Handwriting a Letter (using your fountain pen stuff!)

Why handwrite a letter? So you can use your fountain pens and related stuff! I cover the who, what, and how, and mess up some letters for you!
00:00 - Intro
00:24 - Types of Handwritten Letters
01:01 - Personal Letter Format
03:10 - Pen Pals!
06:50 - Short Letters
08:24 - Addresses
10:13 - Inky Stationery
12:15 - Letter to Jackie
14:58 - Wax Seals
16:32 - Letter to Chris
18:30 - Hina Matsuri

[@InkyRocks]

Pen pal resources: Post Crossing, Pen Pal World, #penpalswanted on Instagram, and FPN (Fountain Pen Network has a section on pen pals) Also, Jackie brought up "Month of Letters" site that you can sign up for pen pals. Website: lettermo.com Check out @Miraikat on Instagram to see some awesome snail mail! Check out Chris from the KZbin channel Chrisrap52--he does in-depth and interesting fountain pen reviews! For those of you that want to use other Japanese seasonal greetings, you can check out this website but you will need to use Google translate. Scroll down and click on the month and it will take you to the page for that month's sayings. www.letter110.net/zikounoaisatsu/ Karen, if you're reading this, don't judge hahaha! The Night Sky ink is made by Lennon Tool Bar (sorry about the mess up)

[@weronikastefanska6684]

Thanks for all the resources (and motivation!) to find penpals! :)

[@InkyRocks]

@@weronikastefanska6684 Hope you can find some good ones!

[@VideoKillsTheRadioX]

Hi, love this episode. I do have one question. You use a metal dip pen in the video. Where can you get these (in Europe)? Or is there a Japanese site where they can be ordered?

[@InkyRocks]

@@VideoKillsTheRadioX Thank you. The flex I used for the long quote is a BlueDew fountain pen. In the letter writing segment I also use a 100 year old dip pen and a pen fitted with Pen Realm's Secretary of de Flex steel flex nib. Both the Blue Dew and flex nib can be ordered and shipped to Europe.

[@VideoKillsTheRadioX]

@@InkyRocks Thanks for the reaction. I meant the pen you use at 13;02. The full metal - non flex - dip pen.

[@berryrohseberryrohse8392]

No artistic ability? Your videos are your art!

[@roxiesossa3210]

Totally!!!

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! Thank you for your always so kind words!

[@helenmcdonnell2585]

Yes, and she has lovely handwriting

[@gabyigl]

She has art all over¡!! And Alesa your handwriting is lovely

[@ViolettePoete]

"I have no talent" says the person that made beautiful letters with incredible penmanship. You're amazing !

[@InkyRocks]

Hahaha! Thank you! But there are a LOT of calligraphers that would disagree with you!

[@gadgetstop321]

No one in my family has any interest in fountain pens, but my youngest daughter recently got a glass nib dip pen and has developed an interest in ink. She's started watching your videos with me and we get a kick out of watching you play with ink. BTW, the ink blob turned out looking really cool.

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! Thanks! I was like, it's late and I messed up the whole letter-- but I agree, the blob looked pretty cool. That's neat that she is interested in ink. Glad that she finds my ink messes entertaining!

[@mmarjisr]

that's cool I got a pilot capless fountain pen and just ordered a glass nib pen just waiting for it to be delivered by the end of the year and just wanna know how is the glass nib pen working out for you guys

[@johnlopez3996]

Thank you for all of the wonderful ideas. A handwritten letter is a personal record of one's feelings and observations. It serves to protect and preserve the analog soul that no computer can ever duplicate.

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks so much! I doubt that any computer can make the mess I do and have as much fun doing it!

[@BielkaEstrella]

I have not enjoyed a video on this plaatform this much in years! You are very talented and artistic, and just taught me many tricks for the letters I'm planning to write. I am very grateful of having foung this gem! Thank you so much for sharing

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much for your very kind comment. I’m so glad you got something out of this vid!

[@chrisrap52]

WOW. Thank you. I can't wait to read & enjoy your work of art letter. Wax is the final touch. I enjoy sharing my ink on paper. Thank you for sharing yours. Stay safe & healthy. I get my first dose of the vaccine in a few days. I am thankful.

[@InkyRocks]

Hey Chris! The letter is VERY weird as I felt self conscious writing on camera and messing with the tripod etc. I'm really not as vague and unfocused as this letter implies hahaha! I was just trying to fill the page without spilling more ink or causing the auto focus to go crazy. That's awesome about the vaccine. We still haven't gotten notice when we can get it out here. Take care!

[@heatherf833]

Thank you so much for this video. I am going to steal your inky techniques for enhancing pages in my journal and ink journal, both of which are filled with Tomoe River. I have many of my mother's letters; she passed in 2000 and I keep one in my planner so I can look at her beautiful handwriting every day. She also numbered her pages at the top and for page 2 she would write "Love 2 You" which always made me smile.

