Extra Staples is a series of posts where I share various links I find interesting. It is not on any regular schedule, and the links can be old or new.
A lot has happened while I was gone, and going through my various feeds was a bit overwhelming to say the least. But it’s also exciting! It looks like there are several interesting Kickstarter pens, and much Field Notes news to keep up with... I am truly grateful I get to enjoy such things.
Stationery-related
San Francisco Pen Show 2015 | Owl Ink
Who knew there was a pen show in San Francisco? Elaine’s write-up on her day at the show, along with gorgeous pictures, let me experience it vicariously.
LIFE Bank Paper | pencils and other things
As usual, Sola provides us interesting nuggets of information on Japanese stationery, particularly this “bank paper” produced by LIFE, made with Mitsubishi Paper Mills paper. (And yes! A PSA worth repeating: Mitsubishi Pencil Company is unrelated to the Mitsubishi Group!) I enjoy using pads of paper as much as bound notebooks, so I think next time I spot this, I’ll give it a try. Big fan of LIFE here. :)
Stationery Shopping in NYC & New York Stationery Haul — The Finer Point
Looking at others’ shopping hauls is fun, not just to drool, but to learn their thinking process behind their purchases. And Jenny’s post was of particular interest to me, as my interest in pencils has been on the rise lately.
Picking the Perfect Pencil Hardness Grade - JetPens.com
Another comprehensive guide from JetPens!
The Beginner’s Guide to Fountain Pens (By a True Beginner) by Adam Di Stefano at The Pen Addict
I guess I’m no longer a novice to fountain pens, but reading this guide was still useful to me as a reminder to have fun and assess what I want to do next with my pen hobby. I wonder if I’ll ever reach the fishing vest level?
You Think This Comes Along Every Day? by Jon Bemis at The Pen Addict
How sweet! Another personal pen story from Jon Bemis that made me smile. :)
Things I tried recently (and liked)
Blackwing Pearl
I’m still road-testing the different Palomino Blackwings but I think I can safely say I like the Pearl better than the black Blackwing.
Mitsubishi 9852EW Master Writing Pencil HB
Smooth and light. And I love the dark purple ferrule + black eraser combo.
Sharpie Magnum
OMG, where have you been all my life. Perfect for crossing stuff off package labels before I toss them.
Adding to my wishlist
Midori MD Notebook Diary 1Page Per Day
I can’t believe it’ll be 2016 soon, and I realize I have to make an important decision. Do I continue using Hobonichi or try a different planner? Should it be a planner, a diary or a hybrid? Whatever it is, this Midori MD notebook (new to me!) is looking very tempting, as I want to try using non-Tomoe River paper next.
Yamahon Gacha Bookcharms
How cute are these book charms that come with tiny books? I don’t know much about this bookworm character called “Yamahon” but I find him endearing and wouldn’t mind getting the pink (coffee) and the blue (black cat) charms. Not that I have a choice though (or in Japan to have a chance.. ha!); these are gachapon items, meaning they’re a “blind purchase.”
Blackwing Volume 211
I didn’t get the first set (Volume 725) but I am definitely buying the second volume for the natural with clear coat finish.
Uni Style Fit Sesame Street
In mid-October, in Japan, Uni Style Fit is releasing another set of limited edition pen bodies and refills, this time with the Sesame Street characters. Cookie monster!! What more can I say?
Fun
Batman Ipsum (via Present & Correct)
’Cause Lorem Ipsum isn’t cool enough.
Fine Art Focus: Koo Seong Youn | Design*Sponge
Wow, I can’t say I’ve seen botanical sculptures made from candies and popcorns. Stunning.
Not San Francisco
Ramen Adventures: Ramen Burger at Smorasburg, New York
Mmm...
Kioskafé
A new coffee bar/newstand in London by the founders of Monocle. I love its concept and branding.
Tsutaya Electrics
Another cool store to add to my next(?) Tokyo itinerary.
Hope you all have a good rest of the week!
♥ Jinnie