Wednesday 3 September 2008

The Fisher Space Bullet pen is an Example of Great Modern Design

Well designed pens can look beautiful and intriguing. Some pens are wonderfully ornate encrusted with precious jewels and metals, whilst other pen designs focus on modernity. Lamy design excellent Bauhaus influenced pens, but my favourite example of modern design is the Bullet pen by the Fisher Space Pen Company. The bullet pen is considered an example of 'exquisite industrial design' and is on permanent display at the New York Museum of Modern Art. Its status as a design icon has been enhanced by many endorsements, including an appearance on the ‘Pen’ episode of Seinfeld.

The Fisher Space Bullet Pen looks exactly like a bullet; sleek and aerodynamic. It could be mistaken for a modern sculpture, perhaps by the famous American sculptor Jeff Koons. He is famous for using highly reflective surfaces, and when the Bullet pen comes in shiny chrome it looks fantastic. Its unique design means that it always gets lots of attention from onlookers, and is sure to impress your friends. The Bullet Pen was designed to fit in a pocket, and also is quite slim so that it can slip unnoticed into a pocket. Consequently, the Fisher Space Bullet Pen is one of the most practical for when you are travelling or away from your desk.

The Bullet pen looks great, but also has an interesting history. It was designed in the 1960s during the Space race, with the intention that astronauts could write in zero gravity. The pen is fitted with a pressurized ink cartridge which allows the user to write upside down, in water and in extreme temperatures. The pen is available in several finishes, but my favourites are shiny chrome, blueberry and rainbow (very groovy man!)

Tuesday 19 August 2008

Parker Pens has one of the most Celebrated Histories in the Manufacture of Pens

Parker Pens are the most well known pen brand in the UK and internationally. As a child I remember using Parker Vector pens (bought by my mother) because they were reliable and lasted a long time. They have a strong reputation for quality pens that range from the affordable market to the luxury high end, as well as a long and celebrated history. Click here to view a large range of Parker Pens. Founded in 1888 in the USA, Parker established themselves through constant innovation, having been responsible for some of the most important pen inventions and iconic pen models. It is this contribution to the pen industry that has established Parker as a very solid and trusted brand. Click here to view the official Parker Pen Company website.

One of the most important contributions to fountain pens was the Lucky Curve ink feed which George Parker invented in 1894. The feed system was designed to drain the ink back into the reservoir by capillary action when the pen was in the pocket of its owner. The Lucky Curve feed was used in various forms until 1928. In 1931 Parker created quick drying ink (Quink) which dispensed with the need for blotting. This lead to the creation of the most widely used fountain pen ever, the Parker 51.

There have been many iconic Parker pen models over the years, which form an integral part of any self respecting pen collection. There is even a fansite dedicated to Parker Pens. One of the most loved and remembered models was the Parker 51, the most successful pen ever produced. Its revolutionary design makes it instantly recognizable and is considered a design icon. The 51 featured a gold tubular nib inside a hood to trap any ink overflow which meant it didn’t leak but kept the nib surrounded by ink.

The Parker Duofold is one of the most long lasting fountain pen designs ever, helping to establish Parker as a forerunner in the manufacture of quality fountain pens. Born in the age of jazz and Art Deco, the Parker Duofold pen reflects the opulence and iconography of its origins. Launched in 1921, the original Duofold was nicknamed the Big Red because it was made from bright red rubber and measured 5.5 inches capped. Duofolds remained popular in Europe up until the 60s and were revived once again in the 1980s as Parker’s flagship model.

Tuesday 1 July 2008

Sign the Wedding Register with a Feather Quill Pen

The wedding day is one of the most important days in a man or woman’s life. The experience is remembered for a lifetime, and commemorated with whole host of photographs and videos. Everything is planned meticulously, so don’t forget about the pen that the bride and groom use to sign the marriage certificate.

This is a detail that is often overseen, but is a vital part of the wedding ceremony. A special pen that suits the occasion will enhance your memory of the occasion. I think that an ordinary pen looks totally out of place at a wedding, as everything that surrounds it looks so special. In my opinion a feather quill pen totally suits the occasion, particularly if one can be found in white. A feather pen is usually made from a goose feather, and has a metal dib nib at the end. The feather quill pen not only looks beautiful and special, but also is historical.

The sanctity of marriage has been around for centuries, and the occasion has a real sense of history about it. The religious temple is usually the setting for a wedding, and again are historical buildings full of tradition. The feather quill pen fits in superbly with this setting, as it has been used in Europe since 700AD. It was used to write some of the dead see scrolls, as well as sign the constitution of the United States of America.

