Top 5 Pens of February, How to Handle Pen FOMO - The Write Stuff ep. 27

[@jodya.vonwahl2413]

Its amazing how quick the Kaweco climed th3 sales charts. I guess your stratigy of getting several well known channels to post their reviews on its release date worked great. Its also a great colour on a great pen. ❤

[@NameLikeNobodyElse]

I'm waiting on my amethyst Kaweco sport to come in. The color soothes my soul. It will have the purple ink in it, too.

[@Kara-Mishmash]

FOMO is legit…especially for someone with ADHD and a lot of their dopamine comes from shopping! 😬😬 one thing I’ve done…eh…ok with is writing down the things I want looking over that list at the end of the month to see if I’m still wanting those items at that time. It has actually saved me quite a bit. I absolutely still have moments where I act impulsively and buy without thinking, but I’ve done a little better. I have a Scribo from Goldspot on my wishlist that I’m only getting when I sell a couple pens first. I think I’m quickly on the road to it!

[@GoldspotPens]

That's a great strategy, Kara. It's useful to remove oneself from the immediate emotions of the moment so we can have a better perspective. I'm glad you're working up to a SCRIBO. I am also looking to buy one myself sometime soon. :-)

[@archivist17]

That Amethyst Kaweco is an absolute winner!

[@raventhelight9357]

So I just want to say that the fear missing out is strong in this community but when you miss something that you really want it gives you something to look for and hunt later on. That will give you more joy in the end than if you had bought it straight away. I have a few that I constantly am looking for and when I get them will be ecstatic!

[@GoldspotPens]

That's a great perspective that will lessen the anxiety that FOMO creates. Instead of worry, it encourages anticipation - the thrill of the hunt!

[@archivist17]

A healthy approach to FOMO. Thanks Tom.

[@ChadHerring]

Totally agree with the scarcity/abundance mindset question. Bravo!

[@Mydogcandrive101]

For the question of the week, can you give a little info on how long it usually takes to collaborate with fountain pen companies like Kaweco?

[@GoldspotPens]

It varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. I think this pen was the quickest from Kaweco so far. We started the concept in August of 2023 and it delivered in February 2024.

[@cmac1100]

Literally JUST got my Namiki in the mail. I LOVE it! Perfect timing on the posting of this video!

[@Lormazz]

Love your videos and Gold Spot pens. Love supporting local business. My question is In your years of loving fountain pens and now have a career in the field, what pen or company released a product that was either innovative or just made something that made you really excited and was not a disappointment at all when you got it. Thanks Renee

[@aresaurelian]

Thank you for explaining FOMO. Well put. I like this video. There are a sea of pens and writing tools out there, but we only need that one which speaks to our creative souls.

[@spiderwrangler4457]

With the recent acquisition of LAMY by Mitsubishi Pencil Company, what is one change or new direction you'd like to see them take with the LAMY brand?

[@BullheadedGiovanni]

None, I want them to change absolutely nothing. I want them to leave lamy alone and just take a cut from the profits.

[@GoldspotPens]

I agree with BullheadedGiovanni, I wouldn't want to see any changes with Lamy. Just keep growing and improving like they are.

[@adeniranm7647]

As a company, which sells pens, Gold Spot Pens as a vested interest in selling pens. Obviously. Nevertheless, you continually give sober advice, actively discouraging the audience from feeling pressured into purchasing pens or accessories (as you did when answering this question of the week). How do you balance the need to sell pens, with the desire to give prudent advice to your audience? Also, what are some core values that place Gold Spot above competitors?

[@GoldspotPens]

I think this is highly dependent on you preferences, Brent. If you find yourself enjoying resin pens with steel nibs, you could branch out and try a gold nib or a full-metal-bodied pen. But, you might not like the experience. It's all based on what feels good to you while writing. I think visiting a pen show is a great idea so you can be exposed to all sorts of pen types, nibs, etc.

[@adeniranm7647]

Thanks, ​@@GoldspotPens, but I think you pasted the wrong response to this message.

[@bousidesign4674]

That Opus 88 Mini in Sakura Cherry Blossoms is what I am looking for~!

[@catherineadams6513]

Enjoyed the video!! My question is do you have an efficient way to store your nibs that’s aesthetically pleasing like a lot of pen videos?

[@JennReese]

What's the worst fountain pen ink mishap you've ever had?

