Grass Padrique | The Fabulous Scientist I got my TWSBI Kai when it was first released through a pre-order from Everything Calligraphy back in October 2023—right when I was still tumbling headfirst into the fountain pen rabbit hole. At the time, I had this itch to own something “rare” or “limited,” and the Kai just… Continue reading Is the TWSBI Kai Worth It? My Honest Long-Term Review
Tag: fountain pen collection
Jinhao Shark Fountain Pen Review: Playful and Practical
Grass Padrique | The Fabulous Scientist I don’t buy fountain pens as often as I used to—my “acquire everything shiny” phase has officially mellowed out. In fact, I’ve been on a bit of a decluttering streak this year, letting go of some of the beginner pens I picked up when I was just starting out.… Continue reading Jinhao Shark Fountain Pen Review: Playful and Practical
First Impressions: My First Time at the Manila Pen Show 2026
Grass Padrique | The Fabulous Scientist If you’ve ever fallen down the rabbit hole of fountain pens, inks, and all things analog, then the Manila Pen Show 2026 is probably already on your radar, or at least it should be. For the uninitiated, the Manila Pen Show is a yearly gathering of pen enthusiasts, collectors, artists,… Continue reading First Impressions: My First Time at the Manila Pen Show 2026
Ink Review: Platinum Carbon Black — The Waterproof Ink I Wish I Tried Sooner
Grass Padrique | The Fabulous Scientist One of the most talked-about permanent black inks in the fountain pen world is Platinum Carbon Black Ink. It has been a favorite among artists, sketchers, and fountain pen enthusiasts for years, especially for people who need their writing to survive water, humidity, and time. What makes this ink different… Continue reading Ink Review: Platinum Carbon Black — The Waterproof Ink I Wish I Tried Sooner
Discover the Hongdian M2: A Pocket Pen Review
Grass Padrique | The Fabulous Scientist Pocket fountain pens are a dangerous rabbit hole. You start with “I just want something small for my pocket,” and suddenly you’re comparing faceted caps and arguing with strangers on the internet about converters. You also end up collecting so many in different colors like I did with Wancai… Continue reading Discover the Hongdian M2: A Pocket Pen Review
I’m Destashing My Fountain Pens – Please Send Help (or Ink)!
Grass Padrique | The Fabulous Scientist Just over two weeks ago, I proudly declared that I was decluttering our home, starting with the obvious space invaders—furniture, storage boxes, unused art materials and other large items that had quietly claimed permanent residency in our living space. Friends generously adopted many of them, and I felt victorious.… Continue reading I’m Destashing My Fountain Pens – Please Send Help (or Ink)!
Asvine C80: A Pen Worth Waiting For
Grass Padrique | The Fabulous Scientist Some fountain pens enter our lives by chance. Others arrive after a long season of quiet wanting. The Asvine C80 belongs to the second kind. I started reading and watching about this pen last year on Reddit, YoutTube, and in fountain pen groups, where people described it as a… Continue reading Asvine C80: A Pen Worth Waiting For
Sailor TUZU Adjust Fountain Pen: A Beginner-Friendly Pen with Clever Engineering
Disclaimer: I was not paid or sponsored by Sailor or any retailer to write this review. I purchased these pens myself, and everything I’ve shared reflects my own honest experience and personal opinions. I do not earn any commission from any purchases made based on this review. Please buy at your own discretion and assess… Continue reading Sailor TUZU Adjust Fountain Pen: A Beginner-Friendly Pen with Clever Engineering
When You Can’t Go to the Pen Show But the Pen Show Comes to You
I missed a few events this year—like the Manila Pen Show, the Phuket Asian Urban Sketchwalk I wrote about recently, and the Manila International Book Festival (MIBF). Sadly, I also missed the Malaysia International Pen Show (MIPS). Between work, motherhood, and the fact that I’m still new in my workplace (which means no vacation leaves… Continue reading When You Can’t Go to the Pen Show But the Pen Show Comes to You
Fountain Pen Review: Jinhao 58 Fountain Pen (EF Nib, Spring-Inspired Colorway)
Disclaimer: This review is based entirely on my personal experience after several hours of using the pen. I purchased the Jinhao 58 with my own money and do not receive any form of commission or sponsorship from the brand. All opinions shared here are my own. Please make purchase decisions at your own discretion. Hi, everyone!… Continue reading Fountain Pen Review: Jinhao 58 Fountain Pen (EF Nib, Spring-Inspired Colorway)