Top 5 Gifts this Christmas season

With the traumatic event known as Black Friday over, it is finally Christmas’s turn to have the spotlight. (Cause if we’re going to be totally honest, it is a bit annoying seeing Christmas commercials three days after Halloween. Wait your turn!) Now, the cool autumn evenings have given way to colder nights. Salvation Army advocates and volunteer Santa’s dot every street corner, filing the air with the crisp, ringing of bells. And for those who still believe, there’s a gentler, lighter sound that only those who believe can hear. (Please tell me you saw The Polar Express.) Houses and stores alike are filled with the calming smell of gingerbread men, fruitcake and nutmeg, all collaborating into an atmosphere that can only be described as ‘home for the holidays’. Undeniably, this is a lovely time of year.
Yes, yes, yes, Christmas is all nice and rosy – in retrospect. In the middle of the day, however, when you’re rushing around once again dealing with the annual stress of the year, the whole thing seems ridiculous. You have to think about what gifts to give – since when did I know so many people? – how much you should spend, and how creative you should be; all with the ever-present thought that you will most likely face the new year with red all over your bank accounts. (“Happy New Years! You’re bankrupt!” “Yeah! Paarrtaaayy—wait. What?”)
I ask you, why? Why bother showering your friends and relatives with expensive yet pointless gifts? It’s just one more thing for them to toss in the bottom drawer of their desk, never to be used again. (Or, they end up using it for ten years and when someone asks, “Where did you get that?” They gaze at it momentarily before giving a dismissive, “I don’t remember.”) I won’t be unreasonable: expensive gifts are nice, but I believe that most people respond more positively to a gift from the heart than any Pandora bracelet you just happened to pick up at the mall. So think more traditionally this year and play around with the idea of just giving someone a special keepsake this year. Pens are, undeniably, the most underappreciated gift ideas ever, and this season the Pen Boutique wants to rectify this presumption. Pens are the tools by which civilizations have risen and met their downfall. The instruments that have, since their genesis, drawn the design of our world and they continue to map out what the future has in store. Not only that, but pens are just a pleasure to possess. A beautifully constructed pen, picked out of thousands for its individual style and finesse is a lifelong companion that simply cannot be beat.
In fact, we have made it even easier for you this holiday season and picked out our top five favorite pens, each one more breath-taking than the last:
5. The Parker Ingenuity. The new Ingenuity series encompasses all of the beneficial designs of a ballpoint, rollerball and fountain pen all in one cleverly designed model. Each member of the collection is made with Parker’s unique 5^thgeneration technology that gives a stunning performance every time. Each member of the collection offers an effortless flow of ink that glides smoothly over any surface. Thanks to this technology, each pen’s tip is designed to adjust itself to your individual writing style after only a few uses. The flexible tip is covered by a finely engraved, metallic hood which work together to imitate the feel of a fountain pen nib. Though there are dozens of color combinations, each Ingenuity pen has a classic and elegant finish. They are lacquered in deep gloss and adorned with Parker’s emblematic ciselé pattern on both the grip section and the metallic ring on the cap. In this display of design dominance, Parker has brought to life the best of not only two, but three worlds. This new generation is a force to be reckoned with, and their era of trendsetting has only just begun.
4. The Lamy Dialog (Black & Silver). Arriving straight from Germany, Lamy’s Dialog3 Black Matt Fountain Pen and Silver Fountain Pen are the first generation in a brand new field of pen mechanics. Devoid of a cap, these pens use a fascinating twist-action mechanism built into its barrel. Once turned, a rounded cover slides back and the retractable 14k gold-plated nib glides out smoothly. When closed, the covering creates an air-tight seal that prevents the nib from drying out or getting dirty. Unobtrusive, innovative and so smooth it belongs in a James Bond movie, the Lamy Dialog3 is the perfect present for anyone who values elegance and style.
3. The Visconti Rembrandt Collection Fountain Pens. Every single Visconti Rembrandt pen is handcrafted. Each and every one is individually made so each gets the proper care and attention it deserves as a future masterpiece. This collection has its own sense of beautiful ingenuity and silky elegance that is extraordinarily hard to find. Their bodies are made out of a smooth, slick variegated resin that is shined to such a high gloss that it’s almost reflective. The nibs are made of strong steel and engraved with the Visconti symbol and name. The body colors are available in ivory white, blue, purple and red. Accenting these beautiful colors are the silver-colored accents making up the pens’ rings and clips. Classic, affordable, and with Visconti’s unparalleled dedication to art, this collection comes the closest I’ve ever seen to perfection.

