So here’s a confession. I have a massive weakness for everything to do with stationery, so when I saw the newly published Snail Mail: rediscovering the Art and Craft of handmade correspondence, I just couldn’t resist and had to have it!
Michelle Mackintosh is a book designer, illustrator, self-confessed stationery nerd and has designed dozens of books on a wide range of topics.
We live in an era where everything is instant and we’re in real danger of losing the ability of really communicating with loved ones. In this digital age, receiving a handwritten letter, card, or personalised package is such a treat. This book will make you stop and think about this, whether it’s saying thank you in a letter or maybe even reflecting on your life through writing.
I’ve had this book for a couple of months. It lives in my bedroom and every night before going to bed I feast me eyes on a few pages in the hope that my dreams will be filled with creative endeavours and craft filled scenarios. Hmm, not working that well!
As a graphic designer, I love a well designed book full of intricate details. The photos and styling are gorgeous. The hard cover and matt pages are luscious and the stickers included at the back of the book are such a nice touch!
The book is divided into seven sections: Write here, right now // Crafting a letter // Creative characters //Brown paper packages tied up with string // Post with personality // Getting the most from your post // Templates
There’s so much inspiration in this 220 pages tome that I dare you nor to find something tempting. You might even be inclined to make one of the projects included in the book. The instructions are very clear and there are plenty of photographs to guide you through the creative process.
There’s no doubt that Michelle Mackintosh was inspired by the Japanese stationery and letter writing culture that is very much in vogue at the moment. I can’t wait to try out some of the recommendations here.
Whether you’re crafty or not, if you like stationery, letter writing or purely admire this form of mail art for any occasion, this book is a must for your library. It’s a happy new addition to mine.
This post will stay live until Monday 3rd August.