We are now a few weeks into 2019 and did you know that this year is the Chinese year of the Pig? The pig is thought to be a symbol of wealth in Chinese culture (fingers crossed for that lottery win!) I bet you didn’t know that 2019 is The International year of The Periodic Table by the United Nations General Assembly. Anyway, enough of the random facts…
At the moment of writing we are at a truly pivotal point concerning the ‘B’ word. Whilst I have no intention of getting into politics here, suffice to say that no one really knows what will result and how that will shape business in the coming months and years. Let’s hope the Pig brings us all some good fortune!
In less momentous but more fun 2019 news, the Pantone colour of the year is Living Coral. Described as ‘an animating and life-affirming coral hue with a golden undertone that energizes and enlivens with a softer edge’. The Pantone Colour Institute have been forecasting global colour trends for 20 years. Their decisions influence product development and purchasing decisions across multiple industries around the world.
Environmental matters were clearly in the mind of the guys at Pantone and this year will no doubt and rightfully see more pressure on businesses and consumers to reduce their single use plastic consumption. At Woodblock we are taking this very seriously and whilst are plastic use is minimal we can and will do more.
A notepad that can be used in water and a pencil that never goes blunt have been created by a Ukrainian start-up. The Nuka stationary set, described as an ‘Indestructible notepad’, looks fun as a gimmick but I think I’ll stick to good old Linen Draper for my writing!
In more mainstream stationery trends, we are likely to see more illustration, particularly bespoke and specially commissioned illustrations, adding a different artistic edge to products. Watercolours are also being used to create more individual finishes on stationery. Mixed metallics are going to be big after the long run rose gold has had recently. Speak to us about using these (or any other) ideas on your new business cards, letterheads, branded notebooks, diaries and packaging.
At Woodblock we have lots of exciting plots and plans for the coming months so keep your eyes peeled!