In this final episode of Season One, Derek Deweese reflects on the journey of the podcast, discussing the evolution of the show, the guests featured, and the insights gained from each episode. He shares his personal experiences with stationery, including his favorite pens, inks, and papers, and highlights the importance of community engagement in the stationery world. As he looks forward to Season Two, Derek invites feedback and suggestions from listeners to enhance future episodes.
Show Links
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwFAC_8KRdr4AnR1IhPION7BN-fQvIF7E
https://youtu.be/PRGOvPd-m4w
https://youtu.be/UNym0r0hzU4
https://youtu.be/vK1cLWwEF2o
https://youtu.be/dwKfK8bFx6o
https://youtu.be/LzR-5SwfXgw
https://youtu.be/iXo0DN1MkBs
https://youtu.be/QUNFyzVwWXQ
https://youtu.be/AH5MKweOrfw
https://youtu.be/9abdQsq4SQg
https://youtu.be/7xs00EB5dPk
https://youtu.be/9yHn8p5Fats
https://youtu.be/7QeiA5dluuc
https://youtu.be/KRu7jiy87KA
https://youtu.be/5ibyTw-hdP4
https://youtu.be/ysbZ8iLDv3I
https://youtu.be/QSxJQCEjOKY
https://youtu.be/RAmB5EvsdJI
https://youtu.be/cZQJLEFgjyo
https://youtu.be/aSuII-8lttw
Takeaways
This is the last episode of season one.
Plans to continue the show for a long time.
Dabbling with various inks has been enjoyable.
Developing a better paper palette is essential.
Favorite stationery item is a book weight.
Showcasing guests has been a rewarding experience.
Community engagement is vital in the stationery world.
Personal journey in stationery has evolved significantly.
Looking forward to more pen shows and recordings.
Encouraging feedback for future episodes is important.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the DWRD NetStationary Feed
00:00 Introduction to the DWRD Net Stationery Feed
00:09 Reflecting on Season One
07:29 Guest Highlights and Episode Recaps
23:44 Personal Journey and Future Plans
26:16 What's Next for the DWRDNET Stationery Feed
In this engaging conversation, Azizah of Gourmet Pens shares her journey in the stationery world, discussing her extensive experience with fountain pens, inks, and papers. She highlights her passion for creating inky messes and her love for collaboration with various pen makers. Azizah also reflects on the impact of social media on the pen community, the importance of fostering connections, and her ongoing projects, including classes and upcoming collaborations. The discussion emphasizes the joy of using stationery and the supportive nature of the pen community.
Show Links
http://www.gourmetpens.com
https://gourmetpensshop.com
https://www.gourmetpensclub.com
https://www.instagram.com/gourmetpens/
https://www.youtube.com/gourmetpens
https://www.patreon.com/gourmetpens
https://penworld.com
https://gourmetpensshop.com/products/dc-pen-show-2025-casual-broad-edge-calligraphy
https://gourmetpensshop.com/products/dc-pen-show-2025-inky-messes
Takeaways
Azizah is known for her inky messes and passion for fountain pens.
She has between 80 to 120 pens inked at any given time.
Eyedroppering pens helps keep ink fresh and ready to use.
Her favorite pen setup is the Opus 88 with a Pilot Parallel nib.
She has a reasonable collection of about 150 inks.
Tomoe River paper is her top choice for writing.
Azizah encourages people to embrace inky messes and creativity.
She values the supportive nature of the pen community.
