I enjoy the Compnay updates. Please continue! Brian asked, "How important is that really?" For real? How important really is hammer collecting, or cereal eating, or corned beef hash and coffee and videos games while sitting in the LoveSac? If we didn't think it was important we wouldn't sit through 2 1/2 hours listening to y'all! 🤣 Drew, that Amalfi is beautiful! I would LOVE to own one. 💙
Totally agree with this, I also love hearing when there are system changes or sustainability wins. I think for anyone who has worked at a small business will appreciate and understand how much effort goes into to making things just a little better for the employees, the customers and the planet.
I would find it interesting for company updates to include new staff members, it would let us understand the different people/roles who combine to make it all run. That might be more delicate because sometimes new people decide the job isn't for them, but after a few weeks it might be safer?
We were taught at school to use a bevelled ruler upside down to stop ink creeping under it. I have metal rulers with a cork backing that raise the part of the nib in contact with the ruler.
The silver metal rulers with the thin cork backing are terrific, even if you’re not using fountain pens because they’re straight, reliable, and have clear markings. In addition you can find wooden rulers with a raised metal strip on the edge or plastic rulers with a rounded metal edge. I used these decades ago in graphic design work when we had to use those horrid Rapidograph pens (put out lines of a consistent width but were always clogging!).
Drew gave a very insightful and accurate description of the packaging dilemma. I have been retired from the advertising world for years now and I've seen all kinds of packaging designs. I have suggested for many years that the "Elaborate" packaging should be optional. Yes, go ahead and design attractive packaging. Show it in advertising and online, etc. Then when ordering the pen make it optional with your order and add a fee for it. If it's a gift for someone, it's available, otherwise a plain package for shipping is all that's required. This is NOT difficult.
drew, i find it hysterical that you are so wigged out by the Delta Amalfi pen colors, when your shirts are so bold and colorful. So funny, and that face you make is the topping on the cake.
I keep pen boxes if they're solid and reusable. TWSBI box is a great example...after recycling the paper cover, I use it for keeping nibs, converters, and other pen tools, along with TWSBI cool wrench thingy. A different pen coffin stores cartridges. Noodler's came in a flimsier cardboard i was happy to recycle.
Hey! Selling fountain pens and showing us all how best to take care of them keeps this community happy, excited, chill; all a great contribution to society. 😊 Thank you!
2 hours and a half of pencast : that's the PERFECT treat to have on a Friday afternoon during the holidays. I'm posting this comment even before watching you guys. I'm from the South of France, and I really love what you do. Okay... laid back comfortably ? Check ! Drink ? Check ! Smile on my face ? Cheeeeeck ! Let's get it goin' and click on play!
the best! I've cleaned and reinked my pens for the coming week. I've done some marketing work all while listening to the pencast. Love it. Best part of my Sunday
I LOVE my brown metal falcon, soft medium! It was my 2nd Pilot ever about 1month into the official start of my obsession about 4yrs ago ❤ & major reason why Pilot is my biggest brand expenditure. It has always been in my top 3, no more how big my collection gets 😊
I'm so upset that I read this comment because now I can't unsee it. I usually watch on my phone so I never would have noticed but it *hurts* my eyes now.
Well said about pen packaging, Drew! Similar to jewelry or luxury fashion, part of the experience is the presentation. I’d be bummed if I spent money on the likes of Namiki or Montegrappa only to have it show up in a cardboard box. Brands want to communicate their heritage and style through packaging. Consumers get excited when they see that beautiful wooden box or that Visconti pen pillow or the kimono pen roll some come with. It wouldn’t be the same without it.
Don't worry, you have Aerospace Engineers in your audience. Some of us can explain what Ultem PEI is and some of us even use our fountain pens with straight edges. (I prefer to turn mine sideways so it contacts the side of the tipping material rather than the end.) There are pens specifically made for that in the dip pen era called a ruling pen. It features a knob so you can dynamically change your line width while drafting.
I have a couple of ruling pens. Although my draftsmanship was always ropy, I still like the paraphernalia of a drawing office. It's kind of imbued with engineering history. When I draw a ruled line, I have to turn my nib sideways to the rule, or I don't get the line.
I'm one of those antiques that much prefer to shop in person so anything you do to make your internet only store seem like a brick-and-mortar store is nice; therefore I'm all in favor of keeping the company updates. Even though what's going on in the company may not impact us directly, it really shows the heart of the company. Those mental health days, improvements to the warehousing environment, or even various mechanical or building issues that you deal with, may bore some, but it speaks to how you invest in the most valuable part of any company - the people. Keep 'em. Packaging -- I like nice packaging. It adds to the experience of opening and admiring that purchase. The Lamy Safari box is, ahem, disappointing. They could at least do what Ferris Wheel Press does with their most inexpensive pens. Cardboard box, but really nicely decorated. If I spend upwards of a couple hundred dollars, I want to have something a bit more than a Safari-style box. Schoen pens - loved them all and the faceted ones, yum. Very different than the run-of-the-mill pens.
Drew, as a mum of 4, this concern about their writing is very familiar. I had a notebook for each child and we would write notes to each other. It doesn't really matter how much they write, as long as they write. I make sure I ask questions so they have to reply. I try to keep it funny, like asking them to draw something or tell me a dad joke. Enjoy the rest of your summer break!
Handy tip for Baking Soda (aka Soda Bicarbonate) is if you are suffering from indigestion and don’t have Tums handy you can dissolve a little in water and drink it and it will help relieve the discomfort. Doesn’t taste the best, but really does the trick.
When I was in Lisbon, I wanted a pen purchased there. I actually bought a Faber Castel that, while not ugly, was not really my style because it was in a cool turquoise aluminum box. I’m a sucker for packaging, especially tins. On the other hand, I like Franklin-Christoph’s usable packaging, a little leather or fabric pen pouch. I also love the Retro 1951 tubes. They make a fun display.
I was so happy for Brian when I saw the Amalfi pen coming back! Haha. I love it. I can't afford it, but it reminds me of a coastline with some bright buildings along the shore. Glad it happened!
Love the Company Updates. As a manager, and now as someone who works in employee experience and engagement solutions, I get fired up hearing the things you do to support your team and gleaning insights on the unique and vibrant culture you have fostered. Y'all are dope! Completely unrelated, but the Amalfi is a stunning pen, and I wish I grokked Drew's distaste.
We love all your updates! Since we can't visit your shop in person, which would definitely involve small talk, we can feel like we are able to hear what's going on with you guys. 💖 I definitely relate to the kids growing so fast and it's going to be over in a blink of the eye. 😢 I'm soaking up every day I have left with them here at home. 💖
I am the retired NASA Aerospace Engineer turned watercolor artist y'all met at the pen show. It was such a pleasure meeting you and your team! Thanks for the shout out in the Pencast! And I appreciate the new segment - what pen are you using? Keep up the good work!
I'm not fond of chocolate Tootsie roll pops, but my order came with "Mango", which I've never had before. Was different, and I was not disappointed. All the ink in the box was pretty cool, too.