 
2. The Waterman Expert and Hémisphère Collections. Subtle sophistication with a clean, contemporary design and well-crafted quality, Waterman presents two lines that have earned their places among the best of the best. Like all great classics, the Expert and Hémisphère families know the ins and outs of power, style, and finesse. Despite their long heritages, each new member brings its own flair of modernity without losing its traditional dependability. The Expert Deluxe Fountain Pen and the Waterman Expert Black Lacquer are the forerunners in the Expert’s new generation of design. Each has bold, sleek black barrels artfully complimented by smooth chrome accessories. Even bolder than these are Hémisphère’s Shimmery Blue and Starlight Chrome, just to name a few. Each and every member of this line sports colors of such vibrancy that they almost appear fluorescent. For a more time-honored route, however, choices like the Waterman Expert Urban and Waterman Expert Smart are the way to go. Comet Red and Mars Black, despite their monochrome coloring, manage to encompass boldness and beauty into a design that is just as stylish as it is dramatic. Suave, sophisticated, but no less dashing, these gems are the quintessential embodiment of a Waterman classic. Young or old, traditional or contemporary, these series are designed to fill everyone’s needs.
1. The Montblanc Meisterstück: Classique Collection. The Meisterstück line from Montblanc has never disappointed, and the Classique collection is not exception to this rule. This series is part of a family that has consistently been at the top of its game from the very moment it was first released. Each and every Classique, from the Platinum Ballpoint Pen to the Gold Rollerball have their own unique personalities, but they all do have uniting characteristics. Their bodies are made from the precious, smooth black resin that Montblanc is known for. They all have at least three plated rings that are skillfully embossed with the Montblanc brand name. Clips are plated and engraved with individual serial numbers, giving each its own unique individuality. The Classique is a masterpiece that is sure to warm your heart and your home this holiday season.

Bonus!
(Don’t look surprised, you know how we like to spoil you.)
The Noodler’s Ink Ahab. Much like Noodler’s other flex pens, the Ahab is made from a sturdy celluloid derivative that, technically, makes it biodegradable. This creation comes in a number of beautiful vibrant colors like Burmese ruby, carniolan honey and maximilian emerald, each reminiscent of the holiday season. Its unique design manages to be ingeniously simple. Its entire body can be easily disassembled and put back together, making cleaning a breeze. The nib is made of a durable flex nib that can switch from medium to broad depending on how much pressure you apply. Stylish and affordable, the Ahab is the perfect stocking stuffer for this holiday season.
So all in all, take a chance this holiday season! Don’t let the holiday stress or traditional expectations prevent you from giving something truly meaningful this year. Be brave, be bold! because I assure you, not a single one of these gifts will disappoint.