Azizah aims to create a welcoming environment for all stationery enthusiasts.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Azizah and Gourmet Pens
01:06 Inked Pens and Creative Process
03:37 Favorite Pens and Opus 88
08:46 Ink Preferences and Selection
15:15 Paper Preferences and Recommendations
22:16 Stationery Adjacent Items and Organization
23:33 Organizing the Chaos of Fountain Pens
26:03 The Allure of Collectible Stationery
27:00 The Birth of Gourmet Pens
28:59 The Impact of Social Media on Stationery
36:56 Collaborations and Creative Journeys
46:12 The Supportive Community of Pen Makers
48:01 Writing for Pin World Magazine
51:49 The Evolution of Podcasting in the Pen Community
56:11 Upcoming Collaborations and Classes
59:58 Future Plans for Gourmet Pens
In this episode, Luke Wiechman from Papa J Studio shares his journey into the world of pen making, discussing the inspiration behind his floral finials and the innovative use of 3D printing in his designs. He reflects on the importance of community and collaboration within the pen-making industry, as well as his future plans for new products and collaborations.
Show Links
https://www.papajstudio.com
https://www.instagram.com/papajstudio/
https://www.tristarstudio.com
https://www.instagram.com/darailpenz/
https://www.instagram.com/robspenworks/
https://www.pensbypasquale.com
https://www.instagram.com/urushi.notes/
https://www.instagram.com/sey_urushipen/
PapaJ Studio Instagram Links
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJHA_Ozufje/
https://www.instagram.com/p/C5eGBkkr_Ov/
https://www.instagram.com/p/C6pNnshPu_E/
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C7h10ApvJj2/
https://www.instagram.com/p/DB7KQLAPZ0i/
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHgk7IQJLy5/
https://www.instagram.com/p/DHi66oMu8S5/
https://www.instagram.com/p/DGdc-0jJfx_/
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DEz_n9VpneW/
https://www.instagram.com/p/DDVHCzjy2kz/
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C900ztjv_zd/
Takeaways
Papa J Studio is named in honor of Luke's father-in-law, Jerry.
Luke's journey into pen making began with woodworking and a family connection.
The floral finials are a unique selling point for Papa J Studio pens.
Collaboration with other makers is a key aspect of the pen-making community.
3D printing has significantly enhanced the design and production process for Luke.
Luke emphasizes the importance of creativity and originality in pen making.
The floral body pens require extensive time and skill to produce.
Luke plans to introduce a pocket pen and floral roll stops in the future.
Community support has been crucial for Luke's growth as a maker.
Luke's wife, Kristina, plays a vital role in the design of floral finials.
In this episode, Logan Merrill from Little Hollow Customs shares his journey into the world of pen making, discussing his creative process, the technology he employs, and the community of makers he engages with. He highlights the importance of functional art, the evolution of his pen designs, and the impact of 3D printing on his work. Logan also shares insights into his future projects and innovations in the pen-making space.
Show Links
https://littlehollowcustoms.com
https://www.instagram.com/littlehollowcustoms/
https://www.carolinapencompany.com/
https://www.instagram.com/mikes_metalworking/
https://papajstudio.com
Takeaways
In this episode, Matthew Chen, a renowned nib grinder, shares his journey into the world of fountain pens and nib grinding. He discusses his early experiences with pens, the evolution of his craft, and the unique techniques he learned from masters like Nagahara. Matthew also delves into his passion for photography, the quirky trend of placing pens in food, and the busy life of a nib grinder attending numerous pen shows. He emphasizes the importance of customer interaction and the personalized service he offers, including mail-in nib services.
Show Links
https://www.mattsnibworks.com
https://www.instagram.com/pactagon/
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Matthew Chen and His Work
12:01 The Journey into Nib Grinding
23:47 Understanding Nib Grinds and Customer Experience
24:13 Understanding Nib Grinds and Writing Styles
26:38 Choosing the Right Nib Size for Grinds
29:28 Nib Quality and Tuning Challenges
32:09 The Art of Photography and Nib Grinding
37:25 The Trend of Pens in Food
39:14 Matthew's Busy Pen Show Schedule
43:58 Future Plans for Matthew's Nibworks
In this episode, Carola, known as FromCarola on social media, shares her journey as a fountain pen enthusiast and artist. She discusses her love for fountain pens, the inks she uses, and her creative process involving watercolor and abstract art. Carola also talks about her transition to live streaming on Twitch, where she engages with a community of fellow stationery lovers. Additionally, she shares her experiences teaching workshops and her aspirations for the future, emphasizing the importance of creativity and community in her life.
