Handout | MCT Birth announcements picture a baby riding a stork that's saying 'I'm knocked up.'

By Jessica Milcetich | McClatchy-Tribune

Papergoods for the cynical. That's how 16 Sparrows markets itself. The online retailer of funky cards, journals and other stationery products, puts a slightly bitter, but still chuckle-worthy spin on everyday objects like their "Schmancy recipe cards," which have a space to indicate if your time in the kitchen will be "just a few moments," "if you have some time" or "clear out a day for this."

The Web site also sells cards for various occasions. There's the "Eff-ing" card collection, which wishes readers various greetings - with a sarcastic F-bomb in the middle of it. The birth announcements picture a baby riding a stork that's saying "I'm knocked up" (located in the sale section as of press time). (You also have the option to order cards that say, "You're knocked up" to send to friends who would appreciate the humor.) Moving announcements proclaim that you're "Blowing this popsicle stand."

For the fun-loving, or perhaps sinister-minded, there is private eye stationery that comes complete with gray envelopes with a metal clasp to make your demands look official.

And if you find you just can't decide what you want, the Web site has a "surprise yourself" option. You'll get a grab bag full of assorted discontinued card designs and envelopes to do with what you please.

The Web site also features free downloads of a limited selection of their products. There are PDF files of basic greeting cards with the 16 Sparrows logo, note cards and mailing labels.

The products can be ordered online at www.16sparrows.com or can be purchased at some retailers (a list of carriers is on the Web site).