Stationery Rediscovered

By C M Baker

Tough economic times have seen the decline of many a business across the globe but one stalwart product has seen a dramatic increase in sales - stationery. Over the last two years retailers have had only positive reports on all things pen and paper, as consumers seek to become organised, reconnect and enjoy one of life's more affordable luxuries.

The Promise of Organisation

One of the key reasons behind the resurgence in stationery's popularity could be the promise it holds of allowing people to get organised. Purchasing folders, dividers and labels can give a strong sense of satisfaction when trying to control paperwork, accounts and personal records, and with the clutter cleared, people can get on with living their lives.

Unleashing Creativity

Like fashion, stationery can be a fun way of expressing one's creative flair, and this connection has been recognised with stationery collections from top textile designers. After shopping for the colours and designs that best suit an individual, or gathering pre-loved materials for hand-made masterpieces, stationery can become a terrific tool for making arts and crafts.

Make it an Occasion

Another theory behind the rising success of stationery is that in a world flooded with impersonal emails and texts, people are seeking a more formal way of marking important moments in time. For instance, a handwritten note on a specially chosen card is a simple way of creating an experience for both the writer and the recipient of this personal gesture. Whether it's a birthday, thank you or farewell, stationery can be used to acknowledge a raft of special dates in a thoughtful way.

Get Personal

Personal stationery originated in the Victorian era, but it's easy to see why it's made such a revival. When you can choose your own colours, designs, monograms or embossed details, then write a message in your own words, both the style and the content create a meaningful message.

Bridge a Generational Gap

Many of us still have grandparents or family friends who don't use computers, and for them, stationery can be a significant means of keeping in touch. Handwritten letters and messages sent by post are not only lovely to receive, they're also a communication tool for relaying news, marking significant dates, and checking in on how others are.

Objects of Beauty

Stationery has a permanent aspect, which is why we often keep old letters and notebooks of sentimental value. These things are often shared as gifts, treasured because of where we bought or found them, or because of the messages they contain. Just as we covet works of arts, books and music, so it's the same for many of us with stationery.

The popularity of stationery can be attributed to a number of factors, including people's desire to express themselves creatively, become better organised and formally acknowledge momentous occasions. It's also a beautiful, lasting tool that allows us to establish connections between one another, a precious gift that's likely to remain in demand for years to come.

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