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2023 St. Louis Pen Show Recap (via Pen Addict - Kimberly). It concerns me to hear that the St. Louis Pen Show, being as well-run an event as it is, continues to have attendance issues, even after last year. I wonder if it has to do with the time on the show calendar, as June tends to be a slow(er) business month in general given vacation, etc.
2023 St. Louis Pen Show (via Rachel’s Reflections). Rachel has another great review of the St. Louis Show.
One More for the Community’s Exploration of #21PenQuestions (via mnmlscholar). My own answers to #21PenQuestions will be forthcoming this week! Stay tuned. I’ve enjoyed thinking on these.
Maruman Mnemosyne Twin Ring Notebook Review (via Blake’s Broadcast). The Mnemosyne spiral notebooks are quite durable, come in a wide range of rulings and sizes, and give rise to endless debates about how to properly pronounce the name.
If at First You Don’t Succeed, Swap Nibs (via mnmlscholar). I’ve long been a proponent of unapologetic nib swapping. Several of my best everyday writers are bonafide “frankenpens” where none of the nibs and bodies match.
Packing Cubes for Notebooks? (via Stationery Pizza). I use the modular Plotter cases that come in three different sizes. Intended to fit plotter binders, they also hold other similarly sized notebooks and make it easy to swap stationery between different desks and bags.
Ink of the Week: Troublemaker Petrichor (via Fountain Pen Love). Now this is a cool grey color that I need to try out….
Kaweco Bronze Sport (via SBRE Brown). I love the warmer tone of the bronze as opposed to the more yellow brass. I wish more penmakers worked in bronze….
What I’m Enjoying (via From the Pen Cup). Flea beetles are the bane of my gardening existence.
A Journaling Streak - Holding on a Little Too Tightly (via Pete Denison). Sometimes it is best to remember why you started doing certain things, and not just continuing to do them for their own sake.
Mini-Review: Retro51 Rainforest Trust (via Well-Appointed Desk). Now THIS is a cool Retro, and for a good cause!
This week on the blog, I continued the Mid-Year Review, with a recap of the five most popular posts according to a combination of reader comments and statistics. I also wrote a post on a notebook I recently built out for brainstorming - one of my “single purpose” notebooks I keep in rotation.
The Heat is on!
The big news from this week is something that’s actually going to launch NEXT week (unless you’re a Patreon subscriber) - more on that below. But we also launched the pre-order for the TWSBI ECO Heat, an orange TWSBI to celebrate summer! Pre-orders are still available, and the pens will go out tomorrow, so reserve yours now. We also received a new shipment of the Laban Greek Mythology Inks, including the previously sold out Aphrodite Pink (which is still in short supply).
We’re also running a Fourth of July Promotion this weekend! Take 10% off inks and pen cases and notebook covers, to help you get geared up for your summer travels! Use the coupon code “HAPPY4TH” at checkout!
You knew the ink was gonna be red, right? I mean, otherwise, what’s the point? ;)
The big news that I announced yesterday on Instagram is the arrival of our exclusive collaboration with Hinze Pens and Starry Night Resins: a version of the Hinze “Elementar” fountain pen featuring a custom TGS-themed resin with a black ceramic-plated stainless steel nib. I’m very pleased with how these pens turned out and can’t wait to get them in your hands when they launch to the general readership next Thursday, July 6! There are 30 pens in this initial run, and each pen will include a bottle of limited edition “Summer Sangria” red ink. The ink will not be available after this pen release, as it’s part of a run commissioned by Hinze and is no longer made. While there may be a giveaway of a bottle or two later, there isn’t sufficient quantity to sell it on a stand-alone basis. Pens are currently open for pre-order to the Patreon membership, so if you want to guarantee yourself a pen (and a small break on the price), now is a great time to consider checking out our Patreon program, which also gives you access to a monthly meetup, periodic sample sales, and exclusive content. That said, I expect there to be plenty of pens available after the Patreon pre-order period ends.
The Gentleman Stationer is supported via purchases from the T.G.S. Curated Shop and pledges via the T.G.S. Patreon Program.
Don’t Miss this week’s Giveaway! Closes tonight at 11:59pm CT.
Lumpers vs. Splitters: How Many Paper Notebooks Do You Use at One Time? (via Analog Office). Both? I have multiple general purpose notebooks, as well as notebooks devoted to specific functions.
Half Year Check-in for 2023 Intentions (via Pen Addict - Kimberly). It’s that time of year again!
YStudio - Classic Portable Fountain Pen in Copper (via Weirdoforest Pens). I need to jump back into reviewing the YStudio lineup, as it’s been years since I’ve used one of their products and they have expanded rather dramatically.
The Advantages of Dip Nibs (via KraftyKats). Want a lot of line variation in your writing and the ability to switch between styles without having to have fountain pen nibs ground? Dip nibs are an inexpensive and easy way to experiment.
