Have you ever found yourself scrambling for a last-minute, yet genuinely thoughtful, way to say "thank you"? Perhaps a teacher went above and beyond, a colleague lent a crucial hand, or a friend simply needed a pick-me-up. In those moments, the desire to express gratitude is strong, but time, budget, or creative inspiration can feel frustratingly short. Trust me, I’ve been there. I remember one frantic afternoon, trying to pull together a meaningful thank-you for my son's speech therapist who had just worked wonders. I wanted something personal, charming, and quick – and after rummaging through endless craft supplies and generic store-bought cards, I stumbled upon the magic of a "Thanks a Latte" printable. It was a lightbulb moment! It offered the perfect blend of warmth, wit, and genuine appreciation, all without breaking the bank or requiring a design degree.
This isn't just about a piece of paper; it's about connecting, showing you care, and delivering a smile. The beauty of a "thanks a latte printable free" lies in its versatility and heartfelt simplicity. It’s a clever pun that opens the door to endless possibilities for showing gratitude, whether paired with a steaming cup of coffee, a gift card to a local cafe, or even a bag of gourmet beans. In this comprehensive guide, we're going to dive deep into everything you need to know about these wonderful little tokens of appreciation. We'll explore who they're perfect for, how to use them creatively, common mistakes to avoid, and even advanced tips for those who want to elevate their gifting game. Get ready to discover how these free printables can transform your thank-you gestures into truly memorable moments.
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Table of Contents
- [The Heart of the Matter: Why "Thanks a Latte" Works So Well](#the-heart-of-the-matter-why-thanks-a-latte-works-so-well)
- [Your Free Printable Toolkit: Getting Started with "Thanks a Latte"](#your-free-printable-toolkit-getting-started-with-thanks-a-latte)
- [Appreciation Brews: "Thanks a Latte" for Educators & School Staff](#appreciation-brews-thanks-a-latte-for-educators-school-staff)
- [Workplace Perks: "Thanks a Latte" for Colleagues & Bosses](#workplace-perks-thanks-a-latte-for-colleagues--bosses)
- [Friends & Family Blend: Sharing Gratitude with Loved Ones](#friends--family-blend-sharing-gratitude-with-loved-ones)
- [Beyond the Mug: Creative Ways to Use Your "Thanks a Latte" Printables](#beyond-the-mug-creative-ways-to-use-your-thanks-a-latte-printables)
- [Customizing Your Cuppa: Personalizing Your Free "Thanks a Latte" Printables](#customizing-your-cuppa-personalizing-your-free-thanks-a-latte-printables)
- [The Art of Gifting: Pairing Your "Thanks a Latte" Printable with the Perfect Treat](#the-art-of-gifting-pairing-your-thanks-a-latte-printable-with-the-perfect-treat)
- [DIY Delight: Crafting "Thanks a Latte" Gifts on a Budget](#diy-delight-crafting-thanks-a-latte-gifts-on-a-budget)
- [Last-Minute Lifesaver: When You Need "Thanks a Latte" *Right Now*](#last-minute-lifesaver-when-you-need-thanks-a-latte-right-now)
- [How to Choose the Best "Thanks a Latte" Printable for Your Needs](#how-to-choose-the-best-thanks-a-latte-printable-for-your-needs)
- [Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Using "Thanks a Latte" Printables](#common-pitfalls-to-avoid-when-using-thanks-a-latte-printables)
- [Advanced Tips for Experts: Elevating Your "Thanks a Latte" Game](#advanced-tips-for-experts-elevating-your-thanks-a-latte-game)
- [Conclusion: Brew Up Some Gratitude!](#conclusion-brew-up-some-gratitude)
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The Heart of the Matter: Why "Thanks a Latte" Works So Well
There's something uniquely charming about the phrase "Thanks a Latte." It's more than just a clever pun; it’s an invitation to warmth, comfort, and a moment of pause. In a world that often moves too fast, offering someone a coffee-themed thank you is like handing them a cozy blanket for their soul. It speaks to the universal love of coffee (or tea, or hot chocolate, let's be inclusive!), and instantly conveys a sense of appreciation that feels both lighthearted and genuine.