Too late! DC was the first fountain pen show my wife and I attended, and yes it was overwhelming, but oh so much fun. I bought a Franklin-Christoph Model 31 and met Audrey, talked to Ian Schon and Pierre Miller about their work, and got to see the Pencast! Though Sunday was the only day we were there, it was a blast. Thanks for all your work, guys!
I don't mind fancy boxes if I'm buying a fancy pen, but I don't like large boxes. I keep the majority of my boxes. Just in case I sell or gift a pen, I like to have the original box to go with it. Large boxes take up too much room and are more difficult to store. My favorite pen boxes are the ones from BENU. They are fairly sturdy and only slightly larger than the pens they hold. Pen makers: Continue to make fancy boxes, if you desire, but please consider box storage after we take the new precious out of its packaging.
If I have done my calculator's math right, ten pounds equals the weight of 105.4865976766412 Pilot custom urushi vermilion pens (43.0 g equals 1.5167803638 oz per pen, or 10.54865976766412 pens to the pound). That being said, Brian's weight loss is priceless, and I am so glad you are doing it now. After decades of yo-yoing, I finally lost 50+ lbs slowly and sustainably and have kept it off for almost 11 years so far. Healthy weight and habits not only are invaluable to me as a long-term caregiver, but they were crucial for getting me through chemo a decade ago (caregiving does not stop for cancer). Keep up the fabulous work/play!
Regarding the packaging for pens, I would appreciate a pen-only option for these fancier sets. I'm usually not interested in the box after receiving it and opening it for the first time.
Love the company updates! It makes me think I'm part of Goulet Pens even though I don't think I'll ever be an employee because y'all are in-person only... can't stop me from dreaming though!
I've had a walk in pen store (unfortunately no longer with us) do a nib swap on a Pelikan 800 for me. As I stood there, the sales person took the medium nib off the 805 and put a broad nib from a different 800 on it.
Baking Soda is the bomb, look it up, so many uses. You can brush your teeth with it, put a teaspoon or less in water and gargle with it, same thing with peroxide (this will kill sore throat infection in a heartbeat the taste is terrible, but works.
I used to get mouth ulcers or cold sores all the time and they would hang on for weeks. Miserable..! Then one day, in a moment of frustration, I tried Colgate's Toothpaste with Baking Soda & Peroxide. That stuff is great. I rarely get those infections any more and if I do the lesions go away overnight before they grow into craters. Now I mix any mouthwash with 50% of the 2% Peroxide as well. Been using it for decades now. Miracle cure.
Ryan Krusac is one of the nicest, most creative pen makers out there. He’s on my list of makers to buy from next show . The mermaid pens are my favorite of the bunch. Pen show folks are so nice!
OMG!!! I've been drawing lines with metal straight edges with whatever fountain pen I had in my hand (both cheap and grail). I have will stop doing that immediately and use an index card instead. I'll look into replacing my metal straight edges with wood (not plastic). Thanks for the information. I hope I haven't done too much damage to my pens already.
Love the vintage Pilots - the shorts were Pilot's response to Sailor making the first pocket pens (1963ish) and were made around 1965-68 (the Pilot Elite came in 1968); while the Capless Short CS-100RW were made around 1965. If you do want to ink up an early vintage Capless then you'll need to locate a "double spare" cartridge or try a Sailor cartridge in them because modern Pilot cartridges don't fit.
Thanks guys Just 5 weeks into my pen journey and have watched 40 or 50 of your vids and learned so much, bought the basics Lamy , Pilot explorer, Kaweco sport , Parker vector Just got a Diplomat Aero and planning some grail pens from Leonardo ( opera master. & MZG) Visconti Homo Sapien. Etc. I’m loving this Brian The Pen Man Goulet & Drew Boy Wonder Brown Holy pen craft …… ink freaks 😢 Y
I enjoy your podcast / videos the way they are! I found you guys a week or so ago and have been binge watching lol. I even ordered my first fountain pen (Lamy all star) from you and am awaiting it to be delivered. Thank you for all the information and entertainment Cheers, beers and whiskey 🤠
I love my Burgundy Metal Falcon! It's very sleek and elegant. I never post my pens. I'm with Drew re boxes, had a recent cull of most of my more boring pen boxes. What I do love is the little cases especially Sailor-style "pen kimonos", and Benu's flower pen rests.
Drew’s Sheaffer is the Ebonized black and Pearl Balance. It looks to be a 1930s vintage. I have three of these. The PFM is a much beefier pen with a single color resin (no bits of mother of pearl or anything) with a squared off cap end and bulbous cap. It’s slight but it’s there. The ebonized black and pearl is a wonderful writing instrument and an amazing gift! Hope Drew enjoys and appreciates what he has.
Re company updates: I like knowing about anything that may impact shipping. I’ll plan my purchases a little early or later to account. Personally, I like the segment. My 2 cents. Thanks for all you do!
Packaging can look nice and be robust enough and still be more environmentally friendly. For the more expensive pens, if the pen with minimal packaging and the fancy presentation packaging were listed as separate items, you'd only have to stock like one of the fancy packaging at most since most customers would choose the savings. Customers wouldn't get a bad impression because their expectations would have been set at the time of purchase. And soon, the fancy packaging could be discontinued as sales wouldn't justify it. I realize this approach would be up to the manufacturers. Goulet shouldn't try to do that on your own. But I think there's a lot of room for manufacturers to improve the situation rather than justifying ridiculous packaging. And just look at the change that happened in CD packaging to see that change can practically happen.
I love the company updates. Breaks up the pace of things and also makes the pencast longer 😂 love it! Drew - Can you also show the custom 74 you got from the pen show and let us know how you have found it since it was your first one? 😊
Thanks for always being a welcome start to my weekend! I suggest adding interest to company updates by relating shareable personal stories or funny stories from employees (with their permission, of course), happenings with neighboring businesses, company anniversaries or employee milestones. It honestly makes very little difference to me if you are closed for an occasional day or half-day, because your website is always open. :) Two unrelated Q&A questions for you with deep dive warnings! #1 Why do sheening inks only sheen in certain colors? Blue always sheens red or deep pink, black always sheens gold or greenish, etc. #2 Please set us straight on urushi pens: are they durable or not? I feel like I have heard it both ways: the pens are extremely durable, but don't post them or treat them carelessly or you risk damage. Thanks!
The Schon Dsgn pocket pens are very nice. I tried several different ones, and I recommend the ULTEM and the COPPER faceted. Brass is a common material, and it makes my hand stink. Copper on the other hand still has the beautiful patina with use, and is anti-microbial also.
Agreed on the boxes! I keep them all for posterity, and in case I sell something, but I've got 2 drawers full of empty boxes... Unless the pen cost a grand, I'd rather they focus on putting that money into the pens. Even then, unless it's something weighty and spectacular enough to keep out on the desk... it will still go to the 'box purgatory'.
