Newspaperstick history

A newspaper stick is nostalgic and yet completely back in fashion! This handy tool, also known as a newspaper holder, is a global phenomenon. In Dutch, a newspaper stick is called a krantenstok and in German Zeitungshalter. In 1982, a complete exhibition dedicated to newspaper sticks was even organized in Münster (Germany). Who originally invented the newspaper stick remains a mystery for now. Although little is known historically about this handy, nostalgic item, its practical usefulness is just as great on any modern reading table today.

Crease-free newspaper The primary purpose of the newspaper stick is to keep the newspaper intact and complete. While reading, supplements in particular often get lost, and pages easily end up in a different order. Additionally, the rod ensures that the pages crease less quickly, as it requires the reader to read the newspaper flat on the table. With a professional newspaper stick, every reader is guaranteed a complete, organized, and great-looking newspaper!

Clever engineering Over time, the newspaper stick has often been refined to improve both its technology and appearance. The sticks have been launched on the market in various designs. Some newspaper sticks are equipped with sharp little pins. These pins pierce through the spine of the newspaper and clamp into the groove of the second rod. This prevents the pages of the newspaper from shifting. Another method consists of a metal rod that runs along the inside center of the newspaper. The spine of the newspaper is pressed into a groove, after which the metal rod is secured with one or more slides. There is also a newspaper stick where the newspaper is traditionally clamped between two wooden slats using wing nuts.

Hanging the newspaper stick A high-quality newspaper stick features a practical hook at the top for hanging. Hotels, restaurants, and cafes, as well as libraries, often have multiple newspapers available for their guests. To prevent the reading table from becoming buried under paperwork, the newspapers can be hung neatly and visually appealingly by the hook of the newspaper stick. This not only keeps the table looking tidy, but it also ensures the newspaper remains in perfect shape for the next reader.

Nostalgic and trendy newspaper stick with custom logo The appearance of the newspaper stick has also changed over the years. In addition to the nostalgic wooden sticks, the newspaper stick is now available in various RAL colors and modern materials. It is also possible to add a custom logo to the handle or the entire stick (depending on the type and material). This puts a modern spin on a nostalgic product, allowing you to completely determine the style yourself!

Did you know...? Interesting facts about the newspaper stick

• Theft prevention: In the early days of journalism, newspapers were highly valuable. In public venues, newspaper sticks were used not only to prevent creasing but also to deter theft. Due to the large format of the rod, a visitor could not easily slip the newspaper into a coat or bag unnoticed.

• Viennese coffee house culture: Around 1900, the newspaper holder was a true status symbol. Famous designers of the era created exclusive, handcrafted newspaper sticks made of bentwood and brass for the most luxurious and intellectual reading cafes in Vienna.

• Artisanal design: The first official mentions of the wooden newspaper holder date back to the mid-19th century in Germany and Austria. At the time, they were often crafted by local furniture makers to perfectly match the classic cafe interiors.