Product Reviews for Daily Pen Craft

From Precision Paper to Vibrant Inks: The Late Summer Stationery Update

As we transition into the latter half of the year, the stationery community is seeing a significant influx of high-quality Japanese imports and a shift in how we approach seasonal palettes. From the technical precision of new mechanical pencils to the nuanced behavior of boutique inks on specialized paper, the current landscape offers plenty for both the organizational enthusiast and the creative artist.

The Evolution of Japanese Paper and Planners

For those who prioritize paper quality, the recent arrival of Wonderland222 notebooks and undated planners marks a significant moment. Utilizing a thin 52gsm paper sourced as a substitute for the original Tomoe River, these notebooks have proven to be a reliable staple for fountain pen users. Reports indicate that the paper handles ink exceptionally well, maintaining the sheen and shading properties that enthusiasts expect from lightweight Japanese stocks.

In addition to Wonderland222, the Yamamoto Select Premium Japanese Papers have expanded their range. This collection now includes rare options like Tateyama and Meringue, often sold in 50-sheet packs. For those undecided on a specific texture, Yamamoto Paper Samplers provide a way to test various characteristics—ranging from "eggshell" to "silky"—allowing users to find the perfect match for their specific nib and ink combinations.

On the organizational front, the KOKUYO Jibun Techo continues to be a focal point for planners. Designed by Hideaki Sakuma, this planner is celebrated for its vertical format, which helps users visualize their day with precision. While the layout can be intimidating for newcomers, its core value lies in helping users express their daily lives through a structured yet flexible system.

A Deep Dive into Seasonal Inks

The ink market is currently dominated by two ends of the spectrum: the muted, atmospheric tones of late summer and the bold, "magical" magentas that bridge the gap into fall.

Colorverse Rainy Day

Part of the "Joy in the Ordinary" collection, Colorverse Rainy Day is an unsaturated medium blue with a subtle green undertone. In technical observations, this ink displays:

• Dry Time: Approximately 40 seconds on fountain-pen-friendly paper.
• Performance: It shows no feathering and medium show-through on Rhodia and Tomoe River. However, on standard 20 lb copy paper, users should expect some feathering and bleeding.
• Characteristics: It offers low shading and no sheen or shimmer. While it is a pleasant blue, it can appear quite light in extra-fine or fine nibs, making it better suited for medium or broad nibs where the green pooling can be more appreciated.

The Magenta Showdown

For those seeking more vibrancy, recent comparisons of magenta inks have highlighted several standout performers:

• Jacques Herbin Rose Cyclamen: A classic choice that leans slightly toward purple, offering a vibrant, "oldie but goodie" feel.
• Ferris Wheel Press Midway the Magnificent: A shimmer ink that delivers a high-impact "boom" of magenta, contrasting with the more red-leaning Little Miss Jubilee from the same brand.
• Diamine Forever Hot Magenta: An interesting waterproof option that maintains an opaque, bold appearance.
• Private Reserve Infinity Dark Pink: Notable for its extended cap-off usage, this ink sits comfortably between red and fuchsia.

Essential Writing Tools and Community Events

The hardware side of the hobby is equally active, with a massive restock of Japanese-market pens and pencils. The Uni Kuru Toga mechanical pencil line has expanded, alongside the Pilot S20 and the versatile Pilot 4+1 Multi Pens. For gel pen enthusiasts, the uniball Zento is gaining traction as more information becomes available regarding its distribution and performance characteristics.

In the world of luxury writing, the Retro 51 line continues to release fresh designs, while the Roterfaden Taschenbegleiter remains a top-tier choice for those seeking a modular, high-quality cover system for their notebooks.

Pelikan Hubs 2025

Looking ahead, the global stationery community is preparing for the Pelikan Hubs 2025. This year marks a change in tradition; while previous years focused on a single "Ink of the Year" (such as the anticipated Apricot Achat), Pelikan has shifted to a mixed approach, providing various inks to different hubs. While this has caused some discussion among collectors who were eager for a specific shade, the consensus remains that the event’s value lies in the connection between enthusiasts and the shared passion for the craft.

Creating a Fall Palette

As we look toward the cooler months, the "Yarn & Ink" trend suggests a shift toward palettes inspired by autumn landscapes. Think dark browns, oranges, and peaches, accented by gold and minty greens. When building your own seasonal set, consider pairing a deep brown like a Roterfaden leather with a sage green ink to capture the transition from the heat of August to the crispness of September.

