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michael topscura
Canada
Приєднався 24 лип 2006
Rarely without a camera, notebook, fountain pen, and a smile. Each day is an opportunity for exploration, understanding, travel and connection. I’ve been blessed to have met dynamic people, witnessed monumental events all from behind the camera.
My channel is all about connecting with the community of creators who aren’t too hung up on gear, but are motivated by creativity. Lover of the art of photography, the nuances of filmmaking, and fine writing instruments.
I strive to make something truly memorable and enriching for all who watch.
Thanks for stopping by! Don’t forget to let me know you were here.
What are you working on that excites you? What have you witnessed that inspires you?
Visit me at: www.topscura.com
Instagram: @topscura
My channel is all about connecting with the community of creators who aren’t too hung up on gear, but are motivated by creativity. Lover of the art of photography, the nuances of filmmaking, and fine writing instruments.
I strive to make something truly memorable and enriching for all who watch.
Thanks for stopping by! Don’t forget to let me know you were here.
What are you working on that excites you? What have you witnessed that inspires you?
Visit me at: www.topscura.com
Instagram: @topscura
Fountain Pens & The Inks That Love Them | 2023 Stationery and Journaling Wrap up
Time does what it’s supposed to do.
I blinked and summer was over.
With only a few days left of 2023 it was really interesting looking back on my stationery journey. If I could sum up the year in a single word it would be, experiential. As with most years, there were many days filled with writing and doodling but not as many as I would have liked.
I’m excited for 2024 and what it will bring. I know it will include a lot of writing, learning, growing, and grey hairs. Such is life!
#stationery #fountainpens #fountainpencollection
► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ►
Books I enjoyed in 2023:
1. The Art of Logic in an Illogical World (Eugenia Cheng)
2. There There (Tommy Orange)
3. The Art of Racing in the Rain (Garth Stein)
4. On The Ravine (Vincent Lam)
5. Tortilla Flat (John Steinbeck)
6. Greenlights (Matthew McConaughey)
7. Lesser Known Monsters of the 21st Century (Kim Fu)
8. The Big Leap (Gary Hendricks)
9. Consolations (David Whyte)
10. We (Yevgeny Zamyatin)
11. Woman Running in the Mountains (Yūko Tsushima)
12. When We Cease to Understand The World (Benjamin Labatut)
13. The Sorrow of Others (Ada Zhang)
14. If an Egyptian Cannot Speak English (Noor Naga)
15. Free Food for Millionaires (Min Jin Lee)
16. The Origins of Totalitarianism (Hannah Arendt)
17. A People's History of the United States (Howard Zinn)
18. How to Hide an Empire (Daniel Immerwahr)
19. Rise to Greatness: The History of Canada from the Vikings to the Present (Conrad Black)
20. Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass (Frederick Douglass)
► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ►
Some of my favourite stationery shops:
NOMADO Store (Belgium) nomadostore.com
Wonder Pens (Toronto, Ontario) wonderpens.ca
Baum-kuchen (California, USA ) www.baum-kuchen.net
Vancouver Pen Shop vancouverpenshopltd.ca
26 Market (Winnipeg , MB) 26market.com
Paper-Ya (Vancouver, BC) paper-ya.com
Cult Pens (UK) cultpens.com
Subscribe! It’s fun over here.
I blinked and summer was over.
With only a few days left of 2023 it was really interesting looking back on my stationery journey. If I could sum up the year in a single word it would be, experiential. As with most years, there were many days filled with writing and doodling but not as many as I would have liked.
I’m excited for 2024 and what it will bring. I know it will include a lot of writing, learning, growing, and grey hairs. Such is life!