Show Links
https://liliandbella.com/
https://www.instagram.com/fromcarola/
https://www.youtube.com/@FromCarola
https://www.twitch.tv/fromcarola
https://sanfranciscopenshow.com/classes/
https://blog.tombowusa.com/author/carola/
https://www.tombowusa.com/watercolor-florals-stamp-card-workshop.html
Takeaways
Carola enjoys sharing her process of using fountain pen inks and watercolor paints.
She keeps around 12 to 15 fountain pens inked at a time.
Her grail pen is the Pilot Namiki Makie Milky Way fountain pen.
Carola experiments with different inks based on her mood and the season.
Tomoe River paper is her go-to for writing.
She loves using pen rests and trays to display her pens.
Carola dove into the fountain pen hobby during the pandemic.
She finds joy in teaching others about art and creativity.
Twitch allows for real-time interaction with her audience.
Carola is open to future opportunities in the stationery community.
In this episode, Lisa Marie of Pourly Controlled shares her journey from a stationery enthusiast to a blank maker. She discusses her love for pens, inks, and the creative process behind her unique blanks. Lisa reflects on the supportive community within the stationery world and her aspirations for the future, including attending pen shows and possibly creating her own pens.
Show Links
https://www.pourlycontrolled.comhttps://www.instagram.com/pourlycontrolled/https://www.instagram.com/zodiacpencompany
https://www.instagram.com/karynalovestoplan
https://www.instagram.com/starrynightresins
https://www.instagram.com/hinzepen
https://www.instagram.com/pens_and_sprezza
https://www.instagram.com/orlandopenshow
https://www.instagram.com/atlantapenshow
https://www.instagram.com/oliveoctopus.ink
https://www.instagram.com/maverick.pens
https://www.instagram.com/hellotellostudio
Takeaways
Lisa Marie's passion for stationery began in childhood.
She transitioned from using pens to creating her own blanks.
The name 'Pourly Controlled' was a playful creation with her husband.
Lisa emphasizes the importance of community in the stationery world.
She draws inspiration from childhood memories and nature for her blanks.
Lisa's perfectionism sometimes leads to discarding her own work.
She aims to create unique and innovative pen blanks.
The emotional connection to her creations is significant for Lisa.
Lisa plans to attend more pen shows to connect with the community.
She aspires to eventually create her own pens from her blanks.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Poorly Controlled
07:00 The Journey into Stationery and Pen Making
13:34 The Name Behind Poorly Controlled
17:19 Future Aspirations in Pen Making
21:50 Creative Inspirations and Naming Blanks
24:05 The Journey of Finding the Right Pen
27:35 Signature Style in Resin Blanks
30:40 The Emotional Connection to Blanks
34:49 The Art of Experimentation and Happy Accidents
38:00 Future Aspirations for Poorly Controlled
In this episode, Derek Deweese interviews Ana from The Well-Appointed Desk, exploring her journey in the stationery world, her passion for fountain pens, inks, and papers, and the evolution of her blog into a thriving business. They discuss the importance of pen shows, the impact of tariffs on stationery products, and the vibrant community surrounding stationery enthusiasts. Ana shares insights into her ink collection, favorite stationery items, and the creative projects she undertakes, including her Patreon community and podcast.Show Linkshttps://www.wellappointeddesk.comhttps://www.wellappointeddesk.com/pen-show-schedule/https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2014/06/epic-refill-guide-rollerball-gel-and-ballpoints/https://wellappointeddesk.bigcartel.com/https://www.patreon.com/c/wellappointeddeskhttps://www.wellappointeddesk.com/?s=ink+destashhttps://youtu.be/R4NG5XDcCXQ?si=W8YnWji6ybekm_nKTakeawaysAna has a passion for fountain pens and stationery.She has streamlined her ink collection from 600 to 100 bottles.The Well-Appointed Desk started as a Tumblr blog.Ana's favorite paper is B6 Stalogy.She emphasizes the importance of supporting Tomoe River paper.Ana's Col-O-Ring project has become a staple in the stationery community.Pen shows are crucial for networking and product launches.The Patreon community offers exclusive content and a book club.Ana's podcast discusses new releases and stationery trends.Future plans include expanding product offerings despite tariff challenges.