."
• "Because of you, I know how to ___ without second-guessing myself."

Card by Jamie Wing

3. Lean Into the Humor

Not every card has to be a tearjerker. If your dad's the king of puns, give it right back. If you have inside jokes, bring them up. Humor is a form of love, just with worse timing and louder volume.

Ideas to spark your message:

• "I was going to get you a tie, but this card seemed less likely to end up in the donation bin."
• "Thanks for all the bad jokes. And the good ones you accidentally made."

Card by Joe Rosshirt

4. Celebrate the New Dads

If someone you love is celebrating their first Father's Day, use your card to reflect the wonder, exhaustion, and quiet heroics of new parenthood. You can be funny, sincere, or both.

Helpful phrases:

• "You're already someone's hero."
• "Sleepless nights, diaper disasters, sporadic spit ups… You're crushing it."

Card by Scribbs

5. Keep It Simple (When That's What Fits)

Not everyone comes from a Hallmark-movie kind of relationship. If your relationship with your dad is complicated, distant, or just doesn't include emotional speeches, a short and sincere note can still be meaningful.

Straightforward options:

• "Hope you have a great day."
• "Thinking of you and wishing you well."
• "Thanks for everything over the years."

Card by Jamie Wing

6. Add a Personal Touch to Your Father's Day Card

Even a one-liner feels more personal with a quick addition, like a photo, a drawing, or a quote that reminds you of him. Tuck in an old picture, a doodle from the kids, or even just his favorite snack. Thoughtful doesn't mean overcomplicated.

Card by Emily Bell-Hoerth

Father's Day doesn't have to be perfect. But a few words, well chosen, can go a long way. Whether you write a paragraph or a sentence, what matters most is that it comes from you.

Still need the perfect Father's Day card? Our handmade designs from Maine artists pair beautifully with your message, big or small.