#stationery #fountainpens #fountainpencollection
► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ►
Books I enjoyed in 2023:
1. The Art of Logic in an Illogical World (Eugenia Cheng)
2. There There (Tommy Orange)
3. The Art of Racing in the Rain (Garth Stein)
4. On The Ravine (Vincent Lam)
5. Tortilla Flat (John Steinbeck)
6. Greenlights (Matthew McConaughey)
7. Lesser Known Monsters of the 21st Century (Kim Fu)
8. The Big Leap (Gary Hendricks)
9. Consolations (David Whyte)
10. We (Yevgeny Zamyatin)
11. Woman Running in the Mountains (Yūko Tsushima)
12. When We Cease to Understand The World (Benjamin Labatut)
13. The Sorrow of Others (Ada Zhang)
14. If an Egyptian Cannot Speak English (Noor Naga)
15. Free Food for Millionaires (Min Jin Lee)
16. The Origins of Totalitarianism (Hannah Arendt)
17. A People's History of the United States (Howard Zinn)
18. How to Hide an Empire (Daniel Immerwahr)
19. Rise to Greatness: The History of Canada from the Vikings to the Present (Conrad Black)
20. Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass (Frederick Douglass)
► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ► ►
Some of my favourite stationery shops:
NOMADO Store (Belgium) nomadostore.com
Wonder Pens (Toronto, Ontario) wonderpens.ca
Baum-kuchen (California, USA ) www.baum-kuchen.net
Vancouver Pen Shop vancouverpenshopltd.ca
26 Market (Winnipeg , MB) 26market.com
Paper-Ya (Vancouver, BC) paper-ya.com
Cult Pens (UK) cultpens.com
Subscribe! It’s fun over here.
Переглядів: 2 692
Відео
Handwriting and Fountain Pens in the Age of AI
Переглядів 1,4 тис.Рік тому
Artificial intelligence and AI tools are here to stay, and we’re only in the early stages of a new technological age. So, why write by hand in the age of computers, language models, advanced algorithmic logic and automation? Despite the advantages that technology brings, writing by hand has no equal when it comes to ideation. I love handwriting because it encourages self exploration and express...
Stationery Favs | Planner & Notebook Covers, Pouches from The Super Labor, Galen, Traveler's Company
Переглядів 2,7 тис.Рік тому
A kind viewer asked how I travel with and store fountain pens. A great question that inspired me to talk about some of the stationery accessories I enjoy most from The Superior Labor, Galen Leather Company, Midori, and Traveler's Company. I touch these pieces almost every day. I hope you're inspired to use all the stationery items that bring you joy each and every day too. 0:00 Intro 02:04 The ...
My Fountain Pen Collection at Year 3 | Pelikan, Sailor, BENU, Franklin Christoph, Kaweco & more
Переглядів 22 тис.Рік тому
Don't put off to what can be done the day after tomorrow. I've procrastinated long enough! Here is my entire fountain pen collection. I really get a lot of fulfillment out of watching these fountain pen collection videos from others on UA-cam, and I appreciate any time you spend watching mine. Happy writing ✍️ ► My filming setup Camera(s): Fuji X-T3, Fuji X-H1 Lenses: Fujinon XF16mm f1.4 WR, XF...
BENU Euphoria Bora Bora Fountain Pen Impressions + Journaling
Переглядів 4,2 тис.2 роки тому
The BENU Euphoria Bora Bora fountain pen is a marvel to look at. How does it write? Is it comfortable for long writing sessions? I think so. Enjoy this short review of this beautiful pen along with some journaling time. ► My filming setup Camera: Fuji X-T3 with Fujinon XF16mm f1.4 WR lens Mic for voiceovers: Deity V-Mic D3 Pro ► Items I talked about: - Pelikan Souverän M1000 Fountain Pen - www....
Grail Pen Acquired! Pelikan Souverän M1000 Fountain Pen + First Impressions
Переглядів 32 тис.2 роки тому
Pelikan fountain pens hold a special place in my collection of writing instruments. Find out why I love them so much. I got a new fountain pen. But first coffee. For those bitten by the fountain pen and or stationary bug can attest, this hobby can really swallow up a lot of disposable income if you're not careful. There's so many interesting and lovely items to lust after and acquire. I have a ...
Better Families | Cameray Child & Family Services (Burnaby)
Переглядів 944 роки тому
This short film was definitely a labour of love. Any initiative designed to help children and families peaks my interest and motivation. Cameray Child & Family Services is a community-based agency in Burnaby, British Columbia committed to the strengthening of individuals and families through a spectrum of services including counselling, education, outreach and advocacy. Captured by the Sony A7S...