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Ana and The Well-Appointed Desk02:53 Ink and Pen Preferences05:58 The Journey of Ink Collection09:06 Exploring Ink Archiving and Art12:01 The Importance of Paper14:53 Stationery Adjacent Items17:49 The Birth of The Well-Appointed Desk21:01 The Col-O-Ring Revolution23:53 The Evolution of Ink Swatching27:07 The Col-O-Dex and Its Creation32:46 The Birth of Rolodex Cards36:28 The Evolution of Product Offerings41:10 Curating a Unique Product Line47:39 The Role of Pen Shows in Business55:34 Comparing Pen Shows and Stationery Events01:03:30 Engaging the Community through Patreon01:08:31 Future Plans for Well-Appointed Desk
In this episode, Joe C. from the Gentleman Stationer shares his journey in the stationery world, discussing his preferences for pens, inks, and paper, as well as the importance of creating a curated shopping experience. He reflects on the growth of his business, the significance of community engagement, and his future plans for the store. Joe emphasizes the joy of stationery as a hobby and the importance of providing unique products that cater to a diverse audience.
Show Linkshttps://www.gentlemanstationer.comhttps://www.instagram.com/gentlemanstationer/https://www.youtube.com/@UCRWO7U4vfE1r8FjvNh3O4tw https://patreon.com/gentlemanstationerhttps://www.gentlemanstationer.com/tgs-warehouse-shop-address (Physical Nashville Store)
Takeaways
Joe is an attorney by day and a stationery enthusiast by night.
His grail pen is the red Lamy 2000 designed by Johnny Ive.
He prefers paper that dries quickly for efficient writing.
The Gentleman Stationer started as a blog and evolved into a store.
Joe aims to create a curated shopping experience with unique offerings.
He wants to make pen shows more accessible to a broader audience.
The stationery community is shifting towards practical, everyday use items.
Joe enjoys experimenting with new products and collaborations.
He values feedback from the local community and online supporters.
The goal is to ensure the longevity and sustainability of the Gentleman Stationer.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Joe and the Gentleman Stationer
02:01 Pens and Inks: Personal Preferences
04:44 The Paper Choice: What Works Best
06:40 Stationery Adjacent Items: Beyond Pens and Paper
11:17 The Journey of the Gentleman Stationer
16:31 Curated Shopping Experience: Differentiating the Store
20:55 Balancing Business and Passion
23:11 Collaborations and Creative Partnerships
30:32 Exploring the Stationery Community
37:51 Future Plans and Community Engagement
------------Join this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8f3UwW0iTebo52QOQIYUcA/join
In this episode, Derek Deweese interviews Jaclyn Myers, co-founder of KaleidoCraft Prints, a company specializing in 3D printed stationery products. Jaclyn shares her journey into the stationery hobby, her preferences for pens, inks, and paper, and the excitement of launching her business at the Chicago Pen Show. The conversation highlights the importance of community in the stationery world and the innovative potential of 3D printing to enhance the hobby.Show Linkshttps://www.kaleidocraft.comhttps://www.instagram.com/kaleidocraftprints/https://www.wellappointeddesk.comhttps://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2020/10/alternative-ink-tools-hits-misses/https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2021/06/rethinking-the-stationery-world-post-pandemic-overcoming-burnout/https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/author/jmyers/TakeawaysJaclyn Myers launched KaleidoCraft, focusing on 3D printed stationery.She has a strong preference for unique nibs and ink combinations.The match between pen and ink is crucial for her writing experience.KaleidoCraft aims to provide affordable and customizable stationery products.The Chicago Pen Show was a successful launch for KaleidoCraft.Jaclyn emphasizes the importance of community in the stationery hobby.She encourages reconnecting with the stationery community after a hiatus.KaleidoCraft plans to donate a portion of profits to charity.The company is exploring the creation of fountain pens and nib holders.Jaclyn's passion for crafting and stationery has been lifelong.
