It’s Valentine’s Day, and you’ve failed to do anything about it. Cards require too much emotion; lingerie isn’t your jam. Strike a balance with a quickie DIY matchbook card, courtesy of Chicago design sensation Jessica Murnane. When not dreaming up classic stationery for her company, Suitor, she’s lending us her creative juices. We’re proud to call her our valentine.

You’ll Need
Matchbook
Favorite photo printed on printer paper
Scissors
Glue stick or double-sided tape
Ruler or a tape measure (or just wing it)

Step 1: Find a matchbook, ideally one that is blank on the inside flap (you will be writing your note here).

Step 2: Open the matchbook so it lays flat. Eyeball or measure its width and height, making sure to leave the striker pad uncovered.

Step 3: Choose your favorite photo (vertical works best) from a trip, night out, or special occasion. Reduce it to the size of the matchbook and print it on thin printer paper.

Step 4: Cut out the photo and swipe the blank side with a glue stick or cover it with double-sided tape.

Step 5: Place the photo over your matchbook and smooth down. Cut any excess paper from the edges.

Step 6: Fold matchbook flap over, making sure the photo is pressed securely on the creases at the top.

Step 7: Write a cheeky message on the inside flap. (Some ideas: C’mon, baby, light my fire; burning up with your love; you’re my perfect match; my eternal flame.)

Murnane loves it because it can fit into your special someone’s pocket, isn’t sappy, and works for friends, too — especially those who don’t have a valentine.

For more of Murnane’s inspiration, go to suitorlife.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Jessica Murnane