Day 22 - 30 Inks 30 Days - Kaweco Ruby Red Chris Saenz 2024-10-22 | Day 22 - 30 Inks 30 Days - Kaweco Ruby Red
Nib Swap Tips - Jinhao 80 Chris Saenz 2022-11-20 | In this video I share my success story of swapping 3 Jinhao 80 nibs using tips from pen friend +viewer Neil Piper and ideas from Doug's video at Inkquiring Minds' channel. I use some older pens to demonstrate a couple of things I ran into. Ultimately I needed 4 things:* Lobster band (gripper of any kind that works for you* Small eye glass/jewelry repair screwdriver* Duct Tape (you can try regular tape I had no luck with it though)* Tissue/KleenexThe first pen was easiest ... it took only a slight levering of the nib with the screwdriver and then I pulled the nib off with a lobster band. The second two were extremely stubborn and the screwdriver didn't budge the nib ... so I turned to the duct tape. The entire feed and nib came out and so I had to do both pen #2 and pen #3 in two parts ... the feed with nib came out first and then I repeated the duct tape and tissue procedure to free the nibs. My philosophy on these pens is that I will treat them like I do my Moonman Mini Wancai's ... I leave dedicated nibs in those pens because the nibs on them also pull out with lots of difficulty with tape (for me). Everyone's experience and risk tolerance will be different. LOLI hope this video helps at least one person to be able to free their nib off the Jinhao 80. I will say however, the Fine nib that came on mine was so good ... I've carefully tucked it away for future use. So don't feel compelled to swap nibs if you like a nice juicy Fine nib and if you get as lucky as I did .. you could be all set with the stock nib that comes on yours. Good luck and please let me know of any other tricks and tips you know of because I love these pens so much it would not shock me if I were to get another one someday. Please comment if you have one of these pens and you've done some nib switching!Doug's Video where in the process of showing the nibs he uses duct tape to pull a Jinhao 80 nib/feed/nib:youtube.com/watch?v=OXuS9rYyOccMy Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My Pen Email: chris@inkswatch.com
Jinhao 80 Fountain Pen Talk Chris Saenz 2022-11-17 | In this video, I give my thoughts about the Jinhao 80 Fountain Pen! This is an affordable ($8 or less) Chinese lookalike but not a duplicate of the Lamy 2000. My pen came with a very smooth Fine nib and there is a lot to love about the pen! A Lamy style nib, cartridge converter, smooth nib, under $8 price tag and stunning looks to start with. My nib will not yet come off ... several other reviewers have been able to get the nib off and replace it with a Lamy style nib which I hope to be able to do so that I can enjoy a Lamy Broad nib on mine. I'm just being cautious not to break my pen. We look at comparison pens, writing samples, a few measurements and I talk about what I like and don't like about it. I wrote with DeAtramentis Alexander Hamilton for this review. I have to say, my Jinhao 80 is such a great little writer, I'm happy with it just as it is and will be really excited if I eventually do get one that I can put a Broad nib on but for now I'm certainly happy with the purchase!I encourage you to watch chrisrap52s review -- he really has some interesting nib talk and I watched his video after I'd purchased my pen and written with it!NOTE: I had a little bit of a microphone issue so you may need to use higher volume and/or captions if possible .... I do apologize for this ... most of the video is okay but just in a few spots the volume lowers. Heldin Writes does a super comparison with the Jinhao 80 and the Lamy 2000:youtube.com/watch?v=Urvj4mgbxVIChrisrap52's Jinhao 80 review:youtube.com/watch?v=nSp0rz_02IIAnother really fun Jinhao 80 review:youtube.com/watch?v=x5uZkfOvTto&t=1067sMy Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Progress Report - November 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-11-14 | In this video I show you my Ink Journal entries for the 8 fountain pens and inks I'm using this month (November 2022) and talk about how it's going. I'm using 8 TWSBI Ecos, 7 with M nibs and 1 with a B nib. We do a comparison ink panel on a beautiful sold out ink from Vanness: Hissy Fit, and I also show you my box of projects and distractions I'm enjoying this month within the hobby!!!!Here is a list of the pens and inks talked about in the video:SPECIAL NOTE: video is labeled with "paid promotion" since one of the inks I am featuring was supplied by a pen store - Colorverse Alpha Centauri 15 ml bottle from Vanness Pen Shop. The rest of the pens and inks were purchased with my own money, channel ad funds and samples/pens supplied by pen friends as noted below.1. TWSBI Eco Clear M - with Vanness Hissy Fit ink (30 ml bottle purchased with channel ad money).+ I also put this ink into 2 other pens: Lamy Al-Star 1.5 and Moonman Mini Wancai B #5 nib.2. TWSBI Eco Rose Gold + White - M - with Noodler's Stockyard Signature Dallas Pen Show 2022 ink now Dromgoole's exclusive - sample from pen friend E.C.3. TWSBI Eco Cement Grey - M - (pen was a gift from pen friend Ms Turtle) with DeAtramentis Elderberry - sample from pen friend S.B.4. TWSBI Eco Purple Transparent - M - with Pelikan 4001 Violet - (30 ml bottle purchased with channel ad money).5. TWSBI Eco Cerulean Blue (pen purchased with channel ad money) - B - with Conklin Antique Turquoise - sample from pen friend C.S.6. TWSBI Eco Green Transparent - M - with Colorverse Alpha Centauri - 15 ml ink bottle from Vanness Pen Shop.7. TWSBI Eco Rose Gold + Black - M - with Pure Pens Llanberis Slate - ink samples from pen friends A.W. and M.B.8. TWSBI Eco Transparent Red - M - with Monteverde Valentine Red - ink sample from pen friend MMD.ITEMS IN MY Project/Distraction box:1. Found! My brass shim material2. Jinhao X159 (continuing nib work)3. Jinhao 159 red with Colorverse Red Shift (comparison pen for X159 video)4. Ink Sample Tile: Dominant Industries Christmas Red shimmer (sample from pen friend C.S.) in my Lamy Vista B5. Moonman Mini Wancai (pink) B #5 Goulet nib with Vanness Hissy Fit and housed in an XS Rickshaw pen sleeve in purple.6. Pilot Metropolitan (White Tiger) CM with Sailor Grenade ink (pen from pen friend K.R.)7. Tasche Ohto pocket fountain pen F in black with cartridge8. Pilot Kakuno Clear M nib with cartridge9. Jinhao 80 Lamy 2000 lookalike with F nib. (not yet inked)December Plans: Miss Marilyn Darling gifted me samples of the 2022 Inkvent Calendar inks and I'm very excited to try those in December so we'll see which pens I will use for that ... probably heavy on the Serendipity's and other dip pens I have. :) During my December Progress Reports (weekly is what I plan) I will show you my journal entries and any pens that are inked with Diamine Inkvent ink.Please Check out Marilyn's channel -- they have so much fun ink and fountain pen and calligraphy content:youtube.com/c/marilyndarlingshowMy Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Book Talk: The Power of Regret Chris Saenz 2022-11-12 | In this video, I talk about the awesome book I just finished: The Power of Regret by Daniel H. Pink.This book really impacted me and I'm using the tools I learned in the book! I highly recommend the book and it's an interesting and relatable book! In my video I talk about how I worked with a current regret (of selling my car a little over a year ago) by applying the ideas in the book. The subject really has me intrigued because studying it revealed a not too healthy relationship that I have with regret. I could be more effective in life by applying the things in this book so I wanted to share it on the chance it might help someone else too.I plan to continue practicing the tools he recommends and I'm excited about the progress I've already made. I used the example of regretting selling my car even though that is a very shallow thing I think and there are much more important more emotionally charged regrets ... but it's a good topic for me to start on because it's not as touchy as say an estrangement or other core regrets that fall even closer to: foundation, boldness, moral and connection regrets ... connection regrets are perhaps my biggest ikky area but I was far more comfortable talking about my car fiasco. What are you reading? I'd love to hear about it. I'm a constant reader in so many genre's lol. TED Talk by Daniel H. Pink it's excellent ... you don't want to miss it!:youtube.com/watch?v=cenxg8j-Rc0&t=4sI buy most/many of my books off Thrift Books:thriftbooks.comWorld Regret Survey:worldregretsurvey.comMy current read is: The Anxiety RX by Russell Kennedy, MDOngoing long term reading jag: ELVIS books - next up is a re-read of Careless Love part 2 of Peter Guaralnick's biography on ELVIS. Also enjoying the '68 Comeback Special - the story behind the special by Steve Binder. My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen/book email: chris@inkswatch.com
Jinhao X159 Review Chris Saenz 2022-11-09 | In this video I give my opinion on the Jinhao X159 Fine nib Acrylic Fountain Pen in Black with Silver Trim. My cats Coco and Princess (otherwise known as my assistants) were napping and did make an appearance in the beginning of the video but all opinions and mistakes are strictly mine. amazon.com/Jinhao-Fountain-Black-Acrylic-Writing/dp/B0B6RDLB85/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=WSJKE9F3D5QT&keywords=Jinhao+X159+Fountain+Pen&qid=1668031014&sprefix=jinhao+x159+fountain+pen%2Caps%2C174&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1I bought mine from Amazon with channel ad money. This pen has a lot going for it! Although, as I explain in the video, it is not my favorite of the 2 Jinhao 159 models -- I prefer the metal one because of the nib size mainly.This fountain pen has a #8 nib which is the only #8 nib I own. So I'm limited in nib width when writing with this one.Ink I used in the Jinhao X159 was Pilot Iroshizuku Take-SumiThe red Jinhao 159 I was using has Colorverse Red Shift ink in it. I found a lot to like in this new pen: it's lightweight, it has a beautiful elegant/simple design, and it's very affordable. Here are a few measurements:Weight of the X159 - 28.2 grams (with ink) Weight of the original metal 159 - 48.4 grams (without ink)Weight of the X159 uncapped - 17.6 gramsLength capped: 147 mmLength un-posted: 132 mmGrip Diameter: 13 mm (the original 159 grip diameter 12 mm tapered so it varies)On the minus side: I feel very limited in nib size/choice and not only that but my particular nib although it does not skip or hard start --- needs some tuning which I will complete when I get some more brass shim. Meanwhile, it writes acceptably but I don't really like the writing experience yet. Also, there are not as many color choices with the X159 as there are in the metal 159s. I think people who love Fine nibs, light weight pens, and easy to maintain affordable pens will love this one and any nib work if needed at all should be minor and easy to accomplish. If you don't lose your pen maintaining items like I've done.These are only my opinions and there are a variety of video reviews out there ... be sure to look around because as a Broad nib person I can be rather harsh on pens with F nibs. I actually like the nibs that come on the Jinhao 159s, X750s and X450s much better (they are number 6 nibs) than this #8 nib. Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
DIY Pen Box - Simple Chris Saenz 2022-11-04 | Happy Fountain Pen Day everyone! I had fun adapting an Opus 88 pen box into a desk top pen box by blacking out the lettering on the box and applying a favorite sticker to the box! Simple but so much fun!Coco is helping me today so it's essential I not turn my back on my TWSBI Ecos ... which will reside in the Rickshaw Sinclair R when the writing day has finished.My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My Pen Email: chris@inkswatch.com