In this episode, Chad from Eel and Anchor shares his journey into the world of fountain pens, his transition from enthusiast to maker, and the story behind his brand. He discusses his role in the Arkansas Pen Club and the upcoming 2026 Pen Show, emphasizing the importance of community and collaboration within the stationery world. Chad also touches on his experiences with resin pouring and the creative process behind making pen blanks.
Show Links
https://www.instagram.com/eel_and_anchor/
https://www.instagram.com/arkansaspenshow/
2026 Arkansas Pen Show Hotel https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/wyndham/north-little-rock-arkansas/wyndham-riverfront-little-rock/overview?CID=LC:46q62bu8edfbx3y:17526&iata=00093796
https://www.vanness1938.com
https://www.newtonpens.com
https://www.bokumondoh.com/
Takeaways
Summary
In this episode, Derek Deweese interviews Erick Gama, the founder of Amarillo Stationery, discussing his journey in the stationery world, his love for pens and inks, and the unique offerings of his business. They explore topics such as ink preferences, paper choices, the importance of branding, and the experiences at pen shows. Erick shares insights into his mascot, collaborations with other brands, and his future plans for Amarillo Stationery, emphasizing the importance of community and creativity in the stationery hobby.
Takeaways
Erick Gama is a passionate pen enthusiast and founder of Amarillo Stationery.
He prefers inks that shade and interesting colors over standard blacks and blues.
Erick's favorite stationery adjacent item is his personalized desk space.
The idea for Amarillo Stationery came from a desire to represent Latin American brands in the U.S.
His mascot, Mr. Amarillo, was developed to create a recognizable brand identity.
Collaboration with Rickshaw Bags has helped promote his brand at pen shows.
Erick's experiences at pen shows have been crucial for business growth and community engagement.
He aims to expand his product line with more proprietary inks and merchandise.
Erick emphasizes the importance of sharing creativity and supporting fellow makers in the stationery community.
He is actively seeking to improve packaging and product offerings for better customer experience.
https://www.amarillostationery.com
https://www.instagram.com/amarillostationery
https://www.instagram.com/_erickgama_/
https://www.youtube.com/@_erickgama_
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Erick Gama and Amarillo Stationery
02:57 Ink Preferences and Grail Pens
05:55 Exploring Ink and Paper Choices
08:50 Favorite Stationery Adjacent Items
11:53 The Birth of Amarillo Stationery
14:59 Mascots and Branding
17:58 Rickshaw Collaboration and Visibility
20:56 Pen Shows and Business Growth
28:38 Traveling with Supplies
30:09 Future Growth and Store Collaborations
32:42 Creative Packaging and Design
34:31 Discovering Latin American Makers
36:40 Sharing and Community in Stationery
38:48 Personalizing the Stationery Experience
41:45 Upcoming Product Collaborations
46:04 Identifying Underrepresented Products
52:17 Future Plans for Amarillo Stationery
In this episode, Shawn Newton shares his journey from being an art teacher to becoming a successful fountain pen maker. He discusses his passion for pen making, the supportive pen community, and the importance of mentorship. Shawn also highlights his scholarship program aimed at helping students pursue their education, and how his family has become involved in his business. The conversation touches on the evolution of Newton Pens, the challenges of the pen-making industry, and the joy of connecting with fellow pen enthusiasts at shows.
Show Links
https://www.newtonpens.com
https://newtonpens.storehttps://www.instagram.com/newtonpens
Scholarship Auctions on Ebay. https://www.ebay.com/usr/snennewton
https://newtonpens.com/newton-pens-scholarships/
https://www.youtube.com/ @NewtonPens
https://www.vanness1938.com
Takeaways
Shawn Newton transitioned from teaching art to making fountain pens.
