A paperweight is defined as a decorative weight commonly used to hold sheets of paper on a desk or table to prevent them from flying off. Paperweights are rarely used in modern office settings now, but in the past they were a frequent feature in both homes and offices.

Made of resin, acrylic or glass, paperweights are available in a wide variety of sizes and designs, including engraved paperweights; and are now more commonly used as decorative objects in the home or objects that have been inherited by older members of the family. Due to the move towards paperless offices, the need for paperweights has dramatically decreased. While when originally produced, paperweights soon became widely available due to the industrial revolution and were widely used in homes and workplaces for both their decorative and functional benefits.

With an increase in letter writing, paperweights had a designated purpose and would be objects that would be used on a daily basis; however, as we moved into the electronic age, the need for letter writing rapidly diminished and was replaced by email, thereby significantly reducing the need for paperweights. The main use of paperweights now is as decorative objects in the home, or corporate paperweights often featured as custom engraved awards used for decorative purposes in the office and to signify a special achievement.

Now it’s possible to make your own paperweights at home, perfect for use in your own home or as gifts for friends and family. All you need is a kit from your local arts or crafts store, or a few easy-to-find items like a picture you’d like to enclose in your paperweight, a mold, sharp scissors, and resin. These personalized paperweights would make the perfect gift to decorate a side table or wall cabinet.

Collecting and making paperweights is a hobby enjoyed by many people. These simple objects are relatively easy to make and it is possible to start your collection on a small budget, you can often pick up paperweights at your local car boot sale or charity shop. These collections can become so extensive that some are moved to museums that display the beauty of these objects.

If you’re interested in seeing some of the original paperweights, famous for their intricate artwork and craftsmanship, why not visit a specialist museum? Here you will find everything from the first glass paperweights to the most modern designs. With screens incorporating the many paperweight designs available, including those with coated images, carved designs, or hand-painted pictures.