When our readers open the pages of Everyday Objects, we want them to see the quiet beauty in the mundane—the way a frayed shoelace, scattered paperclips, or a favorite book can hold unexpected charm. We’re looking for work that captures the personality of ordinary things and gives them a moment in the spotlight.

This issue is about both noticing what’s always around us and reimagining the familiar in surprising ways. Some pieces might celebrate simplicity, while others might add storytelling, humor, or a sense of the uncanny—like a perfectly balanced stack of spoons or a lone sock on an unexpected adventure. Photography might lean into bold shadows, interesting close-ups, or compositions that make the everyday feel extraordinary. Art should feel textured and tangible, whether through loose sketches, layered collages, or richly painted still lifes. In graphic design, we love retro typography, vintage-inspired layouts, and bold simplicity—think matchbox labels, mid-century ads, or lettering that feels personal and tactile.

As this issue lands in autumn, subtle seasonal nods are welcome—warm hues, jewel tones, or everyday objects tied to the season, like cozy scarves or a half-eaten apple. Let’s take the ordinary and make it something worth noticing.

Note: More than anything, we want to see your creativity. Let this inspiration be a jumping-off point rather than a checklist—surprise us with your interpretation. Instead of delivering exactly what we’ve described, take what’s here and make it your own. If submissions stick too closely to the inspiration given, it’s hard to create an issue that is as full of variety and creativity as it could be.