Ask the Desk: Refills, Sharpeners & Stamp Pads

Ask the Desk: Refills, Sharpeners & Stamp Pads

Kiran asks: I love your blog! I had a pen that used Schneider topball 850 refills. I liked that pen but it has been damaged so I’m looking to replace it with something similar that uses the same refills. Do you know how I would find pens that fit the Schneider topball 850? I tried…

Fountain Pen Review: Sailor Compass (MF Nib)

Fountain Pen Review: Sailor Compass (MF Nib)

I am shocked at how long it’s taken me to write a review about an “under-$50” fountain pen. Sometimes, I think reviews about pens in this price range require the greatest attention because they are the pens that can make-or-break a fountain pen fan. Should someone purchase just the right fountain pen in this price…

Ink Review: Papier Plume Iron Lace (New Orleans Collection)

Ink Review: Papier Plume Iron Lace (New Orleans Collection)

When Papier Plume sent me the newest edition to their New Orleans Collection of ink, Iron Lace ($10 for 30ml bottle), (“a not-so-basic black”, it says on the bottle), they included a note that it was a “subversive black alternative”. Yes, please. Like all Papier Plume inks, the bottle is topped with the melted red…