[@InkyRocks]

That made me smile too! You are so lucky to have letters from her--you must treasure them as I'm sure you do. Thank you for adding another reason why letters can be so precious💕

[@wendyholiday2021]

Best video yet. Loved all of it photography, pens, ink, stamps, wax seals, rocks, cultural lessons, letterwritting format, stationary creation on and on.....a lot of prep and work for you. I appreciate all of it. Many tanks!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! I am kind of all over the place, but that keeps me happy hahaha! Glad you liked it!

[@wendyholiday2021]

@@InkyRocks not all over the place..an interesting educational video. I liked it alot.

[@deanfukawa3260]

Aloha Alesa, I love your self-deprecating comments, lol! Seriously, can't argue with the finished product; both beautiful and uniquely yours. Love your video quality too. Please keep up the excellent work; brings joy to my day!

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks so much Dean! I miss Hawaii. I need to make it back soon but Covid interfered with that a bit! I'm glad you got something out of this vid! Take care💕

[@yuklimka7251]

That was very relaxing and fun to watch. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! I can inspire ink messes!

[@twocorgis9758]

Great video as always Alesa! Relaxing and informative. I love the decorative ink splatters and washes you added to the letters! And yes you are artistic!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! I love ink splatters!

[@davecharvella4854]

Loved this! Informative, and fun, too!!

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks! I'm so glad you enjoyed it Dave!

[@octothorpe12]

This brings me such joy. Thank you!!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@stampinsan]

Loved this video! My favs are always when I just sit back, relax, smile when you mess up - just enjoy. I’ve never really written much as an adult, only “not enough” to family. I want to watch again to create my own stationery and then write to my friend Debbie who always appreciates my messes! Thanks so much, Alesa. I too hope Chrisrap52 enjoys your creative letter. 🥰

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! I hope he does too! This hobby needs to remain fun for me and getting upset about mistakes isn't fun. I figure if I get the letter out the door, I'm doing good! Thanks!

[@davidmcguigan5497]

That was fun! Enjoyed the paper decorating tips and mellow jazzy background noise.

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks! Nice change of pace.

[@wesdenham282]

One of your best videos. Magnificent letters!

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks so much! I like to call them "adventurous!"

[@davidanderson3425]

Hi Alesa, that was another one of your superb videos. Thank you so much for covering such an interesting subject in your own unique way.

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks so much David! I include "messy" and "crazy" in my way to write letters!

[@maxchavelev3107]

I love your channel! The meditative qualities of your voice and mesmerizing visuals are such a wonderful break from reality.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! I'm so glad you enjoy it!

[@dmullins311]

Thank you so much for a very interesting and inspiring video. I have not written any letters for years, but I always make my cards to give to people for birthdays, Christmas, etc. That is a great excuse to use my fountain pens with beautiful inks combined with some watercolour or just what ever I feel like. People really appreciate the personal touch. You are very artistic in your own way - your videos are works of art!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! Cards are an excellent way to use your fountain pens. You are so right that people really appreciate the personal touch--I think even more so now with so much computer stuff!

[@Luvsofine]

Haha. Thank you for this funny, lighthearted and informative video. It's especially nice to learn and laugh at the same time!

[@InkyRocks]

That’s awesome! I’m so glad you enjoyed it and maybe got something out of it!

[@peggylove1]

Thank you for all the fun ideas. Loved this video.

[@InkyRocks]

I'm glad you enjoyed it! Thanks so much!

[@jqbuy]

I discovered your channel when looking for the Manyo Haha ink reviews on internet, and instantly got hooked by your reviews of inks and fountain pens, which I find both informative and relaxing. But out of everything, I love, love, love the videos in which you share the tids and bits of your own daily life and stories. They're insightful and full of witty sparkles that lit up the mundane life. Thank you for having created these beautiful videos and shared with everyone. I really enjoy watching your videos and I quite like your voice over; everything in your video just goes together so nicely.

[@InkyRocks]

Wow! Thanks so much for your very kind comment. People like you keep me going even though some of these videos are a lot of work! 💞

[@jeannafoxall6519]

I enjoy your videos immensely and that you share different things about what is happening in Japan or about Japanese culture. I would look to hear all the Japanese 'intro lines' for every month.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! What a great idea! I think I’ll try it!

[@0927holly]

This was fun! Thank you so much. I am going to try those techniques for decorating plain paper.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! I'm a mess, and I not only enjoyed myself, but am happy with the results. So you are going to have fun!

[@stacys447]

Super fun! Thanks so much!

[@InkyRocks]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@GaryScott-pdx]

Great video. I’m going to try some of the ways you showed to make your paper more interesting.