An Ink You Like Is Too Wet or Too Dry - Do Not Throw It Out (via Dapprman). In addition to awaiting the perfect pen for a specific ink (one that may write slightly wet or slightly dry), you can also consider some of the various ink additives available such as Vanness “White Lightning”. I hear it works great for the Kyoto TAG inks.
Ink of the Week - Papier Plume Bayou Nightfall (via Fountain Pen Love). Papier Plume has been absolutely killing it in recent years with some of their limited edition ink colors, and Bayou Nightfall - a grey/blue/green shader - is a personal favorite. I’m glad I was able to pick up a bottle secondhand.
Conway Stewart Churchill Fountain Pen Review (via S.B.R.E. Brown). Eventually I’ll bring home one of the Conway Stewart Flagship pens from either the upcoming D.C. or San Francisco Pen Shows.
Ink Review #2238: Romania Red (via Mountain of Ink). Dominant Industry Romania Red has turned into one of my favorite dark/blood red inks available right now, and is the preferred substitute for my Montblanc Hitchcock. I might actually prefer this color.
Stationery on the Go: Train Edition (Pen Addict - Sarah). I would love to take a long train trip (cross-country maybe?) solely for the purpose of spending some time with my writing.
Boku-Undo Gansai Aurora Palette (via Well-Appointed Desk). So it looks like watercolor makers are taking the same approach as the fountain pen ink makers, releasing a ton of colors with different properties.
This week on the blog I wrote a piece about proprietary ink cartridges (namely those from Japan that I love due to their high ink capacity and refillability), and I also revisited five of my favorite posts from 2023 as I work through my Mid-Year Review that will be continued this week.
This week in the Curated Shop, we had large-format A4 notebooks arrive, and I also took a look at five of my favorite releases from 2023.
T.G.S. Patreon is currently the only non-shop means of support for the site, and features not only access to meetups and early gently used sales, but more exclusive content. Patreon support starts as low as $3 per month, and if you pay annually there is a further discount. In addition to purchases from The Curated Shop, Patreon allows us to continue to grow the site without relying on advertisements and affiliate marketing. If you’re interested in meetups and exclusive content, or simply supporting the site, we greatly appreciate your support!
Let’s just say this week may have gotten slightly off-track with fountain pen minimalism.
Finding Each Other: Social Media (via A Fleeting Ripple). This is a great idea for a post - most forms of social media are constantly changing, including in the fountain pen world, and it’s important to keep up with where people are as certain communities we’ve come to rely on to connect us change (or close altogether). See the last section of this post for details on where you can find me on social media and/or the broader internet these days.
#21PenQuestions from Inkdependence (via Inkdependence). This was a fun read. I’m going to go start working on my answers.
Finding the Purposeful Center of Writing in Analog (via mnmlscholar). A thoughtful reflection on why and how we do the work we do, and may or may not choose to do it in analog form.
Montblanc 149 Calligraphy Curved Nib (via Scrively). Depending on how you hold this pen (similar to a Kodachi or Naginata-Togi-style nib), you apparently can get some very nice line variation in a single nib. It’s interesting to see Montblanc get involved selling these kinds of nibs.
Kuretake Gansai Tambi Portable Watercolor Palette (via Fueled by Clouds and Coffee). While I don’t own a Watercolor Palette, or even any watercolors, I’ve long been curious about how palettes are used and refilled.
Life Schöpfer Notebook Review (via Blake’s Broadcast). Blake reviews a vintage exercise book-style notebook from Japanese stationery company Life.
Kaweco Bronze Sport (via Dapprman). While it’s a more expensive option, I also enjoy how bronze works as a material on pens.
Ink of the Week - Visconti Blue (via Fountain Pen Love). Visconti inks used to receive a lot more attention than they do today. They make a generally well-regarded blue ink that’s aptly described here as a bright “pure” blue.
Montblanc Writer’s Edition Franz Kafka Review (via SBRE Brown). The insect engraving on the nib does it for me.
Seven Years of Morning Pages (via From the Pen Cup). That sort of consistency is a huge accomplishment. Congratulations!
The Pen that Started It All (via Pen Addict - Kimberly). Everyone has that one first pen that kicked off the hobby for them. Mine was a Waterman Laureate.
This week on the blog, we featured a guest post from R.B. Lemberg titled “The Ark of Pens,” which contained their thoughts on collecting and the fountain pen hobby. Since I’ve been doing a LOT of writing and editing this week, I’ve been using a combination of workhorse Pilot pens and blue-black inks. I wrote a post on six of my blue-black inks of choice, after I noticed that they showed a surprising amount of variation. Finally the YouTube Channel has a new “Currently Inked” video, in which I talk about three of the capless/retractable fountain pens I’ve been using lately.
The Platinum Matte Curidas Fountain Pen comes with everything you need to get started writing!