If the grip matched the cap, the Delta Amalfi would be a lovely pen. The two blues are just a bit too much for me, even though blue is my favorite color. Love how Brian is always researching on the computer during the Pencast.
Thank you for sharing your delightful hauls from DC Pen Show, Brian & Drew. Hope you consider carrying more Schon DSGN pens. I picked up the ultem with a Monoc nib & a Goulet exclusive (at the time), the Dark Matter pocket pen - j’adore
I asked my local office shop today and they always receive the Lamy cardboard sleeves packaged flat with the pens in trays to save space and have done for years. Collecting the Safaris and ALstars, I discovered some design differences in the European, US and Asian sleeves, so I kept one of each version over the years and recycled the rest. The sleeves also bear a barely visible brand name, Gmund, a quality paper producer also in Germany with gorgeous notebooks and pads. (NB: I lost wifi at 0:01 and giggled at what I saw: Drew jumps up with a hazy facial expression as Brian looks down instead of up.)
I’m going to propose an alternate perspective to the idea of elaborate packaging. Every little bit of fanciness sends a signal to my brain that I paid for that. Every bit of additional expense that is not on the item I purchased, e.g. fancy boxes, makes me regret my purchase. It makes me feel that some of my money was wasted. Of course, don’t send me a $500 pen in a plastic baggie swathed in bubble wrap. I am perfectly fine with the box Conklin pens come in. Don’t send me a big box because I won’t use it. On a different note, I think the Amalfi pen looks cool. I totally get the beach vibe. I can imagine the Amalfi coast near sunset: the dark blue of the sea in the distance, the light blue and white of the waves on the beach, a thin band of red of the impending sunset in the horizon, and some olive driftwood on the beach. Then again, it also reminds me of the Frankenstein pen Brian used when he trained on grinding nibs.
Brian - you can get large outdoor targets from Morrel targets online (they have wonderful products) for less than $600. Also, standing further back from your target will help with your arrows not reaching the backside of the target. Love the Schon options and would definitely go for the full size blue pen, should you decide to carry it. 😁 Great pencast as always. Thank you for all you do!
I've never related to a passionate, excitable introvert more in my life. I'm like, this is awesome, but after 5 hours, I'm internally exhausted. The Raleigh, NC Triangle Pen Show was a fantastic first pen show for me this year!
My favorite kind of pen packaging is the stuff that looks nice but you also end up keeping + using. Hongdian sends a useful little tin tube you can save and use to store cartridges or little pen-related things in, or Pelikan (I think) put them out in quality pen sleeves so you can keep the sleeve after. That's kind of the perfect balance of recycling/presentation imo. I think the Goulet stickers are a really good touch like that. They're always fun to get.
Re: Packaging discussion - I throw away all packaging. I don’t have a big space, I can’t afford to hold onto pretty trash even if I wanted to. I also think it’s wasteful to the environment and a flex of luxury to have intense packaging, as fun as it may look. I am a sucker for a theme as well, but if a theme relies on the trash element (literally the part of the purchase that is not meant to be used) being heavily decorated, I view it as a less impressive release. I don’t know if it is true in manufacturing, but it is my belief that it’s cheaper to theme a box than it is to theme the product, and I get indignant that someone is trying to sell me a box // edit: safety packaging is different to pure aesthetics packaging as an added note!😘
The nib on that Elite is a nice nib, same as on my Elite S from the 1970s. The script nib was developed for comfort in long writing sessions, based on another nib that was aimed at stenographers. Source for that is a post on Fountain Pen Network titled "Comparison of Pilot Elite nibs". All I know is that it is my favourite nib on my favourite pen. That article also has some pictures of various nibs available on the Elite.
On the packaging thing, the TWSBI Eco comes with a case, but the case includes some great beginner cleaning things, which I appreciated since it was my second pen, but I've never used the actual box! Also, I've gotten to go to an in-person pen store on a trip and I loved it!! I'm guessing its like a mini permanent pen show lol
Drew’s Sheaffer is the Ebonite & Pearl. It looks to be a 1930s vintage. I have three of these. The PFM is a much beefier pen with one color resin with a squared off cap end and bulbous cap. It’s slight but it’s there. The ebonite & pearl is a wonderful writing instrument and an amazing gift! Hope Drew enjoys and appreciates what he has.
All I want from a pen box is for it to protect the pen (no expensive pens for me...yet). My most special pen lives in a TWSBI Eco box to keep it safe. The pen in question is a vintage Sheaffer Balance the belonged to my grandmother.
Brian, I think you were thinking of Star Trek and not Star Wars regarding breaks in continuity. I'm pretty sure the Kelvin timeline is the reference you were looking for. Drew, your pen is a Sheaffer Lifetime Balance in the Ebonized Pearl color. The white dot originally signified their "Lifetime" line that was higher quality, though eventually, they later started putting it on other things. The ebonized pearl is one of the most sought after colors of it. Clearly, I'm not a nerd in any way. 🙂 Speaking of which, yay for the Fighter rollerball!! I hope you continue with the series --- I'd especially love to see a rogue and a wizard. I'm a huge fan of Schon and of copper pens. I do really prefer full length pens, for the most part. The blue is beautiful, and I'd love to see you carry more of his pens. I also think the faceted pens are amazing, but unfortunately usually outside of my price range, especially for steel nibs. I get that they're worth it because of the extra craftsmanship and more expensive metals, though. I'm another person who likes seeing what you both have inked up and with what, even if it hasn't changed. I also like the company updates, too. I love hearing what you have going on around the office. It's fun, and it gives a behind the scenes look, as well as a sense of transparency. Actually, Drew, it's a lot like what you said about Archer's camp's inflatable waterslides. I do buy from other pen companies, too (mostly to buy items you don't carry and to get a cheaper threshold for free shipping) , though still overwhelmingly from Goulet Pens. And when I hear about your company mental health half days or paid volunteer time or eco friendly packaging or team building activities, I definitely have that, "Yes! THIS is what I'm paying for!" feeling. It gives me hope that there are at least a few businesses out there with those running them determined to do so honorably and thoughtfully. I know that's not easy to pull off successfully, and y'all do it with a considerable amount of gracefulness and good cheer.
I love Ian’s pens. I really love the pocket 6 but the full size is great. I think it would really boost his presence with you carrying these models. I cannot use copper because it makes my skin turn green. He has a rainbow faceted model that is also neat.
I actually picked up the blue whale Opus 88 at the DC Pen show before I knew you guys were going to carry it. Kelly was so nice! She showed me how to use it (first Opus here and yes it's everything people say it is) and was telling me about the design. The tail on the grip section just makes me happy. As far as ink goes - it is currently inked up with Colorverse Iris Nebula glistening - a grey that matches the whale's belly and the silver water accents! So yes Drew, you can have something other than blue in there 🤭 P.s. I ordered 4 more samples of that bc it's on clearance and I love it so much in this pen. Great show as always! Thanks for making our Friday better! Hope you had a great weekend.