This simple phrase taps into several psychological triggers that make it incredibly effective:
1. Relatability: Most people enjoy a warm beverage. It’s a common pleasure, making the sentiment instantly relatable and universally appreciated. You don't need to know someone's favorite flower or hobby to know they'd likely enjoy a coffee break.
2. Warmth & Comfort: Coffee is often associated with comfort, relaxation, and friendly conversation. By tying your thank you to this imagery, you're not just saying "thanks," you're implicitly wishing them a moment of peace and enjoyment.
3. Humor & Playfulness: The pun itself brings a smile. It shows thoughtfulness without being overly formal, making it perfect for a wide range of relationships, from professional to personal. It injects a bit of fun into the act of gratitude.
4. Practicality: Paired with a gift card or a small bag of coffee, it offers a tangible and useful gift, enhancing the value of your appreciation. It's not just a card; it's an experience.
5. Memorability: A unique, themed thank you stands out from generic cards. People remember thoughtful gestures, especially when they're delivered with a bit of personality. I can tell you, people remember the "Thanks a Latte" much more than the plain "Thank You" card!
Think about it: who wouldn't appreciate being given an excuse to enjoy a delicious coffee? It's a small act that can brighten someone's entire day, turning a simple "thank you" into a moment of genuine connection. The "thanks a latte printable free" takes all these wonderful elements and makes them accessible to everyone, ensuring that heartfelt appreciation is never out of reach. It truly is a versatile and endearing way to spread a little joy.
- A Personal Story of Impact: I once had a colleague who was struggling through a particularly difficult project. She was putting in extra hours, and stress was visibly taking its toll. One morning, I left a small coffee gift card on her desk with a handwritten "Thanks a Latte" printable attached. The next day, she told me how much that small gesture meant. She'd used the card for a much-needed afternoon pick-me-up and said it felt like a little hug. It wasn't about the money, but the recognition and the thoughtful encouragement. It really solidified my belief in the power of these simple tokens.
- The Universal Language of Coffee: It’s almost a cultural staple in many parts of the world. Offering coffee as a thank you transcends many barriers, making it a safe and welcome gesture.
- Beyond the Beverage: The phrase even works if the recipient isn't a coffee drinker. It can be paired with tea, hot chocolate, or even a pastry, making the "latte" more about the sentiment of a warm, comforting treat.
- The Power of a Pun: Puns engage the brain playfully. They show you put a little extra thought into your message, making the recipient feel even more special.
- Affordability Meets Thoughtfulness: This is where the "thanks a latte printable free" shines. You get maximum impact for minimal cost, proving that true appreciation isn't about how much you spend, but how much thought you put in.
Your Free Printable Toolkit: Getting Started with "Thanks a Latte"
So, you're ready to brew up some gratitude with a "thanks a latte printable free"? Excellent! The great news is that getting started is incredibly easy, even if you're not a tech wizard or a seasoned crafter. This section will walk you through the simple steps to download, print, and prepare your chosen printable. Think of this as your barista training for appreciation!
Here’s what you’ll need and how to get started:
1. Finding Your Perfect Printable:
- Online Search: A quick Google search for "thanks a latte printable free" will yield a treasure trove of options. Look for reputable blogs, craft sites, or printable resource websites.
- Design Variety: You'll find everything from minimalist designs to whimsical illustrations, colorful patterns, or elegant script. Take your time to browse and choose a design that best fits the recipient's personality and the occasion. Some might have a space for a gift card, others might be simple tags.
- Download Format: Most printables will come in PDF format, which is universally accessible and ensures high-quality printing. Some might be JPEG or PNG. Always check the file type before downloading.
2. Downloading with Ease:
- Click & Save: Once you've found your favorite design, simply click the download button. It will usually prompt you to save the file to your computer. I always create a specific folder for my printables, so I can easily find them later!
- Check Requirements: Occasionally, a site might ask for an email address for their newsletter in exchange for the free printable. This is usually optional, but a fair trade for a great design.
- Open & Preview: Before printing, open the downloaded file to ensure it looks correct and is the design you intended.
3. Printing for Professional Results (Even at Home!):
- Printer Quality: You don't need a fancy professional printer, but a decent inkjet or laser printer will do the trick. Ensure your printer has sufficient ink/toner.
- Paper Choice is Key: This is where you can elevate your free printable!
- Cardstock (Highly Recommended): This is my go-to. Use white cardstock (65lb to 110lb) for a sturdy, professional feel. It holds up well and prevents ink bleed-through.