Black friday and Pen Boutique

Originally, Black Friday had nothing to do with shopping. Nothing at all. In fact, the very first records of the name refer to the US financial crisis in 1869 which had to do with the New York Gold Exchange. It was not until 1966 that Philadelphia’s Police Department gave it to the Friday following Thanksgiving Day due to the increase in traffic jams, over-crowded sidewalks and stores being mobbed from opening to closing. I don’t believe anything has ever been so aptly named as the day that brings an almost overbearing feeling of foreboding and obligation to each and every American.
Year after year you tell yourself “I’m going to get there early!” “I’ll just go to a store way out the way; that way there’ll be less competition.” “Midnight Madness here I come! Now where’s my space heater, lawn chair and Ramen Noodles…” And then you’re in Wal-Mart at 2:00 AM, barreling down the aisles with your shopping cart fighting off old ladies and trying not to get trampled as you sprint to the back of the store for the last copy of Battlefield 3. Or, you’re in the middle of Macy*s about to actually fight a woman for the last pair of Timberland Hiking Boots.
I’m not going to tell you that everything’s going to be alright, but I will tell you that Pen Boutique can make your holiday shopping a little easier. You deserve to take a breather this year. Instead of sitting in front of Wal-Mart for ten hours and running the risk of being trampled, stay home and participate in Cyber Black Friday. Who cares about the means of purchase; an elegant, cleverly-constructed pen is a subtle but powerful statement when given as a gift; whether you fought the crowds at the mall or enjoyed yourself in front of the computer with a cup of joe. Arguably the greatest tool ever created, it allows one to communicate with the world in as many different ways as your mind can devise. It’s practical, useful, and just because it has a function doesn’t mean it can’t look sleek in the process. No, we don’t have the latest videogame for Modern Warfare, but we have gifts that are three times more valuable and eight times more economical.
To begin, let’s start off with a pen that breaks all barriers when it comes to affordability and convenience. The Parker Insignia Matt Black Chrome completely redefines luxury. Its smooth, comfortable texture is enveloped with a beautiful black matt coloring. Beautiful 14k Gold plated, champagne-colored trims finish off the look and leave the pen with an almost tangible air of prestige and excellence. For something a little less dramatic but no less edgy, Pelikan presents the newest member of their Epoch series. Modern style and excellent craftsmanship are effectively combined in the Epoch 360 to create a truly stunning product. It features a wide, comfortable barrel and cap with satin-matte finishes. The steel nib is semi-firm and plated with bright palladium for a smooth, non-skip ink flow. Though very chic, executive style does not always have to be so monochrome. Waterman invites you to try their Hemisphere Comet Red Rollerball. Much more festive than its aforementioned counterparts, the Comet is made of an innovative micro-particle lacquer finish that captures the light. The smooth polish highlights the barrel’s deep vibrant red that is set off with contemporary chrome trims.
The deals don’t stop there, however. Representing a more modern approach, Pen Boutique offers the Fisher Space Bullet Pen. Its brass body is plated with bright chrome finishes that are smooth to the touch. When it’s slide-on cap is closed, the Bullet Pen is a perfect fit to carry in your wallet, pocket, backpack, purse, car glove and just about anywhere else you can think of. Cited as an outstanding example of industrial art, the classic design of the Fisher Bullet Pen has been exhibited for years in the New York Museum of Modern Art. (How’s that for bragging rights? Hey, my pen is featured in an art gallery.) Cross is also a contender in this cyber sale with their Townsend 18k Gold ballpoint pen. The ultimate expression of pen-making design, this ballpoint embodies classic American elegance and finesse. Inspired by the graceful lines of 1930’s Art Deco design, with distinctive finishes, precious metals and the signature double band, Townsend delivers a lifetime of smooth, effortless writing. Last, but most certainly not least, arrives the Montblanc Meisterstück Classique Rollerball. It is a widely known secret that Montblanc pens are among the finest writing instruments in the world. The Classique’s barrel and cap are made out of precious jet-black resin that is shined to a high gloss. The top of the cap and the three gold-plated rings around the barrel are embossed with the legendary Montblanc symbol.
Oh, and did I forget? Pen Boutique’s special Black Friday coupon gives you $20 dollars off any purchase of $100 dollars or more(BLACKFRIDAY2511). (That’s, like, a discount on top of a discount!) I’m not going to lie to you; it’ll be tough out there. Rambo’s got nothing on the survival skills you’ll need when you face those stores on Friday. So I suggest that you don’t. Just, don’t. Stay home, relax, and let your fingers do the shopping for you. The Pen Boutique website is open 24/7, and all these deals – including many, many more – last all day long.

Drag yourself to school kids…its time

 
Well, everyone, it’s that time of year again. I know you’ve all been trying to ignore it, procrastinating preparing for it, and overall wishing very desperately that it didn’t apply to you, but it’s here at last! That’s right: it’s Back to School season! . After shopping (was it shopping or treasure hunt? Iam still hunting the exact dimension of a storage box that the school wants ) the typical school needs from the usual war zones such as Wal*Mart, Target and Costco ,just to name a few,now relax and shop at the comfort of your home by shopping at our online store. (Of course if you like the excitement of the hunt you can stop by one of our stores in Columbia and Montgomery.)