Late Season Highlights: From Hobonichi Previews to New Ink Explorations

As we move into the latter half of 2026, the stationery world is buzzing with a mix of future previews and immediate releases. From the highly anticipated planner reveals at the San Francisco Pen Show to the arrival of specialized Japanese papers and unique 3D-printed writing instruments, there is a wealth of new material for enthusiasts to track. This update synthesizes the latest developments in pens, paper, and inks to help you curate your collection for the coming months.

The Planner Horizon: Hobonichi 2027 and NOLTY Expansion

While many are still filling the pages of their 2026 books, the industry is already looking toward 2027. A significant highlight this August is the Hobonichi Techo 2027 Preview Exhibit. Hosted at the San Francisco Pen Show, this exhibit allows users to get hands-on with the full 2027 lineup, including new cover designs and the various planner formats. While these items are not yet for sale, the ability to touch the materials and see the layouts in person is a vital step for many in the community before the official launch.

For those looking for immediate paper upgrades, the expansion of NOLTY products in the West offers a compelling alternative to the standard Tomoe River options. The NOLTY Log-Type A5 notebooks are particularly noteworthy for their modular flexibility. A standout in this line is the "Asymmetry" ruling, which alternates between lined and dot-grid pages, catering to users who want structure for writing alongside freedom for sketching or bullet journaling. Additionally, the NOLTY Pagem B6 journals provide a compact, flexible dot-grid format with a generous header, making them ideal for those participating in structured reading challenges like the Orilium Magical Readathon, where gamified journaling and "imaginary internet points" require dedicated tracking space.

Innovative Pens: 3D Printing and Limited Editions

The pen market continues to push boundaries with manufacturing techniques and thematic designs. The Endless Pens MAZE has recently begun arriving for Kickstarter backers. This fountain pen is notable for its 3D-printed construction, offering a tactile experience and aesthetic that differs significantly from traditional turned resin or metal pens. It represents a growing trend of "tech-forward" writing instruments that appeal to enthusiasts looking for something beyond the classic silhouette.

On the more traditional side, Retro 51 continues its streak of highly collectible limited editions. The Goulet Pens exclusive "Festive Fawns" (the 2025 Special Edition) has been revealed, featuring a holiday sweater-inspired design with playful deer and ice-blue trim. This follows a successful run of themed releases, including the "Fire & Dice" series aimed at the RPG community. The second edition in this series, the "Fighter," features etched metal designs that resonate with fans of tabletop gaming, proving that the intersection of hobbies—like gaming and stationery—remains a strong driver for new pen designs.

Ink Spotlight: Colorverse Rainy Day

In the world of ink, Colorverse continues to expand its "Joy in the Ordinary" collection. The latest focus is on "Rainy Day," an unsaturated medium blue with subtle green undertones.

Performance Characteristics:

• Color: A muted blue that leans toward a soft teal where the ink pools.
• Behavior: It offers low shading and lacks sheen or shimmer, making it a "workhorse" style ink for those who prefer a matte look.
• Flow: Average, though it can feel slightly dry in finer nibs.
• Legibility: Users should be aware that in Extra Fine or Fine nibs, the unsaturated nature of the ink can make it somewhat difficult to read. It performs best in Medium or Broad nibs, such as those found on a Kaweco Sport or Pilot Ishime, where the color can fully saturate the page.
• Paper Compatibility: While it performs beautifully on fountain pen-friendly stocks like Tomoe River or Rhodia, it is prone to feathering and bleeding on standard 20 lb copy paper.

Community and Events: Pelikan Hubs 2025

Finally, the global community is preparing for the Pelikan Hubs 2025 event. This year brings a notable change to the traditional format; while the "Ink of the Year" (Apricot Achat) was previously the sole gift for attendees, Pelikan has moved to a mixed approach, providing various inks from their catalog. While this has caused some discussion among collectors who look forward to the specific yearly ink, the spirit of the event remains focused on the local "hubs" where enthusiasts gather to share their passion for Pelikan’s legendary nibs and the broader hobby of fine writing.

New Arrivals and Performance Reviews: September 2026

The stationery world is seeing a significant influx of both new innovations and the return of highly sought-after favorites this month. From the return of limited-edition TWSBI finishes to the expansion of modular notebook systems, there is plenty for enthusiasts to evaluate. This update highlights the latest hardware restocks, ink performance data, and upcoming accessories that are shaping the current market.