First things first: Through tonight at 11:59pm CT, grab an extra 10% off certain paper and desk accessories in the T.G.S. Curated Shop using the code “DAD10” at checkout. Also, if you’re looking for a last-minute gift (for Father’s Day or any occasions), after repeated request there I’ve introduced an electronic gift card option.
New arrivals this past week include the Matte Curidas Retractable Fountain Pen from Platinum, available in all three colors. We’ve also restocked on Midori MD Cotton Paper in both the pad and notebook format, and have A4 sized Midori MD Light Notebooks.
Prompted by Dennis’ post above, maybe this is a good time to take a moment to talk about where I live in the online pen world, and where you can find me other than here on the primary T.G.S. website. I’m most active on Instagram (@gentlemanstationer), given that the visual aspect of pens, ink, and paper lends itself to a more photo and video-intensive application. While I do repost content to Twitter (@vintagegntlmn), for those of you who I know use it like a news feed, lately I’ve been more active on Mastodon (@gentlemanstationer.mastodon.social) since I feel that community tends to lend itself to more civil discussion and has a growing stationery contingent.
While I’m interested in participating more in communities such as Twitch, Slack, Discord and Reddit (u/gentlemanstationer and r/gentlemanstationer), and agree that all of those platforms have vibrant communities of enthusiasts, my time commitments are limited and I can’t really do anything justice by trying to engage everywhere on a deep level. Because any content/advice/interactions you have on traditional social media can be fleeting and subject to the whims of third-parties who probably don’t have “growing community” and preserving knowledge long-term as their central aim, my central point of engagement will always be here at T.G.S., since I own the platform and have a large degree of control over what happens to my content and can take steps to keep the dialog on a respectful level. If you’d like to participate in more personal interaction (including monthly meetups), consider joining our Patreon. I’m also working on more video content over on the T.G.S. YouTube Channel.
As always, many thanks for your support!
For an additional Good Blue Writing Sample, check out this YouTube Short!
Six Years and Counting! (via Pen Addict - Kimberly). Happy Six Year Penversary to Kimberly! How long have you all been in this hobby? Do you have any special ways to celebrate?
Use Symbols to Help You Scan Your Paper List: the Dash Plus System (via Analog Office). There are many variations on “bullet journal-style” task tracking, including Dash Plus.
What Is this Collecting Lark? (via Goodwriterspens). Are you a user or a collector? Both? Does it matter? You can also read Part II here.
Pen Trends: Dip Nib Mania (via Well-Appointed Desk). Laura walks through three popular dip nibs currently on the market. I go back and forth on whether there is interest in dip nib content here at T.G.S. If you’d like to read more about this, or even have me bring them into the store, let me know!
Diplomat Elox Fountain Pen (via Blake’s Broadcast). Diplomat has a long history of fountain pen manufacturing in Germany, and in recent years have garnered much acclaim for the Aero and the Elox, with their distinctive designs.
Systematizing: Traveler’s Notebook (via A Fleeting Ripple). One of the best aspects of the Traveler’s Notebook System is its customizability - you can make this notebook/planner as structured or flexible as you want using Traveler’s Notebook refills (or your own).
Diamine Monboddo’s Hat on Maruman Mnemosyne (via Incredible Colors). One of the many collaborations between Diamine and the Reddit community of fountain pen users, Monboddo’s Hat has been compared to Lamy’s coveted “Dark Lilac” special edition ink from a few years ago.
Dupe the Expensive Vibes (via Rachel’s Reflections). An interesting post from Rachel, which talks about pens with the look of (much) more expensive models, while still maintaining a degree of originality in the design.
Unearthed! Mutts Fold & Mail Stationery (via From the Pen Cup). Fold & Mail stationery is such a great concept, especially since it makes the letter writing process easy by (1) forcing you to keep your letters to a reasonable length to get them out the door; and (2) simplifying the process of getting them out the door.
Review: M800 Green Demonstrator (via Pelikan’s Perch). I love the look of the M800 Green Demonstrator. Amidst some uncertainty regarding Pelikan’s direction and the future of the fine writing division, I’m glad to see this release, even if it is something of a retread.
This week on the blog I took another look at the subject of landscape notebooks, with a deeper dive into the Write Notepads version. I also reviewed one of my Spring pen show acquisitions: the R615 “Titanium Blue” fountain pen special collaboration between The Good Blue and our friends at Vanness Pens.
Two big arrivals this past week: the much-anticipated Endless Creator fountain pen, which is their attempt at an original capless/retractable fountain pen at an accessible $50 price point. We also received a massive restock of Anterique ballpoint pens, mechanical pencils, and the refills. See the full list of recent arrivals and restocks in this post from Thursday.
T.G.S. Patreon is currently the only non-shop means of support for the site, and features not only access to meetups and early gently used sales, but more exclusive content. Patreon support starts as low as $3 per month, and if you pay annually there is a further discount. In addition to purchases from The Curated Shop, Patreon allows us to continue to grow the site without relying on advertisements and affiliate marketing. If you’re interested in meetups and exclusive content, or simply supporting the site, we greatly appreciate your support! Note that Patrons will have early access to our forthcoming special release that should be arriving either later this month or early July, including pre-order opportunities and possibly exclusive access to certain add-ons. June is a good time to join!