Lets see how Pen Boutique can compliment your usual school supplies with some high quality paper and pens that will improve your kids calligraphy skills.
It’s a universal truth that excluding clothes (and perhaps a backpack), the first things you will buy to prepare for the school year are notebooks. Let us begin with the Rhodia Company, for it would be impossible to talk about notebooks and not mention them. One of the leading manufactures in all stationery concerning paper, notebooks, organizers and binders, the quality of their products is practically unparalleled. One of their bestselling notebooks is the Rhodia LD 5 Webnotebook, an economical choice that is a favorite among artists and writers alike. It’s made of smooth black and orange Italian leather and possesses 90 g ivory, acid-free pages. It has been designed to give you an unbelievably peaceful and warm feeling when you open the cover, hear the gentle crinkle of freshly stapled paper and lay your hand on the crisp, cool pages. Why, it’s like heaven in book form.
For something a little smaller and more compact, Rhodia also offers the Staplebound Lined Notebook that has the same features as the Webnotebook but with only 48 sheets. It’s perfect for a lab journal, a writing journal, a sketchbook or just something convenient and fashionable to take notes in.  With a lined notebook that’s properly labeled all your notes, thoughts and ideas for that class are kept in a neat, organized and secure place so studying will be a breeze. Speaking of organization, you will most likely be doing a lot of it in the upcoming school year. Between homework, afterschool activities, clubs, sports, family, jobs, friends, and ‘me time’, you’re bound to be extraordinarily busy. You’re going to have a lot of things to do and very little time to do it, so the traditional laissez-faire feelings of “Well, I do need to get started on that final paper, but I have two days to get it done... and I do need to beat that last mission on the new Call of Duty” that we’ve all experienced must come to an end. Remember, procrastination is not your friend, but Filofax is here to give you a trustworthy one: the Flex. The Flex is a three-part leatherette notebook series that is available in three sizes: A5, slim and pocket. They are customizable personal organizers that contain credit card slots, large pockets, a jot pad, a pen loop and an extra writing booklet that can be changed in and out of the notebook. From plain notebook paper, a contacts list, a year-long diary, a year-long planner in over four languages and an assortment of other combinations, you will be as organized as if you had a personal secretary. The days of, “What!? The project’s due next period?” and “Wait, the test is today?” will all be in the past.
Now let us move on to the meat and bones of the matter: pens and pencils. Perhaps you’re thinking, why do I even need a pen? Anything I don’t need a pencil for I can do on the computer. A reasonable argument in most cases, but there will always be that one teacher, or that one assignment that requires the use of a pen that you don’t have. (Then begins the unanimous, aggravated sigh of your entire class and you asking five or more people around you if they have a pen, and of course they don’t. No one ever does.) For those of you who just ‘want a pen that works’, products by the Lamy Company will be your best bet. The Lamy Safari Aquamarine, the Pico and the Lamy Noto are all good choices that don’t sacrifice style for economics. Their unique, innovative designs are eye-catching and will earn you a few envious looks from those who are more used to seeing typical, disposable ballpoints. If you’re one of those who like to write with style, then Pelikan, Namiki and Faber-Castell each have products that cater to every indulgence. They offer an assortment of rollerball and ballpoints, but their fountain pens are where the real treasures lie. If you’re new to the fountain pen game, you can always try out Pelikan’s Pelikano series that’s specifically created for first-time users. Its structure is designed to show you the proper way to hold the barrel to optimize the pen’s performance. (And if you want something a little more colorful and whimsical, there is always the Pelikano Junior.) For veterans or those who simply want to jump into the thick of things, the Namiki Vanishing Point Series is a good place to start. Their pens have smooth, free-flowing ink, the distinguished beauty of fountain pens and the functionality and convenience of clickable ballpoint pens. With elegant yet executively subtle designs, the pens in these series are gems in their own rights. (For the latest in this revolutionary pen style, you should probably consider the 2011 Pink Limited Edition whose beauty and sensibility is uncontested.) Faber-Castell offers the Ambition and the Ambition Rhombus, both nicely weighted fountain pens that offer the perfect balance of classical and modernism. Their barrels are made of soft finishes to add comfort when writing and possess resin and chrome trims. Each of these pens has their own distinct style, technique and design, but they are all indisputably stunning and are bound to make you the center of attention. (If you’re looking for inks to compliment your fountain pen, I would suggest Montblanc’s newest “Ink of…” line. They’re absolutely amazing and I just adore them.)
 