Chris Inked Pens - November 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-10-29 | In this video I show you the 8 fountain pens and inks I'll be writing with in November! I decided to change things this month and stick with one pen model (TWSBI Ecos) while choosing 8 different ink brands and colors! SPECIAL NOTE: video is labeled with "paid promotion" since one of the inks I am featuring was supplied by a pen store - Colorverse Alpha Centauri 15 ml bottle from Vanness Pen Shop. The rest of the pens and inks were purchased with my own money, channel ad funds and samples supplied by pen friends as noted below.I've chosen some of my inks with holiday cards in mind and hope to float some of these into December when my main emphasis will be the Diamine Inkvent 2022 samples. I plan to use various dip style pens (including my Serendipity) in December .... so that I can try out each of the 25 inks in the Inkvent and keep clean up simple!Here is a list of the pens and inks plus in all cases that I can remember or have notation about - who supplied the samples:1. TWSBI Eco Clear M - with Vanness Hissy Fit ink (30 ml bottle purchased with channel ad money).2. TWSBI Eco Rose Gold + White - M - with Noodler's Stockyard Signature Dallas Pen Show 2022 ink now Dromgoole's exclusive - sample from pen friend E.C.3. TWSBI Eco Cement Grey - M - (pen was a gift from pen friend Ms Turtle) with DeAtramentis Elderberry - sample from pen friend S.B.4. TWSBI Eco Purple Transparent - M - with Pelikan 4001 Violet - (30 ml bottle purchased with channel ad money).5. TWSBI Eco Cerulean Blue (pen purchased with channel ad money) - B - with Conklin Antique Turquoise - sample from pen friend C.S.6. TWSBI Eco Green Transparent - M - with Colorverse Alpha Centauri - 15 ml ink bottle from Vanness Pen Shop.7. TWSBI Eco Rose Gold + Black - M - with Pure Pens Llanberis Slate - ink samples from pen friends A.W. and M.B.8. TWSBI Eco Transparent Red - M - with Monteverde Valentine Red - ink sample from pen friend MMD.I'm excited about putting these pens in service with an emphasis on cards and correspondence. One question is: will I miss having more Broad nibs inked? I'm not sure. I have 3 Ecos with Broad nibs but for the most part the M nib pens were the colors I wanted and so we shall see. Please let me know what your November ink and pen choices are in the comments - I'd love to hear about it. My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470Compare ink colors here: inkswatch.comMy pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Progress Report - October 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-10-15 | This is my October progress report where I talk about how the pens and inks I'm using are working out! I'm writing with Nooder's inks this month! In the video we look at writing samples and a few chromatography tests plus I talk about some issues with lighting, camera and old samples. Here is a list of the 9 main pens and inks covered:1. Jinhao 159 B JoWo - with Noodler's Golden Aspen 2017 Colorado Pen Show LE sample from pen friend KS.2. Montblanc Meisterstuck Classique M - with Nooder's Tokyo Gift Cherry Blossom.3. Hongdian Black Forest Rainbow Fude - with Nooder's Cactus Fruit Eel.https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09P78Z8RX/...4. Lamy Safari Dark Lilac 1.5 - with Nooder's Purple Mountain Majesties - original sample from Pen Friend L.S.5. Moonman M600S Tiger's Eye B Goulet - with Noodler's Golden Brown.6. Jinhao X750 Ivory with 0.8 Nemosine stub - with Nooder's Chisholm Trail sample from pen friend C.W. 7. TWSBI Eco Blue Transparent B - with Nooder's Navajo Turquoise recently renamed to Turquoise of the Mesas.8. TWSBI Go Clear B - with Noodler's Habenero sample from pen friend F.D. 9. BONUS PEN prepping for an Early Impressions Video: Jinhao X159 F - with (ink changed to: Pilot Iroshizuku Take-sumi.4 inks recently received:1. Lennon Toolbar Hoo Koo Po (Aunt Tiger) from pen friend BBR2. Colorverse Think Pink Vanness Special Ink (sent to me from Vanness Pen Shop with my recent order)3. Vanness Hissy Fit Pink (purchased with channel ad money)4. Sailor Jentle Grenade (from pen friend Ms Turtle)Special Additional Thanks and items shown:Tasche Ohto F pocket pen (purchased with channel ad money)Jinhao X159 F (purchased with channel ad money)Wing Sung 3024 EF (from pen friend FD)Kaweco Sport Mellow Blue BB (from pen friend BBR)Ink samples from: Pen Friends: MD and CS and September Ink Flight from Pen Friend MHSpecial Binder from Pen Friend MB (review to come in the near future)THANK YOU to everyone who has watched my videos and liked, subscribed, commented, written letters and cards, sent ink samples and contributed in the many ways you have to this channel and to me over the past 5 years. I can't thank you enough. I feel very blessed and showered with so much positivity. Thank you!!!!My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My Pen Email: chris@inkswatch.comCompare Inks here: inkswatch.com
My 5 Favorite Fountain Pen Nibs Chris Saenz 2022-10-10 | In this video I talk about my 5 favorite fountain pen nibs + I name 2 honorable mentions! Favorite Nibs (all steel):#1 - #6 JoWo Broad#2 - Hongdian Fude#3 - Lamy 1.5 Stub#4 - #5 JoWo Broad#5 - #5 JoWo Medium (on the Ecos)Honorable Mentions:1. Lamy Broad2. Lamy FineSpecific Pens and inks used in this video (nib holders lol):1. Jinhao 159 orange/gold trim - B JoWo - Noodler's Golden Aspen2. Hondian Forest Rainbow - Fude - Noodler's Cactus Fruit Eel3. Lamy Safari Dark Lilac - 1.5 Stub - Noodler's Purple Mountain Majesties4. Moonman Mini Wancai - B JoWo - Vinta Makopa5. TWSBI Eco Lilac - M JoWo - Monteverde Birthday Cake6. Lamy Safari Terra Red - B - Robert Oster Antelope Canyon7. Lamy Safari Pink - F - Pilot Iroshizuku TsutsujiI'd love to hear about your favorite nibs! Let's carry on this conversation in the comments! I know there are many more interesting nibs out there ... most of which I have not yet tried. All the nibs mentioned here in this video were steel nibs. My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Ink Vial Label Winners Announcement! Chris Saenz 2022-10-04 | I chose the Dormouse's Ink Vial Label + postcard winners on Saturday, Oct. 1st, however, I could not do a face to face video due to my eye issue that day ... so I'm making this short to let you know I have heard from 2 of the winners and I still need to hear from 3:* Jessica Chou* Sherry Moore* MpompadourPlease supply your address by emailing me at chris@inkswatch.com or let me know if you no longer wish to receive the prize and I'll draw a new name(s). The following winners' prizes are already in the mail:* janeen loving* ramonafirehorseThank you all for your interest and support. You can find Brenda on You Tube where she does amazing inky videos:youtube.com/c/TheDormouse%E2%80%99sDeskAnd her labels are available on Etsy:etsy.com/listing/1281707203/ink-vial-labels?click_key=39a868dd94c1fce9ac191122dfffbce30ba7b8f6%3A1281707203&click_sum=045d6265&ref=user_profile
Ink Sample Mailing Essentials - Maxpert Pouches Chris Saenz 2022-10-04 | In this video I show you the best pouches I've found (thanks to pen friend Cathie) for containing individual ink samples for shipping/sharing!I used to use ezydose pill pouches but now I greatly prefer the quality and thickness of the Maxpert ones (approx 4 cents each):amazon.com/dp/B091FY9FXY?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_detailsI discuss the issues with ink leakage I've had over the years - both incoming and outgoing + talk about why I think it's worth it to include this extra layer of protection when sending samples! BONUS TIP: label the outside of your pouch in case the inner label gets unreadable in the event of an ink spill!Here is a link to the ink vials I currently am using from Amazon (price/availability varies a lot):amazon.com/dp/B08FLZJNYQ?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My Pen Email: chris@inkswatch.com
Chris Inked Pens - October Chris Saenz 2022-09-30 | In this video, I show you the 8 (well 9) fountain pens and inks that I'll be writing with for October 2022. This month is Noodler's ink for me. I decided to "save" Diamine for December when I will either feature Inkvent inks or Diamine inks I have on hand in bottle and sample form. Here is a list of the pens and inks shown:1. Jinhao 159 B JoWo - with Noodler's Golden Aspen 2017 Colorado Pen Show LE sample from pen friend KS.2. Montblanc Meisterstuck Classique M - with Nooder's Tokyo Gift Cherry Blossom.3. Hongdian Black Forest Rainbow Fude - with Nooder's Cactus Fruit Eel.amazon.com/dp/B09P78Z8RX/ref=twister_B09JVKQ1PK?_encoding=UTF8&psc=14. Lamy Safari Dark Lilac 1.5 - with Nooder's Purple Mountain Majesties - original sample from Pen Friend L.S.5. Moonman M600S Tiger's Eye B Goulet - with Noodler's Golden Brown.6. Jinhao X750 Ivory with 0.8 Nemosine stub - with Nooder's Chisholm Trail sample from pen friend C.W. 7. TWSBI Eco Blue Transparent B - with Nooder's Navajo Turquoise recently renamed to Turquoise of the Mesas.8. TWSBI Go Clear B - with Noodler's Habenero sample from pen friend F.D. 9. BONUS PEN prepping for an Early Impressions Video: Jinhao X159 F - with Noodler's Heart of Darkness.amazon.com/Jinhao-Fountain-Black-Acrylic-Writing/dp/B0B6RDLB85/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1U4R7AHTKIXL9&keywords=jinhao+x159+fountain+pen&qid=1664561586&qu=eyJxc2MiOiI0LjA5IiwicXNhIjoiMi43NCIsInFzcCI6IjEuODIifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=Jinhao+X159%2Caps%2C320&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1Featured Pen Case: was a generous gift from Rickshaw Bags -- thank you so much Mark!!! I had always wanted an orange Nock Sinclair. This is the new Rickshaw/Nock Sinclair R in Mandarin Orange!!! I'm wild over it and it certainly makes a great choice for October. WARNING POSSIBLE TRIGGER WARNING CAT MEDICAL INFO FOUND OUT POSTHUMOUSLY: Thank you all so very much for all the condolences and heartfelt messages we've received about the recent loss of our cat Willy. It is never going to be the same around here without him ... he was a bright light in our home and yard and always in our hearts. I received a very late (3+ weeks after specimen from his toe abscess was taken) test result 9-29-22 which surprised me very much ... he was found to have a very resistant bacteria which the vet said she had not seen in 30 years ... I have it written down in my notebook phonetically spelled ... but she said she highly suspected it was systemic and she said probably accounts for the one lump Willy had (which she said yesterday 9-29-22 was most likely an abscess from this hideous "recardia/systemic mycardia ??? sp???" the first lump which was not found to be cancerous but was very disturbing to the 3 vets who saw him over the past 3 months... so poor Willy had so much going on. I knew that but with the addition of this information it explains some agonizing questions I had about why we didn't have longer to deal with the 2nd lump/cancer and why he didn't heal fully from the small nail abscess after antibiotics each time and careful treatment. [the vet who called me didn't know Willy had already passed ... I guess the notification didn't reach her ... I let her give me the lab result because I wanted to know whatever there was to know - then I told her what had happened ... how sick he had become and how many more appointments he had after seeing her - she had been out when we last went to that animal hospital]. Well, I have put the information away in my notebook because it hurts a lot to even research it now ... I should study it someday I guess if I ever can face it. Overall I am not frightened to learn about it if anyone knows something ... because God forbid if another of my cats ever had it ... I'd want to be ahead of the curve on figuring it out. Science is helpful ... it is amazing how hard it is in human and animal healthcare = to get real science and answers. My eyeballs and eyelids hurt from all the crying and I also have to make sure I am not stressing Coco -- he is very sensitive and he needs me to be okay. So I am diving into pens and inks as I can and also spending a great deal of time outdoors in the sun. For more information on Noodler's Inks please see their website: noodlersink.comSee the new Rickshaw Sinclair Model R Pen Case here: rickshawbags.com/sinclair-model-rMy Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
