12 Print Catalogs You Waited All Year to Get

For many years, print catalogs were a major part of shopping, and some were so popular that families looked forward to their arrival every year.

Sophia Zapanta
June 24, 2025
4 min read

12 Print Catalogs You Waited All Year to Get — Ivan Samkov on Pexels

Before online shopping, print catalogs were means how people learned about new products and made purchases. Some catalogs became yearly traditions, especially during the holidays. Kids and adults alike would spend hours flipping through the pages, marking what they wanted or planned to buy.

1. Sears Wish Book

Mike Kalasnik on Wikimedia Commons

The Sears Wish Book was one of the most famous holiday catalogs in the United States. It came out each fall and was packed with toys, clothes, electronics, and home goods. Kids used to circle their favorite items and hand the catalog to their parents. It stopped being printed in 2011, marking the end of an era.

2. JCPenney Christmas Catalog

John Margolies on Wikimedia Commons

JCPenney’s holiday catalog was another yearly favorite, offering a wide range of items for every member of the family. It included everything from clothing and toys to jewelry and furniture. Many households kept it on the coffee table for weeks. The catalog helped shape Christmas lists for decades.

3. Toys “R” Us Big Toy Book

Keizers on Wikimedia Commons

Each fall, Toys “R” Us released a thick toy catalog before the holidays. Children eagerly flipped through the pages, picking out items to ask for. The catalog featured popular toy brands and exclusive deals. With the company closing most of its stores, the printed book is no longer a part of holiday shopping.

4. American Girl Catalog

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The American Girl catalog was popular among kids interested in dolls, stories, and historical characters. Each edition featured new doll outfits, accessories, and books. Many collectors kept these catalogs as part of their collection. Though the brand still exists, many now view the catalog online.

5. LEGO Shop-at-Home Catalog

Rathfelder on Wikimedia Commons

The LEGO catalog was delivered to homes several times a year, but the holiday edition was especially exciting. It showed off new sets, fan favorites, and special bundles. Kids would read it cover to cover, sometimes even cutting out pictures to make wish lists. Today, most of this content is online.

6. L.L.Bean Catalog

L.L. Bean, Inc. on Wikimedia Commons

L.L.Bean sent out seasonal catalogs filled with outdoor clothing, gear, and home items. Families relied on the catalog to shop for winter coats, boots, and holiday gifts. The catalog had a loyal following, especially in colder parts of the country. Though still available in print, many now shop the same products online.

7. Delia’s Catalog

Delia’s on Wikimedia Commons

In the 1990s and early 2000s, Delia’s catalog was popular with teens for its trendy clothes and accessories. It was colorful, youthful, and often passed around among friends. The catalog helped define fashion for a generation. The print version disappeared as the brand moved online.

8. IKEA Catalog

IKEA International Group on Wikimedia Commons

The IKEA catalog arrived each year with new room layouts, furniture ideas, and prices. It was one of the most widely distributed catalogs in the world. People flipped through it for inspiration, even if they didn’t plan to buy right away. The company stopped printing it in 2021 to focus on digital shopping.

9. Victoria’s Secret Catalog

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This catalog included lingerie, clothing, and beauty products and was mailed to millions of customers every year. It often featured seasonal sales and product launches. For many, it was a regular part of home mail. The print version has become less common due to online retail.

10. Oriental Trading Company Catalog

Kürschner on Wikimedia Commons

Known for party supplies, crafts, and toys, Oriental Trading’s catalog was a favorite for families planning birthdays or school events. It had pages full of colorful and affordable bulk items. Teachers and parents often relied on it for themed decorations. Many now shop the same items online, but the print version is still available.

11. Montgomery Ward Catalog

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Montgomery Ward’s catalog was one of the first to offer a full range of items through the mail. It included appliances, furniture, clothing, and toys. For many rural families, it was a vital shopping tool. The company stopped producing the catalog in the early 2000s.

12. Fingerhut Catalog

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Fingerhut mailed catalogs filled with electronics, kitchen tools, clothing, and more. It allowed people to buy on credit and make monthly payments, which made it popular. The catalog was especially useful during the holidays for gift shopping. Fingerhut still exists, but most business now takes place online.