How I Imagine My Fountain Pen Life in 2023

By Jennifer Houghton

As the year winds down, I spend some time reflecting on where I’ve been and where I’m headed in the New Year. In particular, I’ve been considering how I want to approach my fountain pen adventure in 2023. 

• Ink. I’ve been considering the vast quantities of ink that fills my home. And what I want to explore next year are less shimmers and more sheens. I have so much ink with particulates in it that I sometimes feel like I lack variety. I want to test out some new brands and develop an appreciation for the subtlety of sheen.
• Pens. I clearly have some favorite brands, but I love the smaller pen makers out there creating from a deep love of the craft. Something that I’ve noticed is that I’m a little less inclined to purchase multiple styles of pens in various colors. Now, I want to have something a little more original, a little bit different. I’d rather select a limited edition model and have a pen of small quantities that costs more. So, I imagine fewer pen purchases, but larger price points in the New Year.
• Paper. I know people have very specific preferences, but I want to go on a tour of the types of papers that are out there and decide for myself why I like what I like. I’ve been a little too go-with-the-flow on whatever is available this year. I want to become a paper snob and the only way I know to do that is to try all the options. 
• Storage. Having made several semi-spontaneous moves over the last several years, I realize I need to find a better way to store my pens, inks, and journals. I hope to have some ideas to share next year.

               How do you approach the New Year and new plans? Tell us about your 2023 fountain pen plans and let’s stay connected throughout the New Year on our collective progress.