The Dormouses Ink Sample Vial Labels GIVEAWAY NOW CLOSED - SAMPLE LABELS +POSTCARDS Chris Saenz 2022-09-24 | In this video, I review The Dormouse's Ink Sample Vial Labels! These awesome labels are from Brenda at The Dormouse's Desk, here is a link to her You Tube channel:youtube.com/c/TheDormouse%E2%80%99sDeskAnd her Etsy shop:etsy.com/listing/1281707203/ink-vial-labels?click_key=7120a544484fe9b9df721703d6b3cb90c058b98b%3A1281707203&click_sum=f19806d2&ref=user_profileIn the video I show you the labels and talk about them plus we run a test and go thru likes, dislikes and details. I am not sponsored or paid to do this video - I was supplied these labels free to me but not requested to do a review. I just like them so much I think that everyone should at least know about them.OFFICIAL RULES FOR THIS GIVEAWAY: Here are the main things to know:Deadline to enter: October 1st, 2022 at noon central standard timeHow to enter: 1. Be a subscriber2. Comment on this video (please indicate in your comment if you are NOT entering the drawing)3. I will announce the winners here in the community tab (special comment), on Instagram and as a pinned comment here on this video as soon as we have chosen them (after noon central time Oct. 1st 2022). Winners will have 48 hours (from the time I make the announcements) to email me at chris@inkswatch.com in order to provide a mailing address I can mail your labels and postcard to ... if I don't hear from you/them I will have to choose new winner(s).4. There are 5 prizes - 1 to each winner will be randomly chosen - each winner will receive 20 ink vial labels and 1 post card made by The Dormouse's Desk (Brenda). Please be advised I will only use your address for the mailing of the prize and will not share it in any way for any other purpose. I follow all You Tube guidelines on this channel. Who is eligible: This giveaway is open internationally - anyone living in a country I can legally mail to is eligible. How I'll pick the winners: We will randomly select 5 winners Saturday, Oct. 1st after noon central standard time from the valid entries using a hat and your You Tube handle names printed on paper and folded for anonymity. ************You Tube is not a sponsor in any way this giveaway/contest - and by entering you agree not to hold You Tube liable/responsible for any part of this giveaway contest. This channel follows the guidelines and rules set forward by You Tube in regard to channel content and contests and ensures we follow all privacy and community guidelines. Please see You Tube community guidelines & policies for more information:https://www.youtube.com/howyoutubewor...My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
The Progress Report - September 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-09-17 | This is the September Progress Report video where I talk about how the inks and pens I'm writing with for September are working out! I am writing with 9 fountain pens all filled with Robert Oster inks this month - plus trying out my first Lamy Cursive nib!I'm mainly using my fountain pens for letter writing this month! It's a busy time with Willy still recovering from an abscess and more medical advice needed about his tumors as soon as he is well from the toenail injury/abscess. I do pens while he is napping. :) The hobby helps. Here is a list of the pens and inks talked about:1. Opus 88 Omar Clear B - with Robert Oster Muddy Water - sample from pen friend K.S.2. TWSBI Eco Yellow B - with Robert Oster Gold Antiqua - sample from pen friend K.S.3. Lamy Vista 1.5 - with Robert Oster Muddy Crown - sample from pen friend K.S.4. Hongdian Forest Fude (pen from pen friend S.B) with Robert Oster Bronze - sample from pen friend K.S. 5. TWSBI Diamond 580 AL Clear M with Robert Oster Blue Denim sample from anonymous penefactor * nib changed from 1.1 stub which was having issues6. TWSBI Diamond 580AL Rose B with Robert Oster Muddy Dragon - sample from pen friend K.S.7. Jinhao X750 Silver B Goulet with Robert Oster Tranquility8. Lamy Safari Terra Red B with Robert Oster Antelope Canyon (Pen Chalet Exclusive) Pen friends K.S. and M.B.9. Lamy Safari Purple Candy - Lamy Cursive nib - with Robert Oster Soft Kitty Warm Kitty ink sample from pen friend C.K. (much more practice and many more fills with a variety of inks are needed - but this is a fun nib! I'll be looking for the best ink to showcase it's unique line widths!)Link to my counselor's book LIFT - it is really a helpful book loaded with natural self help tools for dealing with depression:amazon.com/LIFT-Wellness-Holistic-Antidote-Depression/dp/B0BC8NC1F6/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Lift+by+Tim+Tate&qid=1663375370&sr=8-1My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.comCompare inks here: inkswatch.com
Comparing Cosmo Air Snow & Air Light Paper Chris Saenz 2022-09-16 | In this video I compare Jet Pens Cosmo Air Snow and Cosmo Air Light Cream (both A5 and both 75 gsm) paper. Thank you to pen friend Matt W for sending the sample sheets of Cosmo Air Snow.I wrote a letter yesterday on Air Snow and immediately realized that I like it better than Air Light .. but it's still rather mysterious as to why. In fact it could be that these are simply 2 different colors of the same exact paper? I'm not sure. Both papers show off the ink shading and beauty very nicely. In my mind and finger tips ... the Snow paper feels just slightly smoother ... not at all fuzzy. There is almost no discernible difference in the white and cream shade of these papers -- it's very subtle. All I know is that my money will go for the Cosmo Air Snow because it just feels perfect and looks great too. This paper seems especially compatible with Robert Oster inks - a great plus in my book! My beloved CVS Caliber paper does not play as nicely with Robert Oster inks.Both papers are $11 for 100 sheets on Jet Pens. Snow:jetpens.com/JetPens-Cosmo-Air-Snow-75-gsm-Loose-Leaf-Paper-A5-Blank-100-Sheets/pd/32682Light:jetpens.com/JetPens-Cosmo-Air-Light-Cream-75-gsm-Loose-Leaf-Paper-A5-Blank-100-Sheets/pd/31798I think in conclusion that these are awesome special letter writing papers ... and although I still use quite a bit of low cost CVS Caliber paper and other Scholar tablets etc I will consider the Cosmo Air Snow as a replacement for my old favorite Tomoe River 52 gsm. I like the weight of this paper and the feel and the beauty!!!!Have you tried either or both of these papers? Thank you for watching my friends, I will return with a Progress Report on September's Inked Pens soon.My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470Compare inks: inkswatch.comMy pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Fountain Pen ~ Ink Sample Filling Hacks Chris Saenz 2022-09-11 | In this video I talk about ink filling hacks (I show and talk about ink syringe, ink miser, rubber grommets and plastic tubing) and we concentrate on my favorite method I recently was introduced to by a viewer:Viewer/pen friend Idimiditavi Corpzone mentioned on my community tab that their favorite hack for filling the TWSBI Eco from a sample was tubing. I found the Clear Vinyl Tubing ID 3/8" OD 1/2" 10 feet long made by EZ Flo 98620 for about $6 at Lowe's and this stuff is amazing - it works like a charm (just a 3-4 " segment) to fill your Eco from a sample!!! I demonstrate and fill 2 of my Ecos from samples in the video. I plan to keep the 3/8" ID rubber tubing pieces as part of my everyday use fountain pen kit. I will share out this tubing over time with pen friends ... it's unfortunate that the cheapest mailing is now $4 for such a small item ... so it has to make sense and go with other items over time but I'm not sorry I bought the 10 foot roll ... it's about the same price as the ink miser was and it truly will get used + shared and be worth it over time.Link to Brandon Lee's Goulet Pen Company Ink Sample Hack video:youtube.com/watch?v=DHX95HN2pRcI hope you got some good ideas from this video. Please let me know of any ideas you have. Thank you so much.I was going to link the Aliexpress page for the tubing but the sizes are so confusing to me on there that I think I better not as I may mislead you unintentionally.Amazon also carries this stuff but I had to go in person to SEE what I was getting because math and fractions etc are not my easiest subject.For filling the Eco I find the tubing to be easier even than the rubber grommets. Let me know what you think!?My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Celebrating 5 Years on You Tube! Chris Saenz 2022-09-07 | In this video I chat and reflect on 5 years of making You Tube videos relating to the fountain pen hobby and also side topics like intermittent fasting, the mind-body connection subject, and books! I say a big thank you to everyone who has participated and contributed comments, likes, subscribed, sent things and written to me ~ past, present and future! This channel is a great joy to me and I truly love connecting with pen and ink people, cat people and book people and well ... all people. See notes and links below:My 3 biggest "why's" of continuing to be on You Tube:1. Opportunity to contribute something positive! (living a retired lifestyle I need this type of work)2. A chance to really connect with fountain pen and ink people not to mention cat people, book people, and people seeking mind, body and spirit health!!!!!!3. Sharing information that may help someone whether it's pen and ink hobby related or another subject!!!! This is a huge motivator for me!Some things I mentioned during the video that you may want to look up or check into:My recent Rabbit hole subjects:Outlander Series of book by Diana Gabaldon (also a Starz TV series) if you check this out don't say I didn't warn you that it's a rabbit hole world. Elvis Presley - spurred by the new movie ELVIS and my lifelong interest in Elvis' music and life ... I recently have been reading all kinds of biographies and memoirs relating to him. The new movie with Austin Butler and Tom Hanks by Baz Luhrman -- which I have watched (streamed) 4 times ... is great ... don't expect it to be 100% factually accurate ... but it certainly captures an essence that rings true and as a lifelong Elvis fan -- I really love it. Critics will have a field day with trivia but in my opinion it's pure gold +Oscar worthy! But, one movie or a dozen books + 10 documentaries and 100 music videos alone are not enough to encompass the phenomenon that is Elvis in my opinion -- so you can still find me in this rabbit hole. Book written by my former counselor Tim which is excellent I read it (and reviewed it on Amazon) and found it to contain all the wisdom he taught in counseling and depression support group - it's very helpful for obtaining and maintaining freedom from depression and anxiety:amazon.com/LIFT-Wellness-Holistic-Antidote-Depression/dp/B0BC8NC1F6/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Lift+Tim+Tate&qid=1662498638&sr=8-1Books I recommend for Mind-Body connection/pain related help: Unlearn Your Pain by Howard Schubiner MD Healing Back Pain by John E Sarno MD The Great Pain Deception by Steven OzanichIntermittent Fasting books: Anything by Dr. Jason Fung including his Guide to Fasting and The Obesity Code, The Diabetes Code etc and his videos here on You Tube! also Delay Don't Deny by Gin StephensPen and hobby related items I'll be working in to future channel video discussions:1. Lamy Cursive nib (purchased from Goutlet Pens)2. Jinhao X159 fountain pen made with light weight material vs the heavy metal of the regular 159 - (purchased from Amazon)3. Tasche Ohto Pocket Fountain pen as seen in Ink Flight August (purchased from Amazon)and 4. Ink Sample Vial Labels 100 pack from Etsy Dormouse's Desk see link below - Brenda sent these to me and I will be showing them soon on my channel - I had an opportunity to sample them a few months back and they are incredible - very worth it! They stay stable (readable) if you get them wet, they show the color of the inks accurately and come with lid and bottle label - also they don't come off until you want them to unlike the flimsy labels I've had in the past:etsy.com/listing/1281707203/ink-vial-labels?click_key=1b1911d304f28d6e26eaafe63f443cb1649f1805%3A1281707203&click_sum=16e498d7&ref=shop_home_active_3Thank