Recent links…
Discussion welcome.
Mini-Heap posts usually appear when 7 or so new items accumulate in the Heap of Links, a collection of items from around the web that may be of interest to philosophers.
The Heap of Links consists partly of suggestions from readers; if you find something online that you think would be of interest to the philosophical community, please send it in for consideration for the Heap. Thanks!
Atlanta Pen Show Weekend (via Well-Appointed Desk). I won’t make the show on Sunday - have to go home and get cracking on those taxes! - but if you’re in the area be sure to visit Ana at the Vanness Pens Table and Jesi at Dromgoole’s.
In Defense of the Slow, Inefficient Read … and the Long Point Pencil (via mnmlscholar). I’m glad to see that at least one other person has rejected the seemingly ubiquitous urgings for us all to become “speed readers”, as opposed to actually processing what choose to consume.
Platinum 3776 Coarse Nib Review (via Blake’s Broadcast). Platinum’s new “Coarse” nib has received a lot of attention lately, particularly as a platform for custom nib grinds since it has a lot of tipping material.
Awol: A Quick Life Update (via A Fleeting Ripple). It’s amazing how much difference a change of scenery can make to those of us who love our analog “stuff,” and how this can affect our happiness with where we live.
Shibui North Pocket Fox (via Rachel’s Reflections). I’ve never heard of this brand, but I love the pattern on the nib.
f-inks F1 SS316 Fountain Pen (via Rants of the Archer). A new fountain pen brand from the Philippines is launching? Here’s one that looks worth monitoring, as I generally love pens with this specific shape.
Caran d’Ache “Ultra Violet” Ink Review (via Scrively). Another blog that will be writing “lefty-specific” ink reviews, for those of you with overwriter concerns about fountain pen inks and whether they will smear.
Itoya Profolio A5 Notebook Review (via Pen Addict - Jeff). I recently had a chance to try out the paper in these notebooks and came away enjoying it. If you enjoy paper like Clairefontaine Seyes-ruled, consider giving this one a try.
What I’m Using This Week (via From the Pen Cup). Cool idea from Mary on how to make sure you’re rotating through all of the pens and pencils in your collection!
Traveler’s Short Trip Passport Size (via Well-Appointed Desk). If you visit the Traveler’s/Plotter table at a pen show, often you’ll find some Japan-only or more “experimental” refill options, like this short-version.
People shouldn’t sleep on the Laban Inks - they’re excellent. (Burkina Leonardo not included with purchase;))
This weekend I took a quick trip to the Atlanta Pen Show as an attendee-only, with my daughter. It was a lot of fun bringing her to her first “real” pen show, and I may write a feature at some point about introducing kids to fountain pens and how to introduce them to shows. Earlier in the week I reviewed two additional inks from the Laban “Greek Mythology” Ink series, Poseidon Green and Hera Dark Green, both of which are excellent everyday users in an ink line that’s increasingly becoming a staple for me.
The Pilot Custom 74 (left) and the Pilot Custom 823 (right) fountain pens feature two of the most consistent, reliable nibs available.
Though it’s been overshadowed a bit by Atlanta Pen Show travels, on Thursday we announced that The Gentleman Stationer is now an authorized retailer of Pilot Pens and inks, starting with our favorite Custom 823 and Custom 74 fountain pens and the entire line of Iroshizuku Inks! Our focus as retailers is on pens that you can use “all-day, every day,” and you can’t do much better than one of Pilot’s “Custom Series” as your daily workhorse. Check out our Thursday Drops post for the full list of new arrivals, which also includes the recently released TWSBI ECO “Persian Green”.
T.G.S. Patreon is currently the only non-shop means of support for the site, and features not only access to meetups and early gently used sales, but more exclusive content. Patreon support starts as low as $3 per month, and if you pay annually there is a further discount. In addition to purchases from The Curated Shop, Patreon allows us to continue to grow the site without relying on advertisements and affiliate marketing. If you’re interested in meetups and exclusive content, or simply supporting the site, we greatly appreciate your support! Our next meetup will be at our typical time, which is the third Saturday of every month at 8:30pm U.S. Central Time. Details are circulated through the Patreon feed, so Patreon members should be sure to sign up to get updates/alerts.
Links of the day…
Discussion welcome.
Mini-Heap posts usually appear when 7 or so new items accumulate in the Heap of Links, a collection of items from around the web that may be of interest to philosophers.
The Heap of Links consists partly of suggestions from readers; if you find something online that you think would be of interest to the philosophical community, please send it in for consideration for the Heap. Thanks!
The latest links…
Discussion welcome.