- Photo Paper (Glossy or Matte): For a really premium look, especially if the design is vibrant, consider photo paper. Matte photo paper often gives a lovely, soft finish.
- Standard Printer Paper: While possible, it tends to make the printable feel flimsy and less substantial. Save this for rough drafts or if you're in a real pinch.
- Print Settings:
- "Actual Size" or "100% Scale": Always select this option in your print dialogue box to ensure the printable prints at its intended size without distortion.
- Best Quality: Choose the "best" or "photo" quality setting for crisp lines and vibrant colors.
- Orientation: Make sure the page orientation (portrait or landscape) matches the printable.
4. Cutting with Precision:
- Scissors: Good old scissors work perfectly! Take your time and follow the lines carefully.
- Paper Trimmer (Recommended for Straighter Lines): If you have a paper trimmer or guillotine cutter, this will give you perfectly straight, clean edges, making your printable look incredibly professional. This is my secret weapon for all my printable projects!
- Craft Knife & Cutting Mat: For intricate designs or if you want absolute precision, a craft knife (like an X-Acto) and a self-healing cutting mat are excellent tools.
5. Final Touches:
- Hole Punch: If your printable is designed as a tag, use a standard hole punch to create a clean hole for ribbon or twine.
- Ribbon/Twine: A simple piece of twine, baker's string, or a coordinating ribbon can add a lovely finishing touch when attaching your tag to a gift.
- Personal Message: Don't forget to write a heartfelt, personal message on the back or an empty space on the printable. This is what truly makes it special.
Getting started with your "thanks a latte printable free" is truly a breeze. With these simple steps, you'll be creating charming and thoughtful thank-you gifts in no time, ensuring your appreciation is always delivered with style and a personal touch.
- My Go-To Paper Recommendation: Honestly, for me, 80lb white cardstock is the sweet spot. It's sturdy enough to feel substantial but still runs through most home printers without a hitch.
- A "Don't Be Like Me" Moment: I once printed a batch of "Thanks a Latte" tags on regular paper, and they looked so sad and flimsy next to the beautiful gourmet coffee bags I was giving. Learn from my mistake: invest in decent cardstock!
- The Magic of a Trimmer: If you're going to do a lot of printables, a basic paper trimmer is a game-changer. It makes a huge difference in the finished look, giving your DIY projects a polished, professional edge.
- Checking for Watermarks: Before printing, quickly check if the free printable has any unwanted watermarks or logos that might detract from the design. Most reputable sites offer clean versions, but it's good to double-check.
- Batch Printing for Future Use: If you find a "thanks a latte printable free" design you absolutely love, consider printing a small batch to have on hand for those unexpected moments when gratitude is needed!
Appreciation Brews: "Thanks a Latte" for Educators & School Staff
Educators and school staff are often unsung heroes, pouring their energy, passion, and time into shaping young minds. From teachers and teaching assistants to principals, librarians, school nurses, and bus drivers, their dedication deserves immense recognition. A "thanks a latte printable free" is an absolutely perfect way to show your appreciation, offering a thoughtful and budget-friendly gesture that acknowledges their hard work.
Here are 12 unique and heartfelt ways to use your "Thanks a Latte" printables for the amazing people who make our schools run:
1. End-of-Year Teacher Gift: Attach a "Thanks a Latte" tag to a gift card for their favorite coffee shop. It's a classic for a reason – teachers *love* coffee!
- *Personal Scenario:* My son's kindergarten teacher went above and beyond during a challenging year. We gave her a "Thanks a Latte" tag attached to a $20 Starbucks card, and she teared up, saying it was exactly what she needed for a quiet summer morning.
2. Teacher Appreciation Week Treat: Coordinate with other parents to create a "Coffee Bar" in the staff lounge, complete with different roasts, creams, sugars, and snacks. Use "Thanks a Latte" printables as decorative labels for each item.
3. Bus Driver Thank You: Pair a "Thanks a Latte" tag with a travel mug filled with candy or a small coffee bag. It’s a practical gift for someone who starts their day early.
4. School Nurse Survival Kit: Create a small basket with a coffee gift card, some pain relievers, hand sanitizer, and a "Thanks a Latte" printable. Acknowledge their role in keeping everyone healthy.