[@PalashBackup]

For this week: Are there some pens that are not beginner friendly? Weird filling mechanisms or difficult to clean? Would you still recommend them to newbies? This is fun, I am getting weird ideas trying to think of fun questions. Thanks for the mental exercise Tom!

[@JerryCarter-xu6rs]

Great perspective Tom on FOMO. What is the best gold ink to match the new goldspot Kaweco sport fountain pen?

[@GoldspotPens]

How about Robert Oster Gold Antiqua? goldspot.com/products/robert-oster-signature-gold-antiqua-50ml-bottled-ink-for-fountain-pens

[@BullheadedGiovanni]

question: what are the best pens with magnetic caps?

[@jobellerudico5747]

the guy who started my journey collecting fountain pen

[@mellow-jello]

With Pelikan acquired in 2023, and now Lamy bought by uni Mitsubishi, does these acquisitions indicate a rollover of German pen makers into other markets, and do you see Kaweco & Stillform following suit? Will German design see its way out like the dodo bird?

[@joepersons6855]

I have a couple of Kawecos that I rotate for EDC (every day carry). What are some other popular (and/or rugged) fountain pen and ink combos for outdoor use like hiking, biking, canoe trips etc?

[@LocnessMonster_]

Thank you for showcasing these pens! I'm definitely feeling the FOMO, but thanks for reminding me that I need to stay patient and wait for something that I truly love vs just buying because it's LE. For question of the week: how would you suggest or incorporate fountain pens into a regular office environment? Cheap ballpoint and gel pens are readily available as supplies, but I want to bring my own collection collection of pens to work (locked up at the end of the day of course). Right now I'm just bringing my gel pens for a smoother writing experience - I'm afraid of being judged/looked down on for bringing or using a fountain pen.

[@GoldspotPens]

I know being a "pen person" isn't the most popular niche but if we can accept people doing their work with computers, laptops, tablets, and phones, we can accept that someone may still want to use a good pen and paper to do things the analog way. You will get some strange looks and people may not respect the idea that your pens are valuable to you (they may think they all cost a few dollars each). On the other hand, you'll connect with people that will admire them and you may convert some people to using fountain pens in the office as well.

[@cathrynesten4364]

What other pen collaborations does Goldspot have coming up?

[@brentjohnson2435]

I have a decent collection fountain pen collection but am always looking for different pen experiences to expand my collection. What recommendations do you have for cultivating a well rounded collection or even necessities for a collection? Whether certain pen materials, nib materials or grinds, and brands/models, etc….

[@sistergoldenhair0727]

Do you have advice for the best inks to use in Extra Fine pens which will have optimum flow and show up nicely on the paper? A lot of the inks I use seem to disappear on the paper. Maybe they are not saturated enough?

[@GoldspotPens]

Any lighter-saturated inks are going to be harder to read in finer nibs. I would recommend looking for medium toned or saturated colors that will clearly stand out against the page. There are plenty of colors across many brands that fit this description. I've found Waterman inks to have good flow and be consistent and reliable.

[@welcometosandyland]

Can you please do a video explaining different nibs for newbies in the fountain pen world? Some of the sizes seem pretty self-explanatory, but then I've seen names like stub, architect, italic, music, waverly, posting, and references to both eastern and western (I think I read that western nibs are broader?) Little help please! And bonus points if you do it in a British accent. That James Bond Double-O Double-D was the best pen video ever.

[@GoldspotPens]

I think I do need to do a nib comparison video of the Pilot Custom 743 or the 912 to show all the subtle differences in those nibs. Most of what you mentioned in this list are available on that particular pen. I could only maintain a poor British accent for so long, though! Glad you enjoyed that video - I had a lot of fun making it.

[@welcometosandyland]

I'm hoping the music nib squeaks out 'America the Beautiful' when you write with red or blue ink.

[@davew19904]

That Amythyst Sport is calling to me. My question: how many pens are enough?

[@luiscastellanos1704]

What is the best (proper) way to store the pens you currently have inked on your desk; stand up box or flat case? Obviously the stand up takes less space but because the ink rests at the bottom the nib is dry when you go to write, a flat case takes up desk space but pens are more likely to write. Any recommendations?

[@GoldspotPens]

I think this pen case video has a lot of great ideas for pen storage and display on your desk - kzbin.info/www/bejne/hau2p5dmqLyMgbc

[@MyMagicalPlanner]

How do you use brass sheets? I’ve seen them as an accessory but I’m not sure what their purpose is.

