Ampersand Love

Ampersands. They're a well-loved symbol among graphic designers, myself included. They're a wonderful graphic element all on their own, even aside from the fact that they're used as a symbol for the word "and." I saw a post about ampersands on Design for Mankind and found several things I loved, and I ran across another ampersand poster I wanted to feature. So enjoy some ampersand love today. :)

I love all the ampersands on the identity for Bloom & Stone (via Design for Mankind). Using many different styles of ampersands was a great idea!

The mix of ampersands with fun patterns is excellent. It really gives them a look that's recognizable—a very important element of a brand identity. I also love the die cut ampersands in the business cards—interesting paper treatments are always so cool!

This letterpressed ampersand poster by Jessica Hische (remember her?) is so lovely.

This custom done ampersand really highlights how beautiful and elegant these symbols can be. I'm always a fan of custom type, and the turquoise color on this print is great, too—it's elegant but not stuffy and has a little bit of a modern look that's a fun mix with the ornate design.

And finally, Design for Mankind pointed me to some neat products by Ampersand Design Studio. What? A whole studio named after the ampersand? What a cool idea. Their signature series prints and platters are really nice.

I love the main ampersand best—what a great typeface that must be! But the pattern with lots of different ampersands is fun, too. I love the neon and silver prints—what great colors.

Do you love ampersands too? What do you think of the items I featured?