Black Boys Code: A Workshop
Переглядів 5554 роки тому
Black Boys Code is a non-profit organization intended to overcome inequality by increasing the number of boys of colour aged between 8-17 in the digital space. While focused on ethnic minorities, everyone denomination is welcome. This video is an interview with the Founder of Black Boys Code (Bryan Johnson), along with volunteer and guest speaker Dr. Germain Tanoh, PhD in Applied Mathematics (B...
Print Ain’t Dead
Переглядів 1654 роки тому
This video project features East Van Graphics, a Vancouver, British Columbia based commercial printing business. The mix of vintage and primarily mechanical machines side by side with complex modern behemoths is a distinct contrast of old versus new. Cutting edge technology finding innovative solutions to problems not without answers from now ancient machines. Reliability meets efficiency. All ...
Digital Imaging With Sony Alpha
Переглядів 804 роки тому
A collection of projects I’ve worked on using Sony Alpha digital imaging equipment. Ranging from human interest stories, interviews, weddings, corporate events, mini documentaries, and live music recording videos, I’ve learned a lot and grown into an experienced creator. Projects were captured on a range of Sony Alpha cameras including but not limited to: Sony A7S Sony A7 Sony A7ii Sony A7iii S...
I love your collection so much! Very nice! :D
If the fine nib is a gusher, I've heard of the M1000's medium described as a firehose.
Such cool video!
Can you see the ink through the body of the pen? Your video is like being filmed in another era....
4:45 - the crucial part for me, so often overlooked in presentations. Large fine nib, but a 'gusher'. May warrant slightly larger writing? Thank you for the video. Appreciated.
Wow!! This is absolutely amazing!! This should be recognized worldwide 👏🏾👑 #BlackExcellence
Yo thats sick!
Pelikan m800 vs Pelikan m1000? I have small hands. Would the m1000 be a problem?
Great video. If you like the Pelikans and small you should try the Pelikan M100N. I have the red and the 1935 in Jade Green (limited edition from 1998).
Really enjoying your videos, especially on fountain pens. Question: can you share any details about how to make those mini prints (per the 9:15 ish spot on this video)? Curious what type of printer you use and what paper to get those prints? Thanks..(Subscribed and looking forward to following along.)
Loved this video, class & classic in perfect synergy. Pure elegance. So refreshing. Just before this, I happened to watch a video about some old shopping malls coming back to life; and yesterday, of all things, cassette tapes apparently making something of a comeback, which is in a way kind of more fascinating than vinyl's resurgence, although vinyl is as much about aesthetics, tactile experience and sound quality (not in that order) as it is about nostalgia; whereas cassette tapes are about honoring a certain period in our lives or in our history and culture, with nostalgia and appreciation, for the sake of these things diluted in the LP vinyl case. Your gorgeous fountain pen brings all these themes together in another, actually more profound, communication medium. It honors the best parts of the past, renewing these things into the present. I've seen plenty of fountain pen videos, but somehow your video in its understated elegant way, *nails* it. Bravo, and thanks for superb content!
Fabulous writing. I am an atrocious writer.
Absolutely excellent presentation. Thank you RS. Canada
Absolutely excellent presentation. Thank you RS. Canada
Great pens, of course. Very cool Video, cut - light - story. Wonderful impression, thank you😁
4:44 I got scared when I read the first paragraph because I had written something so eerily similar; both in content and style.
I appreciate your quiet passion and elegant presentation.
I enjoyed this, subscribed.
I am loving all those Pelikans! I don’t even have one yet. Aside from a Lamy 2000 in <F>, a Waterman Carene in <M>, and a Kaweco Sport in Bronze in <BB>, My other pens are all Asian. I have, I think, 19 pens. My favorite pen is a Pilot 743 with a <SM>. It’s like writing with butter!
I'll have to get an old style M800 somtime in the future. I like the clear stripes and old fineal better, so the new ones areznt really interesting to me. But man the old ones are the perfect pen design in my eyes!
Loved this... Subscribed!
Nice !
Hi quick question, after a few years, how do you like the compact bag? I’m on the fence about getting it. Do you still use it? And as a fellow guy, how is the feel/usage?