5. Librarian's Quiet Moment: Attach the printable to a beautiful mug and a selection of gourmet tea bags (for non-coffee drinkers) or a small bookshop gift card, encouraging a moment of peace.
6. Principal's Pick-Me-Up: For the school leader, a "Thanks a Latte" tag on a high-quality coffee blend or a local cafe gift card shows respect and appreciation for their tireless efforts.
7. Support Staff Shout-Out: Don't forget the administrative assistants, custodians, and cafeteria staff! A simple "Thanks a Latte" tag on a package of cookies or a small coffee treat can brighten their day.
8. "New School Year" Welcome: For new teachers, attach a "Thanks a Latte" printable to a welcome packet or a small coffee-themed gift, making them feel instantly appreciated.
9. Volunteer Appreciation: If you've had parent volunteers help with an event, a "Thanks a Latte" printable on a small bag of local coffee beans is a fantastic way to thank them for their time.
10. Classroom Assistant Recognition: A small coffee tumbler filled with chocolates and adorned with a "Thanks a Latte" tag is a sweet and personal gesture for those who work closely with students.
11. Holiday Gift Enhancement: During holiday gifting, elevate any coffee-related present (e.g., a coffee press, specialty syrups) by adding a festive "Thanks a Latte" printable tag.
12. Student-Made Card: Have your child write a personal message on the back of a "Thanks a Latte" printable before attaching it to the gift. The child's involvement adds an extra layer of warmth.
- *Subjective Tip:* I honestly think the student's handwritten note on the back of a "thanks a latte printable free" makes it feel infinitely more special than any store-bought card. It shows effort from both parent and child.
Workplace Perks: "Thanks a Latte" for Colleagues & Bosses
In the professional world, a little appreciation goes a long way. Recognizing the efforts of colleagues, expressing gratitude to a supportive boss, or cheering on a team member can boost morale, foster positive relationships, and create a more collaborative environment. A "thanks a latte printable free" offers a perfectly professional yet warm way to do just that, without being overly formal or breaking the company budget.
Here are 12 thoughtful ways to use your "Thanks a Latte" printables in a workplace setting:
1. Colleague Collaboration Thank You: Attach a "Thanks a Latte" tag to a coffee shop gift card or a gourmet coffee sample for a colleague who helped you on a project or covered for you during an absence.
- *Personal Scenario:* My teammate, Sarah, burned the midnight oil to help me meet a tight deadline. The next morning, I left a "Thanks a Latte" printable with a gift card for her favorite local cafe on her desk. She later told me it was the perfect pick-me-up and made her feel truly valued.
2. Team Project Success: For a successful team effort, create a "Coffee Break Kit" for the whole team. Include various coffee pods, snacks, and individual "Thanks a Latte" printables attached to small treats for everyone.
3. Boss Appreciation Day: Show your boss you appreciate their leadership by attaching a "Thanks a Latte" printable to a premium coffee blend or a gift card to their preferred coffee spot.
4. Onboarding Welcome: For a new hire, include a "Thanks a Latte" printable with a welcome coffee mug and a gift card to the office's nearest coffee shop. It’s a warm, welcoming gesture.
5. Meeting Facilitator Gift: If a colleague led an excellent meeting or workshop, thank them with a "Thanks a Latte" tag paired with a reusable coffee cup and some specialty coffee.
6. "Above and Beyond" Recognition: For someone who consistently goes the extra mile, a "Thanks a Latte" tag on a small, thoughtful gift like a coffee-themed candle or a bag of artisanal coffee beans can be very impactful.
7. Peer Mentorship Gratitude: If a senior colleague has been mentoring you, express your gratitude with a "Thanks a Latte" printable attached to a high-quality coffee-related item, like a pour-over kit.
8. Client Appreciation (Small Scale): For a valued client who provides repeat business, a "Thanks a Latte" tag on a small, branded coffee bag can be a charming and memorable thank-you.
9. Conference or Event Speaker Thank You: If you're organizing an event, use "Thanks a Latte" printables as part of a small thank-you package for your speakers, perhaps with a local coffee shop gift card.
10. Administrative Professionals' Day: Treat your administrative staff! A "Thanks a Latte" printable paired with a variety of coffee pods, tea bags, or a coffee-themed gift basket is a wonderful gesture.