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks Gary! I think you are already way up there on interesting letters. Your letter was a first for me that looked like that! I'll mail back soon!

[@fruitafresca]

Thank you so much for this video. I just loved it! Excellent.

[@InkyRocks]

Oh that's awesome! I always wonder when I sent these vids out into the void, wether or not people will connect with them!

[@roxiesossa3210]

Your videos are so fun! Really love the rose quartz behind the photos & the Labradorite! Not always but often, I like sending cards that depict the area I'm from or where I live. I live in Colorado so many of my cards picture the beautiful rocky mountains. I may try my hand at the ink edges technique. The Arctic Aurora technique is very cool! For addresses, 2" X 5" pre-cut tape sheets work great but I'm picking up some of that Micro Glaze today! Thank you for another fun & artistic (Yes, you are!) video!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! I'm sure people would love your cards-Colorado has some seriously stunning scenery. That pre-cut tape idea sounds like it is much easier than what I'm doing. I like simple and easy!

[@HandmadebyLorelei]

Love this so much! I started writing letters to my sister and a few friends back at the start of the pandemic. We have all really enjoyed this new pace and the fact it gives us something to look forward to!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! That's so great that you are connecting with letters. There is something so cool about getting a letter in the mail!

[@anniebus105]

Oh this was fantastic! Some great ideas I picked up from you. Writing letters is something I very much enjoy. Thank you so much! Never doubt your artistic abilities. You are an incredible artist! Please stay healthy!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! I've freed myself up to go ahead and have fun and my artistic ability or lack of it doesn't matter. I'm glad you got something out of it. That makes me happy! Take care!

[@gristlevonraben]

wonderful, beautiful letters

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! I don't have good hand writing or artistic abilities but I enjoy myself!💕

[@markclelland8792]

Some fantastic ideas! Thank you for sharing.

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks so much! 💕

[@petervik5399]

Love it, Love it, i am much more than mildly entertained by your videos. Cheers Peter...

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! Thank you so much Peter! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@UrbanHafner]

I love it! I started writing letters precisely to use my fountain pens some more. I have however found a few people that I now write long letters to and we talk about our life and everything. :)

[@InkyRocks]

That is so true. You just want to use your fountain pens and then you realize it's communication! Sounds like a "win-win" to me!

[@helenmcdonnell2585]

Lovely, thanks for reminding me of the joy of penpals, I used to have penpals when I was young, I grew up in Africa and had penpals in Europe, I remember the thrill of receiving correspondence. You seem like a really interesting person. Thanks for the inspiration:)

[@InkyRocks]

Yes! Getting mail was always so exciting! Thank you (and thanks for calling me interesting💕 )

[@miroslavpavlemanovski3886]

Oh my goodness; I really like the idea of play, while connecting, and so glad you created this video for us. Fountain Pen High-Fives!! 🖋🎁🖤🎉

[@InkyRocks]

High fives!! Inky hands high fives!! Thank you!💕

[@susanorban3059]

Another fabulous video! I do Water color and Zentangle and have recently gotten a fountain pen and 2 glass dip pens. I'm already hooked on "color" so ink is right up my alley. I love the stationery that you made and am going to try my hand. Also going to look for a couple pen pals too. Thanks so much for sharing! And I agree with another poster-Your videos are VERY artistic and informational and so beautiful! Thank you for sharing! Hugs from Susan in Arizona💓

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much Susan! Water color and Zentangle are such beautiful hobbies. I can't do them so I splash around ink! We all have our place hahaha! You'll enjoy your pen pal experience--it's nice to connect over hobby!

[@thuntz29]

Oh I love the idea of sealing your letter inside the envelope! That’s genius! 🙃 Beautiful techniques!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! I've just had so many get busted off on the outside but I still want to do a seal!

[@vagrantastronaut]

I absolutely loved this video! Learnt so many things from it, both cultural and craft-wise! You gave me so many ideas I can't wait to use with penpals :) I loved how you said that you don't need to be a certain way to be "good enough" to write letters. Thank you~

[@InkyRocks]

You really don't. Or else I would have NO pen pals as I am a mess hahaha! But I have so many because people just want to get a letter--it doesn't need to be a certain way. Thanks so much and I'm glad you got something from this vid!

[@constantinosglam]

This is so serene. Honestly my favourite KZbin channel of all time. The calm tone of voice, the overall vibe, and the tonnes of suggestions. You have helped me on the regular, from calming down from stress to getting better inks, experimenting with new pens, and making my penpal letters way more interesting with all the wonderful stationery I have discovered. Thank you!

[@InkyRocks]

Wow! Thank you so much! There are so many times I feel like I'm just looking at a blank wall trying to figure out how I'm going to put together a video. Your comment is so encouraging--thanks!