I think deep down drew hates the amalfi because it radiates summer beach vibes. If you created a chaotic pastiche of fall/ christmas colors onto one pen itd become his ride or die.
Well, you're welcome for taking one of those medium Lamy nibs off your hands. I greatly enjoy it on my Charcoal Safari inked up atm with Robert Oster Citrus.
On the metal and resin comment. It is very true on how the experience as a whole shifts. I have a Bronze Age and a London Fog. I've unscrewed the nib and feed unit and swapped between. The weight and texture of the Bronze Age keeps bringing me back to it. Despite me loving the London Fog more for aesthetics and ink capacity. But weight and warmth and texture definitely play a part in the whole experience.
I definitely don't need to know what other videos y'all have put out, but it is cute to know what is going on around the office. also like to know that there will or won't be a pencast in the next week.
Welcome to the archery, Brian! One more in the overlapping circles of nibs and arrows. I'm still trying to find the connecting point of the two, except that we love to use outdated tools just because they are more pleasurable. Let me return a bit of favour... There are safe nets for archery. They look like flimsy nylon, but they are hanging freely so they don't get punctured much if at all. We also use old office carpets as a catcher. You can use it in the target as well, just avoid them as the front layer, sandwich them somewhere inside the target or at the back. That strength of the bow that you're referring to (62 in your case) is called draw weight. 45 pounds recurve is around what female olympians shoot. That's not to play with.
I love the packaging on most pens (and inks) and keep my pens in their orginal packaging. To Drew's point, I paid over $700 for a Pelikan and it came in a crappy little plastic sleeve - trying to look like leather - which sat in a cheap little carboard box. Was pretty shocked. No matter how much I like the pen, I never use it because the packaging sucks so badly and it depresses me every time i see it.
Hi!! I would like to see a remake of the video "Write Now - Ep.100: What the GPC Team is Writing With!". Where each team member said what pen and ink they were writing with and I enjoyed seeing the thank you cards written by each one. I liked seeing the team members talking about the different products you had in the Write Now videos. They always had a story and we got to know the GPC team better. I also enjoy seeing your fountain pen collections. I really like all your videos. Keep up the good work. Thanks!
You are a successful small business! Yes, we are interested in your company! At least I am. I work for a giant company … and I am going to pitch the Mental Half Day to leadership. Currently (since COVID) we are given 2 Wellness Days annually as a type of personal day for mental health. But I love your model so much better because I can’t take a “personal” day when everyone else is working and I just fall behind. Kudos to you.
I have the metal falcon, from Goulet of course, in black (the BEST COLOR, Brian!!! 38:55) it is a fine instrument. I’d be ok if it’s the only pen I ever used.
Drew! I've got the perfect video for stilts: the Kaweco Supra! For the short version- regular Drew, for the long version- stilts Drew!! 😎 You're welcome!
Amendment to Drew's idea about the object in the ink: lots of converters have a metal coil or a sphere of some material inside, right? How about replacing that with a mermaid or a shark to break up surface tension? BTW, I have a Baby Beluga Opus 88, all the decorations are blues and white. It doesn't show off as well if the ink is blue, but I have green in it now, and it's a bunch of fun. Writes well, too. Keep up the fun reviews, gentlemen, and thank you both.
Oil filter wrench for p-trap removal, it’s what I use all the time at work. Be prepared for the trap to be full of stinky sink water when removing. Good luck! 1:34
i love the Delta Amalfi and will have to check it out. As for pen boxes, I only keep the special ones that are wood or leather. There is a market for used boxes when others want to re-sell a pen without a box.
I love keeping my boxes---------and I store my 12 pen collection in each of their original boxes (when not being used--I rotate my pens, so all get used from time to time) from Visconti to Pilot Custom Urushi to a Lamy 2000. The nicer the pen box, the better........
I have purchased 2 of the Schon Pocket 6's that Goulet has sold. I also bought a full sized Schon with a monoc nib. I love Schon pens! I'd buy the brass pocket 6 with those facets. The ultem? hmmm. I like the idea of that unique material, but I would not buy one.
Hi Brian and Drew! My mom recently gifted me most of her fountain pen collection, with the request for me to clean and RETURN her Sheaffer Legacy and Waterman Edson Sapphire. She was very adamant about the “return” part…Thank you guys for making the Beginner videos so I could get them nice and clean! It got me to clean and ink up my own fountain pens too. With the other pens, I'm finding it difficult to research what they exactly are. Pen manufacturers aren't very forthcoming about their past pens. I noticed you both got some vintage pens while at the DC show and was wondering: What resources do you all use to look up “vintage” pens?
I enjoy the Compnay updates. Please continue! Brian asked, "How important is that really?" For real? How important really is hammer collecting, or cereal eating, or corned beef hash and coffee and videos games while sitting in the LoveSac? If we didn't think it was important we wouldn't sit through 2 1/2 hours listening to y'all! 🤣
Drew, that Amalfi is beautiful! I would LOVE to own one. 💙
Maybe it's the chronic but that was beautifully articulated
Totally agree with this, I also love hearing when there are system changes or sustainability wins. I think for anyone who has worked at a small business will appreciate and understand how much effort goes into to making things just a little better for the employees, the customers and the planet.
Well said, Kathy! We'll keep it! - Drew
I would find it interesting for company updates to include new staff members, it would let us understand the different people/roles who combine to make it all run. That might be more delicate because sometimes new people decide the job isn't for them, but after a few weeks it might be safer?
20 minute mark: rip video. apparently having that delta next to beautiful make-e broke the universe
We were taught at school to use a bevelled ruler upside down to stop ink creeping under it.
I have metal rulers with a cork backing that raise the part of the nib in contact with the ruler.
The silver metal rulers with the thin cork backing are terrific, even if you’re not using fountain pens because they’re straight, reliable, and have clear markings. In addition you can find wooden rulers with a raised metal strip on the edge or plastic rulers with a rounded metal edge. I used these decades ago in graphic design work when we had to use those horrid Rapidograph pens (put out lines of a consistent width but were always clogging!).
I use foam tape (like the insulation type) and stick it under my metal rulers to raise it so that the ink doesn't creep. :)
Drew gave a very insightful and accurate description of the packaging dilemma. I have been retired from the advertising world for years now and I've seen all kinds of packaging designs. I have suggested for many years that the "Elaborate" packaging should be optional. Yes, go ahead and design attractive packaging. Show it in advertising and online, etc. Then when ordering the pen make it optional with your order and add a fee for it. If it's a gift for someone, it's available, otherwise a plain package for shipping is all that's required. This is NOT difficult.
I saw an old Pilot Grance for sale today...in a massive box with a sliding tray under the pen cushion. That would have put me off tbh.
Optional fancy packaging is a really good idea.
drew, i find it hysterical that you are so wigged out by the Delta Amalfi pen colors, when your shirts are so bold and colorful. So funny, and that face you make is the topping on the cake.