The feather quill dip pen needs to be dipped in ink before writing. This ritual enhances the memory and meaning associated with signing the marriage documents. So don’t forget about the detail of the pen at your wedding, use something special that suits the occasion like a feather quill.

Tuesday 24 June 2008

Reasonably Priced Solid Silver Pens

A solid silver pen makes a wonderful gift for the obvious reason that it is made from a precious metal. They also look great engraved and personalized, which is very useful if you are looking for something extra special. Some of the major pen brands manufacture solid silver pens but they are very expensive. For example, Graf von Faber-Castell has a solid silver fountain pen that retails at £450. Although the pen is well made and from good quality silver, it is not in most people’s price bracket. So where can you find reasonably priced silver pens, that are good quality?

Having had a good look around, there is not an abundance of ‘well priced’ solid sterling silver pens. The major brands such as Parker, Waterman and Sheaffer do not focus on silver pens, so I looked more at the lesser known pen brands. I eventually came across Laban Pens, which is relatively new having been established in 1981 by John Hu and his brother Charles. Their aim was to produce high quality solid silver and platinum plated pens, and have since developed a reputation as a world class pen manufacturer. They have a large and interesting range, playing with styles and materials. For example Laban have a solid silver pen with a striking lined effect, with Swarovski crystals, with wood, and also with different coloured resins.

Laban use a good quality silver that is hallmarked with the 925 symbol. 925 silver is used in most jewellery and basically means that it is made from 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. The copper helps strengthen the silver, and make it more resistant to scratching. The most important aspect of the laban silver pens is the price, with retail prices starting at about £50.00. There is little difference in the quality of silver with the Graf von Faber Castell pen, which makes these pens really good value.

Monday 16 June 2008

Choosing the Ideal Pen for your Exams

During an exam I write furiously, and don’t want to be distracted by writers cramp or writing strain. Also I want a pen that is comfortable to hold and reliable. Exams are stressful enough without suffering from a leaking pen or aching hand. So what is the ideal pen for an exam?

Many people believe that fountain pens in an exam are a bad idea because they may leak or break. Whilst some fountain pens are prone to leakages, good quality fountain pens are very reliable and have advantages over other writing instruments. Because they use liquid ink, fountain pens need very little pressure on the paper whilst writing, meaning less risk of writing strain. The most popular pen for taking exams is the ballpen due to its reliability and economy. The disadvantage of a ballpen though is that it requires a lot of pressure to be applied to the paper. Perhaps the best solution is the rollerball pen because it uses liquid ink, and is very reliable like a ballpen. For more information on pens avialable, take a look at the Writing Equipment Society.


One of my favourites is the Lamy Safari, a highly dependable and comfortable pen that has an ergonomic grip. Lamy Pens are known for excellent quality and functional design. The Safari has a triangular grip for comfort, and a little barrier to stop the fingers slipping down the nib. The body is lightweight but very durable, and the fountain pen benefits from taking large ink cartridges. Lamy also has another range called the Studio, which is a bit heavier but very comfortable to use because the barrel is made from a ‘grippy’ surface. Thus Lamy pens are an excellent choice for an exam, and all their models are avialable in rollerball.

There are various ergonomic pens that I have seen on the market, but none are as good as the Yoropen. Ergonomic pens aim to make writing more natural and comfortable, and are therefore a very good choice for taking into an exam. The Yoropen has a bend above the nib, creating a finger support. It also changes the angle at which you write, meaning less pressure is required whilst writing. My own personal favourite pen for taking into an exam is the executive Yoropen, because it is beautifully weighted and writes like a rollerball. The good news is that the Yoropen will soon be available in gel ink.

If you have young children and are concerned about the standard of their handwriting, have a look at the website ‘handwriting for kids’. It has loads of good tips for teaching children how to hold the pen correctly and much more.

It is worth spending a bit of time choosing the right pen for your exam, because many people overlook this detail but regret it afterwards. It is a big mistake to take in a BIC biro or other cheap pen, because they will make your hand seriously hurt, thus damaging your performance. Also, your handwriting will deteriorate, making it illegible. To read some tips on improving your handwriting, click here. If you do buy a new pen for an exam, make sure you break it in beforehand. This is particularly important if it is a fountain pen, because it takes a while for the nib to adjust to the owners writing style.

Wednesday 11 June 2008

Calligraphy – An Art Form

Calligraphy has been considered an art form for centuries, and I feel very encouraged to see the ancient practice still being used. A highly skilled practitioner can elevate the practice of Calligraphy to stunning works of art that inspires others. Lettering and calligraphy have been used as forms of expression ever since we, as a human race, have learnt to write. It can be learned and enjoyed by everyone, and can become an absorbing hobby.

