SusieG Studio

I spent my four day weekend at the 2023 DC Pen Show. This year’s show was probably the largest show with 200+ exhibitors covering three venues: Alexandria room, Ticket Lounge, and the regular large Ballroom. I could sense there was a lot of “energy” during the show by the number of people in attendance. I can say this was the best show I have attended.

Okay, let’s get to the main topic on hand. Here is my haul from the pen show.

Prior to the start of my workshops, I was able to spend a few minutes in the main venue. I had a small list of things to look for like the Vanness/Robert Oster exclusive ink Hickory Aflame. I saw an inky swatch at the show and knew I had to get this ink. It’s now my favorite brown shimmering ink. A wet ink with golden shimmers.

I was wandering around and saw a Dromgoole/Rickshaw table. My eyes immediately went to the colorful pen cases on display. I had a lovely conversation with Mark, the owner of Rickshaw, and we exchanged stickers and business cards. I purchased the lovely Sinclair Model R cases in the purple and teal versions of Sakura. I could not decide on one color!

Saturday was a very busy day in the three venues. On my break in between my workshops, I went down to the main level to walk around and found huge crowds of people milling around. I ended up walking around outside to get some fresh air.

My hubby had stopped by and took a seat during my last workshop. After my workshop, we later walked around the three venues. He did not realize how big the fountain pens and inks world was. This pen show had global representation (exhibitors) and many beautiful fountain pens and colorful inks that could be found. He was a bit overwhelmed and I could see his eyes glazed over a bit. My hubby, the horticulturist, now understands my passion.

Sunday was my “down” day to relax and actually enjoy the pen show. I purchased my second pen. Whoa! What happened to my first pen purchase? I will explain that later in a separate blog post.

I spent some time at the Franklin-Christoph table creating my writing samples from the tester pens they had on display. I enjoyed my time here sitting in a chair and trying out their vast variety of nibs. I also enjoyed chatting with several pen-folks who sat next to me at the table.

My head kept turning to a pen sitting in one of their trays. This is what happens when I tell myself I’m not buying anymore pens. It was the resin that caught my eye. It was also the 02 Intrinsic model. Then it all clicked in my head…I could get a Nagahara nib to go with the pen. Done! I checked my receipt and it’s a prototype pen. I have no clue as to the resin used. From my research, maybe Peacock or Tahitian surf? If anyone knows this resin name and manufacturer, please leave me a comment.

I stopped by my last table and met Lauren, the owner of Lucky Star Pens. It was where I found the Colorverse journal I’ve been wanting to try out. She gave me a pen to use to try out the paper. I quickly created a pen & ink sketch and used my water brush to see how the paper handled a light wash of water. The paper handled my sketch brilliantly. Lauren and I exchanged stickers. I really do enjoy these exchanges as it’s a fantastic way to remember my journey with pen friends. Lauren-thank you for your time, our conversation, and your generosity. You are so kind.

I somehow lost track of the time when Hubby texted me about going to the Apple store. Ooooops! I almost forgot. I had another mission on my to-do-list and had to the leave show quickly.

Stay tuned for inky swatches, paper testing, and pen review(s) coming soon!