Fun Facts About Stationery You Probably Didn't Know

When you think of stationery, you might envision a mundane assortment of paper, scissors, and pens. However, the world of stationery is far more fascinating than it appears! Here at The Stationery Store, we’re passionate about helping you find the best supplies for home, work, school, and everyday use. To highlight our love for all things stationery, here are some fun facts that may surprise you!

1. The Left-Handed Pen
Did you know that the average ballpoint pen was invented in the 1930s by Laszlo Biro? What’s really interesting is that back then, left-handed individuals faced challenges with ink smearing when using standard pens. This led to the creation of special left-handed pens designed to allow for smoother writing experiences. Now, you can find various pen designs that cater to different writing styles!

2. The Legend of Sticky Notes
The beloved sticky note, an essential tool for organization, has a rather quirky origin. It was created by accident in 1968 by Dr. Spencer Silver, a 3M scientist who was trying to develop a super-strong adhesive. Instead, he developed a low-tack adhesive. Years later, a colleague, Art Fry, thought to use it for bookmarks in his church hymnal. Thus, the sticky note took the world by storm!

3. Postcard Postage Is a Throwback
Postcards have been around since the mid-19th century, and they were initially used more for communication than for leisure. The first official postcard in the U.S. was issued in 1873 for the Philadelphia postal exhibition. Back then, people often used postcards as a low-cost way to send short messages, paving the way for the beloved tradition of sending holiday greetings!

4. The Birth of the Pencil
Pencils have been around a lot longer than most people think. The first pencils, made of wrapped graphite and wood, were created in the 16th century! They became widely popular because they were easier to use than traditional writing instruments. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that Erasers were invented and attached to pencils, giving us the handy tool we utilize today!

5. The Power of Color in Stationery
Colors play a significant role in how we feel and how we perceive our writing environments. Studies suggest that the colors we choose for our stationery can impact our mood and productivity. For instance, shades of blue can induce calmness and enhance creativity, while bright colors like orange can energize and inspire action. Choose wisely when selecting your stationery!

6. A Million Ballpoint Pens
Can you believe that around 100 million ballpoint pens are sold each year in Australia? This goes to show just how essential and timeless this writing instrument is in our lives. Whether for work, school, or home tasks, ballpoint pens remain a staple in every stationery collection!

7. The Joy of Journaling
Journaling isn’t just a trend; it has numerous mental health benefits. Writing things down can help reduce stress, clarify thoughts, and enhance creativity. With the right stationery, from beautifully bound journals to colourful gel pens, you can turn journaling into an enjoyable and therapeutic routine!

Conclusion
At The Stationery Store, we celebrate the charm and utility of stationery supplies. From the innovative designs of today’s pens to the vintage nostalgia of classic notebooks, there's a whole world waiting to be explored. So, the next time you reach for a pen or a notebook, remember these fun facts that add a little excitement to your stationery experience. Shop online at our premium stationery store available 24/7 and refresh your collection today!