[@constantinosglam]

@@InkyRocks You are more than welcome, and thank you for making these! I have visited Japan quite often in the past, and now, my next travel plan is for when Covid is over and the events open up again, to go and visit all the penshows in Tokyo and the nice pen/ink/paper shops they have listed around Japan.

[@InkyRocks]

@@constantinosglam Awesome! let me know if you do make it to TIPS or any major show, we try to have a get together for out-of-towners if you are interested.

[@constantinosglam]

@@InkyRocks Most definitely, thank you :)

[@jacobus57]

I LOVE these simple, playful techniques! Your videos are always fun, but this one was exceptional 😍

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks so much! 😊 Goes to show that you don't need talent to have fun hahaha!

[@jacobus57]

@@InkyRocks Stop it!! You do have talent 😊

[@pen2paperplans]

Loved the video! Especially the parts where you decorated the paper. That’s art!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! I'm not so sure it's art, but maybe the art of having fun!

[@mmarjisr]

I enjoyed your video very much hope to see more of them

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! Working on several now!

[@wittwittwer1043]

When I use sealing wax, I now use it inside the letter. I used to use seals to secure the flap, but I had letters come back "undeliverable," with the seal torn off, and the envelope damaged. Also, when I melt the wax, I found that I can use the wax stick to spread the hot wax to get more area area for the seal-stamp. First, use a light pencil line around the seal so you'll see how much area to cover with wax before you stamp your imprint.

[@InkyRocks]

Yes, me too. You can also have the post office “hand sort” your letter for an extra charge but I’ve found that doesn’t always help. It’s just easier to put it on the inside.

[@deeleach8300]

YES, I was "mildly" entertained with this. I appreciate you showing people how to actually hand write a nice letter. When I was growing up, my parents always made us write thank you notes to relatives whenever they gave us gifts. I love all pens and papers and really enjoyed you showing how to decorate some plain papers. thanks again. I am hoping to get into the habit of writing letters again.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! I made my daughter write thank you notes too! I hope you get back into it again. Though I'm not good at getting letters out timely, I really enjoy the whole process.

[@raemcmahon8216]

As always your video was entertaining and fun. Thanks for making these videos, I really enjoy them. Since the pandemic I been writing lots of letters also.

[@InkyRocks]

That's awesome! I think it is a real connection. There is something about someone taking the time to write out a letter. It makes mail-time exciting! Thank you!

[@KattiaV]

thanks for sharing the tips. Beautiful pleasant video!!

[@InkyRocks]

I'm so happy you think so! Thank you!

[@jcparkins]

Wonderful inky video, as always. I love the ink splatters and the details you added to the edges of the paper, just beautiful! I never think to decorate the paper until after I've written the letter and by then it's too late. I like the idea of sending an envelope with a wax seal in a clear sleeve. I might try that soon. I bought some glue gun wax and need to try it out. The Girl's festival display is stunning.

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks Jackie! And thank you for being my "Exhibit A!" I thought that was so cool that he put it in a clear sleeve--the seal came out beautiful. Since he used computer sticky tabs, I think there was no worry about waterproofing the address too.

[@johnjay3808]

When you post a letter with a seal on the outside you can get an additional stamp at the post office for hand sorting. This will prevent the letter from going through the machine sorters and preserve the stamp.

[@InkyRocks]

That is a great tip! I didn't realize it was an actual stamp.

[@MyLifeMits]

SOOOO fun to watch, I always learn so much from your videos! I never knew about the Japanese greetings for certain seasons/months. (sorry, I'm typing while I watch your video) I love that you also have short lettered pen-pals, that definitely takes the pressure off of writing long letters! I can totally see you creating some original bamboo stationery as well with that paralell pen! Love the bit about using all these various ways to create your own stationery. Thank you always for the fun videos!

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks so much for stopping by Mitsuko! It's a real compliment from a stationery pro! Can't wait till Covid is over, the three of us (Miraikat) need to get together!

[@MyLifeMits]

@@InkyRocks YES please!!! :))

[@Jaffar540]

Anyone watching your video will surely be going to be inspired by the artistic way of penning a letter. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience. God bless you!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! I feel like I can inspire people in that I mess things up, and there is no harm done. It's simply a fun and interesting experience. God bless you too Mohamed!

[@markc.5750]

A tip for using a wax seal is to damp the stamp before using. It prevents it from sticking to the cool wax. Nice video BTW.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! I'll keep that tip in mind!

[@KB-cx2dr]

Very interesting and inspiring.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much!💕

[@neofliermike]

Yes, thank you for making me feel better about not having any talent either and mediocre handwriting ! I'll be using some of these ideas you showed off, awesome!

[@InkyRocks]

Yes! I'm good at other things--but not art and handwriting. But I don't want to let that stop me from enjoying either or my pens!