Brian, I own two tweed suits, smoke several pipes, and own three ink blotters. You’re welcome to use them all.
Classy! - Drew
I keep pen boxes if they're solid and reusable. TWSBI box is a great example...after recycling the paper cover, I use it for keeping nibs, converters, and other pen tools, along with TWSBI cool wrench thingy. A different pen coffin stores cartridges. Noodler's came in a flimsier cardboard i was happy to recycle.
Hey! Selling fountain pens and showing us all how best to take care of them keeps this community happy, excited, chill; all a great contribution to society. 😊 Thank you!
2 hours and a half of pencast : that's the PERFECT treat to have on a Friday afternoon during the holidays. I'm posting this comment even before watching you guys. I'm from the South of France, and I really love what you do. Okay... laid back comfortably ? Check ! Drink ? Check ! Smile on my face ? Cheeeeeck ! Let's get it goin' and click on play!
the best! I've cleaned and reinked my pens for the coming week. I've done some marketing work all while listening to the pencast. Love it. Best part of my Sunday
On packaging: My career was in sales and marketing. I just want to say - Goulet Pens does an impressive job across the board.
A tweed jacket, blue silk ascot ... and cargo shorts!! Don't forget the glass of Welch's.
Hi guys, jut to warn you of media missint at 24:50.
I LOVE my brown metal falcon, soft medium! It was my 2nd Pilot ever about 1month into the official start of my obsession about 4yrs ago ❤ & major reason why Pilot is my biggest brand expenditure. It has always been in my top 3, no more how big my collection gets 😊
I think you guys need to check the focus of the camera again, both of you are not in focus but man the neon sign is sharp as can be 😂
ditto
I'm so upset that I read this comment because now I can't unsee it. I usually watch on my phone so I never would have noticed but it *hurts* my eyes now.
Seriously guys, get a monitor so you can check what it's doing if you are gong to keep it in autofocus mode.
@@microwrx I am just asking, but could they have caught this when editing the video and corrected it ???
Easily fixable! Manual focus on the subject. Turn auto-focus OFF! Done.
Well said about pen packaging, Drew! Similar to jewelry or luxury fashion, part of the experience is the presentation. I’d be bummed if I spent money on the likes of Namiki or Montegrappa only to have it show up in a cardboard box. Brands want to communicate their heritage and style through packaging. Consumers get excited when they see that beautiful wooden box or that Visconti pen pillow or the kimono pen roll some come with. It wouldn’t be the same without it.
I want a blue Schon, that’s gorgeous! With or without the facets, full size or pocket they’re lovely!
4:08 - Drew: I WANT TO BE IMPOSING!
Said the man, in that shirt... 😂
Don't worry, you have Aerospace Engineers in your audience.
Some of us can explain what Ultem PEI is and some of us even use our fountain pens with straight edges. (I prefer to turn mine sideways so it contacts the side of the tipping material rather than the end.) There are pens specifically made for that in the dip pen era called a ruling pen. It features a knob so you can dynamically change your line width while drafting.
Ah the days of india ink on linen... Ex nuclear plant engineer.
I have a couple of ruling pens. Although my draftsmanship was always ropy, I still like the paraphernalia of a drawing office. It's kind of imbued with engineering history. When I draw a ruled line, I have to turn my nib sideways to the rule, or I don't get the line.
I'm one of those antiques that much prefer to shop in person so anything you do to make your internet only store seem like a brick-and-mortar store is nice; therefore I'm all in favor of keeping the company updates. Even though what's going on in the company may not impact us directly, it really shows the heart of the company. Those mental health days, improvements to the warehousing environment, or even various mechanical or building issues that you deal with, may bore some, but it speaks to how you invest in the most valuable part of any company - the people. Keep 'em.
Packaging -- I like nice packaging. It adds to the experience of opening and admiring that purchase. The Lamy Safari box is, ahem, disappointing. They could at least do what Ferris Wheel Press does with their most inexpensive pens. Cardboard box, but really nicely decorated. If I spend upwards of a couple hundred dollars, I want to have something a bit more than a Safari-style box.
Schoen pens - loved them all and the faceted ones, yum. Very different than the run-of-the-mill pens.
Drew, as a mum of 4, this concern about their writing is very familiar. I had a notebook for each child and we would write notes to each other. It doesn't really matter how much they write, as long as they write. I make sure I ask questions so they have to reply. I try to keep it funny, like asking them to draw something or tell me a dad joke. Enjoy the rest of your summer break!
Handy tip for Baking Soda (aka Soda Bicarbonate) is if you are suffering from indigestion and don’t have Tums handy you can dissolve a little in water and drink it and it will help relieve the discomfort. Doesn’t taste the best, but really does the trick.
When I was in Lisbon, I wanted a pen purchased there. I actually bought a Faber Castel that, while not ugly, was not really my style because it was in a cool turquoise aluminum box. I’m a sucker for packaging, especially tins. On the other hand, I like Franklin-Christoph’s usable packaging, a little leather or fabric pen pouch. I also love the Retro 1951 tubes. They make a fun display.
I totally dig the company updates, especially the every-day shenanigans at Goulet. Keep it up!
Agree. And it's comp-nay.😊 lol.
It’s Pencast Friday! Best day of the week! I have an idea for an AMSR video. Fountain pens with the most satisfying capping click.
***jumps up and down, waving enthusiastically***
I'll take ALL the chocolate Tootsie Pops!!! They were my favorite when I was growing up!!!
I wish there was a "donate my tootsie pop to someone else" option upon check out. I'm happy to pass them along!
I was so happy for Brian when I saw the Amalfi pen coming back! Haha. I love it. I can't afford it, but it reminds me of a coastline with some bright buildings along the shore. Glad it happened!
I love it too. I grew up in Naples. It really captures the gradations of colors of the sea there.
@@upsadaisy16it is a beautiful pen!
Love the Company Updates. As a manager, and now as someone who works in employee experience and engagement solutions, I get fired up hearing the things you do to support your team and gleaning insights on the unique and vibrant culture you have fostered. Y'all are dope! Completely unrelated, but the Amalfi is a stunning pen, and I wish I grokked Drew's distaste.
We love all your updates! Since we can't visit your shop in person, which would definitely involve small talk, we can feel like we are able to hear what's going on with you guys. 💖 I definitely relate to the kids growing so fast and it's going to be over in a blink of the eye. 😢 I'm soaking up every day I have left with them here at home. 💖
I am the retired NASA Aerospace Engineer turned watercolor artist y'all met at the pen show. It was such a pleasure meeting you and your team! Thanks for the shout out in the Pencast! And I appreciate the new segment - what pen are you using? Keep up the good work!
Hi, Debbie! - Drew
I'm not fond of chocolate Tootsie roll pops, but my order came with "Mango", which I've never had before. Was different, and I was not disappointed. All the ink in the box was pretty cool, too.
I think Brian said that Mango was his current favorite.