I Loved your video and I am also a big fan of Pelikan fountain pens. I love my M1000, too… The thing that hit me the most is how on earth you manage such small (and beautiful) writing with such a flexy, gusher - I really like the way the M1000 lays down ink, but my writing size has to increase markedly whenever I use mine… Great content. Thank you for posting 🙏👏
I love your taste in pens! That brown and black! I just got my first pelikan and I immediately want to upgrade 😊
Your handwriting is very elegant
Very nice collection and enjoyable video. Trust me, you need to add the Lamy 2000 to that collection. You will definitely enjoy it.
Oh my goodness a ketchup bath! Need to try that for mine. I want it to patina but hate the dark patches. Great tip
An enjoyable review. I have more than 20 Pelikans, some of which are Special Editions. I used to get them with M nibs, which tend to write like B ones, so now I choose either F or XF nibs. I recently got a "grail" Pelikan, an M900 with a F nib. I own many other popular brands which I cycle among when I write. I love fountain pens, partly because they are old technology, the many choices of ink one can use, they way they write, the character of the writing one can achieve, their aesthetic appeal, and the fact that most of them are not throw-away.
N ice collection. I have the exact same Lamy Safari, i fact it has become my go to fountain pen, it wrires well and never fails. Would eventually like to have a Montblanc however.
Very well done! Thanks man!
Great video and solid collection! I absolutely adore Pelikan and I currently only have an M600 and M205. I am hoping to add an M800 or M805 to my collection soon.
What a beautiful and thoughtful video. I enjoyed listening to your fp reflections as I wound down this evening.
Lovely to see you’ve posted another video, thank you. My most used are my TWSBI fountain pens, especially my Golden Horse Edition and Diamond Mini. I’ve been into scented inks so trying out De Atramentis - Chocolate, Caramel and Cappuccino. Caramel looked more mustard to me so I blended it with Chocolate and now it’s the perfect colour. I use Diamine Caramel Sparkle in a Broad TWSBI Eco for accents. These have been my daily for December. Prior to that it was Pelikan Edelstein Olivine and Ferris Wheel Press Twinkling Tea Party. Oh and Pelikan Edelstein Moonstone is a new favourite. I’ve been wanting to try a Pelikan since watching your videos and I’m patiently waiting for the Copper & Rose Gold M200 as it will compliment my collection beautifully. The ketchup trick is great, one of the many things passed down from my grandma. Happy New Year ✒️✨🖋️
Great video 👍
Seems like you had a similar experience with the one missing pen as I did. I'm finally ready to sell them all.
Great video, love the character it shows. My most used pen would be either the Lamy 2000 or the Leonardo MZG 2.0. Monst used ink is Robert Oster Blue Denim
Much appreciated. I keep a small collection of pens but I would like to add at least one Italian brand one day. The Leonardo MZG 2.0 lineup is incredibly handsome. The features check a lot of boxes for me. I just ordered a bottle of Robert Oster Blue Denim, thanks for sharing!
I was a Pelikan boy, same as you, until I got a Pilot custom 823. I still love mi Pelikans, but I'm sure you would love Pilot as much as I do now. Great video as always!!
Thanks for the advice! My very first fountain pen was a Pilot Metropolitan. I didn't know what I was doing at the time and didn't fully appreciate the pen as I should have. I would love a 823 Amber one day. Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
Your videos are art. Really enjoyed this video.
Thank you so much for the feedback PEIPenGuy. You are a man of distinction and I very much respect your opinion. Hope you and your family are enjoying the holidays as much as possible.
My TWSBIs have been bulletproof, unparalleled value. My favorite workaday brand.
I'm curious, which TWSBI model is your favourite? I had my eye on a Diamond Mini for a time...is that a model you'd recommend? Thanks for stopping by.
Love your videos as usual brother... The TC Brass pen in the Ketchup.. I need to take a 2nd look if I'm really seeing it!
Thanks so much for the time, as always. I was skeptical about the ketchup but....it works! And it's safer than some of the other remedies I found. Won't restore it completely but enough to brighten it up some. What was your most used fountain pen this year?
