I'm hoping that the majority of my readers are paperphiles like me. Because I have literally dozens and dozens of gorgeous items to show you from this week's National Stationery Show.
I'll write posts about several categories and themes, but first I wanted to show you 20 items/designers that I simply loved best. On a gut level, these were the products that I thought were most beautiful, stylish, or clever. And, as you'll see, not all of them are traditional stationery like notecards or greeting cards (there are also some gift products at the show each year). So there's something for everyone. Wherever possible, I've included retail prices and links to purchase them.
Please tell me what you think!
First up, as a geography/map junkie, I was taken by these Letterpressed State Art Prints ($15) by 1 Canoe 2 (Booth #1055). They almost have all 50 states available. I think they are fun and frame-worthy!
Remember how owls were so "in" a few years ago? Well, it seems robots have taken over (as well as a few other icons I'll tell you about later). Here are some letterpress Robot Thank You Cards by Dempsey Press (Booth #1350).
As an October 31st baby myself, I stopped to admire these fantastic screen-printed Halloween cards ($4.25) by L2Design Collective (Booth #1931).
Another trend I'm noticing (and enjoying) is proudly displaying one's zip code in custom stationery products. Looks like this one is ready to ship to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue! Zip code notepads by Dabney Lee (Booth #1835).
I'm a sucker for pretty packaging like these darling favor boxes by B.T. Elements (Booth #2237).
Pretty letterpress cards by newcomer Printerette Press (Booth #1467), launched by a former Target designer. One of the best debuts I saw, and lovely booth design, too.
Viva Greetings (Booth #2051), a shop I first mentioned here last year, had one of the most appealing booths of the show. Love the graphics, the color, the products (Spanish language stationery and gift wrap)...muy bien!
Ms.Taken card by Crane & Co (Booth #1620). Cute for a bridal shower!
I've watched Smock Paper (Booth #2241) grow into a prominent designer of gorgeous letterpress cards, stationery, and gift wrap. This year I admired these storage or gift boxes (about $18 for a large box). I'd love to save my own keepsakes in one of these.
Look at this "T. Hanks" card carefully. Is this brilliant or what? Would love to send these to my other pop-culture fiend friends. By Blue Barnhouse (Booth #2267)
I adore these luxurious Letterpressed Custom Coasters ($48 and up) by Haute Papier (Booth #2146). These would make a gorgeous bridal shower, engagement, or housewarming gift.
You may recognize the fabric-covered mini albums and other lovelies by Estelle Billot (Booth #1244), who has returned to NSS after an 8-year absence with stellar collections including "Oooh La La" and "Merci". Her work is sold at Kate's Paperie and Barney's. Beautiful.
Sky of Blue Cards (Booth #1746) had a stellar debut of cards last year and now has added fun, punchy gift wrap.
I just loved something about this letterpressed Chevy station wagon card ($4) by Pistachio Press (Booth #1664). Takes me back to carpooling days in the late 1970s, I guess.
More cartographic fun! I was smitten with the letterpressed city map notecards ($3) by Gooseberry Press (Booth #1545). They're a bargain, and frankly I'd even frame them.
Any Maddicts out there? Some clever humor from Greenwich Letterpress (Booth #1746).
Dylan's Candy Bar has partnered with Lifeguard Press on an exclusive line of party goods and gifts (Booth #2544). My favorite: This sweet dreams mask.
These Blackberry pouches by Jonathan Adler (another partnership with Lifeguard Press in Booth #2544) are TDF. How about some for the I-phone?
I look forward to NSS's yearly "Paper Runway" where you can vote on the most exquisite couture "threads" that are actually made of paper. This one was one of my favorites--plus check out my Twitter avatar.
Last but not least, here is R. showing off one of the samples I received...a party banner from Someday Designs (Booth #2150). Pretty much sums up my day at the National Stationery Show (R. was very happy too because I brought Hershey kisses home for her).
Phew! There's my first batch. More to come--including trends, letterpress, giftwrap, personalized stationery, and kids stuff. I hope you enjoy this coverage! If you need a "fix" before the next post, check out all of my behind-the-scenes info. and pics on Twitter.
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