Mini-Heap posts usually appear when 7 or so new items accumulate in the Heap of Links, a collection of items from around the web that may be of interest to philosophers.
The Heap of Links consists partly of suggestions from readers; if you find something online that you think would be of interest to the philosophical community, please send it in for consideration for the Heap. Thanks!
Pens from my recent travels in Arkansas
Manila Pen Show 2023 Recap (via Hand Over That Pen). Honestly, having read this recap and followed the social media posts in real time, MPS has jumped to the top of the list of international shows I want to visit.
Unmoored (via From the Pen Cup). There’s something to be said for adopting a minimalist stationery carry, which is one reason why it’s been fun to reduce the size of the pack/bag I carry on a regular basis.
Aurora Il Viaggo Secreto in Italia Volterra (via SBRE Brown). I absolutely love the material on this recent series of the Aurora 88.
Pairings Party: Onoto Scholar Highland, Ferris Wheel Press Central Park Greens (via Pen Addict). The Onoto Scholar has been one of the surprising hits of the past year, and they have some amazing, subtly gorgeous colors. Check out the Vanness website, as I believe they are the exclusive Onoto dealers in the U.S.
Moleskine Bullet Notebook Review (Writing at Large). As predicted, Moleskine’s attempt at a “Bullet Journal” notebook isn’t fountain pen friendly, despite the heavier paper weight.
Early Thoughts on the Aurora Duo Cart Fountain Pen (via Fountain Pen Blog). I haven’t heard much about the Duo Cart over the past couple of years, though it’s been showing up more in my feed lately as perhaps a wider return to pen shows has revived interest in the model?
Colorfully Uncommon Commonplace Notes (via mnmlscholar). I love reading about other people’s analog notetaking systems, especially how they organize and process information for future reference.
Even More Indie Makers (via Rachel’s Reflections). Rachel’s blog is an excellent source for referrals on independent and/or custom penmakers, if you’re interested in having someone design a pen for you or if you’re simply looking for a unique design or materials unavailable elsewhere.
Maruzen Athena Renga (via Fountain Pen Love). The Maruzen inks are popular store-exclusive ink options for those visiting Japan.
Plantable Paper (via Bleistift). Just curious, has anyone ever been able to get plantable paper to work? I’ve had little success.
That In-Between Feeling (via Well-Appointed Desk). I can relate to this one, as I’m in-between a lot of things right now, stationery and notebooks included.
This week I tried to get some sleep after two full weeks of pen-related and other travel…and then had to travel AGAIN for work. I did manage to find some time to recap the 2023 Arkansas Pen Show, which was a great experience and I enjoyed getting to meet everyone in person! I also wrote a bit about my vintage purchases at that show, which included two new Parker 51s!
We recently received a ton of new products from Life Stationery, including this vintage-style airmail paper.
New releases and fresh stock are arriving faster than I can get them listed in a timely manner! On the pen side, we received additional Mark’Style x Anterique ballpoints with the excellent Mach Ball refill, as well as the Mark’s hexagonal metal gel pen in the “Days” series. Platinum’s newly released “Preppy Wa” fountain pen also arrived, in their six silk-screened “Modern Maki-e” finishes. Finally, I spent most of the day yesterday listing three giant boxes of paper from Life Stationery, including restocks of the Bank Paper and Typewriter Paper specialty writing pads!
I shared some exciting news about projects I’m working on for an expanded T.G.S. on our last Patreon meetup, and our next members’ meet is tonight at 7:30pm CT via Zoom! T.G.S. Patreon is the only non-shop means of support for the site, and features not only access to meetups and early gently used sales, but more exclusive content. Patreon support starts as low as $3 per month, and if you pay annually there is a further discount. In addition to purchases from The Curated Shop, Patreon allows us to continue to grow the site without relying on advertisements and affiliate marketing. If you’re interested in meetups and exclusive content, or simply supporting the site, we greatly appreciate your support!
New links…
Discussion welcome.
Mini-Heap posts usually appear when 7 or so new items accumulate in the Heap of Links, a collection of items from around the web that may be of interest to philosophers.
The Heap of Links consists partly of suggestions from readers; if you find something online that you think would be of interest to the philosophical community, please send it in for consideration for the Heap. Thanks!
Recent links…
Discussion welcome.
Mini-Heap posts usually appear when 7 or so new items accumulate in the Heap of Links, a collection of items from around the web that may be of interest to philosophers.
The Heap of Links consists partly of suggestions from readers; if you find something online that you think would be of interest to the philosophical community, please send it in for consideration for the Heap. Thanks!
You never know what you’ll come across at a pen show!
2023 Baltimore Pen Show Recap (via Pen Addict - Kimberly). Kimberly was able to post the photo-heavy Baltimore Pen Show tour that I couldn’t do from behind the table!
BWIPS 2023 (via Rachel’s Reflections). While Baltimore remains a great mid-sized pen show, I agree with Rachel’s observation that this particular show did lack a bit of the energy from prior years.
