I’ve spent most of this week getting ready to attend the 2022 D.C. Pen Show, and while I’m super excited about the event, and especially about seeing friends who I only get to visit with once or twice a year, it’s always a struggle to avoid getting carried away. It’s easy to do! D.C. is the largest pen show in the world - definitely in the U.S. - and I don’t believe I’ve ever seen more pens, ink, paper, and related ephemera together in one place!
One of several ink testing stations at a past D.C. Pen Show. I hope they’re back this year.
I regularly get e-mails from readers who want to attend the show, but are concerned because they’re not in a place where they can or want to spend more money on yet more pens. Will there be anything for them to do at the show? The answer to that question is yes, and I thought I’d kick off the extra-long D.C. Pen Show “weekend” with a list of things you can do at a pen show that (mostly) won’t kill your budget.
Take a Class or Seminar. While some classes (such as calligraphy) charge a nominal materials fee, there are currently ten free seminars available Friday through Sunday, covering topics ranging from pen history to vintage pen repair to modern “indie” pens.
Learn About History from Vintage Vendors. You don’t have to purchase vintage pens to learn more about them. Walking the show, talking to vintage vendors and private collectors, and taking pictures of those brands and models that interest you can be equally educational and satisfying. Just be sure to ask permission before picking up pens and/or photographing them.
Test Out Different Pens and Paper. Even if you don’t intend to buy a new pen or need any more paper, many of the show tables will have testers and product samples available for you to peruse. At my own table, even though I’m not selling on-site, I plan to have pens inked up and samples of all different sorts of fountain pen friendly paper on the table for people to test.
Visit the Ink Sampling Table. The D.C. Pen Show usually features an extensive ink testing station donated by retailers, where you can sample inks from various brands. Pro tip: I would highly recommend NOT filling your pen directly from public bottles of ink - you have no idea whether or not the ink has been contaminated or how old it is. Rather, use a dip pen or q-tip to swab a color sample into a notebook.
Meet the Makers. Do you enjoy meeting and talking with the people who made your pens and inks? Many of them will be at the show. Be sure to tell them how much you appreciate their work!
Write With Your Pens/Take Some Downtime. For some of us, any pen show weekend is a “mini vacation” that lets us get away from work and other obligations and do nothing but enjoy our hobby. So enjoy your hobby! Find a quiet corner, grab a coffee/beer/wine/water, and spend some time journaling or writing.
Have Nibs Tuned or Ground. Instead of purchasing ever-more pens, perhaps you want to tune or tweak a pen that you already own? Check out the list of exhibitors - there will be TEN (10) nib workers on site tuning and grinding nibs.
Trade Pens and Inks with Other Attendees. Every year, people come to the show looking to send under-loved pens and inks to new homes. After-hours events in the hotel bar always turn into a great venue for trading and/or selling your personal pens. Just follow the #penshowsafterdark hashtag.
Talk to Other Enthusiasts. While I’m admittedly on the introverted side (and most of us in this hobby are to some degree), I’ve met many close friends in this hobby, including at shows. Making the extra effort to socialize can be valuable!
Get Out of the Show and Visit the Area. You can only take so much pen show! In a larger show, in an area like D.C. or San Francisco, take an afternoon or evening to visit local shops, restaurants, and museums. If you’re there for the weekend, shows tend to get crowded on Saturday afternoon, which is always a good time to take a break.
Come Visit the T.G.S. Table at the D.C. Pen Show
While I’m flying and will NOT have a retail setup (due to the last-minute logistics of attending), I will be bringing lots of pens and paper for people to see in person and test at the table. I will also be assisting with the D.C. Pen Show Scavenger Hunt, and generally available to talk and answer any questions you may have navigating the pen show!
Finally, today is the last call for D.C. pickup orders. If you want to place an order online for delivery at the show, please get them in tonight before 5:00pm US Central Time. Many thanks!
The Gentleman Stationer is supported by purchases from the T.G.S. Curated Shop and pledges via the T.G.S. Patreon Program. This post does not contain links to paid sponsors or affiliates.