Yes, “Smithereenes” is spelled wrong 🙃 but from the very beginning, we’ve done things our own way. (To learn more on how not to run a business, see our blog post coming soon.)

Smithereenes began in 2010, a few years after the Smith sisters graduated from film school. While navigating post-college life as artists in New York City, they learned about the very real issue of human trafficking happening right in their backyard. They couldn’t stay on the sidelines. With little more than their pens, paper, and the generosity of friends, they started putting their illustrations on greeting cards to sell, donating proceeds to organizations on the frontlines. It was win-win-win: form, function, and a force for good.

Over the next five years, Smithereenes popped up at local craft fairs as a seasonal card company before taking a long hibernation while the sisters pursued their creative careers.

Fifteen years later, Smithereenes has been reimagined but with the same heart and a renewed commitment to:

Tread lightly on the planet

Every detail of our production is designed to minimize waste: from small-batch printing in the USA to plastic-free packaging whenever possible, to recyclable mailers and zero-waste shipping labels.

Treat artists well

Our collaborations are built on respect and fairness, with royalties and licensing structures that aim to go above industry standards.

Craft premium products

From paper weight to texture, finish to foil, every choice is intentional so each card feels like a piece of art worth collecting, and as special as the words you write inside them.

Give back

A portion of every purchase supports nonprofits supporting survivors of trafficking. Currently, we’re proud to donate to Restore NYC, an organization providing housing, counseling, and economic empowerment for survivors.

Every card tells a story: the artist’s, the sender’s, and the recipient’s. By choosing Smithereenes, you’re supporting independent artists, intentional craftsmanship, and creativity that makes a difference.