The Manila Pen Show Is Here! (via Rants of the Archer). I’ve been following all of the photos and updates from the Manila Pen Show on social media. It looks like a great one.
Cortex Brand Sidekick Review (via Writing at Large). I’m glad to see someone do a review of this product, because it’s been the subject of strong opinions lately, mainly due to the price and shipping costs.
Pennonia Danuvius Danube (via Fountain Pen Pharmacist). Pennonia makes some excellent shading inks, and Danuvius Danube was one of the first ones I reviewed. I keep meaning to buy a bottle.
Introducing the SBRE Brown Fountain Pen (via SBRE Brown). Congratulations on the new release!
Notebook Storage Boxes (via Notebook Stories). We don’t want to go there.
Galen Leather Magnum Opus Pen Case (via Pencilcase Blog). The Magnum Opus with the magnetic closure is one of my favorite pen cases made by Galen Leather. I particularly enjoy the removable tray insert.
An Earthy Pen and Ink Pairing (via From the Pen Cup). Mary nailed it in describing how a great pen and ink pairing enhances the writing experience.
Ink Review: Taisho Inks, Part I (via Well-Appointed Desk). Some interesting colors here, on the muted side which I enjoy.
This week was heavy on pen show content because, well, for the past two weeks I’ve basically been either prepping for or traveling to pen shows! I recapped my trip to the 2023 Baltimore Washington International Pen Show, where we had a table again this year, and also posted some photos from day one of the 2023 Arkansas Pen Show, where I’m doing a combination of packing and getting ready to go man the table for at least a couple of hours, depending on how busy Sunday at the show ends up being. During my single day at home, I did manage to review one of our top sellers from the Baltimore Show, the Penco “Drafting Writer” Pen and Mechanical Pencil. I then promptly forgot to bring them to Arkansas. So it goes!
Prior to leaving for the shows, we received a large restock of Midori Paper, both standard and cotton, as well as all sizes of the Midori MD leather notebook covers. If you’ve been following our pen show adventures, but haven’t been able to come see us in person at a show, check out this post discussing what we brought to both Baltimore and Arkansas, as well as our top sellers from the Baltimore Show.
I shared some exciting news about projects I’m working on for an expanded T.G.S. on last night’s Patreon meetup. T.G.S. Patreon is the only non-shop means of support for the site, and features not only access to meetups and early gently used sales, but more exclusive content, including the potential return of Digital Divide, which I’ve been working on and hope to relaunch in the coming months. Patreon support starts as low as $3 per month, and if you pay annually there is a further discount. In addition to purchases from The Curated Shop, Patreon allows us to continue to grow the site without relying on advertisements and affiliate marketing. If you’re interested in meetups and exclusive content, or simply supporting the site, we greatly appreciate your support!
Recent links added to the Heap…
Discussion welcome.
Mini-Heap posts usually appear when 7 or so new items accumulate in the Heap of Links, a collection of items from around the web that may be of interest to philosophers.
The Heap of Links consists partly of suggestions from readers; if you find something online that you think would be of interest to the philosophical community, please send it in for consideration for the Heap. Thanks!
New links…
Discussion welcome.
Mini-Heap posts usually appear when 7 or so new items accumulate in the Heap of Links, a collection of items from around the web that may be of interest to philosophers.
The Heap of Links consists partly of suggestions from readers; if you find something online that you think would be of interest to the philosophical community, please send it in for consideration for the Heap. Thanks!
London Spring Pen Show, 2023: My Haul (via Fountain Pen Blog). It’s pen show season, and I’m going to enjoy reading about everyone’s pen show hauls! It’s still a goal of mine to get over for the London Pen Show at some point.
2023 London Spring Pen Show (via Dapprman). Another great London Pen Show recap, with pictures.
Gravitas Pens Universe (via Rachel’s Reflections). The latest of Ben Walsh’s finishes will raise the bar a notch for those who love space-themed releases.
February in Three Parts: California Pen Show and Other Adventures (via The Poor Penman). I heard good reports about the recent California Pen Show’s first event, and I’m looking forward to seeing this “New L.A. Show” grow into a more user-friendly experience than the original.
Montblanc Writer’s Edition Brothers Grimm Fountain Pen Review (via SBRE Brown). This is one of my favorite Montblanc Writers Edition releases from the past few years, the other being the Conan Doyle.
Ink of the Week: Sailor Ink Studio 123 (via Fountain Pen Love). One of my favorite multi-shaders from the Sailor Ink Studio lineup.
Omoi Zakka Shop Visit - Philadelphia, PA (via Pen Addict - Kimberly). A great recap of Kimberly’s field trip during the Philadelphia Pen Show in January.
Small But Mighty Pick-Me-Ups (via From the Pen Cup). Another great piece from Mary on letter writing and its benefits.