A modern definition of Calligraphy is ‘the art of giving form to signs in an expressive, harmonious and skilful manner’. Modern calligraphy ranges from functional hand lettered inscriptions and designs to fine art pieces which focus on abstract expression rather than readable text. Calligraphy is still flourishing in the form of wedding and event invitations, font design/typography, original hand-lettered logo design and religious art. To learn more about the art of Calligraphy visit ‘Learn Calligraphy’ and the ‘Calligraphy and Lettering Arts Society’.

The traditional implement for writing Calligraphy is the dip pen. It consists of a metal nib attached to a wooden handle, and has been used since the early 19th century. Before the dip pen, the feather quill pen was the most common writing instrument. A skilled craftsmen could cut the quill so that it would create some very beautiful Calligraphy effects. A whole range of exquisite Calligraphy Sets including Feather Quill Pens can still be purchased today. Why not liven up your handwriting with the art of Calligraphy.

Friday 30 May 2008

Pocket Pens - Product Comparisons

Having a pen ‘on the go’ in incredibly useful. Very often I need to write down notes whilst out of the home or office, and a small size pen that can fit in my pocket is a vital tool. Many pen manufacturers have created pocket sized pens, each one varying slightly in size and characteristics. In this blog I will compare the different compact pens, and offer some recommendations.

Perhaps the most well known pocket pen is the Fisher Space Bullet Pen. A sleak and streamlined looking pen, it was invented so that astronauts could write in zero gravity. The Bullet pen measures 9.5cm closed and has quite a slim profile, making it fit very easily into a pocket. The cap fits on the back to fit comfortably in your hand. The Fisher Space Pen is available with a clip.

Lamy have invented a truly unique compact sized pen called the Lamy Pico. The Pico is very small and neat, and has no cap which makes it very easy to use. By squeezing the pen in the middle, the Lamy Pico extends so that it fits comfortable in your hand. The pen measures 9.3cm, and extends to 12.5cm.

Laban have manufactured some beautiful handbag pens made from resin. The ballpen has a sculpted grip for extra comfort, and measures 10cm. The Diva lipstick pen by Monteverde is also a perfect size for a handbag, and opens telescopically just like lipstick. If you are after something extra glamorous, then the Swarovski Crystal pen by Online is perfect for you. The pen is encrusted with crystal and comes with a leather pouch.

Each of the pocket pens I have described have something positive to offer. The Fisher Space Bullet Pen is perfect if you want the shortest and slimmest pen, allowing it to go unnoticed in your pocket. The Lamy Pico is not the slimmest pen, but is the easiest to use with its innovative extend mechanism. For a woman, the Laban mini resin is my top pick as it is glamorous but still robust.

Friday 23 May 2008

Pens for Father’s Day

Father’s Day will be here on the 15th June, and as usual we are all hunting for a perfect gift for dad. A nice bunch of flowers usually suffices for mother’s day, but finding a gift for father's day is that much harder. Dad’s usually like something practical, but also with a bit of style and luxury. An excellent solution is a designer pen with an engraved message to make it really special.

There are different types of pens that particularly appeal to a man. Gadget type pens are always a good idea, and offer something unique for the wow factor. Why not try the Yoropen, a very different looking Ergonomic pen that really makes writing easier. Or how about the Fisher Space Pen. Your dad will be able to impress his golf chums by writing upside down, and even in water.

Some pens have a particularly handsome line such as the Waterman Carene, its design influenced by the tail of a speedboat. The Sheaffer Prelude has an elegant cigar shaped profile. Pens with luxury finishes are always much appreciated such as leather, solid silver and even snakeskin. Check out the pen range by Coles Deluxe, and the solid silver pens by Laban (very reasonably priced). Pen Heaven offer an excellent range of pens for him that are sure to impress your dad on father’s day.

Friday 16 May 2008

Fountain Pens versus Ballpoint Pens

Fountain pens have been the most popular writing instrument since the beginning of the 20th century, but are being caught up by the ballpoint pen. In my opinion the fountain pen is the ultimate writing instrument, and has many advantages. Firstly they are so stylish in appearance, epitomising traditional elegance from a bygone era. Secondly they write much more smoothly, and require less pressure to be applied to the paper. The reason for this is that fountain pens take liquid based ink, whilst ballpens have oil based ink. There is an added benefit here, because fountain pens allow much more expressive penmanship due to the liquid ink. Fountain pens are much more collectible, with some vintage Parker pens worth thousands of pounds. To read more about fountain pen collecting visit Nibs website. This isn’t to say that ballpoint pens don’t have their benefits too; they are much more convenient and less messy. But in my opinion a fountain pen has the edge. To view an excellent collection of fountain pens for sale, visit an online pen store called Pen Heaven.

