2016 Love Stamp Created Using Ancient Art of Quilling

The ancient art of quilling was used to create the 2016 Love Stamp for the U.S. Postal Service. Quilling is also known as paper filigree. It involves rolling and shaping narrow strips of paper, laying them on their edges, and gluing them in place to form intricate designs.

The stamp was created by paper artist and illustrator Yulia Brodskaya. Brodskaya used paper and glue to carefully place cut and bent strips of paper to make vibrant, three-dimensional paper heart artwork. The heart shape in the center is made from brightly colored paper strips surrounded by white paper swirls. The background is white with shadows cast by the dimensional pieces of quilled paper.

The beautiful stamp was launched at a dedication held at Love Field in Dallas, TX. Children designed paper hearts at the event to be given to travelers.

Postal Service Corporate Communications Vice President Janice Walker said in a statement, "Thousands of travelers at Love Field will take flight to destinations across the nation and around the globe. Our beautiful Quilled Paper Heart Forever Love stamp evokes tranquility, peace and love as Americans correspond with beloved friends and family while away from home. And they’re perfect for Valentine's Day cards."

The U.S. Postal Service says quilting is believed to have originated in the 15th or 16th century. The first quilters in the world were monks and nuns. It was used to create elaborate church decorations. Quilting has seen a renewed popularity over the past two decades.