The Sensuous Nature of Stationery: A Love Letter to the Art of Writing

Have you ever thought of stationery as sensuous? Until recently, I hadn’t given it much thought or heard it described that way, and it piqued my curiosity. According to the Oxford Dictionary, "sensuous" means relating to or affecting the senses rather than the intellect.

When you think about it, this definition perfectly fits the age-old art of communication through letter writing. In the past, women often sprayed their favorite perfume on letters to evoke a sensory experience for the recipient. While I haven’t personally received or sent letters like that, the concept resonates with me.

For me, the sensuous nature of stationery is found in the feel of thick, smooth paper and beautiful artwork. As a self-confessed stationery addict, I prefer writing things down by hand. But why choose pen and paper over the convenience of a phone? Here’s why:

The Intimacy of Handwriting

Writing by hand creates a personal and intimate connection with my thoughts and ideas. It allows for more creative expression through doodles, sketches, and varied writing styles, making the process more enjoyable and personal.

A Break from Screen Time

In our digital age, screens dominate our lives. Writing by hand offers a refreshing break, reducing eye strain and fatigue. There’s something calming about the simplicity of pen and paper, always ready to use without the need for batteries, software updates, or other technical issues.

Tangible Keepsakes

Written notes, journals, and letters can be kept as physical mementos, adding sentimental value that digital notes often lack. They serve as a tangible connection to our memories and emotions.

As an artist, I now get to feed my stationery addiction with my own artwork, creating various forms of stationery. I never go anywhere without a notepad, and I use my weekly To-Do List daily. Did you know I have notepads available on my website? They’re small enough to fit in your purse or pocket, ensuring you always have paper on hand for notes, thoughts, or reminders. Check out the Daily Stationery Pack here

I’d love to hear what you think about sensuous stationery. Drop me an email, or if you’re so inclined, write me a letter. I always enjoy hearing from you!