[@viviwiththefrills]

Your hanko is so cool!! Mine was really boring since it's simple katakana. Thank you for all the cool letter writing/decorating ideas!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! You can get your name in Kanji too--it does look pretty cool that way!

[@naeemahjs]

This video was worth waiting for.🌟

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks so much! I'm hoping to be a little more regular in posting. I'm learning a new video editing program, so it's slow going!

[@ozzydeschapell3618]

Awesome video and very relaxing

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks so much!

[@ziawoolzstudiobuzz313]

Ooooh how I’ve enjoyed this one! I’ve recently discovered that I like letter writing better than journaling and I think my letters are “better”, deeper than my journal entries. The solution was/is to write more letters and I’ve started copying my letters to keep track of what I’ve written in the last letter to that pen friend and also to be able to go back and have all the “life facts” of that point in time and which I shared with my pen friend for myself. I still journal, but this took away the pressure, since I have copies of my letters. I use a cvs composition book for that and occasionally I put a reference for myself on the side , f.ex. when I talk about a knitting project. Sometimes I get carried away and use another ink and pen for each page and if I don’t wat to loose the flow of story writing I add an extra sheet with that information, nothing but pens and inks. I loooove the beginning of a letter: Dear ..... You gave me the idea of filming an episode about how I decorate stationary, so that’ll be coming soon. Thank you for another great video! xx Dag

[@InkyRocks]

What a great idea! I've never thought of letters that way, but you are so right! I mostly babble in my letters so it wouldn't be as useful. Looking forward to your video!

[@jonessarah001]

Your video has helped me today thank you x

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! Your comment helped me today (I’m so very behind schedule!) 💕

[@CraftingVicky]

I've been sending thank you notes... but haven't done a penpal letter in so long. That's something that I would love to start up again since I'm loving the fountain pens so much!

[@InkyRocks]

It really is fun if you write to fountain pen people as you are actually using the hobby to write about the hobby! But thank you notes with fountain pens are fun too! I'm like: "Thank you for X. How do you like my ink?" hahaha! My friends all roll their eyes!

[@pamelamoniz608]

I was very entertained with this video. I used to have penpals in high school. I think it would be really cool to have a fountain pen penpal. Especially someone from another country. I also really liked the fountain pen stamp. Due to the my new fountain pen habit, I have also boarded the wax seal stamp and washi tape train. Now I just need someone to write to. Thanks so much for sharing your wonderful videos.

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! I'm so on those trains too! Thank you and you need to start penpal-ing now!

[@strshooter7399]

I read through some of the many comments, and look, you may think you’re not talented as some who put ink to paper, but you have a wonderful style. 🤗 I am not just impressed (I am), but watching you do some magic with those papers was a delight. Thank you for an informative and refreshing video. Now, where’s my new pen and some FP friendly paper, I need to write a letter... 😎

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! I'm no artist and my calligraphy is awful. I don't mind--I still enjoy messing around. I'm glad you are encouraged to write! Thank you so much!

[@ChrisSaenz13]

Hi Alesa -- this video is so refreshingly helpful to me - I needed to hear/see this!!!! I'm so bored by the letters & envelopes that I'm sending out .... and I know if I could learn to keep my letters a little shorter and maybe more decorative ... it would be more fun and I might actually keep up. I do love to splatter ink on the left hand side of the page and it looks like fireworks lol. Your demonstrations are like "permission" for me to get more inky in my letters!!!!!! If I write them like you showed it will be more fun!!! Thank you for this video!!!!!!!!!!!

[@InkyRocks]

I so hear you Chris! I have a literal stack of letters I need to get to! One of the things I've had to develop some discipline over is to shorten my letters. I've noticed on some of the letter writing IG pictures that their actual letter is almost a note and then they just put other things in the envelope--pictures, magazine cuttings, stickers, artwork etc. That gave me "permission" to have more fun and just send something out that is not perfect. I hope you are taking care of yourself💞

[@MisterChris1978]

Subscribed. With enthusiasm.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! With happiness!

[@walteri.9465]

Hi Alesa, I really enjoyed this video. I often feel I don't have the time or motivation to handwrite a letter, but your video shows what pleasure it would be to receive one, and to send one to someone. I should take the time to handwrite some letters. Thanks, Walter

[@InkyRocks]

Hi Walter! I'm so glad you found this useful. It really is nice to get letters and more fun to write them than you would think!

[@gabyigl]

Love this video and give me a lot of ideas¡!! Thanks You again!!!

[@InkyRocks]

So glad you found it useful-thanks! 💕

[@Hobbysgirl100]

This was a great video!

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you!💕

[@inksandanchors]

Love this video! I’m heading off to Google the official Japanese opening sentences (in English) for each month! I’ve done ink washes for borders but never thought to do my beloved ink splats and using up so much of the page on a wash. I’m going to do that next time!! Thanks for the ideas !

