Ampersands

Few punctuation marks are as visually striking as the ampersand. Its flowing curves and distinctive form make it not just a functional symbol, but also a design element that has captured the imagination of scribes, printers, and typographers for centuries. It’s even earned its own holiday: World Ampersand Day, celebrated every September 8—a testament to just how much this little mark continues to inspire and delight. For me, that inspiration has taken the form of a growing collection of ampersands in every size and style—each one a reminder that punctuation can be as beautiful as it is practical.

HISTORY

The ampersand (&) has been around for nearly 2,000 years. It first appeared in Roman times as a clever shortcut: scribes joined the letters “e” and “t” from the Latin word et (meaning “and”) into a single symbol. Its shape evolved over the centuries through medieval manuscripts and early printed books, eventually becoming a staple of typography.

Its quirky name, “ampersand,” came about in the 19th century. When children recited the alphabet, they’d end with “. . . X, Y, Z, and per se and” (meaning “and [the symbol], by itself, means ‘and’”), which gradually slurred into “ampersand.”

Today, you’ll still see “&” in business names, branding, and casual writing. Though it’s less common in formal prose, the symbol remains a compact, stylish shorthand for connection—carrying nearly two millennia of history in a single character.

WORLD AMPERSAND DAY

It’s no surprise that the ampersand has enough personality to earn its own holiday! Every year on September 8, designers, writers, and type enthusiasts celebrate World Ampersand Day (also known as National Ampersand Day). The holiday originated in 2015 by designer Chaz DeSimone, the creative mind behind AmperArt, a project dedicated to showcasing the ampersand as art. His goal was simple: to give this graceful, centuries‑old character a moment in the spotlight.

The choice of September 8 isn’t random: DeSimone picked it because many of the letters and numbers in “September 8” can be stylized to resemble ampersands in certain typefaces. It’s a fitting nod to the symbol’s playful flexibility. Although typography enthusiasts had been celebrating informally as early as 2011, it was DeSimone’s initiative that gave the day its official recognition.

World Ampersand Day is more than a quirky observance—it’s a reminder of how a simple symbol can carry both history and artistry. From sharing favorite designs online to creating crafts or artwork inspired by the “&,” it’s a day to pause and appreciate the ampersand not just as punctuation, but as a piece of design history worth celebrating.

MY COLLECTION

My fascination with ampersands didn’t start with a history lesson or day of celebration—it started with a single large wall‑hanging piece that caught my eye in Hobby Lobby. As an editor who appreciates the beauty and precision of punctuation, I love how the ampersand is both functional and visually captivating. From that first piece, my collection grew, with each new ampersand reflecting my deep appreciation for the little marks that give language shape and meaning.

Today, I have ampersands in all shapes and forms: wall hangings, trinkets, pillows, and even a lamp. Each one feels like a tiny piece of design history, and I love seeing the variety in style—from playful designs to sleek, modern interpretations. Collecting them has become a way to celebrate the beauty of typography in everyday life.

Below are a few highlights from my collection, each with its own story and charm.

Photo of decorative ampersands on a wall

The collection begins! My first ampersand display featured seven pieces: my first ampersand, a cozy pillow, a framed print, and four DIY projects: string art, perler beads, and two crafty cardboard creations.

Photo of decorative items and an ampersand lamp

A golden ampersand lamp and candle add a touch of sophistication to my home office.

Photo of decorative ampersands on a wall

My first ampersand continues to be featured in every home I’ve lived in since my collection began.

Photo of decorative ampersand charcuterie board

This cutting board was a gift; while I’ve used it for charcuterie, I’m hesitant to actually cut anything on it!

Photo collage of ampersands in various places

I always find little places to tuck ampersands throughout the house, adding charisma wherever they go.

Photo collage of decorative ampersands in a home

Found high and low, these ampersands know how to strike a pose.

Photo of decorative ampersand

“Edit & Stet” is a motto for editing with care and a gentle reminder that not every detail needs fixing.

Photo of bottle corks in the shape of an ampersand

This corky ampersand reminds me that the best souvenirs are made by friends, not stores.

Photo of a lit-up decorative ampersand

Lights! Camera! Ampersand! This marquee‑style piece shines in the game room.

Photo of bookshelves with decorative ampersands on them

Eye spy . . . how many ampersands can you find in this display?

Photo of a utensil jar with an ampersand on it

A friend and I used her Cricut to add a touch of ampersand charm to this kitchen utensil jar.

Photo collage of chairs with ampersand pillows

Whether reading books or editing manuscripts, comfy ampersand pillows make it all more fun.

Photo of a decorative outdoor ampersand

This metal ampersand has been thoroughly “weathered” by the weather—but I think the rust just adds character.

Photo of a collection of decorative ampersands

So many ampersands, so little space! Although I do trade out ampersands every so often, there are always a few I can’t seem to find a place for, including this trivet and jewelry dish.

Photo of a mug with ampersands on it

This portable collection offers a punctuation pick-me-up—this travel mug makes every coffee break a little brighter.


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