The Return of the TWSBI ECO Fluorite Purple + Bronze

One of the most anticipated events this month is the restock of the TWSBI ECO Fluorite Purple + Bronze fountain pen. Originally released to significant acclaim, this model sold out almost immediately, leaving many collectors on backorder lists. The appeal lies in the striking contrast between the vibrant purple resin and the warm bronze-toned trim, a departure from the standard silver or gold accents typically found on the ECO line.

As a vacuum-filling alternative, users looking for higher ink capacity may also consider the TWSBI Vac700R. While the ECO utilizes a reliable piston mechanism, the Vac700R offers a different filling experience. For those new to the system, filling a vacuum-filler involves unscrewing the knob, pulling the rod, and submerging the nib before pushing the rod down to create a vacuum that draws ink into the chamber. Whether you choose the Fluorite Purple ECO for its aesthetics or a Vac700R for its capacity, TWSBI remains a staple for those who appreciate seeing their ink levels through a clear barrel.

Roterfaden Taschenbegleiter: Expanded Size Options

For those who prioritize organization and modularity, the Roterfaden Taschenbegleiter has seen a major restock that includes a wider variety of sizes. While the A5 Slim has long been the standard, the system is now more accessible in B6, A5, B5, and A4 formats.

The Taschenbegleiter is renowned for its unique clip system, which allows users to secure multiple notebooks or planners within a single cover. The current inventory includes several material combinations:

• Leather and Suede: Offers a premium, tactile feel with high durability.
• Leather and Felt: Provides a softer aesthetic and a lighter overall weight.
• Soft Leather Variants: Available specifically in A5 and B6, these covers offer more flexibility for those who dislike rigid notebook shells.

Skogsy Pens LVED 14mm: A Specialized Eyedropper

Small-batch makers continue to push the boundaries of fountain pen design, as seen with the Skogsy Pens Low Volume Eye Dropper (LVED) 14mm. This pen is designed for those who enjoy the aesthetic of an eyedropper-filled pen—where the ink is housed directly in the barrel—without the massive ink capacity that can sometimes lead to "burping" issues as the air inside the barrel warms up.

The LVED 14mm features a polished black cap and grip section paired with a clear acrylic barrel, allowing the user to showcase their ink of choice. It is fitted with a reliable Jowo #6 stainless steel medium nib. Because it is an eyedropper, it typically ships with silicone grease to ensure a tight seal on the threads, a necessary step for any pen where the barrel acts as the reservoir.

Ink Performance: Colorverse Rainy Day

Part of the "Joy in the Ordinary" collection, Colorverse Rainy Day is a medium blue ink with a distinct green undertone. In performance testing on fountain pen-friendly papers like Tomoe River and Rhodia, the ink displays the following characteristics:

• Color Profile: It is an unsaturated blue, meaning it has a softer, more muted appearance rather than a high-saturation "pop."
• Shading: It offers low to moderate shading. In broader nibs or on non-absorbent paper, the ink can pool to show a deeper green-leaning hue.
• Dry Time: At approximately 40 seconds, it is on the slower side, which is a trade-off for its smooth flow.
• Legibility: Some users may find it difficult to read when used in extra-fine or fine nibs due to its lighter, unsaturated nature. It performs best in medium or broad nibs where more ink is laid on the page.

The Hobonichi Techo and Tomoe River Paper

As we move into the final quarter of the year, the Hobonichi Techo remains a primary recommendation for those testing new inks like Colorverse Rainy Day. The Techo is famous for its use of thin, smooth paper that handles fountain pen ink exceptionally well without significant feathering.

Available in daily, weekly, and monthly formats, the Hobonichi system is highly customizable through its annual refresh of covers. The paper’s ability to show off the shading of an ink while remaining thin enough to keep a daily planner portable makes it a gold standard for the community.

Upcoming Innovation: SchonDSGN Lil’ Dipper

Finally, a notable mention from recent industry gatherings is the SchonDSGN Lil’ Dipper. This is a machined dip nib designed to fit into SchonDSGN #6 Jowo-threaded pens. This allows users to switch between a standard fountain pen setup and a dip pen setup using the same body. It is an ideal tool for ink testing or calligraphy where frequent color changes are required, and it is expected to be available on the SchonDSGN site in the near future.