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! If you have trouble finding them, let me know. I would imagine you write the most beautiful letters--your script and ink work is breathtaking!

[@inksandanchors]

@@InkyRocks Thank you! Unfortunately my "fast" normal handwriting is not the greatest. I gotta work on that, lol! And I could not find those opening sentences anywhere. Would be grateful if you could send me a link to where I can find them (if handy). Thanks!

[@InkyRocks]

@@inksandanchors I got them from a book we used in class called "Writing Letters in Japanese" but when I went to Amazon, it was $500!! So I searched in Japanese and found this site. You will have to use Google translate. Scroll down to the month and click on it and it takes you to the sayings. www.letter110.net/zikounoaisatsu/

[@inksandanchors]

@@InkyRocks awesome! Thank you so much!!

[@jcparkins]

I forgot to add that you can also find pen pals on the Month of Letters site. Technically, February has been designated as the "month" but many members write all year long. The website is lettermo.com and you'll need to create an account to read the forums and find pen pals that interest you.

[@InkyRocks]

Oh, thank you for this! I'll add it to the pinned comment.

[@marilyngardner4269]

Another great video! I'm not artistic, but I love these ideas for splashing ink around and the permission to be messy. Now that I can do! I also need to look into finding some pen pals who share the hobby, so I can prattle on about the inks and pens I'm using. I was just thinking today that I need to find more ways to use the ocean of ink I have...let the inky messes begin! Thank you for the inspiration.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much Marilyn! I'm totally with you--splashing around ink is enough for me to do my thing!

[@neofliermike]

Hey, I'd be happy to share my address with you! I've been doing pen pals this last year on swap-bot and so far NONE use fountain pens! So it feels strange to not talk about pens and ink... still get to write tho :)

[@marilyngardner4269]

@@neofliermike I'd be up for exploring that! Are you in Instagram? If so, you can send me a direct message and we can exchange addresses from there. @marilyngreyts4

[@the_dark_forest]

You ALWAYS make me chuckle. A total kid in a grown up body. Love it. Alesa, you're a hoot to hang out with on YT - that's what your videos feel like... hangin' out. Thanks for bringing a smile to this morbid ole face. Dayam fine rockeries there. Was that a beautiful chunk of amethyst? It complimented the jade coloured pen with amethyst coloured finial and bottom thingummy so well. And your labradorite piece is darned amazing. I must look through your vids to see if you have a geology/crystal focused one. Your stones are as fascinating as your pen collection, your inks, paper & paraphernalia. That display of figurines from the Heian period is INSANE. I LOVE IT. Freakin amazing. Thank you for sharing that Love all the great tips. Thanks. ☺💎🖋✒

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks so much for your enthusiastic comment! Always makes me happy! Yes that was an amethyst (pretty straight up one-I have so many weird ones!) I have a Tucson Gem Show vid. And I am currently enroute to go to the Gem Show this week too-so I should put out a vid on it in a few weeks. I’ll be interviewing Alicia from AdventureDenali in that vid. Take care 💝

[@the_dark_forest]

@@InkyRocks Thanks, I'll keep an eye out for those, & thanks for the suggestion. Living some distance from the city it makes it even harder to catch the gem shows here. Nice to see what's on offer out there 👍

[@peterhofmann8292]

Alessa, what a fantastic and fun video. Lots of great tips for those that, like me, are artistically challenged. Thanks for doing this.🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🎉🎉🎉

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks so much Peter! I have to be creative with my "work arounds" because I'm artistically challenged too!

[@peterhofmann8292]

@@InkyRocks Ah but so many good tips in the video.👍👍👍

[@ellaniwalker6155]

Hi! That was very interesting and lived the way you did your letters! Thanks so much for sharing. I have some wax and stamps to use, but I have not done any letters to be mailed out yet. A friend and I exchanged them for birthday/Christmas. We always have a lot of fun with that. Have an awesome day yo an awesome Lady! 🖋🦋🕊🌀💖🦄✨

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! I feel like I need to show people that you can really make a mess and still have fun! You'll need to use those stamps and wax!!

[@streitschlichtunggoethegym6166]

This was very nice to watch. Very creative too! Btw I did the ink sketches of ink bottles in chrisraps video - intro. Cheers, Klaus

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you so much! That's so cool! Chris' music and opening is really catchy--great work!

[@streitschlichtunggoethegym6166]

@@InkyRocks thanks so much for the compliment. Do you have an email address for exchanging snail mail addresses? If you want to get or send me a letter...

[@InkyRocks]

@@streitschlichtunggoethegym6166 If you don't mind a very long wait for a reply (I'm behind and this video generated a lot more requests), click on the email button on my "about" page and send me an email. I'll send you my address!