11. "Thinking of You" During Stressful Times: If a colleague is going through a tough time, a "Thanks a Latte" printable with a comforting coffee gift card can be a subtle, empathetic way to show support.
12. Office Coffee Station Upgrade: Print out several "Thanks a Latte" signs and place them around the office coffee station with a message like, "Thanks a latte for being awesome! Enjoy your brew on us."
- *Humorous Insight:* Don't be like me and forget to check if your boss *actually* drinks coffee before giving them a whole bag of espresso beans. (Spoiler: Mine was a tea person, but still appreciated the gesture!) Always good to subtly check preferences!
Friends & Family Blend: Sharing Gratitude with Loved Ones
The people closest to us often do the most for us, yet their efforts can sometimes go unacknowledged in the hustle and bustle of daily life. A "thanks a latte printable free" offers a wonderfully warm, personal, and easy way to show your friends and family how much you appreciate them. It's less formal than a traditional card, but carries all the weight of genuine affection and thoughtfulness.
Here are 12 delightful ways to use your "Thanks a Latte" printables to spread love and gratitude among your nearest and dearest:
1. Neighborly Kindness Thank You: If a neighbor watered your plants while you were away or helped with a chore, attach a "Thanks a Latte" tag to a bag of local coffee or a gift card to a nearby cafe.
- *Personal Scenario:* My sweet neighbor, Mrs. Henderson, always brings in our mail when we're out of town. I paired a "Thanks a Latte" tag with a box of her favorite tea (she's not a coffee drinker!) and a homemade cookie. She absolutely loved the personal touch.
2. Host/Hostess Gift: Attending a dinner party? Present your host with a small bag of gourmet coffee beans, a lovely mug, and a "Thanks a Latte" printable as a charming token of appreciation.
3. Parental Support Appreciation: Your parents (or in-laws) always there for you? Attach a "Thanks a Latte" printable to a gift card for their favorite coffee shop or even a subscription to a coffee club.
4. Friend's Pick-Me-Up: If a friend is going through a tough time, drop off a "Thanks a Latte" printable with their favorite coffee drink and a thoughtful note, reminding them you care.
5. Childcare Provider Thank You: For grandparents, aunts, uncles, or friends who babysit, a "Thanks a Latte" tag on a coffee gift card or a cute coffee-themed item (like cozy socks) is perfect.
6. "Thinking of You" Care Package: For a college student or a loved one living far away, include a "Thanks a Latte" printable in a care package alongside instant coffee, a travel mug, and some snacks.
7. Dinner Date Appreciation: If a friend cooked you a meal, bring a "Thanks a Latte" printable paired with a dessert or a small bottle of coffee liqueur.
8. Wedding Party Thank You: For bridesmaids, groomsmen, or anyone who helped with wedding planning, attach a "Thanks a Latte" tag to a personalized coffee mug or a special blend of coffee.
9. Birthday Gift Enhancement: If you're giving a coffee-related birthday gift, a "Thanks a Latte" printable can serve as the perfect, witty gift tag.
10. "Just Because" Gratitude: Sometimes, the best thank yous are for no specific reason. A spontaneous "Thanks a Latte" with a fresh cup of coffee can make someone's ordinary day extraordinary.
11. Pet Sitter Appreciation: For a friend who watched your furry companion, a "Thanks a Latte" printable on a gift card to their favorite coffee shop is a thoughtful way to say thanks for their pet-loving efforts.
12. Family Reunion Favor: If you're hosting a family gathering, print small "Thanks a Latte" tags and tie them to miniature bags of coffee beans or small chocolate-covered espresso beans as a charming favor.
- *Subjective Opinion:* For friends and family, I think the more personalized the message you write on the back of the "thanks a latte printable free," the better. It transforms a simple tag into a cherished keepsake.
Beyond the Mug: Creative Ways to Use Your "Thanks a Latte" Printables
While pairing your "thanks a latte printable free" with a coffee mug or gift card is a classic, the versatility of these charming printables extends far beyond the obvious! With a little imagination, you can transform them into unique and memorable tokens of appreciation for almost any occasion. Don't limit yourself to just a tag; let's explore how to brew up some truly creative gratitude!