He started making pens in 2012 after a passion for writing instruments.
The pen community is supportive and encourages mentorship among makers.
Shawn's scholarship program helps students pursue their education.
He collaborates with family members in his pen-making business.
Shawn aims to simplify his product offerings for better customer experience.
He emphasizes the importance of community and connections at pen shows.
Shawn's journey reflects the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.
He values the feedback from customers to improve his products.
The pen community is unique in its appreciation for quality and craftsmanship.
------------Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Shawn Newton and His Journey
10:58 The Evolution of Newton Pens
21:53 The Pen Community and Mentorship
23:50 Recognizable Designs and Industry Impact
26:03 The Unique World of Pen Shows
31:05 Simplifying the Product Line
36:23 The Scholarship Program: Giving Back
46:25 Innovations in Pen Accessories
51:56 Looking Ahead: The Future of Newton Pens
In this episode, Derek Deweese interviews Lisa, known as Olive Octopus, about her passion for ink and stationery. They discuss Lisa's journey into the world of ink swatching, her preferences for different inks and papers, and her experiences in the stationery community. Lisa shares her techniques for swatching inks, the importance of using the right tools, and her involvement in streaming and community engagement. The conversation also highlights the Ink Pony Club, a creative initiative that encourages others to explore their artistic side with inks.
ShowLinks
https://oliveoctopus.ink
https://www.instagram.com/oliveoctopus.ink/
https://www.twitch.tv/oliveoctopusink
http://inkpony.club/
https://www.fountainpencompanion.com/users/12951
https://www.penaddict.com
https://www.relay.fm
https://www.gentlemanstationer.com
https://www.butlerstationery.com
https://www.gatheringofcuriosities.com
Links from Lisa
Painting with Inkshttps://oliveoctopus.ink/inkarchivingbook.htm
Swatch Tools
https://oliveoctopus.ink/swatchtools.htm
RSS:https://oliveoctopus.ink/rss.xml
This is where I share the RSS/link sharing from TGS, WAD, TPA on my site
https://oliveoctopus.ink/resources.htm#linklists
Takeaways
Lisa is passionate about exploring fountain pens, papers, and inks.
She has a library of TWSBI pens in various colors.
Her grail pen would be an Irushi style pen.
Lisa balances using favorite inks with trying new ones.
She enjoys a variety of papers for different writing tasks.
Lisa's favorite stationery adjacent item is her Rickshaw bag.
She started ink swatching after discovering the Pen Addict podcast.
Lisa streams her ink swatching process on Twitch.
The Ink Pony Club encourages creativity and community engagement.
Lisa aims to share her love for inks and art with others.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ink and Stationery Enthusiasm
12:25 Diving into Ink Swatching Techniques
36:54 Exploring Ink Properties and Paper Interactions
43:22 The Art of Streaming and Community Engagement
52:36 The Birth of the Ink Pony Club
01:01:32 Future Plans and Community Involvement
Show Links
https://pensbypasquale.com
https://www.instagram.com/pensbypasquale/
https://hinzepens.com
https://www.hooligan-georgia.com
https://www.gentlemanstationer.com
https://www.butlerstationery.com
http://www.gourmetpens.com
Nic started making pens in 2018 or 2019.
He initially got into pen making due to his interest in high-end pocket knives.
Nic's shop is located in his basement in Columbia, TN.
He typically keeps 10 to 12 pens inked at any given time.
His favorite inks are from the Pilot Iroshizuku series.
Nic enjoys leather goods and has tried making leather pen sleeves.
He transitioned from kit pens to custom designs as his skills improved.
Internal polishing is a specialty that sets his pens apart.
Community support among pen makers is strong and collaborative.
Nic plans to expand his offerings and possibly participate in pen shows.