[@streitschlichtunggoethegym6166]

@@InkyRocks it seems like I am not able to find it. Would you be so kind to send me an email to [e-mail] Thank you Klaus

[@InkyRocks]

@@streitschlichtunggoethegym6166 Hi Klaus--just click the button that says email--it will reveal it.

[@fudefan]

Lots of eye candy in this video, including that Japan LE Leonardo! Also, that Sailor Realo looks familiar 😁

[@InkyRocks]

Doesn't it?! I think half of my recent acquisitions are probably familiar to you hahaha!

[@HabuBeemer]

Too fun! I've been considering a wax seal set. I found a brass seal with a sakura blossom design. I'm going to borrow some of your ideas. Very classy! I use my hanko from time to time as well.

[@InkyRocks]

Glad you came up with some ideas! I would do a complete wax set, but I have one in storage and am making do for now hahaha!

[@HabuBeemer]

@@InkyRocks I think it's fascinating to see the world through the eyes of creative people. I often said if you want to see what a child sees, give them a camera. Having been a "Japanofile" since the early '80s I can easily relate to things you present on your channel. There is a bit of East meets West but largely West and I'm fascinated with the influences in your work. The passion clearly comes through.

[@InkyRocks]

@@HabuBeemer Well thank you very much! I've lived off and on in Japan for over 25 years total. I really love it here.

[@HabuBeemer]

@@InkyRocks I’m envious. 😊. Someday I’ll visit there. Thinking of Kyoto. I can tell you enjoy it there.

[@pauliepipes2593]

Very interesting video. I believe you have a lot of talent. Your too modest. Thank you for the letter writing ideas. I now want to write a letter to someone. Maybe I will send myself a letter.

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! I'm so glad you now want to write to someone! I'm not trying to be humble, I want people to do exactly what you are doing--considering writing to someone! Thank you so much for your kind words💞

[@pauliepipes2593]

@@InkyRocks Well I did not write to anyone today; however, I did copy a few poems on some blank pages of my Hobonichi. It was at least a pleasing exercise.

[@stacijohnson9825]

I always had thought of having a pen pal since I was a child. I was thinking of going to a care home for older people because they may like the company and are the age where they wrote letters! 💛💛 I’d love information on water proof inks if you have any. I’m having the hardest time figuring out what I can sketch with to fill in with water color. Again, I love all of your videos!

[@InkyRocks]

I've never been a big letter writer when I was younger but enjoy it now using fountain pens, and your idea about a care home is such an awesome one! A lot of inks are kind of waterproof (only a small amount washes off, usually just one color and then a permanent still readable "stain" stays behind) but for truly permanent Platinum Carbon ink and Deatrementis Document inks. Thank you💕

[@tezzcan1]

Perfect timing Alesa, I need to write a letter to put in a surprise parcel tomorrow. Thank you, hope you are still keeping safe.

[@InkyRocks]

That's great! Just don't spill ink all over the place (or set anything on fire!) Take care!

[@tezzcan1]

@@InkyRocks I’ll try but I make no promises.😜

[@jom6829]

Definitely a fun video and glad you didn't set fire to anything. Just in the last couple of days of InCoWriMo and feeling pleased with myself that I will have written 28 introductory cards. Loved your inks splots, etc, on the TMR paper - excellent idea, so hope you don't mind but I'll be using that for some of mine.

[@InkyRocks]

Please use any and all ideas that you find useful! Congrats on doing so well on InCoWriMo. I need to try that one day. Thank you!

[@cynthiaalvarado8610]

What a fun video!! I thoroughly enjoyed it, including the music. Did you use a chop next to your name as well? Maybe a short to briefly explain them to those unfamiliar with Chops. Hope you are staying well.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! Yes, it's my "han". In Japan they call it your "han-ko". That's a great idea--I need to try to tie it in with something. Take care!

[@lead-dog]

You have "tons" of talent Your Inkness, the Duchess of Nibs! This is a totally fantastic video. Such great and creative ideas. We have a small group of people on another channel where the KZbinr himself exchanges emails with "members" of his channel. And those members with other members. Thanks.

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! That KZbinr sounds awesome! I need about 9 more hours everyday hahaha!

[@lead-dog]

More than a little awesome that you would “like” a comment made by a new fan especially on a video that is 2 plus years. You’re awesome Your Highness! Thanks. No need to reply.

[@sweetchilli6993]

today you got your like and subscribe... really like this video, hope to see more :)

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! 💞

[@MrGyges]

Delightfully potty and eccentric, leavened by love of pen, paper, and ink.

[@InkyRocks]

hhaha! I'm at that age where potty and eccentric come naturally!

[@SunshineIzDivine]

I love this video!!!! What is the line guide that you use to write your letters?

