our story

Piccola Arte began in 2017 as a heartfelt collaboration between sisters Steph and Lizzy — hand-painting cards inspired by love, creativity, and connection. What started as a small Etsy shop has grown into a nationwide brand, while remaining true to its handmade spirit and eco-conscious values.

The 90s

Family First

Have we mentioned we're sisters? Long before Piccola Arte had a name, the love, giggles, and tenderness were already there.
Steph & Lizzy. Spring, 1993
2017

Teaming Up as Piccola Arte

For years, we each made cards by hand before teaming up in 2017 to launch our Etsy shop and share our passion for art and connection with the world.
Piccola Arte at first arts festival. Autumn, 2017

Hand-Painted Cards

In the beginning, we painted every single card ourselves on our favorite watercolor paper. And to size them, we tore each sheet by hand.
Lizzy painting an original design. 2017

Our Signature in Every Stroke

In the early days, our envelopes were hand-stamped as a nod to traditional wax seals. Today, we use hand-painted designs, torn card edges, and our brushstroke logo on every envelope to honor those beginnings.
Steph prepping envelope stamp. 2017
2019

Piccola in Stores

We’ll never forget the joy of seeing our cards on store shelves for the first time. What began with one small shop has grown to over 60 partners nationwide — each one sharing our love of connection and creativity.
Steph & Lizzy at first stockist. Autumn 2019
2022

Connecting Near and Far

Our first trade show in 2022 opened the door to thousands of new connections. What started with a few hand-painted cards for friends has become a growing community sharing a little love with a little art.
Training it to our first trade show. Summer 2022
Today

Growing with Intention

From a handful of cards to more than 300 designs, we’re growing with heart — keeping our focus on sustainability, local production, and the values that started it all: love, art, and connection.
Lizzy & Steph at trade show NY Now. Summer 2025

our
name

Piccola Arte means “little art” in Italian,
inspired by our heritage and the belief that the smallest gestures create the most meaningful connections.