Speaking of attention, have you ever sat back and paid attention to your penmanship? This may not apply to the 10% of the human population with heartbreakingly beautiful handwriting, but the rest of us have to deal with winces of embarrassment when someone looks at our writing. (It hurts, I know, I’ve been there.) These painful looks and feelings can be easily forgotten by adding a Calligraphy fountain pen to your literary entourage. Traditionally, fountain pens have a small metallic ball at the end of their nibs, but the tip of a calligraphy pen nib is cut straight across. Available in hundreds of designs and colors, these pens are designed to improve handwriting so that even the most unintelligible chicken scratch becomes passable, and in most cases even admirable. (There’s really no point in doing all that writing in class if your teacher won’t even accept the work because they can’t read it; again, I’ve been there.) Lamy offers an excellent selection, specifically the Lamy Joy which is offered by itself or as a set. It is a beautiful pen that manages to be elegant and efficient without being flashy or gaudy. It’s the Dark Knight of calligraphy pens: mysterious, deadly, and totally awesome. (Not deadly for real, of course. It’s just, I still can’t get over how awesome that movie was.)

Now onto the subject of pencils! In this day and age traditional wooden pencils are quickly falling out of favor – even though we have a nice selection of them for you traditionalists – to be replaced with mechanical pencils. Everyone always gets those dozen pack mechanical pencils with the cheap erasers – you know the ones; erasers that don’t actually erase, they just spread the lead around. These writing tools are so inconspicuous and uninteresting that they’re lost just as frequently as they’re bought. With that in mind, why be boring? Why be predictable? Why not take a shot at a mechanical pencil whose beauty, quality and superior sophistication will quickly make it a favorite writing tool that you’re sure to hold on to? Personally, I like my pens to have a “Men in Black” air about them, so products such as the Aurora Ipsilon Deluxe, the Etoile de Montblanc, and the Waterman Charleston are right up my alley. They’re reliable, beautiful, and have a subtle sophistication that’s hard to beat. Nevertheless, perhaps you like the brighter side of the color spectrum and want pencils that are so vivid and stunning they put sunflowers to shame.  If you’re looking for something a little less animated about its individuality – but no less impressive or unique – the Pelikan Pura D40 and the Retro 51 Tornado Lollipop Grape are prime choices. (And they’re economical to boot; always a plus in this day and age.)
We are living at the height of the information age in this brave new world of ours. Where programs such as Wikipedia, CNN (and BBC), Twitter, Facebook (and perhaps even Myspace if you’re one of the few people who still use it) and the internet in general are the leading forces behind everything we see, read, believe and process. They’re the masters of this age and with each passing day the electronic world gets bigger and the written world gets smaller. The importance of the written word isn’t expressed nearly as much as it should be, but this battle against electronic modernization is being valiantly combated by the creative designs of the world’s pen manufacturers and their dealers. Ballpoint pens, rollerball pens and fountain pens are unique treasures that aren’t antiques, but misunderstood and sometimes unappreciated necessities. So this school year don’t think of supply shopping as a tedious, uninteresting chore, but think of it as an exciting adventure to purchase the descendants of an exclusive order that stretches back to the dawn of civilization. I mean, you have to get these supplies anyway, so why not pick ones that make you happy just by holding them? If you don’t want your kids to take tablets and laptops to school,act up now and perhaps its time that we invest in pens,writing accessories that interests them.
Look for the add-on school supplies here .

D.C Pen Show 2011.. Were you there?

 

It was crowded that day. Of course, that’s a business area and its crowded pretty much every day; there was just something different about this day. Instead of the hectic, crowded streets I’m used to with pedestrians who can’t decide whether they’re actually in a hurry or just sightseeing, there was a business-like feel in the air. People acted like they had places to go, people to see, and like me, conventions to attend .Yes,finally the much awaited DC Pen Supershow is here.  The streets were overflowed with vans, cars and busses(I agree they are all not going to show..must be the new Metrorail project coming in VA area the roads were narrowed and my GPS kept saying to take a right where there was no right turn) . I reached the convention area (of course I switched off GPS and figured it out myself) and already the parking was diverted to the deserted HUMMER building .I parked my car and walked to the hotel, and I saw many vehicles bore company workers, seasoned pen collectors, new collectors, and anyone else that just wanted to see what all the fuss was about. Groups of people in matching work clothes were pulling tables, chairs and supplies out of their cars and carting everything through the front entrance of the Sheraton Hotel at Tysons Corner, Virginia. (I’ve always liked this hotel chain, mostly because they don’t feel a need to flaunt their prestige.) The front of the building was simple; it had uniform rows of windows that cast a stunning reflection of the gray and white clouds that blanketed the sky. In the building’s center hung the words “Sheraton Premier” in unassuming red font.