Schon DSGN x Inkdependence “Cheerio Waterpen” (via Well-Appointed Desk). I missed out on the pen, but love the color concept (and my bottle of Cheerio Waterbus ink).
Aurora DuoCart (via Blake’s Broadcast). I wasn’t aware the DuoCart was still popular or available, though I love vintage Aurora styling.
I really enjoyed setting up my table (and I’ll bring more Washi tape next time!)
Since it was a pen show week, most of it was spent getting ready to travel. I emptied out my Rickshaw Bagworks “Banzai Bag” to get ready to hit the Baltimore Pen Show, and on Saturday posted a recap of Friday at a Baltimore Pen Show that might not have been especially busy (compared to past years), but it certainly was fun.
Though some items are marked as “out of stock” online because they went with me to the Baltimore table, most goods are still available, and right before I left we received a restock of Midori MD Paper and Travelers Company notebooks. For those of you here in Baltimore, you have one day left (10-4 today!) to visit us in person and pick yourself up a Lochby Field Journal, Case, or build your Traveler’s Notebook! Also, through Wednesday (when I return) take 10% off your order using the coupon code PENSHOW10 at checkout.
Consider Supporting Us Via T.G.S. Patreon!
I shared some exciting news about projects I’m working on for an expanded T.G.S. on last night’s Patreon meetup. T.G.S. Patreon is the only non-shop means of support for the site, and features not only access to meetups and early gently used sales, but more exclusive content, including the potential return of Digital Divide, which I’ve been working on and hope to relaunch in the coming months. Patreon support starts as low as $3 per month, and if you pay annually there is a further discount. In addition to purchases from The Curated Shop, Patreon allows us to continue to grow the site without relying on advertisements and affiliate marketing. If you’re interested in meetups and exclusive content, or simply supporting the site, we greatly appreciate your support!
Links to interesting stuff elsewhere…
Discussion welcome.
Mini-Heap posts usually appear when 7 or so new items accumulate in the Heap of Links, a collection of items from around the web that may be of interest to philosophers.
The Heap of Links consists partly of suggestions from readers; if you find something online that you think would be of interest to the philosophical community, please send it in for consideration for the Heap. Thanks!
My bag is rehearsing for pen show travel.
The Day the Stationery Store Came to Me (via From the Pen Cup). Stories like these are what makes this community great!
Kilk Orient Fountain Pen (via Pen Addict - Kimberly). I’ve enjoyed watching Kilk release pens, especially with silver accents. This one is an interesting shape but I’d like to see how it actually fits my hand.
Galen Leather A5 Zippered Folio (via A Fleeting Ripple). Galen makes excellent, relatively inexpensive folios if you are looking for an all-in-one carry option for your notebook, pens, and other accessories.
My Growing Lamy 2000 Family (via Fountain Pen Blog). I need to “complete the family” by picking up the mechanical pencil.
A Left Handed Guide for New Fountain Pen Users (via Left Hook Pens). I’m not left-handed, so I can’t really answer many questions or give many recommendations in this regard, so when I see a good resource I try to share it!
Stipula Dark Grey (via Fountain Pen Pharmacist). I love a good dark grey ink. Stipula inks are quality but not as available as they use to be.
BENU Euphoria Forest Pond (via Rants of the Archer). The Euphoria is probably my favorite of the various BENU models. I love the goldfish motif here.
Magna Carta Denima (via Dapprman). Material made from real denim? I need to check this one out at the Baltimore show if Magna Carta comes this year.
Montblanc Rouge et Noir Baby Black Fountain Pen (via SBRE Brown). Montblanc’s Rouge et Noir series has held some of the more interesting additions to their lineup over the past several years. I’m not sure this particular pen appeals to me but others have enjoyed it.
A New Zealand Adventure (via Well-Appointed Desk). And to close things out, a travelogue!
This week on the blog, I talked about ink, namely why I tend to prefer “boring” inks for most of my everyday writing, in order to minimize distraction and to maximize performance on the widest variety of papers. I also reviewed two more inks from the Laban “Greek Mythology” series - Apollo Orange and Laban Aphrodite Pink.
Slowly but surely, I’m working my way towards a full review of the entire Laban Greek Mythology Ink line.
We’re gearing up for the Baltimore Pen Show this week, and the Arkansas Pen Show the week after, so our schedule will be a touch irregular in March. Orders will still ship our regularly, but there may be a couple of business days’ delay here and there. If you’d like to get your hands on something before the show craziness starts, please place your orders by Wednesday morning so that we can ensure everything gets shipped out before we leave.
The Charcoal Lochby Quattro Pen Case with light beige interior. You can now assemble a full set of the Lochby cases in Charcoal and Navy, in addition to Brown!