Too late! DC was the first fountain pen show my wife and I attended, and yes it was overwhelming, but oh so much fun. I bought a Franklin-Christoph Model 31 and met Audrey, talked to Ian Schon and Pierre Miller about their work, and got to see the Pencast! Though Sunday was the only day we were there, it was a blast. Thanks for all your work, guys!
I don't mind fancy boxes if I'm buying a fancy pen, but I don't like large boxes.
I keep the majority of my boxes. Just in case I sell or gift a pen, I like to have the original box to go with it. Large boxes take up too much room and are more difficult to store.
My favorite pen boxes are the ones from BENU. They are fairly sturdy and only slightly larger than the pens they hold.
Pen makers: Continue to make fancy boxes, if you desire, but please consider box storage after we take the new precious out of its packaging.
If I have done my calculator's math right, ten pounds equals the weight of 105.4865976766412 Pilot custom urushi vermilion pens (43.0 g equals 1.5167803638 oz per pen, or 10.54865976766412 pens to the pound). That being said, Brian's weight loss is priceless, and I am so glad you are doing it now. After decades of yo-yoing, I finally lost 50+ lbs slowly and sustainably and have kept it off for almost 11 years so far. Healthy weight and habits not only are invaluable to me as a long-term caregiver, but they were crucial for getting me through chemo a decade ago (caregiving does not stop for cancer). Keep up the fabulous work/play!
I looooove the Delta Amalfi! gorgeous!
Many people love the Delta Amalfi. I, on the other hand, think that it looks like a Franken-Pen ( Made from Orphan Parts.)
Regarding the packaging for pens, I would appreciate a pen-only option for these fancier sets. I'm usually not interested in the box after receiving it and opening it for the first time.
Love the company updates! It makes me think I'm part of Goulet Pens even though I don't think I'll ever be an employee because y'all are in-person only... can't stop me from dreaming though!
That Delta Amalfi pen is STUNNING! Just like a beach.
Great job explaining and educating us about practical procedures that most of us don’t have a clue about😮.
See’s chocolate little pops are incredible! My favorite hard candy.
I've had a walk in pen store (unfortunately no longer with us) do a nib swap on a Pelikan 800 for me. As I stood there, the sales person took the medium nib off the 805 and put a broad nib from a different 800 on it.
1:48:30 Drew it’s a Sheaffer Balance Lifetime in Ebonized Pearl.
That was my first thought on what it was. I love the Balance I have.
Baking Soda is the bomb, look it up, so many uses. You can brush your teeth with it, put a teaspoon or less in water and gargle with it, same thing with peroxide (this will kill sore throat infection in a heartbeat the taste is terrible, but works.
I used to get mouth ulcers or cold sores all the time and they would hang on for weeks. Miserable..! Then one day, in a moment of frustration, I tried Colgate's Toothpaste with Baking Soda & Peroxide. That stuff is great. I rarely get those infections any more and if I do the lesions go away overnight before they grow into craters. Now I mix any mouthwash with 50% of the 2% Peroxide as well. Been using it for decades now. Miracle cure.
@@philnaunton7181 old home remedies work. Been using them all my life.
Ryan Krusac is one of the nicest, most creative pen makers out there. He’s on my list of makers to buy from next show . The mermaid pens are my favorite of the bunch. Pen show folks are so nice!
He's great! - Drew
Drew! Ship in a bottle! Except it's a ship in a pen! Love it!
OMG!!! I've been drawing lines with metal straight edges with whatever fountain pen I had in my hand (both cheap and grail). I have will stop doing that immediately and use an index card instead. I'll look into replacing my metal straight edges with wood (not plastic). Thanks for the information. I hope I haven't done too much damage to my pens already.
Chocolate Tootsie Roll pops have always been my favorite!
Love the vintage Pilots - the shorts were Pilot's response to Sailor making the first pocket pens (1963ish) and were made around 1965-68 (the Pilot Elite came in 1968); while the Capless Short CS-100RW were made around 1965. If you do want to ink up an early vintage Capless then you'll need to locate a "double spare" cartridge or try a Sailor cartridge in them because modern Pilot cartridges don't fit.
Thanks guys
Just 5 weeks into my pen journey and have watched 40 or 50 of your vids and learned so much, bought the basics Lamy , Pilot explorer, Kaweco sport , Parker vector
Just got a Diplomat Aero and planning some grail pens from Leonardo ( opera master. & MZG) Visconti Homo Sapien. Etc. I’m loving this
Brian The Pen Man Goulet & Drew Boy Wonder Brown
Holy pen craft …… ink freaks 😢
Y
Just another great video, thanks! Also your pen hauls
I enjoy your podcast / videos the way they are! I found you guys a week or so ago and have been binge watching lol. I even ordered my first fountain pen (Lamy all star) from you and am awaiting it to be delivered.
Thank you for all the information and entertainment
Cheers, beers and whiskey 🤠
Thanks for the kind words! Glad you found us! - Drew
I'm a compound bow shooter getting into fountain pens, its awesome to hear someone getting into archery.
I love my Burgundy Metal Falcon! It's very sleek and elegant. I never post my pens.
I'm with Drew re boxes, had a recent cull of most of my more boring pen boxes. What I do love is the little cases especially Sailor-style "pen kimonos", and Benu's flower pen rests.
Boxes can feel luxurious without being enormous. The material and design are crucial.
Taccia is certainly bold and innovative with those Empress Adobe Deathscreen Editions.
Drew’s Sheaffer is the Ebonized black and Pearl Balance. It looks to be a 1930s vintage. I have three of these. The PFM is a much beefier pen with a single color resin (no bits of mother of pearl or anything) with a squared off cap end and bulbous cap. It’s slight but it’s there. The ebonized black and pearl is a wonderful writing instrument and an amazing gift! Hope Drew enjoys and appreciates what he has.
Re company updates: I like knowing about anything that may impact shipping. I’ll plan my purchases a little early or later to account. Personally, I like the segment. My 2 cents. Thanks for all you do!
Packaging can look nice and be robust enough and still be more environmentally friendly. For the more expensive pens, if the pen with minimal packaging and the fancy presentation packaging were listed as separate items, you'd only have to stock like one of the fancy packaging at most since most customers would choose the savings. Customers wouldn't get a bad impression because their expectations would have been set at the time of purchase. And soon, the fancy packaging could be discontinued as sales wouldn't justify it. I realize this approach would be up to the manufacturers. Goulet shouldn't try to do that on your own. But I think there's a lot of room for manufacturers to improve the situation rather than justifying ridiculous packaging. And just look at the change that happened in CD packaging to see that change can practically happen.
I love the company updates. Breaks up the pace of things and also makes the pencast longer 😂 love it!
Drew - Can you also show the custom 74 you got from the pen show and let us know how you have found it since it was your first one? 😊
The Schon Dsgn full sized with ultem feed and stub nibs - fantastic pens!