[@TheMspowers2008]

Great video!! My question is: Which of your pens are great investment /collector's pieces (for all $ Levels) that would also be a life long pen?

[@Onnotebooks]

Hi! What inks would you pair with the Edison red abalone? What a stunning pen!

[@rose846]

What kind of starter fountain pen and ink would you recommend to an artist who’s used to things like Copic or Micron lining pens?

[@Silent-Ink]

Tom what is your most written with colour of ink? the one you most enjoy? I am currently enjoying diamine ancient copper.

[@distaff2935]

I get distracted by a new beautiful pen at least once a day. I deal with FOMO by realizing that tomorrow I'll probably happen upon another new shiny thing that will make me forget about today's Must Have pen. The budget allows for one or two pens a month. In reality, that's plenty of pens.

[@angelomicciulla]

Do you find you still more good nibbed pens over steel nibbed pens? I find I like steel over gold because I'm still working on not putting too much pressure on the paper. What is your preference on nib materials?

[@tnoble1957]

Many pens feel too big in my hand and slip unless I hold on to them tightly. What pens to you recommend for a smaller hand that still have a good weight/balance to them?

[@PurpleBookFox]

What is your daily go to fountain pen, nib, and ink? What criteria do they need to hit to qualify? Looking for that sweet spot pen. Thank you

[@tinakopp2006]

I'm just wondering, are there any particular inks that you steer away from when filling piston style pens like the Pelikan? These pens seem like they would be harder to clean, and I wonder if I need to be careful in selecting the right ink for these pens.

[@judyjacobs5827]

Regarding your advice on FOMO, you are wise and articulate, Tom. For those who are enthralled by limited editions, new releases, and a need to be first, what's your best suggestion for keeping up with the many collaborations between sellers and makers, makers and distributors, the pen pipeline in general? Thanks in advance for your answer.

[@GoldspotPens]

Thank you, Judy. It's really tough to keep up, especially if you are following popular editions of particular makers. Like, for example, if you wanted to get every pen made in Jonathan Brooks' primary manipulation 1, you'll be buying pens from small makers and bigger manufacturers like Visconti and Leonardo. If I like a particular brand or maker, I'd sign up to their own direct e-mail newsletter or follow their social media feed - whichever outlet they choose to share their new collaborations and releases. Edison Pen Co, for example, uses their website blog to announce new collaborations and new special editions, show exclusives, etc. So, I guess it depends on the particular maker or seller you're focused on.

[@gamman4090]

Hi Tom! What ink bottle is the best seller during spring time at Goldspot?

[@SunshineFL]

❤awesome

[@mreed247]

How often should I be deep cleaning my pens and what should that look like?

[@coffeeandconcealerco949]

Question: I was recently window shopping some ink at Goldspot and noticed a statement that read "pH neutral, safe for Celluloid pens" (paraphrasing)... is the pH of ink something I need to be aware of when inking up my celluloid pen?

[@erinjohnstone1280]

Speaking of FOMO, I'm curious when the next limited edition Pilot vanishing point will be released. I think this is done annually?

[@pamelamoniz608]

I like the new Kaweco sport in Amethyst however I prefer silver trim. I wonder how manufacturers determine which trim color to use. Do you as a retailer track preferences based on sales which trim color is most popular?

[@GoldspotPens]

With this edition, we wanted to go with gold trim only. A few years ago, we offered the Kaweco Sport Ultimate Grey in both gold and silver trims. It makes things more complicated for the retailer when there are twice as many SKUs and your customers end up preferring one trim color more than the other.

[@jpanthony]

What do you think the effects of Mitsubishi acquiring Lamy will be? Do you think we’ll see a UEF nib?

[@jamesbarrett1590]

What is your top selling nib grind across all brands

[@hillarylovell4246]

Hi! I'm wondering, are there any patterns or rules of thumb with ink brands where certain brands may be wetter or thinner etc? I am feeling overwhelmed with options and wondering if there are certain ink/pen brands that pair particularly well based on formula of ink and type of nib. (e.g. if you have a wetter nib, try this brand). Thanks!

[@25cookiemonster]

For those of us that have many pens and many inks, do you have any system to make sure that inks don't stay too long in your pen?

[@anitapaul7267]

Question: What is difference between the Broad and Stub nib(s)? How do I make a choice for my fountain pen?

