Once you start making contacts, other amateurs will want to swap QSL cards with you, even if you just talk to them on the local repeater. The purpose of a QSL card is to confirm that you had a contact with another amateur. For sure, you’ll want to have some cards printed up if you operate on the shortwave bands. Sometimes, amateur radio operators call swapping QSL cards “the final courtesy.”
Once you get started swapping QSL cards, you may get hooked on QSLing, and it certainly can be an enjoyable part of the hobby. Many designs are distinctive, and they are fun to show off to friends and family. When I speak to groups about amateur radio, I always bring a selection of QSL cards that I’ve received. They can be very impressive.
Another reason to collect QSL cards is that they’re often needed to qualify for awards and certificates. You can, for example, get the Worked All States Award from the ARRL by submitting a QSL card from a station that you contacted in each of the 50 states.
Collecting QSLs can be fun, even if you don’t plan to apply for an award. I have, for example, started a small collection of QSL cards from stations whose callsigns spell words. I now have more than 150 such QSL cards including cards from W8HOG, WB4DAD, N4HAY, and KD8EGG. I agree that it’s kind of odd, but it’s fun, too.
Where to get QSL cards
There are many companies that print QSL cards. Here are some in no particular order, and with no endorsement implied:
All of these companies offer stock designs, but can also print custom designs. I suggest starting out with one of the stock designs and then consider a custom design once you’ve run out of the first printing. You can design your own, like I did,, or perhaps get a professional designer, like Jeff, K1NSS, to design one for you. Here’s a QSL that he designed for KA2HTV:
Sam says
I look forward to adding a card to your collection before long! de K0YAK
Chris Meisenzahl (K9ROC) says
Just ordered my first set, thanks for the links!
Dan KB6NU says
Sam: I want it!
Chris: Great! Have fun with them.
Cathy Scott says
I have alot or running bear qsl cards that I would like to sell, How do I do it? they are from the 70’s my parents were collectors, and have them from all over, any resonable price is good
Dan KB6NU says
I’m not sure what “running bear” QSL cards are. Can you send me a photo of one or describe them in more detail?
Angie Lemon says
I have a box of cards that were my fathers from the late 20s ..not sure when he stopped..i would like to sell them, but don’t know much about them..i looked on ebay..didn’t look like they moved too fast..any advise?