you so much for your support today and all throughout the past 5 years! What a fun journey this is being able to connect on this amazing platform. My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Rickshaw/Nock Sinclair-R First Impressions Chris Saenz 2022-09-05 | This is my show and tell "first impressions" video ... showcasing my new Rickshaw/Nock Sinclair-R in Purple Splatter ... this is a Rickshaw/Nock collaboration pen case! I ordered mine with $40 of channel ad revenue! This is the Purple Splatter artist: @violet_titrationLink to Rickshaw's product page for the Sinclair:rickshawbags.com/sinclair-model-rLink to the artists' Instagram: instagram.com/violet_titrationIn the video, I show you the case and the features + we compare it to the original Nock Sinclair and also do a side by side comparison with the Rickshaw Coozy case. Also, I show you how it fills using my 8 September pens plus one 2-pen coozie. Thank you so much for watching! Please let me know in the comments, what do you think? Did you get one of these cases? Do you have an original Nock Sinclair? My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Chris Inked Pens - September 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-08-31 | In this video, I show you the 8 Robert Oster inks and the 8 fountain pens I'll be writing with for September 2022. All but 2 of the inks this month were generously sent to me by pen friend K.S. Thank you!!!! Last month, I enjoyed focusing on Pilot inks and in the future I'll be focusing on other single brands as well including but not limited to: Diamine, Noodler's, Birmingham Pen Company and others. Here is a list of the pens and inks talked about:1. Opus 88 Omar Clear B - with Robert Oster Muddy Water 2. TWSBI Eco Yellow B - with Robert Oster Gold Antiqua3. Lamy Vista 1.5 - with Robert Oster Muddy Crown4. Hongdian Forest Fude (pen from pen friend S.B) with Robert Oster Bronze5. TWSBI Diamond 580 AL Clear 1.1 with Robert Oster Blue Denim sample from anonymous penefactor (pen is experiencing nib issues will update in progress report)6. TWSBI Diamond 580AL Rose B with Robert Oster Muddy Dragon7. Jinhao X750 Silver B Goulet with Robert Oster Tranquility8. Lamy Safari Terra Red B with Robert Oster Antelope Canyon (Pen Chalet Exclusive) Pen friends K.S. and M.B.Mini Willy Kitty Update: he has been having some real good days and he seems to be eating a lot better he finished one medicine and is doing well on the other + will go see his vet again soon. Thank you for prayers and well wishes he is my heart. Here is a link to the Rickshaw (Nock) Sinclair R pen case (I did a special request for Purple Splatter) I ordered with channel funds:rickshawbags.com/sinclair-model-rHere is a link to the new pocket pen (which I saw was in the August Ink Flight) I ordered:amazon.com/OHTO-Tasche-Fountain-0-5mm-Writing/dp/B002UXQNQU/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QYBKDGLX0YTD&keywords=Tasche+Ohto+fountain+pen&qid=1661969577&sprefix=tasche+ohto+fountain+pen%2Caps%2C218&sr=8-1and the Jinhao X159 (plastic):amazon.com/gp/product/B0B6RDLB85/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470Compare inks here: inkswatch.comMy pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Pilot Iro-Utsushi Dip Pen Medium Clear - First Impressions Chris Saenz 2022-08-18 | In this video I share my first impressions of the Pilot iro-utsushi dip pen (M) which I purchased with channel ad money from Yoseka Stationery. yosekastationery.com/products/pilot-iro-utsushi-dip-pen?_pos=1&_sid=948686359&_ss=rWe do writing samples on Tomoe River paper with 3 inks: Pilot Tsutsuji, J Herbin Poussiere de Lune, and Colorverse Red Shift.Here is the video from Yoseka taking you thru more detailed info about the pen:youtube.com/watch?v=A3dWo_YnxiQMy early impression of this pen is super favorable. I wanted a quick easy way to test write with a Japanese nib without using as much ink as I do in my Serendipity so when pen friend Carol mentioned this several weeks ago I couldn't get it out of my mind. It also comes in Fine nib and translucent blue and black and they are going to carry wood versions of it too.Hopefully these will become more available soon! I will explore the pen more and report back in September as to how it's going. I expect to use this for Col-O-ring index cards as well as for test writing samples on my 8 inks each month as part of the progress report. I tend to only use Broad nibs or juicy Medium nibs so this will give me a non ink wasting option for tests!Thank you for watching!Willy is eating better with his new medications and we are having to be very crafty to locate and medicate him since the weather is so nice but he's also spending a lot of time reading with me. Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Progress Report - August 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-08-17 | In this video I talk about how it's going with the 8 primary fountain pens and inks I'm writing with this month. This is Pilot Iroshizuku ink month for me!Here is a list of the pens and inks I'm writing with:1. Opus 88 Mini Pocket Holiday (it says: Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2022 and has a girl design with a heart + Love motif.) Pen from Pen Friend P.T. Ink is Pilot Namiki Iroshizuku Syo-ro2. Jinhao 100 Classic Koi Red with Pilot Iroshizuku 100th Anniversary Bishamonten sample from Pen Friend K.S.3. ZenZoi Bamboo F with Pilot Iroshizuku Shin-ryoku4. Jinhao X450 blue marble with B JoWo nib and Pilot Iroshizuku Kon-Peki5. TWSBI Vac700R Iris B (pen from pen friend P.T.) with Pilot Iroshizuku Asa-gao 6. Pen BBS 308 purple cloud with Pilot Iroshizuku Yama-Budo (NOTE: during the initial Chris' Inked Pens video this pen burped all over but it has not done that ever before or since. )7. Parker Vector M purple with Pilot Iroshizuku 100th Anniversary Jurojin (samples from pen friend K.S. and B.H.)8. Lamy 2000 B with Pilot Iroshizuku Fuyu-Shogun (ink sample from pen friend N.R. then I got a bottle). Link to the new Rickshaw/Nock Sinclair Model R which releases Aug. 26, 2022. Wow this is like a dream come true with the mods and the colors and everything. They are showing the new case at the San Francisco Pen Show and check out their Instagram for more ... no I'm not sponsored or anything I have just always loved both Rickshaw and Nock and this case is like a lovely marriage of the best of both worlds:rickshawbags.com/sinclair-model-rThank you so much for watching! I hope you are having a good summer and staying cool and safe. Follow me on Instagram for behind the scenes of cats, Texas yard life, and more:instagram.com/snowball7470Compare inks here: inkswatch.comMy pen email: chris@inkswatch.comPS - Willy (our cat) could really use your prayers and positive thoughts/vibes for health and comfort ... I am not ready to talk about it in detail yet and he is under the care of our vet and he's home and on his feet right now ... just big challenges now and up ahead are likely shy of a miracle. I'm going to try to hold myself together because he needs me.
Chris Inked Pens - August 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-07-29 | In this video I show you the 8 new inks and fountain pens I'll be writing with for August 2022. I'm writing with all Pilot inks this month! We also look at a super sweet 4-pen case made by pen friend P.T. which I'll be housing my letter writing pens for August. It's a really clever pot holder pen case + I know want to make some too. Here's a list of the pens and inks discussed:1. Opus 88 Mini Pocket Holiday (it says: Merry Christmas & Happy New Year 2022 and has a girl design with a heart + Love motif.) Pen from Pen Friend P.T. Ink is Pilot Namiki Iroshizuku Syo-ro2. Jinhao 100 Classic Koi Red with Pilot Iroshizuku 100th Anniversary Bishamonten sample from Pen Friend K.S.3. ZenZoi Bamboo F with Pilot Iroshizuku Shin-ryoku4. Jinhao X450 blue marble with B JoWo nib and Pilot Iroshizuku Kon-Peki5. TWSBI Vac700R Iris B (pen from pen friend P.T.) with Pilot Iroshizuku Asa-gao 6. Pen BBS 308 purple cloud with Pilot Iroshizuku Yama-Budo (I will see if I can figure out what made the pen blop ink ... it has never done that before!)7. Parker Vector M purple with Pilot Iroshizuku 100th Anniversary Jurojin (samples from pen friend K.S. and B.H.)8. Lamy 2000 B with Pilot Iroshizuku Fuyu-Shogun (ink sample from pen friend N.R. then I got a bottle). Thank you so much for watching! I hope you are having a good summer and staying cool and safe. Follow me on Instagram for behind the scenes of cats, Texas yard life, and more:instagram.com/snowball7470Compare inks here: inkswatch.comMy pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Jinhao X750 Collection + Review Chris Saenz 2022-07-19 | In this video I show you my 7 Jinhao X750 fountain pens and talk about the nibs on each one. I also do a writing sample with 4 of them. This is a combination of a collection and review video. It got long so I had to omit a little bit but I did get to show you each pen and go thru writing (with 4 of them) and pros and cons. When I said I was looking for a cigar boxes with X750s that was a mistake = that box has some X450s with # 6 nibs I want to pull and compare. Here is a list of the pens and inks talked about:1. Jinhao X750 Red with Gold trim (stock nib) and Sailor Jentle Grenade ink2. Jinhao X750 Ivory White - 0.8 Nemosine stub nib (it looks more white in the listing more creme in person) Pilot Iroshizuku Horsetail Brown ink (special thank you to pen friend PT for the contribution which I put toward this ink!)amazon.com/dp/B06X6BH5PC?ref=nb_sb_ss_w_as-reorder-t1_ypp_rep_k1_1_12&&crid=HORK6UFBX9FE&&sprefix=jinhao+x750+3. Jinhao X750 purple (Goulet Medium black nib) 4. Jinhao X750 pink (Goulet Brroad black nib)5. Jinhao X750 shimmering sands B JoWo nib (purchased at Goulet)gouletpens.com/products/jinhao-x750-fountain-pen-shimmering-sands6. Jinhao X750 blue marble 1.5 Goulet nib with Inkebara Sea Blue ink7. Jinhao X750 silver Broad Goulet silver nib with Dominant Industry Downpour inkgouletpens.com/products/jinhao-x750-fountain-pen-silverNotebook:Galen Leather Everyday Book 52 gsm Tomoe River paper.Glimpses at these pens:TWSBI Eco Blue Transparent B with Inkebara Sea Blue InkTWSBI Go Sapphire B with Dominant Industry Lake (didn't write with this one)I have purchased replacement nibs size 6 for many of my Jinhao's from Goulet Pens:gouletpens.com/products/goulet-6-steel-nib-silverThank you for watching! Since I have one space left in the 8 pen tray ... what color do you think I should put on my wishlist?Just recently I realized that for Medium nib use the stock nibs really are nice and the feedback no longer bothers me as it once did. Many viewers tried to tell me!!! LOL I finally gave it a fair re-try. Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470Compare inks here: inkswatch.comMy pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Progress Report - July 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-07-16 | In this video I show you writing samples and talks about how the 8 inks and pens I'm writing with this month are working out! Journals:Bond Travel Gear A5 68 GSM Tomoe River journal from pen friend MHUnison Composition book from pen friend MMDPens/Inks:1. Lamy Safari White/Red B with Dominant Industry Royal Azalea (sample purchased from Vanness)2. Platinum 3776 Century Nice R/G B with Conklin Vintage Purple (sample from pen friend CS)3. TWSBI Go Clear B with Inkebara Deer Brown (sample from Vanness)4. TWSBI Go Sapphire B with Dominant Industry Lake (sample purchased from Vanness)5. TWSBI Swipe Smoke B with Dominant Industry Autumn Forest shimmer (25 ml bottle purchased from Vanness)6. TWSBI Eco Blue Transparent B with Inkebara Sea Blue (sample from Vanness)7. Jinhao X750 B Goulet nib with Dominant Industry Downpour (sample purchased from Vanness)8. Opus 88 Halo Purple B (pen from pen friend MB) with Pilot Iroshizuku Murasaki Shikibu (15 ml bottle gift from RS)I forgot to do the ink splats I had planned to do of Dominant Autumn Forest so as soon as I complete those I will photograph them for Instagram and for the community tab and post them for you. Autumn Forest has a beautiful unique pink sheen. Thank you so much for watching! If you like inky fountain pen related videos please consider subscribing and joining in the conversation in the comment section below! Thank you!My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470Compare inks here: inkswatch.comPen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Crafters Square Water Brush Pen Set - Review Chris Saenz 2022-07-10 | In this video I show you the Crafter's Square water brush pen set I found at Dollar Tree for $1.25 while looking for greeting cards. Even when figuring in our Texas $8.25% sales tax = these are like .68 cents each and worth it in my opinion! I like to use water brushes with my notetaking with fountain pens AND I had been wishing for a brush that fit into my Nock Sinclair ... these do!We try the brushes out in a Unison Composition notebook (paper made in vietnam) and on Tomoe River 68 gsm paper in an old ink journal of mine. These pens are 6 inches long capped and about 5 and 3/4" inches long uncapped. They have snap caps but the section unscrews clockwise so if you buy these just be aware of that. It took me some time and a video to figure that out. Here is the video I found - which will give you another person perspective on these water brushes ... she has more water brushes than I do:youtube.com/watch?v=08T5-a90oSc&t=136sMy Instagram:instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