[@GoldspotPens]

This "intro to stub nibs" video is just what you need to get started - kzbin.info/www/bejne/j6fNc2qVfcaabbc

[@tamramyers5841]

What was the catalyst that sent you careening toward a life as a enthusiastic? Storytime please😊

[@kavanpreetsingh2743]

Can we expect better QC after Mitsubishi acquires lamy? Are you excited for the same?

[@linevariation]

While I appreciate Leonardo's use of varied materials with the Momento Zero, I wish they'd pay some more attention to the Furore. Is the that line just not popular enough to garner the investment for some of the newer different resins?

[@GoldspotPens]

I think the focus is more on the Momento Zero because it's the the design with more distinction and identity in the market. The Furore is great, too. I agree. But, people are quite fond of those conical finial tops instead of the tapered cigar shape.

[@takesbonnets4063]

Thank you Tom. What are your hopes from the merger of Lamy and Mitsubishi? I hope they can fix the Lamy nib width inconsistency.

[@GoldspotPens]

I just hope that Mitsubishi can continue to support the excellent work they're doing in Heidelberg.

[@xWyLDe-]

Knowing what you know now about fountain pens and inks. If you had to start your collection over what would be the first fountain pen and ink you would purchase and why?

[@marvinmediocre]

What do you think of the Mitsubishi Pencil Company's acquisition of Lamy? Should we expect any changes with regards to their fountain pens?

[@filipverbeke7468]

Hi Tom, I am wondering, does a black coating (or any other colour coating for that matter) on the nib have any influence on the smoothness of the nib or other aspects of the writing experience?

[@GoldspotPens]

We've noticed that PVD coating may an impact on EF or F nibs, adding a bit more feedback than they already have without the black plating - sometimes.

[@sarahrichards9250]

How do you stay informed about all the upcoming releases from all the different pen companies? It can seem like information overload.

[@GoldspotPens]

Even for someone who works full-time in the pen world, it's overwhelming and difficult for one person to keep track of it all. I would focus on a particular manufacturer or maker and sign up for their e-mail newsletter or follow them directly on social media to get updates.

[@ilikepens]

What’s the best pen/nib size for someone with a shaky hand?

[@GoldspotPens]

I'd go with a heavier pen, probably one made of solid brass, which should help steady the nib. Nib size is less of a factor, but you may want to start with a F to see how the writing looks.

[@SunshineFL]

Is it always necessary to match your pen with an ink that matches the color of the pen.

[@fleischpflanzerlmitsenf]

The pens have a built in mechanism to only work with that way. U have to throw your pen away as soon as you deviate from this law.

[@davidwiseman-uf3vv]

New to fountain pens. Ordered my kaweco on the 28th. What is the best way to stay informed on Goldspot exclusive releases and designs? I don't need the stress of FMO.

[@GoldspotPens]

There's a link in the video description to sign up for our e-mail newsletter. That's the most direct way for us to let our customers know about new special editions, limited runs, and collaboration designs.

[@maggie5280]

What causes some pens to leak ink into the cap when not using it?

[@georgeelgart1060]

Really good episode. Thank you. I do wonder if you think it is a good idea to only use the ink of the company that makes the fountain pen in the pen. Thanks

[@GoldspotPens]

Most ink manufacturers make inks that are safe to use for all fountain pens. I think restricting oneself to the same ink brand as the pen is limiting the possible enjoyment of finding a new ink you love to use. And, of course the pen brand is going to recommend to use only their ink - that's business for you! Other ink brands are usually just fine. If you're not sure of a particular ink, read reviews first and then try it on an inexpensive pen first before using it on your more precious pens.

[@snowdoggieii]

Is it a good idea to get a fountain pen in wood? would ink color slowly get absorbed by the material?

[@GoldspotPens]

Wood is porous, unless it has a lacquered finish, so it will absorb the ink into the material if you do get it on the pen. Also, the wood will expand and shrink with the seasons and the levels of humidity, which may cause fissures and cracks in the material over time. Wood is great for dip pen handles, but I wouldn't look to invest serious money in a wood fountain pen.

[@elborracho81]

Will Goldspot be doing more collaborations in the amethyst/gold color scheme?

[@GoldspotPens]

mmmmmmmaybe???

[@milcah38]

We’re any of the gold spot exclusive pen designs a design that you wished you could have had, and so you actualised them? Or was it more of a “this could be cool!” Kind of thing?

