Designer Shares Origin Story of Iconic ‘I Voted’ Sticker
The creator of the popular "I Voted" sticker, Janet Boudreau, shared how she designed it in 1987. Dissatisfied with the uninspiring stickers she saw being distributed in Washington state on Election Day, she created her own design featuring an ellipse…
Champaign Urbana & Springfield Decatur, IL, October 31, 2026 — The genesis of the widely recognized “I Voted” sticker, a symbol of civic engagement across the United States, has been shared by its creator, Janet Boudreau. Boudreau revealed the story behind the design, which she conceptualized in 1987.
Boudreau’s inspiration reportedly stemmed from a sense of dissatisfaction with the stickers available at the time. On Election Day in Washington state, she observed the uninspiring options being distributed and felt compelled to create something more impactful.
Using readily available tools, Boudreau designed her version of the “I Voted” sticker. Her design features a prominent ellipse and a waving flag, rendered in blue and red pens. The intention behind her creation was to foster a greater sense of encouragement for civic participation among voters.
Since its inception, Boudreau’s design has transcended its origins in Washington state. It has evolved into a ubiquitous emblem of voting, distributed and recognized nationwide. The sticker serves as a visible marker of individuals who have cast their ballots, contributing to a broader culture of democratic participation.
The contractor’s name, beyond Janet Boudreau, was not provided. The specific entity distributing the stickers in Washington state in 1987 was not detailed. No information was provided regarding specific design modifications or official adoptions of the sticker by election authorities beyond its general widespread adoption.
Story summarized from the original created by Caitrin Assaf, Max Cotton on www.wandtv.com, see more information here.
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