12 New Favorite Inks - Part 2 Chris Saenz 2022-07-07 | This is Part 2 in the series: 12 New Favorite Inks. In this video, I take you through my thought process of choosing my new 12 favorite inks from the 12 top inks I spoke of in 2021 and the 12 shown in part one of this series. We create a new 12 ink panel! And I also talk about ink bottles: emptying and consolidating down into smaller bottles for small remaining inks. I show you Coco's new sleep spot right next to my pen desk (it's a chair that used to be my Dad's) at: 22:52.Here is a list of the 12 favorites selected: (note there are 4 that held their position since last year! and 8 new ones! I discovered that how much ink is on hand of certain colors influences my usage habits too lol):1. KWZ Monarch (I purchased a bottle from Fontoplumo in the Netherlands)2. Diamine Aqua Lagoon3. Graf Von Faber Castell Stone Grey4. Waterman Tender Purple5. Sailor Jentle Grenade6. Sailor 50 States Texas7. Noodler's Purple Mountain Majesties8. Pilot Iroshizuku Tsutsuji9. Vinta Makopa10. Colorverse Supernatural11. Montblanc The Beatles Psychedelic Purple12. DeAtramentis Alexander Hamilton (also named Abergine)Thank you so much for watching. This was fun and has really raised my enthusiasm for some old favorites and some new favorite inks! I hope it will do the same for you!Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.comCompare inks here: inkswatch.com
12 New Favorite Inks - Part I Chris Saenz 2022-07-07 | A recent viewer question as to whether my 12 favorite inks were still the same as my January 2021 video choices ... prompted this 2 part series where I went thru all my ink and began to contemplate what my current favorites are.In the process -- I found that 12 new inks join the other 12 ... making this a much more nuanced quest than I originally thought. So, stay tuned for part 2 where I take you into my inky thoughts and attempt to narrow the field of 24 inks down to a top 12 once again.Here, in part 1 I show you the bottle + ink tile for each of these new 12 inks plus I talk about where I initially found out about the ink - or who sent me a sample. Listed below are details as well of each of the 12 inks:1. Montblanc The Beatles Psychedelic Purple (sample from pen friend TB)youtube.com/watch?v=GuErgFAxGfY2. Colorverse Supernatural (sample from pen friend BH)youtube.com/watch?v=esiT1Mmh2T83. Sailor 50 States Texas (saw pen friend Mike's art on Instagram)!4. TWSBI Royal Purple (ordered the set of 6 - 1791 series)5. Ferris Wheel Press Algonquin Maple (bottle sent by FWP)6. Kaweco Ruby Red (I purchased the bottle - and I know someone sent me a sample but I'm not finding the original notes on who!)youtube.com/watch?v=EtOMkbvOmDk7. DeAtramentis Alexander Hamilton (also named: Abergine) (Bottle from pen friend LE and samples in the past from pen friends)8. Noodler's Purple Mountain Majesties (sample from pen friend LS)youtube.com/watch?v=nBqVrkADiGA9. Pilot Iroshizuku Tstsuji (small bottle from pen friend MS)10 Vinta Makopa (sample from pen friend AY)11. Sailor Manyo Akebi (I have this feeling someone sent me a sample but I can not determine for sure and I remember ordering the bottle ... I know I did order several sample from Vanness in this color family and my vial is from Vanness)12. Sailor (Jentle) Grenade (Bottle from pen friend TC) + I know I had a sample from Ink Flight too.youtube.com/watch?v=CyzVQsyul8kPlease check out part 2 where I go over the 12 2021 favorite inks and these new favorites and attempt to consolidate them into 12 new top favorites. Thank you so much for watching! Follow me on Instagram for more behind the scenes, cats, Texas as well as inky pictures: instagram.com/snowball7470Compare inks: inkswatch.comMy pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Opus 88 ~ Lennon Tool Bar Halo (Purple) Review Chris Saenz 2022-07-03 | In this video I review the Opus 88 Lennon Tool Bar Halo in purple. I show you the pen, the packaging and comparisons both within the Opus 88 line and other fountain pen brands. We do a writing sample and then I tell you my likes and dislikes about the pen.NOTE: this Opus 88 Halo takes a #5 nib/unit as does the Opus 88 Koloro & Opus 88 Mini. The other Opus 88s I showed (Omar, Demonstrator) take a #6 nib/unit. This pen was a gift from generous pen friend M.B. who also almost 2 years ago introduced me to this amazing fountain pen brand -- I will always be so grateful for this!!! Thank you!This pen is a high quality great performing eye dropper pen with an ink shut off valve. It is in about the $100 price range depending upon where you purchase and you can also look for sales, coupons and special offers. I currently am seeing this specific pen/color at both Vanness Pen Shop and Jet Pens. You can purchase the #5 nib units (they screw in and out easily) for $16 at Vanness. This pen is 5.6" or 14.3 cm capped. Uncapped = 4.9" or 12.5 cm.Grip diameter = 10.7 to 16 mmWeight 22 grams (whole pen) or uncapped 13 gramsInk capacity is 2 ml.Thank you so much for watching! Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Chris Inked Pens - July 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-06-29 | In this video, I show you my July 2022 fountain pens and inks! These are the newly inked up ones ... I still am finishing some pocket pens, 2 eyedropper pens and my Lamy Safari with F nib for notetaking. I always like a fresh 8 inks for letter writing each month.I also show the things I purchased with the gift card from pen friend Mike S from Illinois!!! Thank you Mike!!! The order was from Vanness and I'm so happy to be trying out the Dominant Industry ink samples I ordered plus 4 they included in my order of the Inkebara inks. (this video will be marked paid promotion due to You Tube's requirement that if you get merchandise from a company and promote it you have to label it such). Here are the pens and inks I talked about and showed during the video:1. Lamy Safari White/Red B with Dominant Industry Royal Azalea 2. Platinum 3776 Century Nice Rose Gold B with Conklin Vintage Purple (ink sample from pen friend C.S.)3. TWSBI Go Clear B with Ikebara Deer Brown (sample courtesy of Vanness Pen Shop)4. TWSBI Go Sapphire B with Dominant Industry Lake5. TWSBI Swipe Smoke B with Dominant Industry Autumn Forest6. TWSBI Eco Transparent Blue B with Inkebara Sea Blue (sample courtesty of Vanness Pen Shop)7. Jinhao X750 Steel B Goulet nib with Dominant Industry Downpour8. Opus 88 Halo Purple B (pen gift from pen friend M.B.) with Pilot Iroshizuku Murasaki Shikibu (ink was a viewer/pen friend gift)Notebooks shown:Black Ink Journal is old stock Bond Travel Gear 68 GSM Tomoe River A5 dot grid a gift from pen friend M.H.Yellow composition book is Unison Composition Target 50 cent notebook with made in Vietnam fabulous paper - a gift from pen friend Marilyn.16 slot wooden holder that I have my ink samples in was a gift from pen friend P.T. it makes a great home for currently exploring inks!Thank you for watching! Let me hear about your pens and inks for July in the comments!!!!Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470Compare 1,800+ inks here: inkswatch.com
My Pocket Pen Collection Chris Saenz 2022-06-24 | In this video I show you all my pocket fountain pens (except my misplaced Lanbitour 3009 Space pen which I know is around here I saw it just the other day but can't remember where). Here are the 19 pens I talked about:1. Sailor Lecoule F/M Rose Quartz with converter2. TWSBI Mini AL B nib unit3. OPUS 88 Mini Checkered with B nib unit4. Moonman Q1 F nib5. Kaweco Ice Sport Blue M nib smoothed to writable by me (usually eye dropper but now also have a converter)6. Kaweco Galen Leather Exclusive Violet 1.1 stub7. Stipula Passaporto M clear deonstrator8. Moonman Mini Wancai with F Moonman nib (green swirl)9. Moonman Mini Wancai with B Goulet # 5 nib (clear)10. Moonman Mini Wancai with B Goulet # 5 nib (pink acrylic)11. Filcao Mini Pen F in lavender (cartridge only pen)12. Traveler's Company Brass Fountain Pen F nib (cartridge only pen)13. Kaweco Liliput M nib Fireblue (using with cartridge)14. Waterman 52 ladies vintage pen with #2 waterman nib lever filler15. Laban Expression M Oyster Blue (cartridge only) - purchased at Goldspot16. Serendipity Mini Hybrid Fountain/Dip pen (loaded with M Goulet #6 nib) in sheer blue from Pensive Pens in Australia by James Finniss. 17. Monteverde MVP Pocket Pen B nib (writes like a M) cartridge or eyedropper in Blue Squares19. Moonman Mini glass nib pen (technically not a fountain pen but can be with the spare nib unit in F) pink and red acrylicAND the missing pocket pen is Lanbitou 3009 Space pen with hooded nib and bladder filler very smooth F nib wish it had a better filling system. NOTE: the little pens that rolled into the view at the end were ball point Pokka pens pocket postable little pens that I've done a review on here:youtube.com/watch?v=2TDCsapjAzcThank you for watching! I'd love to hear about your pocket pens in the comments. Not saying I won't ever buy another pen but I've been very happy exploring all of the pens I accumulated over the past 5 years and any purchases, trades or acquiring going forward will be very intentional and specific I'm sure. Nibs occupy my mind much of the time, getting pens I have outfitted with the optimal nib. :) How about you?Thank you for all the contributions from pen friends/viewers over the past 5 years ... I'm finally getting my feet on the ground and really appreciating many/most/all of the ideas and contributions you've sent my way and it's truly incredible -- I thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Follow me on Instragram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.comCompare inks: inkswatch.com