In this episode of the DWRDNET Stationery Feed, Scott Lewis, owner of TriStar Studios, shares his journey from woodworking to creating bespoke pens. He discusses his passion for pen making, the importance of quality materials like stabilized wood, and his preferences for inks and paper. Scott also highlights his experiences at pen shows, the unique designs of his pens, and his plans for future innovations in the craft. The conversation delves into the artistry and functionality of writing instruments, showcasing Scott's dedication to creating beautiful and unique pens.Show Linkshttps://tristarstudio.com/https://www.instagram.com/tristarstudiotn/https://oliveoctopus.inkhttps://www.butlerstationery.comhttps://www.hellotellostudio.com/https://hinzepens.com/https://pensbypasquale.com/
In this episode, Derek Deweese interviews Darrell Davis, the owner of D Squared Arts, who shares his journey into the world of pen making and the artistic processes behind his unique creations. Darrell discusses his background in art, the inspiration behind his designs, and the importance of functionality in his work. He also touches on his aspirations for community engagement and the future of his craft.Show Linkshttps://dsquaredarts.com/https://d-squared-arts.myshopify.com/https://www.instagram.com/d_squared_arts/https://www.facebook.com/DSquaredArtshttps://newtonpens.com-----------Be sure to visit Darrell at the Chicago and Dallas Pen Shows to see these works of art in person.TakeawaysD Squared Arts focuses on creating functional art through unique pen designs.Darrell's journey into pen making was influenced by his friend Shawn Newton.The tactile experience of using a pen is essential to Darrell's design philosophy.Darrell enjoys experimenting with different materials and techniques in his art.He aims to create pens that evoke a personal connection with the user.The artistic process involves a lot of trial and error, especially with new designs.Darrell emphasizes the importance of community in the pen-making world.He plans to expand his presence at pen shows and online sales.Darrell is exploring the idea of incorporating metalwork into his pen designs.The uniqueness of each pen is a key selling point for D Squared Arts.Chapters00:00 Introduction to D Squared Arts02:01 Journey into the Pen and Stationery Hobby04:32 The Art of Pen Making09:53 Exploring Paper and Stationery Preferences12:28 Favorite Stationery Adjacent Items14:10 Background in Art and Education19:06 The Process of Hand-Carving Pens23:01 Creating Unique Pen Blanks25:04 Design Considerations in Pen Making31:23 Ceramics and Artistic Techniques34:10 The Art of Ceramics and Functional Design38:49 Creating Unique Writing Instruments44:37 Exploring the Intersection of Art and Functionality47:51 Expanding Presence in the Pen Community01:01:31 Future Aspirations and Community Engagement
In this episode, Derek Deweese interviews Danielle Kindsfater, the owner of Happiness Handmade, LLC. They discuss Danielle's journey into the world of stationery, her passion for journaling, and the unique products her business offers, including clear matte stickers and watercolor art. The conversation delves into the importance of community support, the challenges of running a small business, and the deeper meaning behind creating art and stationery. Danielle shares her insights on the stationery industry, her favorite tools, and her vision for Happiness Handmade, emphasizing the joy and fulfillment that comes from creativity and connection. In this conversation, Danielle and Derek explore the challenges and triumphs of running a small business in the creative niche of stationery and journaling. They discuss overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of community building through analog connections, and the merging of planner and fountain pen communities. Danielle shares her innovative approach to stickers and their versatile uses in journaling, while also outlining her aspirations for the future of Happiness Handmade, including international shipping and affiliate programs.Danielle will be at Author Fest hosted by Bean's Books at Pickles Gap Village in Conway, AR on 4-12-25, 9-5pm CSTHappiness Handmade is also looking at the St,. Louis and Dallas Pen Shows as well, but not yet confirmed.