Thanks for always being a welcome start to my weekend! I suggest adding interest to company updates by relating shareable personal stories or funny stories from employees (with their permission, of course), happenings with neighboring businesses, company anniversaries or employee milestones. It honestly makes very little difference to me if you are closed for an occasional day or half-day, because your website is always open. :) Two unrelated Q&A questions for you with deep dive warnings! #1 Why do sheening inks only sheen in certain colors? Blue always sheens red or deep pink, black always sheens gold or greenish, etc. #2 Please set us straight on urushi pens: are they durable or not? I feel like I have heard it both ways: the pens are extremely durable, but don't post them or treat them carelessly or you risk damage. Thanks!
@michellecanfield8013 - I "second" your suggestions for the comp-nay updates - those would be great additions!
The Schon Dsgn pocket pens are very nice. I tried several different ones, and I recommend the ULTEM and the COPPER faceted. Brass is a common material, and it makes my hand stink. Copper on the other hand still has the beautiful patina with use, and is anti-microbial also.
Agreed on the boxes! I keep them all for posterity, and in case I sell something, but I've got 2 drawers full of empty boxes... Unless the pen cost a grand, I'd rather they focus on putting that money into the pens. Even then, unless it's something weighty and spectacular enough to keep out on the desk... it will still go to the 'box purgatory'.
I use a piece of cardboard rather than a ruler when drawing a straight line. The back of a Rhodia pad works well!
If the grip matched the cap, the Delta Amalfi would be a lovely pen. The two blues are just a bit too much for me, even though blue is my favorite color.
Love how Brian is always researching on the computer during the Pencast.
See’s Chocolate Lollypops are great!!!
Thank you for sharing your delightful hauls from DC Pen Show, Brian & Drew. Hope you consider carrying more Schon DSGN pens. I picked up the ultem with a Monoc nib & a Goulet exclusive (at the time), the Dark Matter pocket pen - j’adore
I asked my local office shop today and they always receive the Lamy cardboard sleeves packaged flat with the pens in trays to save space and have done for years. Collecting the Safaris and ALstars, I discovered some design differences in the European, US and Asian sleeves, so I kept one of each version over the years and recycled the rest. The sleeves also bear a barely visible brand name, Gmund, a quality paper producer also in Germany with gorgeous notebooks and pads. (NB: I lost wifi at 0:01 and giggled at what I saw: Drew jumps up with a hazy facial expression as Brian looks down instead of up.)
I’m going to propose an alternate perspective to the idea of elaborate packaging. Every little bit of fanciness sends a signal to my brain that I paid for that. Every bit of additional expense that is not on the item I purchased, e.g. fancy boxes, makes me regret my purchase. It makes me feel that some of my money was wasted. Of course, don’t send me a $500 pen in a plastic baggie swathed in bubble wrap. I am perfectly fine with the box Conklin pens come in. Don’t send me a big box because I won’t use it.
On a different note, I think the Amalfi pen looks cool. I totally get the beach vibe. I can imagine the Amalfi coast near sunset: the dark blue of the sea in the distance, the light blue and white of the waves on the beach, a thin band of red of the impending sunset in the horizon, and some olive driftwood on the beach. Then again, it also reminds me of the Frankenstein pen Brian used when he trained on grinding nibs.
Brian - you can get large outdoor targets from Morrel targets online (they have wonderful products) for less than $600. Also, standing further back from your target will help with your arrows not reaching the backside of the target.
Love the Schon options and would definitely go for the full size blue pen, should you decide to carry it. 😁
Great pencast as always. Thank you for all you do!
I second the suggestion for a commercial target - you definitely can get a large outdoor target for a lot less than $600.
The cereal discussion - what a bunny trail for a pen video. That's not a complaint, just an observation. I enjoy your videos!
I've never related to a passionate, excitable introvert more in my life. I'm like, this is awesome, but after 5 hours, I'm internally exhausted. The Raleigh, NC Triangle Pen Show was a fantastic first pen show for me this year!
My favorite kind of pen packaging is the stuff that looks nice but you also end up keeping + using. Hongdian sends a useful little tin tube you can save and use to store cartridges or little pen-related things in, or Pelikan (I think) put them out in quality pen sleeves so you can keep the sleeve after. That's kind of the perfect balance of recycling/presentation imo.
I think the Goulet stickers are a really good touch like that. They're always fun to get.
Re: Packaging discussion - I throw away all packaging. I don’t have a big space, I can’t afford to hold onto pretty trash even if I wanted to. I also think it’s wasteful to the environment and a flex of luxury to have intense packaging, as fun as it may look. I am a sucker for a theme as well, but if a theme relies on the trash element (literally the part of the purchase that is not meant to be used) being heavily decorated, I view it as a less impressive release. I don’t know if it is true in manufacturing, but it is my belief that it’s cheaper to theme a box than it is to theme the product, and I get indignant that someone is trying to sell me a box // edit: safety packaging is different to pure aesthetics packaging as an added note!😘
The nib on that Elite is a nice nib, same as on my Elite S from the 1970s. The script nib was developed for comfort in long writing sessions, based on another nib that was aimed at stenographers. Source for that is a post on Fountain Pen Network titled "Comparison of Pilot Elite nibs". All I know is that it is my favourite nib on my favourite pen. That article also has some pictures of various nibs available on the Elite.
On the packaging thing, the TWSBI Eco comes with a case, but the case includes some great beginner cleaning things, which I appreciated since it was my second pen, but I've never used the actual box! Also, I've gotten to go to an in-person pen store on a trip and I loved it!! I'm guessing its like a mini permanent pen show lol
I’m like Drew: Introvert, get drained by crowds, but am happy when I’m in my element.
I knew I wasn't alone! - Drew
@@GouletpensNope! Definitely not, dear! Hehe. 😄
Drew’s Sheaffer is the Ebonite & Pearl. It looks to be a 1930s vintage. I have three of these. The PFM is a much beefier pen with one color resin with a squared off cap end and bulbous cap. It’s slight but it’s there. The ebonite & pearl is a wonderful writing instrument and an amazing gift! Hope Drew enjoys and appreciates what he has.
Thank you! - Drew
All I want from a pen box is for it to protect the pen (no expensive pens for me...yet). My most special pen lives in a TWSBI Eco box to keep it safe. The pen in question is a vintage Sheaffer Balance the belonged to my grandmother.
Brian, I think you were thinking of Star Trek and not Star Wars regarding breaks in continuity. I'm pretty sure the Kelvin timeline is the reference you were looking for. Drew, your pen is a Sheaffer Lifetime Balance in the Ebonized Pearl color. The white dot originally signified their "Lifetime" line that was higher quality, though eventually, they later started putting it on other things. The ebonized pearl is one of the most sought after colors of it. Clearly, I'm not a nerd in any way. 🙂
Speaking of which, yay for the Fighter rollerball!! I hope you continue with the series --- I'd especially love to see a rogue and a wizard.
