The Pen Addict Census 2021 Results (via TheTempTrack). Michael and Katherine released the results of their 2021 survey of the pen community, with 900+ responses.
Happy Holidays! Recapping Pens and Inks in 2021 (via Fountain Pen Pharmacist). I’ve enjoyed reading the Fountain Pen Pharmacist blog this year, which posts reviews (mostly ink) twice weekly! If you’ve not discovered it yet, start with this recap.
Fountain Pen Joys and Despairs of 2021 (via Dapprman). I guess there will be a theme to this week’s links, as the 2021 year-end recaps finish up!
All I Want For Christmas (via Pen Addict). Kimberly has a list of things she wants to see/do in the upcoming year.
Nine Reasons to Love the TWSBI ECO Jade (via UK Fountain Pens). I can’t say that I disagree with any of these!
Birmingham Pen Co. Projector Film (via Macchiato Man). Birmingham Pen Company is famous for their “small batch” ink, in which they release very unusual colors in different formulations. While I can sometimes get overwhelmed by the sheer volume of ink on the market, somehow Birmingham manages their releases in a way that seems well-thought out and with a style that’s coherent across the brand.
Lamy Scala: A Forgotten Gem? (via UK Fountain Pens). While I’m sure it’s a well-made pen, the Scala has always felt a bit “boxy” or “too squared off” for me, design-wise. Anthony offers his thoughts on why this pen never caught on.
New Parker 51 Fountain Pen (via Pencilcase Blog). I hope Dries is ready for what’s about to happen to his comment section. He’s got a very well-rounded review of both the steel and gold-nib Parker 51 re-release.

In Case You Missed It….

I took it easy this week, due to the holidays, but did publish the last installment of my 2021 Year-End Review, Part IV, Series and Editorial Posts. Content will be light for the coming week as I recharge a bit.

Curated Shop Arrivals

Given the holiday shipping schedule, the only new arrival this week was the Caran d’Ache 849 ballpoint in the new “Anthracite Grey” finish. We’ve also recently restocked on the Penco “Clipboards of the Old School,” as well as added these new Melamine Desk Trays/Valets. And if you missed it the first time around, check out my round-up of the top selling items of 2021, which have now been pulled together into a product collection in the store.

Consider Joining TGS Patreon for Access to Monthly Meetups and First Dibs on Gently Used Stationery, Exclusive Products and More!

For some additional fun, and to help support the blog consider joining the Patreon program. Patreon supporters receive special pricing and early access to product releases and collaborations such as the T.G.S. x Sunderland pen, in addition to other benefits. You can read more about T.G.S. Patreon here. This year I’ve introduced monthly online meetups, which take place on Friday or Saturday and have been super enjoyable. The Patreon membership also has “first dibs” on my regular gently used stationery sales. Check out the current sale, as there is at least one custom fountain pen remaining!