New Arrivals and Field Notes: September 2026 Stationery Review

As we move into the heart of September, the stationery world is buzzing with activity. With the global Pelikan Hubs event just twelve days away, enthusiasts are preparing for a night of shared passion. While Pelikan has adjusted its approach this year—moving from a single "Ink of the Year" (Apricot Achat) to a mixed selection of inks for attendees—the community spirit remains the primary draw. Beyond the events, several new product releases and ink formulations have hit the market, ranging from the impossibly small to the luxuriously oversized.

The Wancher PuChiCo: A Study in Micro-Stationery

The Wancher PuChiCo Mini Fountain Pen is perhaps the most polarizing release of the month. Retailing for approximately $33, this pen pushes the definition of "pocket pen" to its absolute limit. It is exceptionally tiny—so much so that it cannot accommodate even the smallest standard international cartridge.

Instead, the PuChiCo is strictly an eyedropper-fill pen. Because the nib unit and feed take up a significant portion of the internal barrel volume, users must be incredibly careful during the filling process; even a small amount of ink can lead to an overflow once the section is reinserted. While the resin finishes, such as the vibrant Hawaiian Blue, are aesthetically pleasing, the pen faces significant ergonomic hurdles. The barrel is too short to use comfortably unposted, yet the screw-cap design does not post securely on the rear of the pen. For collectors of "novelty" or "ridiculous" stationery, it is a fascinating piece, but for those seeking a daily driver, the lack of a secure posting mechanism may be a dealbreaker.

Sustainable Highlighting: Tom’s Studio Ori

Sustainability continues to be a major theme in 2026. Tom’s Studio has expanded its "Lumos" ecosystem with the introduction of the Ori double-ended refillable highlighters. Unlike traditional disposable highlighters that contribute to plastic waste, the Ori system allows users to refill the ink and even customize the colors.

The Ori is available individually or in sets of three, offering six distinct ink colors. This modular approach is consistent with the popular Lumos fineliners, which have also seen a recent restock of both single and double-tipped versions. For users who prefer a more traditional writing experience but want to move away from disposables, these refillable markers provide a premium feel with a much lower environmental footprint.

Ink Spotlight: The "Special" Blue Category

Blue ink remains the most popular category for fountain pen users, but recent releases are focusing on "wilder" finishes—sheen, shimmer, and unique undertones.

• Van Dieman’s Marriage of Figaro: Part of the Encore collection, this is a sophisticated dark blue-black. In heavy applications on Tomoe River paper, it reveals a medium red sheen and subtle red and gold shimmer. It offers an average flow and a dry time of roughly 40 seconds. While the shimmer can be elusive in finer nibs, it performs beautifully in longer writing sessions with a medium or broad nib.
• Organics Studio Nitrogen: This remains the "superstar" of high-sheen inks. It is a deep blue that can appear almost entirely metallic red due to its extreme sheen. However, it is notoriously high-maintenance, with long dry times and a tendency to smudge even days after writing.
• Diamine Blue Velvet: For those who want the "special" blue look without the maintenance of Nitrogen, Blue Velvet is a top recommendation. It provides a rich blue base with a visible red sheen but behaves much better on standard papers and is easier to clean from the pen.
• Colorverse Witch by Starlight: A more mystical option, this midnight blue features purple undertones and rose gold shimmer, making it a standout choice for journaling or creative projects.

Luxury and Utility: Pilot and Lochby

For those looking at the higher end of the market, the Pilot Custom 845 Urushi has been released in a stunning Prussian Blue. This pen features a hand-finished Japanese urushi lacquer body and Pilot’s legendary two-toned 18k gold nib. It represents the pinnacle of Pilot’s production line, offering a level of craftsmanship that justifies its premium positioning.

On the utility side, several "pen show favorites" have seen major restocks this week. Lochby and Roterfaden covers are back in stock for those needing rugged, waxed canvas or modular leather protection for their notebooks. Additionally, MD Product notebooks and Laconic Planner layouts (specifically in A5) have arrived, providing fresh canvases for the new inks of the season.

September 2026 Product Comparison

Whether you are attending a Pelikan Hub or simply updating your desk for the autumn, the current market offers a fascinating balance between the extreme portability of the PuChiCo and the enduring luxury of Urushi-finished classics.