-----------Links mentioned in the episodehttps://www.happinesshandmadellc.comhttps://www.instagram.com/daniellekindsfater/https://www.instagram.com/elizajournalshttps://www.instagram.com/nibs.and.tints/https://www.instagram.com/Rebeka_Planshttps://www.instagram.com/iamshandrabroughtonhttps://www.vanness1938.comhttps://pegandawlbuilt.com------------Affiliate Linkshttps://www.vanness1938.comUse Code DWRDNET for a 10% discount on your purchase. Some exclusions apply. Check the website for details.TakeawaysHappiness Handmade aims to facilitate happiness through creative expression.Danielle's journey into stationery began with a love for journaling and art.The importance of community support in growing a small business.Fountain pens and paper choices are deeply personal and impactful.Creating stickers is a way to inspire others and elicit feelings.Danielle values the relationship between her products and her customers.The growth of Happiness Handmade is driven by organic community engagement.Danielle's husband plays a crucial role in the business operations.Future plans include expanding product offerings and participating in more events.The journey of building a business is a slow but rewarding process. Imposter syndrome is common among small business owners.Building community is essential for growth in creative niches.Face-to-face interactions enhance connections in the stationery community.Stickers can be used creatively beyond traditional planning.The planner and fountain pen communities are merging.Innovative designs can make stickers more appealing to a broader audience.International shipping poses challenges for small businesses.Understanding market preferences is crucial for product design.Social media can be a powerful tool for small business marketing.Every small business starts with a small following, and growth takes time.
Summary
In this episode of the DWRDNET Stationery Feed, host Derek Deweese interviews Jonathan Butler, the owner of Butler Stationery in Columbia, Tennessee. Jonathan shares his journey into the world of stationery, his passion for pens and inks, and the joy of running a stationery shop. He discusses his favorite products, the importance of supporting local makers, and his experiences with vintage pen restoration. The conversation also touches on Jonathan's future plans for his shop, including the potential for hosting classes and incorporating a tea shop.
SummaryIn this engaging interview, Derek Deweese speaks with artist and photographer Chase Gustafson about his journey into the world of fountain pens and stationery. They discuss Chase's early experiences with art supplies, his preferences for writing papers, and the importance of nibs and ink flow in fountain pen use. The conversation also touches on the unique challenges faced by left-handed writers and the various accessories that enhance the stationery experience. Chase shares insights into his artistic process and how he integrates fountain pens into his work, making for a rich discussion about creativity and the tools that inspire it.Show Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/chasingphotography/https://www.chasingphotography.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@UCbN4JNVqy-J9m7cveTVIBHQProducts MentionedLochby Tool Rollhttps://www.gentlemanstationer.com/curated-paper/lochby-tool-rollMnemosyne Kleid Edition Horizontalhttps://vanness1938.com/products/kleid-mnemosyne-x-kleid-a4w-notebook?_pos=1&_fid=8d15186de&_ss=cAffiliate Linkshttps://www.vanness1938.comUse Code DWRDNET for a 10% discount on your purchase. Some exclusions apply. Check the website for details.TakeawaysChase Gustafson has a long-standing relationship with art supplies.Fountain pens offer a unique writing experience compared to other pens.Choosing the right paper is crucial for fountain pen use.Left-handed writers often adapt their techniques to suit their needs.The nib material affects the writing experience significantly.Ink flow is influenced by both the nib and the feed of the pen.Stationery accessories can enhance the writing experience.Chase prefers dot grid paper for journaling and sketching.Fountain pens can be used for both writing and drawing.The stationery community is rich with resources and support for enthusiasts.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Chase Gustafson and His Artistic Journey02:47 The Preferred Papers for Chase08:44 Stationery Adjacent Items and Their Significance13:57 Fountain Pens: A Natural Transition for Artists17:21 Left-Handed Challenges and Adaptations in Art21:27 Understanding Paper Weight and Its Impact on Art23:07 Exploring Paper Types and Their Impact25:07 Understanding Nib Materials and Their Importance29:10 The Evolution of Fountain Pens and Nib Technology35:07 Ink Flow Mechanics in Fountain Pens40:58 Wrapping Up and Where to Find Chase's Work42:58 Future Interviews and Community Engagement