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! I think it was off one of my stationery packets. Yamamoto also sends guides with their paper along with Nanami (two I can think of off hand)

[@Sglinert]

Lovely and soothing! I adore your pale blue pens. What models are they?

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! My current pastel craze is fueling this: Sailor ProGear Slim Harusame, Leonardo MZ Aqua Serenade (Japan exclusive) and Kyo no Oto Sailor Pro Gear 5th Anniversary Usu-Ruri.

[@rainysaturdaycreative]

I love to write letters to friends, but I am afraid to be penpals because I am not consistent. I am new to fountain pens by a few months, so sometimes I write letters with fountain pens and sometimes gel pens. Finding myself to be a wannabe ink junkie! Fountain pens are the delivery mechanism to satisfy that! 🙂

[@InkyRocks]

That sounds like you are a true fountain pen person hahaha! I would try out pen pal-ing if you are still interested as many people are very inconsistent. Basically, people write back when you do so there is no set time frame. Most of my pen pals now get maybe, a letter a year!

[@Tinsleymumsey]

Hi! Thank you for this - lovely as usual💙 Can I check that the Night Sky was by iPaper? I can't find it. Thanks!

[@InkyRocks]

Aghhh. I’ve done this several times. The ink is by Lennon Tool Bar. I think Shigure Inks carries it. I discovered both LennonTool Bar and iPaper at the same time and have some sort of brain hang up with them. Sorry about that.

[@simeonking2910]

Ah I see you finally got that drill log you’ve wanted…… thats very tempting to acquire……. I still don’t have a glass dip pen…… whereas I’m am always testing ink.

[@InkyRocks]

I have a "shorts" video on it too. The best part is its portability--I take it to all our pen meets and don't have to worry about it like with glass pens.

[@nommh]

I love the idea of celebrating the month of the year in every letter. Is there a place where I can find translations of the monthly greetings? Even though where I live the February opening fits march much better.

[@InkyRocks]

It is a pretty cool thing to do! Check the pinned comment on the top and I have a link there!

[@Merlin012001]

How did I miss this? Oh well, here I am now! The weather is really nasty right now with rain and sleet pounding on my truck right now(lunch break in the parking lot). Hope all is well with ya'll! Bye!

[@InkyRocks]

Hahaha! I hope the vid cheered you up from such a dreary day! You put a smile on my face!

[@anil4nature]

👌👌👌😍😍🌈

[@InkyRocks]

💕

[@jacobrippens9638]

Where can I find a list of those Japanese style letter openings for each month of the year? I think these are so cool!

[@InkyRocks]

They are! Check my pinned comment. The website is there.

[@docfrayon]

So you are learning Japanese ? How is it going ? I just started Chinese and I love it ! About your video... I really like the way you add decorative ink to the paper :)

[@InkyRocks]

I've been working on Japanese for quite awhile. When I get at a good workable level, we move back to the US. I'm really rusty now. The writing is just brutal.

[@docfrayon]

@@InkyRocks For some reason I don't see you anywhere else than Tokyo :)

[@InkyRocks]

@@docfrayon I wish! I love it here!

[@simeonking2910]

That’s a great technique to spread the ink across your letters…….

[@InkyRocks]

Thank you! It's also fun!

[@MisterChris1978]

Do you have a video on showing how to develops a style like that in which you begin at 1:40?

[@InkyRocks]

Actually I don't as many many other people are so much better at it. I would do a search on "flex writing" or "pointed pen calligraphy"

[@MisterChris1978]

@@InkyRocks i love your handwriting.

[@thepengreek5476]

very inkspiring... guess what I'm doing... yes, making tea :)

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! I'll need to send some of that too! Take care💕

[@assistivetek]

Another beautifully done video. I just successfully completed a month of writing letters for InCoWrimo! Chris is a pen friend of mine and lives in the next town over. Do you have a PO Box so that I can write you a letter? TIA Brian

[@InkyRocks]

Thanks so much Brian! If you don't mind waiting a very very long time for a return letter, (I am so behind on returning letters right now) send me a message on the email on my "About" page and I'll send you my address. I wish I could just rent a PO Box here in Japan like in the States so I could just publish my address, but alas, Japan has so many fun and cool things but the mail is not one of them.

[@WritingDelight]

Well... I think writing a letter is definitly more than an excuse for using the fountain pens we have. Unfortunately, I am too unreliable when it comes to pen pals. I'd rather not do that to anyone. :) But of course I also write my letters. And of course I have my seal. With initials. ;) But honestly... With such a burner? A small alcohol burner is more stylish ;).

[@InkyRocks]

hahaha! It is! I'd left all that stuff in storage in the US--living space is so much more of a premium here. Plus, trying to burn down the house has some...uhm...flair?

[@WritingDelight]

@@InkyRocks well... burning down the house only give problems. ;) And it don't have any flair. Except when you throw in some marshmallows :D