Today we purged

Today we purged the majority of old printed samples we had stored in the basement for more than twenty years.

Why did we finally decide to let them go?

Quite simply, the shelves were overflowing, and we needed the space. Recently, we started talking about how to manage those crowded shelves. Should we reorganize everything and pack it away once again? Or was it finally time to part with it?

It was Labor Day weekend, and we had no plans, so we decided to tackle the project we had been avoiding for years. You’ve probably heard the old advice: “If you haven’t used it in a year, get rid of it.” In my case, it wasn’t one year—it was more than two decades. I realized I hadn’t looked at many of these printed samples in years. I had to ask myself: Am I ever really going to need them again?

Down in the Basement

The samples were stored in large plastic bins filled with hanging file folders, carefully organized by client name or project type—brochures, newsletters, annual reports, folders, stationery systems, and more. Most projects had duplicate copies, sometimes several of each piece. Years ago, we routinely asked clients for printed samples after projects were completed so we could build our portfolio. Today, almost everything lives digitally, and printed samples are far less necessary.

Sorting through the bins felt like taking a trip down memory lane. Some projects I remembered instantly; others I had completely forgotten about. Many of those clients are no longer part of our current work. People move on, companies change leadership, and businesses evolve. One client I worked with for nineteen years eventually brought in new leadership that decided to hire a different designer. I had entire boxes dedicated to their magazines and fundraising campaigns. Letting go of those pieces felt surprisingly emotional. Goodbye to those past treasures!

The Era of CDs and Obsolete Technology

After the printed samples came the CDs.

Before cloud storage and file-sharing services, we backed up files on tape drives and burned CDs for extra copies or client transfers. Large image files were often too big for email, so CDs were essential. Some of the cases even had printed directories listing project names and dates.

It’s amazing how quickly technology becomes obsolete. At one time, those disks contained work that felt incredibly valuable and important. Now they are little more than relics from another era of design production.

Mixed Feelings About Letting Go

I had mixed emotions during this big purge.

On one hand, it felt wonderful to clear out piles of paper and finally reclaim shelf space. On the other hand, it was bittersweet. These weren’t just stacks of printed materials—they represented years of creativity, deadlines, collaboration, and problem-solving. They were tangible reminders of the work we poured ourselves into for our clients.

Of course, I couldn’t part with everything. I saved a few favorite pieces that still hold special meaning.

Filling the Dumpster

I made several trips to the recycling dumpster until it was nearly full. That’s a lot of paper—and a lot of history.

Those projects represented countless hours of thought, design, revisions, and production. We kept them because they were physical proof of the work we had created over the years. They reminded us of relationships, accomplishments, and moments in our creative journey.

But eventually, there comes a time to let go of the past to make room for what’s next.

There are new clients now. New projects. New technology. New ways to archive and showcase our work. And perhaps those newly emptied shelves will soon hold something even more meaningful than old samples from the past.