[@animelord3793]

What pens would you recommend for the best drawing experience ?

[@GoldspotPens]

Here's a recent blog post where I share my best recommendations to get started using fountain pens for drawing - goldspot.com/blogs/magazine/fountain-pen-drawing

[@nope8535]

What is the largest ink capacity pen goldspot currently sells? I need a lot of ink.

[@GoldspotPens]

Opus 88 pens, for sure. They fill by eyedropper and you can load the entire barrel with ink. A pen like the Demo can hold an impressive amount of ink. goldspot.com/collections/opus-88-demonstrator

[@ChadHerring]

Do you find yourself changing ink colors or properties based on the season, and if so, what inks are you turning toward as we spring into spring?

[@NotesFromPastAmy]

Is it possible to clean one's pens too much? Whether too frequently, too thoroughly, or both.

[@GoldspotPens]

I usually encourage people not to strip down their pens (like TWSBI's) for every cleaning session. If you are continually taking your pen apart each time just to clean the pen on a weekly basis, you'd invite the possibility of cracking the various parts of the pen, which are often made of plastic.

[@mstraat]

How do you unscrew a nib housing (Nahvalur or Esterbrook) that seems to be stuck without damaging the nib?

[@GoldspotPens]

I'd refer to this video with tips and a step-by-step how-to on removing the nib - kzbin.info/www/bejne/oYPbfaCFq62eock

[@addicted2analogue]

Do you have any tips for getting acclimated to a flex nib?

[@GoldspotPens]

Go slow, be patient, and gentle.

[@marjoriemarlowe8978]

What is your top selling ink brand and why do you think that is?

[@ThePengineer]

Fomo can definitely be real in this world. I thought i was over it but was getting some fomo with that Galattica... My question is what are some of your favorite fountain pen accessories?

[@GoldspotPens]

Here are my recommendations for fountain pen accessories you never knew you needed - kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZbcaJSadryCr5Y

[@avilee7793]

Do you have any personal favorites for a custom material you've been wanting to see in a pen?

[@blanchedesmas]

This old PELIKAN pen has a value on the market?

[@Mrsdls77]

Could Tom share his own personal pen collection and say what his pen- buying strategy is?

[@jojo486-]

What is your advice on how to improve one’s penmanship using a fountain pen?

[@GoldspotPens]

This one is an old (but good) video on exactly how to improve your handwriting with a fountain pen - kzbin.info/www/bejne/d2qxf3yLiqeghLM

[@SunshineFL]

❤

[@courtney9212]

❓ So Tom, how do you pick what you are going to give away for the question of the week?

[@ahalfkorean]

FOMO is real. Are there any pens/brands you intentionally avoid for no other reason than to NOT be smacked with FOMO? I know I'd want every Kaweco Sport color, so I've intentionally avoided buying any. The only Kaweco I have is a Perkeo.

[@GoldspotPens]

If you want to avoid the limited edition rollercoaster train, don't collect Retro 51 pens, TWSBI Eco's, Kaweco Sports (I agree), Nahvalur Nautilus, Pilot Vanishing Points, or Leonardo Momento Zeros.

[@ahalfkorean]

​@@GoldspotPensHahahaha! I have just one Pilot VP. I do have about 20 Lamy Safari fountain pens, though. As a fan of Lego, I think the Safari fits the theme. (I also have 7 Pico.) Thank you for the list of pens to avoid, haha!

[@debpaynepurnell6131]

You often discuss Retro 51's great roller ball pens, but not their fountain pens. Are these pens horrible writers?

[@GoldspotPens]

They're good writers - all Retro 51 pens use Jowo #6 stainless steel nibs, which are reliable and consistent. We're trying to give them more love in the future.

[@AlejandroPato-Fuego]

i finally have a good question: ferris wheel inks are getting more and more into the pen business. i saw a review of the joule. it looks fantastic. i want one, but i am a lefty and prefer broads and i also prefer shimmer and sheen. Why in heaven's name, would they offer a pen in fine and medium nibs and not also broad and stub when for the most part their inks are all about shimmer and sheen that are best reflected with a broad or stub nib? help? You stole their thinking cap. Give it back! at least offer the broad.

[@davyj5216]

FOMO is driven by cynical marketing. Leonardo are one of the most egregious practitioners of this. To me it is such a low-class way of regarding customers that I will not buy any Leonardo products, regardless of scarcity.