Writing a message in a board book can seem deceptively simple. After all, board books are small. But fitting an impactful, meaningful message into a tight space takes thought and care.
As you prepare to personalize a board book with a note for a special little one, keep this guide in mind. As a professional board book printing manufacturer, I will share some tips for narrowing your message, fashioning the right tone, and more, you’ll be ready to make that board book inscription sing.
Why Write a Message in a Board Book?
Board books invite personalization. Unlike paper page hardcovers, board books stand up to repeated handling and chewing. They’re built to last and to be loved.
A message makes a board book even more special. You’re creating a keepsake that can be enjoyed now and saved for years to come.
Some reasons to personalize a board book with a note:
- Baby shower gift
- Birthday present
- Adoption, birth, or baptism milestone
- Holiday or special occasion memento
The recipient will appreciate the extra care you put into customizing their book. Down the road, your message will help spur precious memories, too.
How to Write a Message in a Board Book
Know Your Audience
To fashion an inscription that really resonates, keep your reader in mind.
For a baby or toddler, focus on sharing:
- Love and excitement for their arrival
- Hopes and dreams you have for them
For an older child, you might reference:
- Their favorite characters or themes from the story
- Inside jokes you share or fun memories
For any age, universal messages about:
- The power of books and reading
- Your unwavering support and love
If giving to a child you feel especially close to, a more personal, poetic message could be fitting. For a casual acquaintance’s baby shower gift, keep it short and sweet instead.
Gauge the relationship and choose content accordingly.
Craft Your Message: Content Considerations
When deciding what to say in your board book inscription, topic is key.
You likely want to convey heartfelt sentiments. But before pen meets paper, nail down the precise substance.
Inspiring Quotes
Timeless sayings make excellent additions to board book messages:
- “A book holds a house of gold.” – Chinese proverb
- “Oh, magic hour, when a child first knows she can read printed words!” – Betty Smith
Find quotes related to imagination, reading, childhood, or books specifically. Just be sure any quote you borrow aligns with your own values.
Simple Blessings
Blessings make board book personalization a breeze. For example:
- “May the stories in this book fill your heart with joy.”
- “I hope reading takes you on grand adventures!”
Bless the child with happiness, curiosity, kindness, confidence, or creativity. Share your hopes in one brief line.
Custom Wishes
If you’re searching for unique board book inscription ideas, look inward. Reflect on your relationship and craft a custom message, like:
- “I can’t wait to read this with you every night!” – For a close relative
- “I know your mom will love reading this to you!” – For a friend’s baby
- “Roar your way to reading. Love, Aunt Tiger” – Playing on a nickname
Make it authentic to the child and your bond with creative personally crafted wishes.
Additional Keys for Writing Your Inscription
You have your message ready to go. But before jumping in:
Mind the Length
Board books don’t offer much writing room. Aim for:
- 2-4 sentences
- A short stanza
- 1-3 lines of text
Pick a Colorful Pen
Add some zest by writing with a brightly colored pen instead of standard black or blue ink.
Include an Illustration
Accent words with a small sketch. If artistically inclined, draw characters from the story or icons representing hobbies the child enjoys.
If drawing isn’t your forté, icons like stars, hearts, or smiley faces still pack a punch.
Write Legibly
Handwriting should be clear and consistent. If penmanship proves tricky, print text from a computer and adhere it inside the cover instead.
Sample Messages to Inspire You
If writer’s block has you stumped, browse these short inscription examples to get ideas churning:
1. To [child’s name], may this book fill your days with joy and wonder. With love, [your name]
2. Welcome to the world, little one! We can’t wait to share the magic of stories with you. Love, [your name]
3. “A book holds a house of gold” -Chinese Proverb. [ Child’s name ], may you discover treasures between these pages for years to come! Love, [your name]
Those samples demonstrate simple yet meaningful messages in practice.
Now you have the blueprint – pull from your relationship, wise words, and imagination to craft your own personal board book inscription with ease.
Next Steps
We covered a lot of ground on the art of the board book inscription. Let’s recap the key tips:
- Know your audience – Write messages tailored for babies, kids or special relatives accordingly
- Mind message length – 2-4 sentences or lines is the sweet spot
- Match tone to relationship – More casual for acquaintances’ gifts vs intimate for close bonds
- Inspire with quotes – Feature beloved sayings about books, imagination or childhood
- Bestow blessings – Share simple wishes for happiness, kindness and possibility
- Get creative and personal – Note inside jokes, nicknames or customs if appropriate
- Use colorful pens – Pick bright inks beyond standard blacks and blues
- Consider adding illustrations – Embed doodles or icons to complement
- Write clearly and legibly – Ensure tidy penmanship for keepsake appeal
As you prepare to inscription a board book gift, refer back to these tips anytime.
Most importantly, speak straight from the heart to give your special reader a cherished memento to enjoy now and for many bedtimes yet to come.