• Elegant finishing touches on personalized stationery often include an engraved monogram, envelope or card. Although most artists feel that hand engraving is a dying art form, it is a beautiful relief printing detail to add to letterheads and invitations, especially if a logo or crest is part of the design. Hand engravers cut the lettering with a tool referred to as a graver, which is then cut onto the copper plate or steel prior to reproducing the engraving on a die-stamping press.
  
  

Family Crest and Border

• Created stationery with an elegant touch by adding an engraved family crest and border. If you do not have an existing crest, create your own or select an icon that best suits your family. Keep your stationery color in mind. For instance, if you are using an antique colored shade for your paper, engrave your family crest with a gold tone overlay. Position your border sparingly, such as at the corners or at the paper's mid-point. Make the border complementary to your crest, such as a thin scroll or a soft petal and leaf.
  
  

Monograms

• Although most personalized stationery includes an address and telephone, creating a monogrammed initial letterhead adds a touch of style and sophistication. Use a decorative initial or design a pair of blended initials to form a chic monogram representing your family. Sending a thank-you note for your wedding gifts on your engraved stationery is another idea to introduce your new monogram to your family and friends. Although having a special plate made for your design is a bit costly, the engraved monogram will get repeat use for years to come and you will be able to reproduce it on your envelopes as well as seals.
  
  

Logo

• Adding a symbol which represents your personality, such as a double heart, rose flower or busy bees, as a graphic logo is a special way for your family and friends to automatically know they have received a note from you. By placing the logo in the upper or lower corners as well as at the top or bottom center, your stationery automatically has a decorative touch. It is also a good idea to add the logo to the outside of your stationery envelopes or the back flap as a visual reminder for the recipient that you sent the note. Keep your stationery paper color in mind when selecting your engraved logo color.