Here are 12 innovative ideas to use your "Thanks a Latte" printables in unexpected ways:
1. Mini Banner Decoration: Print several "Thanks a Latte" designs, punch holes, and string them together with twine to create a small, festive banner for a thank-you party or staff appreciation event.
- *Personal Scenario:* My friend Sarah once used these printables to create a "coffee bar" themed thank you display for her volunteers. She hung a mini banner above the coffee and pastry spread, and everyone commented on how cute and clever it was!
2. Gift Basket Embellishment: Use a larger "Thanks a Latte" printable as the central focal point or label on a gratitude-themed gift basket filled with coffee, tea, snacks, and perhaps a cozy blanket.
3. DIY Coasters: Print your favorite "Thanks a Latte" design onto cardstock, cut it out, and then laminate it or glue it onto cork squares for charming, reusable coasters.
4. Jar Labels: Print smaller "Thanks a Latte" designs to use as labels for jars filled with homemade coffee scrub, coffee-flavored cookies, or layered instant coffee mixes.
5. Bookmarks: Print a slim "Thanks a Latte" design on cardstock, laminate it, and add a tassel for a delightful bookmark – perfect for a book-loving recipient.
6. Cupcake Toppers: Print small circular "Thanks a Latte" designs, glue them onto toothpicks, and use them as adorable toppers for cupcakes or other baked goods.
7. Party Favors: For a coffee-themed event (or just a regular party!), attach "Thanks a Latte" printables to small bags of coffee beans or chocolate-covered espresso beans as favors.
8. Digital Thank You Card: If you can’t deliver in person, you can sometimes use the *digital image* of a "thanks a latte printable free" to create a charming e-card or social media post. Always check licensing if posting publicly.
9. Recipe Card Backing: Print a plain "Thanks a Latte" design on one side of cardstock, and on the other, handwrite a favorite coffee-infused recipe (e.g., coffee cake, tiramisu).
10. "Open When..." Tag: For a friend who needs ongoing support, create a series of "Open When..." envelopes, and include a "Thanks a Latte" tag with a coffee gift card in the "Open when you need a pick-me-up" envelope.
11. Scrapbook or Journal Embellishment: Use smaller "Thanks a Latte" cut-outs to decorate a scrapbook page dedicated to a shared memory or to add a charming touch to a bullet journal.
12. Plant Pot Decoration: Attach a laminated "Thanks a Latte" printable to a small houseplant or succulent pot for a unique thank-you gift that keeps on giving.
- *Engaging Idea:* Why not make a "Thanks a Latte" garland for your kitchen? It's a constant reminder of gratitude and a fun, quirky decoration!
Customizing Your Cuppa: Personalizing Your Free "Thanks a Latte" Printables
While the beauty of a "thanks a latte printable free" lies in its instant accessibility, adding a personal touch can elevate it from a thoughtful gesture to a truly memorable one. Customization doesn't require graphic design skills; even simple additions can make a huge difference. Think of it as adding your personal blend to a perfect cup of coffee!
Here are 12 ways to personalize your free "Thanks a Latte" printables, catering to both beginners and those who enjoy a bit more crafting:
1. Handwritten Message: This is the simplest yet most impactful customization. Write a specific, heartfelt note on the back of the printable or in any blank space. Mention exactly *what* you're thankful for.
- *Personal Insight:* I always dedicate a few extra minutes to writing a personal message. It's the difference between a generic thank you and one that truly resonates. "Thanks a Latte for helping with my move!" is far better than just "Thanks."
2. Add a Date: Include the date you're giving the gift. This adds a subtle archival touch, making it a small memento of the specific act of kindness.
3. Embellish with Stickers: Use small, themed stickers (e.g., coffee beans, hearts, stars) to add a bit of flair around the edges or near the text.
4. Ribbon or Twine Choice: Select a ribbon or twine that matches the recipient's favorite color, a special occasion (e.g., holiday colors), or the aesthetic of the gift itself.
5. Glitter or Shimmer Pen: For a touch of sparkle, use a glitter pen to trace over some of the words or add small dots around the design.
6. Stamping: If you have small rubber stamps (e.g., a heart, a tiny coffee cup, or an initial), you can stamp them onto the printable for a unique, handcrafted look.
7. Layering with Colored Paper: Glue your "Thanks a Latte" printable onto a slightly larger piece of coordinating colored cardstock to create a framed effect and