Friday 9 May 2008

A Very Bling Pen

I recently came across a pen that totally blew me away, because it was so incredibly glamorous and unique. I am talking about the Swarovski Crystal pen by Laban (http://www.laban.com) .

The finest white Swarovski crystals decorate the clip and the band, transforming this pen into a piece of jewellery that anyone would be proud to show off. The pen is made from solid sterling silver, but is relatively inexpensive and thus is great for any occasion. They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend, well these crystal pens are the next best thing. It makes an ideal gift for a woman and if you want to treat someone special in your life, you can’t go wrong with these stunning pens.

Swarovski is the luxury brand name for the range of precision-cut lead crystal glass and related products produced by companies owned by Swarovski AG of Feldmeilen, near Zürich, Switzerland. To read more about Swarovski, visit their website at http://www.swarovski.com.
The pen is available in pink or black resin, although the pink makes a great gift for a woman. The retail price starts at about £60, and is available from a London based online pen store called Pen Heaven, who also offer engraving. http://www.penheaven.co.uk/Laban_Pens.php.
So if you are looking for a gift that sparkles, look no further than the Laban Swarovski Crystal Pen

Tuesday 29 April 2008

Engraved Pens Make a Superb Pen Gift

A luxury pen can make a wonderful gift for an occasion such as a birthday, anniversary or wedding. It is a practical present that will get a lot of use, and won’t be put away like many other gifts. A personalised pen with an engraved message makes a pen gift even more special. A pen is ideal for engraving because the long barrel allows a perfect space for a good sized piece of text. A message can also be engraved on the pen cap. Most pens can be engraved, as long as they have a flat surface. Today, engraving is carried out by a computer controlled machine that works to pinpoint accuracy. To read more about the process of pen engraving view the Gravograph website at;
http://www.gravograph.co.uk/Engraving%20Machines/Laser_Engraving.php.
Metal pens, when engraved, leave a very clear mark behind. Metal pens that have a lacquer or coloured finish usually leave a bronze or silver mark behind. Pens with a patterned finish, particularly resin, can be engraved by using a silver or gold leaf to fill in the engraved portion. If you are looking for a personalised pen, have a look at Pen Heaven at;
http://www.penheaven.co.uk./engraving.html.
They have a very large range of leading designer pen brands that can be engraved, and offer 2 elegant font choices.

Wednesday 20 February 2008

The Best Ergonomic Pen

Ergonomic design has become a buzz-term for the 21st century. It’s all about designing products that are more comfortable to use, and ergonomic pens make writing feel more comfortable. In this blog I will look at ergonomic pens, and particularly at the revolutionary Yoropen. For more information on ergonomic design, look at the Ergonomics Society website at http://www.ergonomics.org.uk.

Everyone at some time has felt the agony of writing strain whether it be during an exam, taking notes in a lecture or writing a long essay. The pen industry has responded with soft touch rubber grip pens that are more comfortable to hold, but this doesn’t completely solve the problem. That is until the recent invention of the Yoropen, which completely reinvents the design of the pen. By adding a bend at the grip, the user is given a finger support. This stops your fingers slipping and hence reduces writing strain. Also the angle at which you write is different which means you need less pressure to write.

I have fallen in love with the Yoropen because it really makes writing a more enjoyable and pain free experience, as well as looking very funky. I can imagine it would be great for children and students taking exams. Many writing experts have endorsed the pen, including Dr Rosemary Sassoon (http://www.myfonts.com/person/Sassoon/Rosemary) who suggests those with writing difficulties such as dyslexia and dyspraxia will benefit। It is available as a plastic disposable pen £3.00, a superior version £10 or an executive version £30. They are all available from an online pen specialist called Pen Heaven at http://www.penheaven.co.uk. I really hope you enjoy the Yoropen as much as I do.

Tuesday 12 February 2008

A Passion for Pens

I have always appreciated the handwritten note. It is so much more personal than a typed message that is such a feature of the modern world. It is the individuality that I like, each mark of the pen showing personality and a human touch. It is an art form that I believe is making a resurgence, a rebellion against the coldness of typed letters, e-mail and text.

A good pen can make the art of writing an absolute joy, and I am passionate about pens. When you hold a perfectly balanced pen, a beautiful pen, a uniquely designed pen, it creates a desire to write wonderful words. Not only does the pen have a function, but it is also a lifestyle accessory. There is such a vast array of pens that there is something to suit all tastes. There is everything from glamorous show off pens to pioneering ergonomic pens to help with writing difficulties. In my blog I will look at all things to do with pens and writing, from product reviews to tips on reducing writing strain.