Around 11am ,the Ballroom was buzzing with activity. There was a sizeable amount of shoppers and vendors alike, but not enough where I felt crowded or uncomfortable.They bustled through the various displays and stations in what could only be called a Pen Bazaar (only , you know, inside a building.If you don’t believe me ,look at the picture here in the right .Where else would you see hundreds of pens spread on a table like vegetables). A cheerful feeling permeated the space, affecting everyone who stepped into the room. Whether their actions were methodical, purposeful or relaxed, everyone in the room had a pleasant, unperturbed air about themselves. The pleasure of being at a spectacular event dedicated to one of their strongest passions was written in the faces of everyone I saw. It was a happy affair, and it showed. As I walked around, I realized that the people in attendance were just as interesting as the products they were inspecting. I saw seasoned pen collectors who looked around and walked with a purpose at all times. Like an eagle hunting a rabbit, they scoped out the tables with a hungry look in their eyes until they found their prize. Others were veterans who came equipped with tools like magnifying glasses to inspect the pens.They would hold up anything that caught their interest and examine the nib, body and inner mechanics. Many of them were so skilled in discerning pen designs that they could immediately identify the type of nib, who made it, how old it was, how often it had been used and, of course, if it was a fake. Advanced knowledge and recognition of pen structure, which would probably take me at least ten minutes to identify, came as second nature to them. Mixed among these were the first timers and young children who were just being introduced to the world of fine writing.I remember seeing a table who were educating kids to use Fountain Pens(though I personally feel that kids under the age of 7 should not use Fountain Pen,the lady in the counter was persistent that even 2 year old should hold a fountain pen.)  Their excitement and fascination with the incalculable number of mechanics, inks, designs, and pens was as obvious as it was heartwarming.

Many customers were just there to get their pens repaired. Many had broken barrels, dismantled clip and some of them even roamed around with almost irreparable pens. Many queued up to get their nibs repaired with Yukio Nagahara,the legendary master nib maker from Sailor.

 

 

 

 

Companies like Conklin,Montegrappa(with all those icons in the background,it reminded me of the Expendables movie banner) and Delta all had many tables manned by company subject matter experts. Dressed in freshly pressed black suits with a no-nonsense demeanor, they were almost as intimidating as they were professional. Certain tables had no brand owner and were manned by one or two staff members who just offered ink samplings. These stations were piled high with row after row of so many different inks that I barely even knew where to start. (After glancing over the choices I resorted to the age-old habit of just going “Oh! This looks pretty! And so does this! Oh, oh, and that too! I want that too!”) Other non-brand tables were occupied by vintage collectors selling items from their personal inventories. Most, if not all of them, were extraordinarily affordable.

Calligraphy classes were being held in an adjacent room (Maria Weyraugh's calligraphy Workshop,New Calligraphy Chisel Point Workshop). This room had less traffic, as a class reservation had to be made in advance, but it was no less interesting than the rest of the convention. All of the students – adults as well as children – were dutifully bent over their work making concise, beautiful words with apparent ease. (Though if you asked each one of them personally, I’m sure they would speak to the contrary.) I didn’t spend much time there as I had more area to cover..

Of course there wouldn’t be a pen show without David Oscarson –the guy with the totally awesome pens – making an appearance. As usual, he sat quietly in the special booth that he gets every year. He was very polite and greeted everyone who passed his table warmly. He seemed a little weary, but he spoke in length with anyone who stopped by about his collections and upcoming products.

Even though there was so much to see and so much to do, I had to check on Pen Boutique’s tables, which, I might add, were doing quite well. The artful table displays were composed of Rhodia notebooks, the Namiki 2011 Pink Vanishing Point, Filofax Flex organizers, Moleskine notebooks, Pelikan, Retro51, Parker and Waterman pens all going at dirt cheap prices. What was especially interesting about our table, though, was the raffle. The item being raffled was an antique Parker wooden pen collection box with gold-colored handles on either side. The lid was mostly made of display glass with two extra drawers underneath. It was very attractive (I really wanted it, I must confess) and I was not the only one that thought so. Just about everyone who came up to the table entered the raffle and by the end of the day the bin was completely stuffed with applications. (Hmm, the more I think about it the more I really wanted that box... I don’t believe Parker even makes it anymore...I should have entered even though I told myself I wouldn’t.)

