I don’t collect many things, but I happen to collect patterned security envelopes. You know the ones: they come with your junk mail, your bank statements, pretty much any official document that might have an account number on it comes in a patterned security envelope. I find the patterns totally inspirational, and often turn to my collection for ideas when I am designing for Cotton & Flax.
I am totally fascinated by them. Who designs these intricate patterns? Why are there so many different designs? Is there a reason so many of them are blue? Why are there no pink security envelopes? So many mysteries behind these patterned beauties. Of course, approaching them from an artist’s perspective, some envelopes are better than others. I’ll take a beautifully executed wave pattern over your standard crosshatch pattern any day. But each envelope has it’s own appeal, and taken as a group, it’s hard to deny their charm.