This week we received a big shipment of new cases from Lochby, with the Quattro Four-Pen Case and the Pocket Journals now available in both Charcoal and Navy options, in addition to the classic Brown. Both Lochby and Traveler’s Company will be accompanying T.G.S. to the Baltimore Pen Show this year, so visit our table to see these in person. If you’d like to reserve these or any of our other recent restocks/arrivals for show pickup, please place an order using the code “615PICKUP” for pen show (or Nashville local) delivery. (I will verify that these are pickup orders prior to shipping, so please do not use the code to try to get free shipping on mail orders.)
Consider Supporting Us Via T.G.S. Patreon!
I shared some exciting news about projects I’m working on for an expanded T.G.S. on last night’s Patreon meetup. T.G.S. Patreon is the only non-shop means of support for the site, and features not only access to meetups and early gently used sales, but more exclusive content, including the potential return of Digital Divide, which I’ve been working on and hope to relaunch in the coming months. Patreon support starts as low as $3 per month, and if you pay annually there is a further discount. In addition to purchases from The Curated Shop, Patreon allows us to continue to grow the site without relying on advertisements and affiliate marketing. If you’re interested in meetups and exclusive content, or simply supporting the site, we greatly appreciate your support!
Recent links…
Discussion welcome.
Mini-Heap posts usually appear when 7 or so new items accumulate in the Heap of Links, a collection of items from around the web that may be of interest to philosophers.
The Heap of Links consists partly of suggestions from readers; if you find something online that you think would be of interest to the philosophical community, please send it in for consideration for the Heap. Thanks!
A #killwinterwithorange pen and ink pairing!
Endless Observer Notebook Review, Regalia Paper (via Blake’s Broadcast). I’ve been hearing great things about Endless’s Regalia Paper, which is their in-house option they plan to use to replace old Tomoe River. I need to get my hands on a sample, as well as the new “Observer” notebook.
Retro 51 Winnie-the-Pooh Set Review (via Writing at Large). I love these pastel colors, and the finial labels on the pencils? Brilliant.
Ink of the Week: Iroshizuku Yama-Budo (via Fountain Pen Love). Yama-Budo was one of the first “nice” fountain pen inks I ever purchased, and it remains a favorite.
Meet Your Maker - Greg Hardy, Hardy Penwrights (via Pen Addict - Caroline). I’ve not had the opportunity to try a pen from Hardy Penwrights, but I’ve viewed Greg’s work at shows and he has some beautiful pieces featuring metalwork.
Early Thoughts on the Waterman Emblème Fountain Pen (via Fountain Pen Blog). I’ve not used the Emblème, but it reminds me of the Phileas, particularly on the grip section.
Postcode Envy: Jinhao 80 (via A Fleeting Ripple). I’ve seen the Jinhao 80 in its various colors, and for a Lamy 2000 clone, it’s interesting, though the ethical dilemma here is real.
Writing Through a Mood (via From the Pen Cup). I love it that Mary is posting frequently again. This particular post struck me as timely, given that I’m playing a “waiting game” myself in several regards.
Kyo No Oto #03 Koke-Iro (via Fountain Pen Pharmacist). This dark yellow, mustard color has turned into a personal interest. I need to check out this particular ink.
Odyssey A5 Cosmo Air Light Notebook (via Well-Appointed Desk). I love this design from Odyssey (as I love all of their motifs). I’m curious to see what they do as certain Tomoe River and Cosmo Air Light papers are phased out.
Conid Kingsize Bulkfillers with Montblanc 149 Nibs - Totally Ridiculous and Fun (via Gourmet Pens). I promise, I’m working on my own Conid Kingsize review, but I won’t be able to top the ridiculousness (in a good way) of this particular pairing.
This week on the blog, I reviewed two inks from Laban’s Greek Mythology Series, Athena Grey and Artemis Blue. Athena Grey has become a favorite and Artemis Blue isn’t far behind. I also wrote a bit of a longer piece on my tortured history with handwriting, pen/pencil grips, and so-called “triangular grip” fountain pens. I’m really happy with the reception this article has received so far!
I hope to have some big news for you all soon, but in the meantime, check out our weekly drops post featuring newly arrived import products from Midori such as the Kurashiki Canvas pen cases, as well as range of desk accessories. This week, we’ll begin our preparations for the Baltimore and Arkansas pen shows, so if you would like something brought to a show for delivery, or shipped out before travel starts on March 9, I’d encourage you to place your order in the coming week.
Consider Supporting Us Via T.G.S. Patreon!
I shared some exciting news about projects I’m working on for an expanded T.G.S. on last night’s Patreon meetup. T.G.S. Patreon is the only non-shop means of support for the site, and features not only access to meetups and early gently used sales, but more exclusive content, including the potential return of Digital Divide, which I’ve been working on and hope to relaunch in the coming months. Patreon support starts as low as $3 per month, and if you pay annually there is a further discount. In addition to purchases from The Curated Shop, Patreon allows us to continue to grow the site without relying on advertisements and affiliate marketing. If you’re interested in meetups and exclusive content, or simply supporting the site, we greatly appreciate your support!
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