Printed Matter

I Thought I Knew About the Poll Tax, but I Was Wrong

How a bunch of vintage documents gave me a fascinating history lesson.

Oct 2 •

A Sample Catalog for Something You Probably Never Thought About

If you’re giving out a diploma, certificate, or other fancy document, it likely needs a decorative border.

May 16 •

A Visit to the Ephemera Fair

Can you guess which two items I purchased at this fantastic vintage market?

Mar 18 •

The Strangest Artifacts I’ve Ever Saved

Some thoughts on the pleasures of vintage price tags.

Mar 4 •

Let’s Check Out Some Cool Old Business Letters and Invoices

Each one provides a peek into a distinct little industry-specific world.

Feb 28 •

What’s the Deal with “Both Phones”?

A simple but confusing phrase used to be common on promotional materials. Here’s the story behind it.

Jan 13 •

The Pleasures of Vintage Billheads

You probably know about letterhead, but do you know about billheads? Let’s take a closer look.

Jan 7 •

How a Vintage Library Card Reconnected Me with an Old Friend

An amazing tale of coincidence, happenstance, and incredibly good luck.

Jan 2 •

A Very Beautiful Book About ... Math

Even math-phobes will find plenty to like in this 19th-century classic.

Oct 2, 2024 •

Some Thoughts About Book Spine Design

Including a particularly interesting (and irksome) recent example.

Aug 5, 2024 •

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