I'm a huge fan of Schon and of copper pens. I do really prefer full length pens, for the most part. The blue is beautiful, and I'd love to see you carry more of his pens. I also think the faceted pens are amazing, but unfortunately usually outside of my price range, especially for steel nibs. I get that they're worth it because of the extra craftsmanship and more expensive metals, though.
I'm another person who likes seeing what you both have inked up and with what, even if it hasn't changed. I also like the company updates, too. I love hearing what you have going on around the office. It's fun, and it gives a behind the scenes look, as well as a sense of transparency. Actually, Drew, it's a lot like what you said about Archer's camp's inflatable waterslides. I do buy from other pen companies, too (mostly to buy items you don't carry and to get a cheaper threshold for free shipping) , though still overwhelmingly from Goulet Pens. And when I hear about your company mental health half days or paid volunteer time or eco friendly packaging or team building activities, I definitely have that, "Yes! THIS is what I'm paying for!" feeling. It gives me hope that there are at least a few businesses out there with those running them determined to do so honorably and thoughtfully. I know that's not easy to pull off successfully, and y'all do it with a considerable amount of gracefulness and good cheer.
I love Ian’s pens. I really love the pocket 6 but the full size is great. I think it would really boost his presence with you carrying these models. I cannot use copper because it makes my skin turn green. He has a rainbow faceted model that is also neat.
I actually picked up the blue whale Opus 88 at the DC Pen show before I knew you guys were going to carry it. Kelly was so nice! She showed me how to use it (first Opus here and yes it's everything people say it is) and was telling me about the design. The tail on the grip section just makes me happy. As far as ink goes - it is currently inked up with Colorverse Iris Nebula glistening - a grey that matches the whale's belly and the silver water accents! So yes Drew, you can have something other than blue in there 🤭
P.s. I ordered 4 more samples of that bc it's on clearance and I love it so much in this pen.
Great show as always! Thanks for making our Friday better! Hope you had a great weekend.
I think deep down drew hates the amalfi because it radiates summer beach vibes. If you created a chaotic pastiche of fall/ christmas colors onto one pen itd become his ride or die.
Yep swap the colors from blues and reds to a green/brown/orange colorway and he’d be into it 😂
@@justusspace would it be uncouth to use a Christmas tree wood for the body?
@@MD-jx2zw I think it’s just on theme enough!
Oh my gosh, I think you've hit the nail on the head!!! It totally would!
You're probably on to something there. - Drew
Well, you're welcome for taking one of those medium Lamy nibs off your hands. I greatly enjoy it on my Charcoal Safari inked up atm with Robert Oster Citrus.
On the metal and resin comment. It is very true on how the experience as a whole shifts. I have a Bronze Age and a London Fog. I've unscrewed the nib and feed unit and swapped between. The weight and texture of the Bronze Age keeps bringing me back to it. Despite me loving the London Fog more for aesthetics and ink capacity. But weight and warmth and texture definitely play a part in the whole experience.
I definitely don't need to know what other videos y'all have put out, but it is cute to know what is going on around the office. also like to know that there will or won't be a pencast in the next week.
Welcome to the archery, Brian! One more in the overlapping circles of nibs and arrows. I'm still trying to find the connecting point of the two, except that we love to use outdated tools just because they are more pleasurable.
Let me return a bit of favour... There are safe nets for archery. They look like flimsy nylon, but they are hanging freely so they don't get punctured much if at all. We also use old office carpets as a catcher. You can use it in the target as well, just avoid them as the front layer, sandwich them somewhere inside the target or at the back.
That strength of the bow that you're referring to (62 in your case) is called draw weight.
45 pounds recurve is around what female olympians shoot. That's not to play with.
For me, regarding pen packaging, I would appreciate simply attractive, but definitely strong enough to protect during shipping.
I love the packaging on most pens (and inks) and keep my pens in their orginal packaging. To Drew's point, I paid over $700 for a Pelikan and it came in a crappy little plastic sleeve - trying to look like leather - which sat in a cheap little carboard box. Was pretty shocked. No matter how much I like the pen, I never use it because the packaging sucks so badly and it depresses me every time i see it.
Way to go Brian!
2:42 I was in the front rows and still watched twice 😂
Hi!!
I would like to see a remake of the video "Write Now - Ep.100: What the GPC Team is Writing With!". Where each team member said what pen and ink they were writing with and I enjoyed seeing the thank you cards written by each one.
I liked seeing the team members talking about the different products you had in the Write Now videos. They always had a story and we got to know the GPC team better.
I also enjoy seeing your fountain pen collections.
I really like all your videos. Keep up the good work.
Thanks!
You are a successful small business! Yes, we are interested in your company! At least I am. I work for a giant company … and I am going to pitch the Mental Half Day to leadership. Currently (since COVID) we are given 2 Wellness Days annually as a type of personal day for mental health. But I love your model so much better because I can’t take a “personal” day when everyone else is working and I just fall behind. Kudos to you.
I have the metal falcon, from Goulet of course, in black (the BEST COLOR, Brian!!! 38:55) it is a fine instrument. I’d be ok if it’s the only pen I ever used.
Drew! I've got the perfect video for stilts: the Kaweco Supra! For the short version- regular Drew, for the long version- stilts Drew!! 😎 You're welcome!
Amendment to Drew's idea about the object in the ink: lots of converters have a metal coil or a sphere of some material inside, right? How about replacing that with a mermaid or a shark to break up surface tension? BTW, I have a Baby Beluga Opus 88, all the decorations are blues and white. It doesn't show off as well if the ink is blue, but I have green in it now, and it's a bunch of fun. Writes well, too. Keep up the fun reviews, gentlemen, and thank you both.
Oil filter wrench for p-trap removal, it’s what I use all the time at work. Be prepared for the trap to be full of stinky sink water when removing. Good luck! 1:34
Drew: Legit business-expense stilt usage: Changing high-up lightbulbs.
i love the Delta Amalfi and will have to check it out. As for pen boxes, I only keep the special ones that are wood or leather. There is a market for used boxes when others want to re-sell a pen without a box.
I love keeping my boxes---------and I store my 12 pen collection in each of their original boxes (when not being used--I rotate my pens, so all get used from time to time) from Visconti to Pilot Custom Urushi to a Lamy 2000. The nicer the pen box, the better........
I have purchased 2 of the Schon Pocket 6's that Goulet has sold. I also bought a full sized Schon with a monoc nib. I love Schon pens! I'd buy the brass pocket 6 with those facets. The ultem? hmmm. I like the idea of that unique material, but I would not buy one.
Hi Brian and Drew!
My mom recently gifted me most of her fountain pen collection, with the request for me to clean and RETURN her Sheaffer Legacy and Waterman Edson Sapphire. She was very adamant about the “return” part…Thank you guys for making the Beginner videos so I could get them nice and clean! It got me to clean and ink up my own fountain pens too.
With the other pens, I'm finding it difficult to research what they exactly are. Pen manufacturers aren't very forthcoming about their past pens. I noticed you both got some vintage pens while at the DC show and was wondering: What resources do you all use to look up “vintage” pens?