Right up there with fisherman knits and a perfectly poured Gin + Tonic, a designated desk drawer chock full of stationery is truly one of our favorite things. For as long as we can remember, handwritten notes, typically couriered by way of the good ‘ole USPS, but on occasion hand delivered, have been second nature when it comes to expressing gratitude, sending celebratory sentiments, or simply to say ‘Hello’. As Margaret Shepard wrote in her book The Art of the Handwritten Note, “The handwritten note’s rarity heightens its appeal.”
A global shift towards digital communication has sadly permitted (perhaps even encouraged) fundamental skills in the art of letter writing to fall into a rather frightening state of disarray. Proper penmanship (you know, the kind of cursive your grandparents used to write sentimental love letters in times of war), grammatical accuracy and an ability to communicate genuinely through the written word are seemingly foreign to most – send a beautifully penned note via #snailmail and you may be shocked by the recipient’s reaction. Paper! Postage! Prose!
We recently noticed a fresh crop of stationers emerging onto the scene, specializing in a style we dubbed ‘simple sentiments’. Take for example, one-word phrases that are straight to the point – Hello. or, Coffee? Layered with beautiful typography (preferably letterpressed) on a backdrop of velvety cotton paper – these designers have struck a chord with our most minimalist-seeking self we never knew existed. So, without further ado, let’s introduce this new(ish) crew with paper wares already on our desk rotation (or currently in our quarantine cart).
Maurèle – Reviving the lost art of letter writing by way of Montréal. In their words, “Created to help us slow down, connect with ourselves and with others, and live more thoughtfully through the ritual of taking pen to paper.”
Lockport Letter Papers | Hanover Notecards
Jaymes Paper – Founded out of a deep fascination for all things paper and design, this Los Angeles-based studio creates cards that encourage us to sit down and write meaningful sentiments to those we love.
You’re My Favorite | Classic Collection
RSVP Paper Co. – A letterpress studio specializing in social notes, founder + designer Stacey Vaughn (SV), (really folks, in the paper world, initials like that + naming your company RSVP are like finding the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow), is in a long-term relationship with her beloved Heidelberg Windmill press and we’re reaping the benefits.
Hello | Yay! | Make a Wish
Of Note Stationers – Show up for the relationships in your life. Appreciate them, support them, celebrate them. If you haven’t signed up + stepped up to this New England team’s motto in the past ten weeks, we’re not sure what sort of world calamity floats your boat.
In Haus Press – The veteran of the group (printing since 2010), bringing beautiful understated stationery to those who appreciate stylish handwritten notes. And simply because cafés are currently closed, doesn’t mean you can’t invite conversation + a cup ‘o joe over Skype with your bestie.
Images courtesy of all brands noted above.
