National Coloring Book Day
Long gone are the days when coloring is just for kids. Get out a coloring book and colored pencils, and get lost in the creative, meditative exercise of coloring.
Position coloring books as stress-relief and mindfulness tools for adults, driving retail and e-commerce sales of premium coloring supplies and specialty books.
- Adult coloring as meditation: showcase before/after wellness stories
- Premium pencil & marker bundles tied to coloring book collections
- Therapeutic benefits angle: partner with mental health/wellness brands
- DIY coloring challenges on social media to drive engagement and product discovery
Launched in May 2015 by Dover Publications, this day aims to highlight the joys and benefits of coloring. The tradition of coloring books themselves, however, dates much further back.
In the 1880s, the McLoughlin Brothers published what is considered the first coloring book in collaboration with Kate Greenaway. This initiative wasn’t just for fun; it had deeper roots in education, therapy, and professional exploration.
Interestingly, coloring books initially catered more to adults before becoming the children’s favorite they are today. They have been used for various purposes, including educational tools, therapeutic aids, and political statements.
The concept of adult coloring books resurfaced with Dover Publications releasing ‘Antique Automobiles Coloring Book’ in 1970. That set a precedent for the modern adult coloring book trend. This resurgence aims to evoke childhood nostalgia and offer a stress-relieving, creative outlet for adults.
National Coloring Book Day encourages people of all ages to pick up their coloring tools and enjoy the simple pleasure of coloring.
So, on August 2, let your creativity flow, relive the joy of your childhood days, and maybe even discover a new favorite pastime.