 

In the end, it was a lovely event. I got a couple vintage pens to add to my collection and made a mental note of others I plan on hunting down next year. The convention was an exciting, unbelievably informative and, as usual, extraordinarily fun event. I can’t wait until next year; it’s going to be so awesome.

While driving back home, I realized that the theme of the DC Pen Show – Delta Demonstrator IT Vermil..Oops I totally forgot to take a look at it….(Did you?) ..Well..how much can you see in a day? I had my measure of fun with pen today..

 

Filofax Flex Notes,fun and more….

The Fourth of July has come and gone, the local theme parks are packed, the days are hot, the nights are warm, and if you look outside, right after sunset, you will see armies of lightning bugs brightening the woods. Summer is officially in full swing, accompanied by its usual entourage: bliss, relaxation, and freedom. This year Filofax, one of the world’s most trusted stationery manufacturers, has introduced a new member to the world of summer: the Flex. The Flex is a three-part notebook series that is guaranteed to transform your summer from endless carefree days into one full of inspiration, literary satisfaction and a new favorite writing companion.

The Flex comes in three sizes: A5 (170x223mm), slim (105x163mm) and flex pocket (100x133mm). The A5 is the most commonly used given its size, unlimited functionality and diversity. When opened, the a5 notebook lays completely flat – how convenient! (How many times have you tried to write in a notebook, only to have its bulky spine aggravate you? Irritating, isn’t it?) On the left hand side of the notebook is an 80 page ruled notepad made of smooth, crisp Filofax stationery. Beneath that are multiple pockets of varying sizes to hold all of your essentials. There are six credit card slots and two additional, larger ones that are perfect for storing torn out notes, checkbooks, receipts, and any other miscellaneous papers. On the right hand side is a 32 page, unlined jot pad that stretches the height of the notebook. This little pad is one of the most useful aspects of the entire notebook. It lets you quickly scribble down any short note, thought, or mental sidebars you want. The jot pad’s paper – though just as smooth and easy to work with as the notepad’s – is easily disposed of, so you can keep all your more relevant thoughts in your notepad. (The jot pad is more for things like the title of a good song you just heard on the radio, a book title, your grocery list, someone’s phone number…) In the center of the notebook is a removable, cardboard pencil holder. With most other notebooks, you’re left to stick your pen into various slots and hope it doesn’t fall out or get lost when you need it most. The Flex has a pencil holder that can be taken out and slipped into pockets on the left and right hand side of the notebook for your optimum comfort and convenience.

(That’s a Flex with a Laban Pen,a neat fit into the pen holder)

All of the aforementioned information is just the beginning. Though it comes in this revolutionary package, a simple writing notepad with lines – or no lines – is just that. Simple. So, to combat this seemingly unoriginality, Filofax has made the Flex’s paper completely customizable. A multitude of different refill options are available and can be switched in and out of the notebook at any time. There are sketchpads, for the spontaneous artist; planners, for on the go businessmen or businesswomen; diaries, for the more emotional and free-spirited types; and contact lists, for the social types. There is also a variety of other options for any and everyone. The Flex’s properties are just as flexible as its seemingly nonexistent spine!
Check out this diagram that helps you to make the your filofax flexible.

Though it has everything you could ever want in a portable organizer just short of a secretary, you may be inclined to think that the a5 is bigger than what you really need. Have no fear; the Flex’s slim and pocket versions are made to conform to these thoughts. To prevent unnecessary bulkiness, these remaining pads are only equipped with a 64 paged notepad and 32 paged jot pad respectively. Their limitless practicality and heightened convenience more than make up for this small slight. The Flex slim has a shortened height and width. It has about the same density and weight of a checkbook or leather wallet. The slim fits nicely inside your pocket, briefcase, or purse. The Flex pocket version is perfect for, well, your pocket. It’s small, compact and by summer’s end you’ll never want to be without it.

(Filofax flex,display at PenBoutique Sterret Place ,Columbia MD location)
The Flex series comes in three distinct, professionally tasteful colors: black, slate, and for those who want a more decorative flair, magenta. They are made out of sleek, soft and smooth two-toned leather that gives the notebooks depth and personality.

(Flex in various size and color)

This summer, keep in mind that taking it slow, organizing your time wisely, and having an outlet to your insatiable creativity makes for a pleasant, unforgettable summer. With the Flex series, that perfect summer is only a notebook away.

Filofax Flex at PenBoutique