Ink Journal Flip Thru ~ 2019 - 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-06-17 | In this video I flip thru the Bond Travel Gear 68 gsm Tomoe River A5 ink journal I've been working in for 3 years. I'll start a new (of the same notebook) ink journal July 1st! This is a just for fun and reflection video. It is amazing to look back on so many ink flights, #30inks30days projects, ink studies and monthly inked pens entries and grade sheets lol.In the new journal I hope to do better at dating and details. I liked the brand ink studies I used to do with the Ink Journal Ink Flight boxes so I intend to create my own study sets going forward.Hopefully this video will inspire you to get out your inks and get inky!!!!!One thing that has stayed the same over 5 years ... is that I really love exploring inks and sharing little bits of my discoveries here on You Tube. It takes my breath away that I get to share this way and that there are people interested in my ink obsession ... sharing in the same ink love!!!!! :)I'll be hopping back into this book to tape more things in and preserve more inky memories on the blank pages but I'm really excited to start the fresh notebook. Special BIG thanks to pen friend MH for the new notebook which I've hoarded for entirely too long.Check out the end screen for related videos/playlists that cover many of the things we saw in this flip thru. Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470Compare inks over at: inkswatch.comMy pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Progress Report- June 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-06-14 | This is my mid-month progress report as to how my inks and pens for June 2022 are working out! I inked 3 more pens since the original 8 ... I know ... but it has been so much fun experimenting with a new nib and of course I needed a comparison pen/nib. Overall things are steady here and I continue to work on my garden, and yard skills. Manuel is waiting to see the specialist but his chemical stress test result was read to us at the PC and it was good news. So we're hopeful. Inks and pens and writing continue to be my happy spot. I putter away at letter writing and I journal everyday. The Cosmo Air Light 75 gsm paper from Jet Pens is great so far! I had to make a guide with a thicker black line so it would show thru but other than that all is working great with that paper!Here is a list of the pens and inks discussed:1. TWSBI Eco White + Rose Gold 1.1 with Diplomat Caribbean ink from pen friend MB.2. Lamy Safari Pink B with Diplomat Orchid ink from pen friend CS.3. TWSBI Eco Jade B with Birmingham Antique Sepia ink from pen friend SB.4. Jinhao 992 Clear Demonstrator B TWSBI nib with Monarca Nopal ink from pen friend CS.5. Lamy Safari Terra Red B with Diamine Brandy Snap (from Inkvent 2021) purchased last year by channel fund.6. Jinhao X750 Shimmering Sands B JoWo with Van Dieman's Shooting Star (shimmer) ink from pen friend BH.7. TWSBI Eco Transparent Purple 1.1 with Robert Oster Australian Opal Mauve ink from pen friend KS.8. Jinhao 159 Rose Gold B Goulet with Organics Studio Henry David Thoreau Walden Pond Blue ink from pen friend MB*************AND:Nemosine Singularity - Nemosine 0.8 nib with Van Dieman's Tiger Quoll Prowl (shimmer) ink from pen friend BHLamy Vista 1.5 nib with Pilot Iroshizuku TsutsujiLamy Al-Star Vibrant Pink 1.1 nib with Pilot Iroshizuku TsutsujiPapers:Black A5 notebook is discontinued Bond Travel Gear 68 gsm Tomoe River Yellow Composition book is Target's Unison Composition notebook made in VietnamLoose paper: Cosmo Air Light 75 gsm from Jet PensPen cases:Rickshaw Blue Inktopus 8 pen coozy rollRickshaw Yellow Inktopus 3 pen coozyFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.comCompare inks over at: inkswatch.com
The Channel Allowance - June 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-06-01 | In this video I show you the things I purchased with channel ad money: our channel food bank contribution, stamps, and paper and envelopes from Jet Pens.Later in the month I will follow up on the paper in my Progress Report because I plan to dive deeper with these papers.I'd love to hear from you in the comments - your favorite paper and envelopes for letter writing!!! I still love and use CVS Caliber paper (but it's not friendly will all inks/nibs) and Tomoe River paper 52 gsm. But I have wanted to try Cosmo Air Light 75 gsm and Life L Writing Paper. So begins my experiment!My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.comThank you so much for supporting this channel by subscribing, watching and commenting!!!
Chris Inked Pens - June 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-05-31 | Filmed on: May 31st 2022 (I was confused about the date but knew it was Tuesday lol)In this video, I show you the 8 inks and 8 fountain pens I'll be writing with + focusing on for June 2022. June looks like a very busy month for me -- so I chose to keep to 8 pens new + (a very few eyedroppers still finishing as well). I will do a progress report mid-month on these combos.Special thank you to everyone who has ever sent me ink samples. This is the summer I'm determined to get them all tiled and into my ink journal and as many as possible into pens!!!!! :)Pens/Inks mentioned:1. TWSBI Eco White + Rose Gold 1.1 with Diplomat Caribbean ink from pen friend MB.2. Lamy Safari Pink B with Diplomat Orchid ink from pen friend CS.3. TWSBI Eco Jade B with Birmingham Antique Sepia ink from pen friend SB.4. Jinhao 992 Clear Demonstrator B TWSBI nib with Monarca Nopal ink from pen friend CS.5. Lamy Safari Terra Red B with Diamine Brandy Shop (from Inkvent 2021) purchased last year by channel fund.6. Jinhao X750 Shimmering Sands B JoWo with Van Dieman's Shooting Star (shimmer) ink from pen friend BH.7. TWSBI Eco Transparent Purple 1.1 with Robert Oster Australian Opal Mauve ink from pen friend KS.8. Jinhao 159 Rose Gold B Goulet with Colorverse Henry David Thoreau Walden Pond BlueMy goals this month are: try out 8 new to me samples, include stub nibs in the line up and focus on catching up my pen pal letters.Thank you for watching!!!! My instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470Compare inks at: inkswatch.comMy pen email: chris@inkswatch.comSPECIAL NOTE: I'll be cheering everyone on who does #30inks30days and will enjoy as much video and photo content as possible from the June festivities. If you are doing inky content let us know in the comments so I/we can support you!!!! Have inky fun above all.
Chatty Personal Update - May 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-05-22 | In this video I give you an update which is mostly off topic and personal but includes a few pen related subjects. Major topics covered:1. Gardening and Yard Work (an odd assortment of vegetables and etc is growing!)2. Accidentally becoming decaffeinated (I got sick = very rare)3. Health + welfare of the humans and cats 4. What I'm reading both non-fiction and fiction (mainly Outlander with some lighter historical romances mixed in). Jenn's You Tube (she has great content and I especially love her coverage of the Outlander books and TV series):youtube.com/c/TheBookRefugeanother great romance You Tuber I enjoy following is Jessica:youtube.com/user/PeaceLoveBooksxoShana Galen's Website:shanagalen.com/survivors.php5. What is still inked - briefly (5 eye dropper pens and 3 cartridge converters)6. A few thoughts on not spending on the hobby (it's a great year of using what I have and taming the over-spending.)7. A little bit about pen pal status (I'm behind but really enjoying writing letters again)Coco makes a rather odd appearance and almost pulls my shirt off my arm. I think he needs his nails trimmed. He's adorable and curious other than that one transgression. Things are going well overall in spite of challenges and unknowns. I do enjoy doing these chatty updates and I love hearing what you are up to as well. Thank you for watching. Follow me on Instagram for all kinds of behind the scenes cat pics, yard and Texas pics as well as ink, pens and miscellaneous stuff: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Progress Report - May 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-05-12 | This video is my progress report on how the inks and fountain pens I chose for May 2022 are working out! I wound up with 10 pens inked ... 3 carry overs and 7 new pens (I just HAD to add a pen for Robert Oster Soft Kitty Warm Kitty ink + a pen for a comparison with the Lamy 2000 filled with Robert Oster Morning Mist). (we cover only the 7 new to May pens + inks in this video) NOTE: although Coco (kitty) only made a slight appearance ... just his paws ... he was a major component during the video ... causing 3 pauses and a change of chair (after he stole my chair). Gotta love him!These are the 7 pens + inks talked about today:1. Lamy 2000 B - with Robert Oster Morning Mist2. Moonman Mini Wancai B Goulet - with Vinta Makopa3. Diplomat Magnum B Prismatic Purple - with Aurora Blue Black4. Lamy Vista B with Pen BBS 153 Burning of White House 1874 Shimmer ink (reference to the burning of the White House in the War of 1812)5. Jinhao X750 B Goulet Blue Marble - with Diamine Cult Pens Little Mo6. Lamy NEXX B with Robert Oster Soft Kitty Warm Kitty7. TWSBI Go B Sapphire - with Robert Oster Morning Mist (for comparison with the Lamy 2000 filled with same ink)Other than being WAY behind on my correspondence (pen pal letters) things are going well and I hope to do a face to face update very soon. A combination of health, goals and plans, and just thoughts. Thank you so much for watching!!!!My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.comVisit the website Matt is uploading new inks regularly and thank you so much to all contributors of ink tiles and participants who have chosen to have their ink reviews and blog posts linked!!!! :inkswatch.com
Great Fountain Pocket Notebook Review Chris Saenz 2022-05-11 | Gabriel from Great Fountain recently sent me a pocket notebook .... they are selling in his online shop + made in Italy. I loved it so much I decided to make a review here on my channel. Originally I intended to just give him my thoughts in an email or letter but these notebooks are really amazing and you should know about about them!The notebook is pocket size, it has an amazingly rugged cover, fountain pen friendly paper and a cool cat design by: artist Sofia Fiorucci .Here is a link to Great Fountain:greatfountainitaly.com/products/pocket-notebook-catHere's my review of the Great Fountain ink cartridge stoppers:youtube.com/watch?v=u4lVUU2pY8gI was not sponsored nor paid to do this video, but please know that this notebook was given to me free of charge for my honest opinion. My favorite aspect of the notebook is that the cover will stand up to frequent use and to being put into a traveler's notebook ... it is a nice laminated cover. See video for more opinions. My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Chris Ink & Pen Selections - May 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-04-30 | In this video I show you the 3 pens from April that I'll keep writing with in May and also I go thru my ink and pen selection process for May. (because I want more colors especially some more blue) I'll be back soon to let you know how these pairings worked out:1. Moonman Mini Wancai with Broad Goulet nib and Vinta Makopa2. Lamy Vista B with Pen BBS 153 - Burning White House (Shimmer) 3. Jinhao X750 with B Goulet nib and Diamine Cult Pens Little Mo4. Lamy 2000 B with Robert Oster Morning Mist5. Diplomat Magnum Prismatic Purple B with Aurora Blue BlackI also take you thru my latest ink journal entry where I swatched 10 new samples -- thank you so much to all pen friends who have been sending ink over these past 5 years. These samples this month are from: Pen Friends: MB, MB, CS, BH and CK. There are so many more for me to try out - particularly the 32 in my overflowing ink sample rack that I showed in the video. But many more filed and sorted and churned about my pen desk area ... which the hot summer should provide me with many hours to enjoy ink splashing and testing ... and I've got a lifetime supply of ink samples and ink bottles. Need I say more? LOL Thank you is the main point. Please stay tuned as I will be back to let you know how these go. And I'll continue writing with the other 3 I showed:Opus 88 Omar in Purple B - with Cross VioletOpus 88 Koloro in Red B - with Ferris Wheel Press Algonquin MapleOpus 88 Demonstrator (Stilo + Stiles special edition) B - with Sailor 50 States VermontFollow me on Instagram for more behind the scenes of kitties and Texas: instagram.com/snowball7470Go to Ink Swatch the website for inky comparison tools and links to many reviews on the inks you want to learn about -- Matt has been adding more and more ink tiles and it's becoming such an amazing resource you won't want to miss: inkswatch.comMy pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Comparing Pen Cases - Some Thoughts! Chris Saenz 2022-04-21 | In this video, I compare 3 small leather fountain pen cases: Girologio 12 pen in Oxblood, Galen Leather 10 pen in Crazy Horse, and Ashton 10 pen in Tan. I also tell you which is my favorite and go over features of each case - although this is far more of a show and tell opinion piece than review - it may still offer you some details if you're considering one of these. I purchased these (with my own money) from the following places: Goulet, Vanness, and Pen Chalet.At the end of the video I show and talk about my favorite quick access pen cases for currently inked/daily writing pens and explain that I'm using these leather cases at the moment for pen storage vs currently inked.These cases at the time of recording the video range from $39.99 to $64. Check your local pen retailers for current prices.Thank you so much for watching! At the end screen I have linked the related videos in case you want details on any that I have fully reviewed.My Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470 (a mix of Texas life, cats, pens and inks and whatever is happening in my life).Pen Email: chris@inkswatch.comVisit Ink Swatch for inky comparison tools and links to many reviewers ink reviews: inkswatch.com