@@Topscura I would say the Pilot Kakuno which was my first love! And then perhaps the Nakaya Piccolo Long Tamenuri
My grandma taught me the ketchup trick when I was young. We used a penny or 2p coin back then but it works so well on my bronze Kaweco Sport clip 🍅🖋️
Merry Christmas! My most used pens are an Esterbrook Estie Rain Forest and a Santini Libra Cappuccino. I can’t really say which ink because I switch colors a lot. Thank you for sharing yours!
I've had a fascination with Esterbrook after learning about the rich history, and all the rave reviews on their nibs. I had the opportunity to get one about a year ago but wanted to think on it another day. It was gone by the time I got back to my cart ;( Switching inks often is a sign of an avid writer; I dig that! Thanks for watching and Happy Holidays!
Kaweco AL sport with Kaweco blue and a Lamy safari 1.1 stub in blue/black
Solid lineup. Really can't go wrong with any of those models. I'm yet to try a 1.1 stub! 2024, here I come....
Beautiful video
Thank you very much for watching. Glad you enjoyed it.
So nice to see you back. My most used fountain pens were two Pilot Vanishing Points, one in EF and the other F. I have them inked with Platinum Carbon Black and Pilot Iroshizuku Kon Peki. I also have a dupe of the VP, the Majohn A1 "Moonman", with Waterman Serenity Blue and that combo is just a pleasure to write with. I use it everyday for my morning pages. I have the Kaweco Steel Sport but it just doesn't write well for me. Maybe I should give it another try. I wish there were more videos like yours on UA-cam.
I always so love your videos, Michael! My most used this year, because they are the functional pens for my work planner and personal Weeks planner, are the Esterbrook JR Pumpkin Latte EF with Herbin Lie de The, and the Platinum 3776 Ivoire EF with Herbin Perle Noir. Two days ago I received my Pelikan M600 EF Red-White and it will be one of my most used for 2024! I'm going to put Noodler's Lexington Gray in it. Also, my husband has gotten a Pelikan M800 EF Brown-Black for me! I'm going to use Robert Oster's Caffe Crema. Happy 2024! I hope it's your best year ever!
I'm seeing a lot of Esterbrook love from the FP community. I really need to get my hands on one.... Congratulation on the Pelikan M600! I really do hope you love it. Your husband sounds wonderful, and very generous! :) I really appreciate your kindness, and I'm glad you're enjoying my videos. More to come in 2024 for sure. I have an unused sample of Herbin Lie de The. You've inspired me to give it a go! Wishing you and yours all the best this holiday season Kathy 😊
@@Topscura So? Have you tried the Lie de The? 😃
The Origins of Toltalitarianism; heady stuff.
It surprised me when summing up my reading this year. Political science and philosophy were top categories.
So nice to see you - you're just to Kool. My most used fountain pen has been the Platinum #3776 Century with Waterman black ink. I get stuck on a pen or maybe too lazy to switch. Merry Christmas!
Thank you so much! You're making me blush. It was a toss up for me between the Sailor Pro Gear and a Platinum 3776 Century. I do wonder if I made the wrong choice with the Sailor. One thing I really like about Platinum is the engraving on the nib with the mountain silhouette and heart. Oh well...I will live vicariously through your model for now 😉 Merry Christmas and a happy new year!
Thanks for the show - I like your jazzy vibe. Perhaps my most used pen was my Platinum Carbon Ink Pen <EF>, with, of course, Platinum Carbon Black Ink.
Thank you for taking the time to watch and comment. I really appreciate it!. I hope the music wasn't too loud? Platinum has made an appearance on a few 'most used fp' lists. During the summer, one of my favourite journal pages was ruined by a coffee spill. Only then did I realize how valuable a waterproof ink would be in my life! I'm going to dedicate one fountain pen for all things permanent. Platinum Carbon Black Ink is a great option so thank you for the info.
Hi, Michael. I’ve recently just discovered your channel, and I’m so glad I did. My most used pen and ink combo is the Esterbrook Estie Botanical Garden with a journaler nib from Gena Salorino paired with Vinta Inks Carlos (Emerald). I just treated myself with the Pelikan M600 Glauco Cambon (EF) and inked it up with Diamine Astral from this year’s Inkvent Calender-and I suppose that’s going to be my go-to next year. Thanks for sharing, and happy holidays! ✨ Love, love your poignant presentations.