Progress Report - April 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-04-14 | In this video - I talk about how my writing is going with the (now 4) April pens and + 4 pens I'm continuing to write dry. It's a challenging month but more than ever I value this hobby for providing a respite and yielding fun even during trying times. Yesterday I finished (wrote dry) Laban Athena in my TWSBI Diamond 580 Purple M but I inked a new ink arrival so I'm still at 8 pens total for April!!!! Good news: they all fit in my Nock Sinclair. I also talk about which pen from previous month(s) I'm still reaching for AND I show you my Emergency Prep notebook. We live in a hurricane zone and operate with a set budget so prepping and having a shared log book really helps. April inks/pens:1. Opus 88 Koloro Red B - with Ferris Wheel Press Algonquin Maple2. Pilot Vanishing Point Rhodium Gunmetal M - with Sailor 50 States LouisianaNOTE: check out Mike's beautiful art work ... when I saw it I had to purchase Sailor Louisiana!:instagram.com/p/CYB49YtrrUK3. TWSBI Diamond 580 AL B - with Laban Hera (ink from pen friend C.S)4. Opus 88 Demonstrator Stilo + Stile Edition B - with Sailor 50 States Vermont (ink from pen friend MMD)Notebooks shown/mentioned:Unison Composition notebook 50 cent Target notebook paper made in Vietnam (excellent paper!)A5 Bond Travel Gear 68 Tomoe River ink journal (the book I do the formal grades and ink records in with black cover)Green Military notebook I got on Amazon (paper is not as fountain pen friendly as some I've seen so beware): amazon.com/gp/product/B082DZPWPX/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1The blue notebook is a lined $3 hardcover journal I got from Family Dollar. It doesn't seem to be branded and I purchased it in 2021. Thank you for viewing, liking and subscribing. I enjoy sharing my fountain pen journey with inks and pens and cases. I think of this channel as a sort of pen club and I love keeping it informal and fun. You will find in the archives many ink reviews and pen reviews and such. I'm currently focusing on currently inked, reviews of things I really want to talk about and some book content as well. Follow me on Instagram where I post my cats and my Texas life + very often ink and pens:instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.comAlso, please go to Ink Swatch to compare ink colors (the site is nearing 2,000 inks) and see many linked ink reviews from a wide range of bloggers and reviewers -- our pen friend Matt works tirelessly to keep putting new ink swatchs online and you won't want to miss this resource (thank you to everyone who has swatched inks and provided them to him!!!): inkswatch.com
Chris Inked Pens - April 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-03-30 | I'm ready for April a few days early! Ready for March to be GONE? Must be. I'm trying out a new plan for April and I explain in the video! Pens, inks and pen cases mentioned:(NOTE: all pen cases purchased with my own money - pens gifted from pen friends as noted and ink samples often contributed by pen friends + much ink purchased with channel ad funds. Currently I'm so inky I can't honorably accept anymore donations!!!! I feel much gratitude and joy for inks already available here in the house for writing and sharing reports here!!!!)Pen cases:Yellow Inktopus 3 pen coozyBlack Nock TallulahViolet Nock SinclairPens and Inks New this month:1. Opus 88 Koloro Red B - Ferris Wheel Press Algonquin Maple (special thank you to pen friend MB for the pen!)2. Pilot Vanishing Point M - Gunmetal/Rhodium - Sailor 50 States Louisiana3. TWSBI Diamond 580 AL with Broad nib - Laban Hera (special thank you to pen friend CS for the ink sample!)Other pens still finishing fill/residing in my bullet journal case and Sinclair:4. TWSBI Eco Transparent Purple M with Waterman Tender Purple5. TWSBI Eco Black and Rose Gold M with Graf Von Faber Castell Stone Grey6. TWSBI Diamond 580 purple M with Laban Athena Grey (special thank you to pen friend AW for the pen!)7. Opus 88 Omar B yellow with Colorverse Supernatural8. Opus 88 Omar B with Cross Violet (thank you to 3 pen friends for sending samples of this lovely ink - you know who you are + I do too!!! :) Sharpie in protective custody of my Sinclair because someone keeps lifting my Sharpie. Coco? Wishing everyone a blessed April and Easter if you celebrate. We do. Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470Compare inks at the website -- Matt has put up many contributed ink tiles recently and it is really growing! inkswatch.comMy pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Chatty ad free ramble about my channel and book Im reading! Chris Saenz 2022-03-29 | If long rambles are not your thing ... then this is not your video. In this video I talk about my You Tube channel within the context of a book I'm reading .... as I contemplate the future of my channel and the direction of life in general. Also, I do mention the world situation the war in the Ukraine and my unease about world tension plus my recent study of history and geopolitics. If these topics are not okay I totally understand avoiding this video. I talk about how I have discovered the complexities and the long history of conflict but I tie it to my 70s/80s upbringing, and my military service in the 80s up until 1991 when I separated from the USAF. (SSgt. in Public Affairs). NOTE: if I need to I will turn off comments on this video ... hopefully we can keep comments kind because I won't allow any harsh uncalled for content ... we can switch over to the Inked Pens Video for discussion if that has to happen. Thank you for keeping the comments civilized. I am for PEACE worldwide. When I said I didn't have an opinion I meant on the global unrest and impact of the War in Ukraine .... I feel utterly uneducated as to the history and geopolitics still and I prefer to do my own research. Thank you! I enjoy sharing thoughts with subscribers ... we've become friends over the past 4.5 years I've been here making videos. For now I am continuing to share my Chris' Inked Pens and Progress Reports and will make a video whenever inspired but I am continuing to make decisions about my channel and the ads and everything ... not easy decisions to make. Thank you for letting me vent here!!!!The book I mentioned is:Refuse to Choose by Barbara Sherthriftbooks.com/w/refuse-to-choose-use-all-of-your-interests-passions-and-hobbies-to-create-the-life-and-career-of-your-dreams_barbara-sher/254663/?resultid=4a5c73a9-1c78-4808-8852-b418ebac59f2#edition=4339300&idiq=3958194"designed to help you enjoy your many interests without feeling overwhelmed and unfocused"I purchased my book at Thrift Books online.Thank you and next up will be my Chris' Inked Pens for April 2022. I have already scheduled that video for you! See you next time!!!! Take care my friends and thank you for all your support over the past 4.5 years!!!!! It has been a fun and unexpected ride here on You Tube. My email: chris@inkswatch.com
Levenger Triple Decker Pocket Planner Review Chris Saenz 2022-03-18 | In this video I review the Levenger Triple Decker Pocket Planner -- a cool index card type weekly planner system! I purchased my Pocket Planner cards with a gift card I won on an Instagram giveaway!levenger.com/stationery-notebooks-322/note-cards-776/triple-decker-pocket-planner-13623.aspxFollow me on Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My Pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Progress Report - March 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-03-15 | In this video - I talk about how my 8 inked fountain pens + inks are going for March 2022. I continue to explore each ink in the Unison composition book that pen friend Marilyn sent. It has great paper + near as I can tell just as good as CVS Caliber. Coming in at 50 cents a notebook these are a bargain for fountain pen people!!!!! I continue to haunt the Target looking for them but they get snatched up immediately by someone. LOL I also continue to write letters (admittedly, slowly and way behind ... hampered by world and family concerns). I consider the pen hobby as a safe haven- break from everything - and I am so grateful for the pen community and the connections here and in the mailbox and on Instagram! These are the things shown/talked about today:Pens Case:Rickshaw 8 pen Coozy in Blue InktopusPens and Inks:1. Pen BBS 352 with 1.1 Anderson nib and Noodler's Navajo Turquoise2. Jinhao 159 yellow B JoWo nib with Pilot Iroshizuku Daikokuten 100th Anniversary 3. TWSBI Eco Green Translucent M with Platinum Mixable Leaf Green4. Opus 88 Omar Yellow B with Colorverse Supernatural5. Hongdian Forest purple Fude nib and Diamine Pansy6. TWSBI Diamond 580 purple M with Laban Athena7. Retro 51 Tornado Ultra Violet M Opus nib unit with Aurora Purple ******* WINNER OF MY FAVORITE NIB, INK, PEN combo of MARCH!!!!!8. TWSBI Mini AL B with Pilot Iroshizuku Fuyu-gakiNotebooks:Unison Composition book from TargetCampus notebook (Amazon I think)Bond Travel Gear A5 hardcover 68 gsm TR ink journal - now rebranded Lochby and they are making the notebooks in A5 booklet size.Water brush set I have: amazon.com/Sargent-Art-56-6019-Watercolor-Brush/dp/B07CTWLBM8/ref=sr_1_14?keywords=water+brush&qid=1647364107&sr=8-14Also talked about my CVS Caliber notebooks I love them and have all kinds of sizes all papers made in Vietnam for the CVS Caliber, Unison and Campus notebooks seem to be so excellent.Thank you for watching!!! Stay strong my friends. I will be back with a little chatty video as soon as I can. Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470Compare in colors at Ink Swatch: inkswatch.comMy pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Chris Inked Pens - March 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-02-28 | In this video, I show you the 8 fountain pens and fountain pen inks I chose for March 2022. I will be writing with these 8 pens and will check back in mid-March and let you know how these combinations are working out.Here is a list of the pens/inks mentioned/shown:1. Pen BBS 352 with 1.1 Anderson Stub and Noodler's Navajo Turquoise ink. Thank you pen friend Ms. T for the pen!2. Jinhao 159 B JoWo nib and Pilot Iroshizuku Daikokuten 100th Anniversary ink. Thank you pen friend VF for the pen and KS for the ink sample!3. TWSBI Eco Green Transparent M with Platinum Mixable Leaf Green. Thank you pen friend KS for the ink sample!4. Opus 88 Omar Yellow B with Colorverse Supernatural5. Hongdian The Light of the Hope w/Fude nib and Diamine Pansy ink. Thank you pen friend SB for the pen!6. TWSBI Diamond 580 purple with M nib and Laban Athena Grey ink. Thank you pen friend AW for the pen!7. Retro 51 Tornado Ultra Violet M Opus nib unit with Aurora Purple (sample either purchased or sent to me ?)8. TWSBI Mini AL B with Iroshizuku Fuya-gaki ink. Thank you pen friend NR for the ink sample!My favorite fountain pen and ink combo for February 2022 was: Opus 88 Omar in Purple with Cross Violet ink - thank you to 3 pen friends who sent ink samples of Cross Violet - it has become one of my absolute favorite purple inks!NOTE: I could not find exact matches for the blue and yellow flag of Ukraine but I came as close as I could with my first 2 inks Noodler's Navajo Turquoise and Pilot Iroshizuku Daikokuten. You can compare hexcode colors and inks over at Ink Swatch for free:inkswatch.com/choice.htmlNotebooks mentioned:CVS Caliber notebook - budget friendly made in Vietnam - fountain pen friendly notebooks!Peter Pauper Press Unicorn journal (I've had other Peter Pauper Press notebooks that were more fountain pen friendly than this one - this one is somewhat depending on the ink/nib).Faux Hobinichi from Amazon: amazon.com/gp/product/B07XX55Z9Q/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_7?smid=A38DJ5WAD1WY5M&psc=1Emi's channel (The Cat LadyVan!) : youtube.com/c/ThecatladyVANFollow me over on Instagram for inks, pens, cats, Texas and books! --- instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Book Review - Stolen Focus by Johann Hari Chris Saenz 2022-02-25 | In this video I give my opinions and talk about the book, Stolen Focus (Why You Can't Pay Attention - and How to Think Deeply Again) by Johann Hari. amazon.com/Stolen-Focus-Attention-Think-Deeply/dp/0593138511/ref=sr_1_1?crid=W7PT8B39T53S&keywords=Stolen+Focus&qid=1645809767&s=books&sprefix=stolen+focus%2Cstripbooks%2C592&sr=1-1I highly recommend this book for everyone and especially for anyone who is interested in improving your focus, understanding what can rob us of our attention/focus, ADHD, effects of technology and social changes on children. This books is one I will not forget or be finished with for a long time to come. Although I must take back the library copy, I have lots of notes I took on this book and my "work" has just begun on tailoring my own program for improving my focus (from the menu of many things I learned in this book)! I can already sense change happening just from the education I got reading this book!This is not a self-help book but you will find a lot of ideas and things you can try. The author gives us 12 "causes" (of impaired focus) to think about and to study. His style is to research very thoroughly and present many sides of each topic. I love that and you don't find that in all books or content these days. I love that he didn't just focus on one contributing factor -- the usual being technology -- and yet he thoroughly covered that cause (of lack of focus) in the book. IN fact he covers everything from the loss of recess in school to our diets, the speed and stress levels, collapse of sustained reading, you name it! Giving us many angles in which to approach healing our attention. I didn't feel compelled to get up and research everything mentioned because he did such a good job of covering each topic in a concise easy to digest way.As someone diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 40, I was especially interested in his (Chapter 13) research on The Rise of ADHD and How We are Responding to It. My mind is still reeling from the "furniture rearrangement" my brain got after reading that chapter. You'll have to read it for yourself but for me it gave me hope that I have only ever scratched the surface of healing my focus/attention issues and this book is my launching pad for making serious and impactful changes -- still keeping with my refusal to use meds for it. So, that's my opinion -- this was one of the most worthwhile books I've read in YEARS. Thank you for watching!Related Links:The Social Dilemma: thesocialdilemma.comJohann's TED Talk on Addiction: youtube.com/watch?v=PY9DcIMGxMsThe Fix Documentary: therokuchannel.roku.com/details/e4f717911acc588b95e3a61ccddf3c3e-1Older video of my home library:youtube.com/watch?v=i4OdQUKkO5oFollow me on Instagram (I post about fountain pens, inks, cats, Texas and books): instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Progress Report: Pens, Inks, Unison Notebook & More Chris Saenz 2022-02-18 | This is my February 2022 Progress Report where I talk about how the 8 fountain pens and 8 inks I'm using are going. I also talk about the Unison composition book is working out (spoiler alert: it's great!) that pen friend Marilyn sent! Toward the end of the video I show you how the Rickshaw pen roll and hand roll compare. Then I also show you and talk a little about the book I'm currently reading. I'll eventually review the book.Things mentioned in the video:Unison Composition Book: target.com/p/wide-ruled-solid-composition-notebook-black-unison/-/A-17079117#lnk=sametabPens and inks:First ink in this ink journal: Sailor 50 States Louisiana (not part of my 8 February inks just a bonus look)1. Opus 88 Omar B Purple with Cross Violet2. Lamy Safari (Pink) B with Diamine Claret3. Lamy Al-Star Purple 1.1 with Noodler's King Philip Requiem LE4. Jinhao X750 purple B JoWo with Diamine All the Best Shimmer5. Jinhao X750 pink B JoWo with Levenger Pinkly (discontinued ink)6. Platinum Little Shooting Star Hello Kitty 03F with Platinum Mixable Silky Purple7. Parker Vector red M with Montblanc Velvet Red LE8. Jinhao 301 pink Diamond Hat EF with Diamine Writer's Blood (From Vanness)Rickshaw Inktopus Deluxe Pen Roll (in yellow) and Inktopus Coozy Roll (8 pen) in blue both purchased by me: rickshawbags.com/pen-things/inktopus-collectionBook I'm reading:amazon.com/Stolen-Focus-Attention-Think-Deeply/dp/0593138511/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3IJ2DKOXZLCP9&keywords=stolen+focus+johann+hari&qid=1645149414&sprefix=Stolen+Focus%2Caps%2C205&sr=8-1The movie that was related to his addiction book Chasing the Scream is: The United States vs. Billie Holiday and seems to be streaming on Hulu. I was having a terrible struggle with her name although her music is very very well known to me and powerful. Thank you so much for watching! Follow me on Instagram for ink content, cats, and South Texas life: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Unboxing my Odd Girl Journal Prize Chris Saenz 2022-02-11 | I won a beautiful giveaway bundle from Keely at Odd Girl Journals!!! The package arrived today and in this video I unbox my prizes and oh her work is just so beautiful!!! I knew before even opening it that I wanted to share with my viewers! #oddgirljournalsHere is a link to Keely's Etsy shop:etsy.com/shop/keelyreichman?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=596377709And you can follow her on Instagram:instagram.com/oddgirljournalsThis beautiful handmade traveler's notebook (passport size bundle) came with a zipper pouch (constructed into the cover), a coordinating folder, passport size insert booklet, sweet little lemon charm, and stickers and die cuts too!I have been a long time admirer and fan girl of Keely's work - and as someone (me) who has attempted (with varying results) the construction of traveler's notebook covers -- I can FULLY appreciate her mad designing and sewing skills in making these items -- they are so beautifully constructed!!! I'm on cloud 9 to have this fun and beautiful set up! When I get it all set up for my intermittent fasting I will likely do a set up video!!!!Also in the video I talk about:* my recent video slump* how I'm putting more time and effort into my pen pal letters at the moment* a notebook project (thank yous to pen friends Marilyn and Cathie) comparing 4 fountain pen friendly notebooks in the budget price range!Thank you so much for watching. It has been a really busy and interesting time here at my house. This winter has been like no other so far ... a true falling away of the branches literally and figuratively so I do appreciate the patience on the part of my viewers because I didn't intent to have such a long dry spell video wise. Happy to be here today sharing such a beautiful items.Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.com
Callifolio - Andrinople - Ink Profile Collab Chris Saenz 2022-02-01 | This is my revisit/profile of Callifolio Andrinople ink - and my submission for the collab with Miss Marilyn Darling -- we are releasing our reviews at the same time and I look forward to seeing how our opinions may match or differ!!! You can find his channel here:youtube.com/c/marilyndarlingshowIn my previous visit with this ink it was part of my red/pink/magenta study in 30 inks 30 days style and I didn't spend at much time with this ink. At that time I said this ink "had a lot to offer" "is gorgeous" and "has nice medium shading". I was comparing it with KOBE #41 Suma Riku Rose at the time. This time, I wrote with the ink for a week -- several pen pal letters, pages in my notetaking and journaling and I tried it out in both types of Tomoe River paper and the CVS Caliber paper that I love.In this video I show you writing samples, comparison swatches and tiles and we go over a final "report card" studying several aspects of this ink. My opinion is very similar to the first ink review except I am now familiar with many more pinky red purpley inks so there is MUCH more competition for my ink-attention lol. Watch and see which pink is currently my favorite and which is the runner up!Thank you so much for watching!!!! Let me know in the comments which is your favorite pink/magenta or pinky red ink!!!! There are many more I didn't really have time to cover that are very pretty!!!!!Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.comCheck out Inkswatch.com for many more inks to compare and explore. You can find linked reviews to many You Tube channels and blogs!!!!! Here's the link: inkswatch.com
Chris Inked Pens - February 2022 Chris Saenz 2022-01-30 | In this video - I show you my 8 inks and fountain pen choices for February 2022. I have been on a pink, purple, and burgundy red rampage for awhile now!!!! We look at each pen and then I show you the ink tile and write with each pen on camera. At the end of the video I talk some more about my very favorite fountain pen of the month of January but I believe I forgot to even give the ink credit good grief = it's Vinta Makopa. I know I mentioned it several times in previous videos but in case you're just tuning in for this video - big apologies. I think I forgot. List of pens and inks mentioned:1. Lamy Al-Star 1.1 purple with Noodler's King Philip Requiem2. Lamy Safari B pink with Diamine Claret3. Jinhao X750 B pink with Levenger Pinkly4. Opus 88 Omar B purple with Cross Violet5. Jinhao X750 B purple with Diamine All the Best Shimmer ink6. Jinhao 301 Diamond Hat pink EF/F ? with Diamine Writer's Blood7. Platinum Little Shooting Star Hello Kitty F 03 purple with glittery and Platinum Mixable Silky Purple8. Parker Vector M red with Montblanc Velvet Red**********Favorite pen/ink of January: Moonman Mini Wancai pink swirl B Goulet #5 nib and Vinta Makopa ink. *************I'm releasing this video January 30th because I want to concentrate on my final thoughts about my inky study of Callifolio Andrinople (collab with Miss Marilyn Darling). That video releases Tuesday, Feb. 1st. Hope you are all healthy and staying happy and safe. I think it's official that I am 1/2 cat now because I spend more than half my time with my 4 legged friends (cats) and talk with them really understand them pretty well better than most humans. LOL Maybe I will one day get to see my family in Vermont again and it will be a real experience to SEE so many other humans other than Manuel and these 3 cats. We just stay home so much moreso in cold weather and soon hopefully the Pandemic will lessen its grip and allow for some things I miss doing. Take care my friends. I'd love to hear from you in the comments how your ink and pen adventures are going!!!!! Also, any predictions on which pen/ink combo will be my favorite for Februrary. I'm truly not sure yet. I had one surprise me and I love several of the pen/ink combos but none yet stand out at the BEST it's just too early on I will spend 4 weeks writing with them and see how it comes out.Follow me on Instagram:instagram.com/snowball7470My pen email: chris@inkswatch.comSPECIAL INKY NOTE: Please check with me prior to sending ink -- I think I've reached the point where I have so many ink samples it's just doesn't feel right to accept any more donations at this time. I am eternally grateful for all of the generosity shown over the past 4+ years. Thank you so much, it just blows my mind and I hope to pay it fully forward in any ways I can going forward. Thank you! Have a blessed month and year!!!!!!
