On the hobonichi scarcity, I felt it was driven by many you tubers with their “hauls” - seeing someone unboxing 20 different planners from Hobinichi was crazy, off putting and frankly I felt a little embarrassed on their behalf. I actually unsubscribed from a lot of people I’ve been following for a while just based on whai I perceived as greed. I am very into notebooks and stationary, but felt like the whole drama was so not necessary and probably driven by people over ordering with intent to resell
It did become a little out of control here on TH-cam, didn’t it? I found many of the hauls fun, exciting, and heartwarming, but like you, my feed started going down a darker hole where I found videos unboxing 4+ orders each totally $100-200 worth of purchases. I also found some creators saying they couldn’t decide what covers they liked and buying 5+ covers with the intent to decide which one they wanted later and resell the others. I couldn’t presume to understand their psyches but it struck me some of the videos looked like hoarding as a trauma response to scarcity. It was sometimes heartbreaking to watch.
@ yes! you are right, went down a dark hole quickly and it triggered bad emotions for me - I can easily find myself getting obsessive racetrack spinning thoughts about acquiring things - hard to put into words but I have to fight to not succumb to the fomo trap. I think when I felt the pull with the hobonichi craze my reaction was to get away from it as fast as I could, shutting doors as I ran. At the time I remember feeling angry and very manipulated by some of the people I was following, I think the money that they spent was closer to $500 and up range. In hindsight, heartbreaking is a good description. It has made me more conscious of the content I am consuming and the channels I subscribe to.
Oh my, 😜 I said all of that, and didn’t say that instead of the hobonichi weeks this year I ended up getting a sterling ink undated planner in the weeks size, I hand wrote the months and days on the calendar pages and find the “sloppiness” of that makes it easier for me to use because I’m not hung up on perfection. I have created my own sections for journaling, meal planning and budget tracking. I am loving it and can easily see myself continuing with it year after year.
I appreciate this video. I don't like, what I see as, manufactured scarcity. I did not purchase, or even attempt to purchase, any hobonichi products for 2025. But nonetheless, I have been reluctantly caught up in the craziness of artificial scarcity one too many times and it's so draining. It seems to be a popular method to make people work for a purchase, which when you think about it, is really crazy to put people through. It doesn't help with website glitches and technical problems that are not the consumers fault. I would like to start thinking more carefully and putting things in perspective! Thanks again for sharing!
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a thoughtful comment! And while I appreciate some brands are indeed constrained in special collaborations with artisans or supply of rare materials to only be able to make a limited run of certain designs, I couldn’t agree more that manufactured scarcity is used like a money-printing machine for some of these brands. It’s using people’s fears and anxieties against them and I believe the ethics of that kind of marketing is not nearly interrogated enough. I admire your strength and restraint! Thanks again for being here and watching the video 🥰.
That’s so kind of you to say! I have to admit the camera makes my handwriting look better than it does up close when you can see the inconsistencies and errors more easily, but your encouragement is very much appreciated! 🥰
This was really informative! just got back into stationery after a several year break and this sort of content is really insightful... Especially since I'm trying to be mindful about my purchases by doing tons of research before I buy. Cheers from across the ditch in New Zealand : )
Kia ora! Thanks for taking the time to write such a lovely note ☺️. Welcome back to the stationery hobby! I think taking breaks is a good way to refresh and reevaluate our relationship to our stuff. What kind of purchases are you thinking about making now that you’re getting back into stationery?
@@tinytigerco Getting back into fountain pens but scratching the itch to buy with research - and glad I did so far, because there's so many rabbit holes 😅 I'll maybe be able to decide on my next acquisition in a month's time after I Really understand what's out there in 2025
The leather product freebies from Galen varies a lot. I buy from them on a regular basis as I live in İstanbul. I do get a lot of pen sleeves as freebies, mainly when I get fountain pens from them. But not limited to that. I have a lot of those sleeves by now, but to be fair I don’t get them every time. You’ll probably get one too at some point; but just know that the pen sleeves are not a standart freebie that they send. İt is also not the only leather goodie that they send. İn my last couple of purchases I got leather keychains that I love. İn the past I got a leather Galen Leather stamped charm as well. But I don’t expect these extras. So when they come they are sweet little surprises 😊 I wanted to add that I stopped using hobonichi planners in 2023. I was fed up of the dated pages and the day free had very limited pages at the back. I had used almost all of their planners since 2018 by then. But I got to the point where it just didn’t work for me anymore. And although the popularity of the brand was great to watch at the beginning, later on it just got to a ridiculous point for me. Since last year I am using the Sterling İnk B6 planner and it is just perfect for me for the time being. My best used hobo was either the A6 - which was a bit small - or the Weeks - which was a bit narrow. And the dailies were always an issue. The B6 is a great size for me as I have used A5 planners before and I find them too much for me. The Sterling ink also has TR paper and I have no issues with its quality. I use foutain pens exclusively and all my notebooks and planners just have be able to perform well with my pens. This year I also considered the Midori planners but I had already ordered from Sterling İnk. I love Midori and Cosmo Air paper as well. I do use notebooks from Midori and Galen (for the Cosmo). And I have bought but not tried yet, the new notebook that Musu.bi has: the Rasa 83. This is a paper they have worked on for a good while. They also have the Halus 90 which is more geared toward art and watercolours, but it also works with fountain pens. Musu.bi notebooks is just quality all over in my opinion. I would highly recommend you checkout their tomo system notebooks if you haven’t already: they have TR, Cosmo, Bank etc. papered notebooks
Thank you for taking the time to share such a comprehensive account of your experiences with Galen Leather, Hobonichi, and Sterling Ink. This is helpful information and I imagine many people watching this video in the future would appreciate reading your thoughts. I will take my time to learn more about Sterling Ink as you’re certainly not the first to sing their praises. I’ve never heard of Musu.bi before and they sound really intriguing. I confess I’ve not tried many different types of fountain pen friendly paper beyond TRP and Midori so they seem like the perfect place to start expanding my paper horizons. Thanks again for watching my video and sharing your experiences.
Thank you so much for watching my stationery flops video, and taking the time to leave a comment! 💛 It means a lot to me to have your support as I’m just starting out on TH-cam. I hope to see you again in a future video ☺️.
Just came across your channel and really enjoyed your honesty. As others have mentioned, you may want to have your Pilot VP checked out, as I don't think that's normal behavior. I have 2 (a F and M) and have never had the issue. I had a similar experience with my first Platinum 3776. I got it in a Soft Fine and found it miserably dry and scratchy - like nails on a chalkboard scratchy 😖. I kept trying different ink combos and have found very wet inks actually do quite well. My go-to ink for that pen is a Rohrer & Klingner Sketch ink that is super juicy. Since then I have found I much rather prefer Platinum M and B although even those run much more dry than other brands, so I wonder if it's something with the feeds they use? I wish you the best of luck with your Platinum, it is very beautiful! Thank you for sharing!
Thanks so much for taking the time to share your experiences! I won’t give up hope on my VP and will definitely keep exploring different inks. I’ll do the same for my Platinum and hope a very wet ink might do the trick! Your ideas have given me lots of avenues to try rescuing these regretted purchases 💛.
What a thoughtful review of stationery products! Thank you! It's my first year in a Hobonichi after using only dotted journals. I am so in love! Because i had no preconceived expectations, the slight ghosting or bleeding has not disuaded me from writing with my fountain pens. I think some ghosting gives my hobonichi more character!
Thank you so much for your very kind comment! I appreciate you taking the time to share your perspective. 💛 I can relate to your point of view as I discovered Hobonichi in 2023 after they had switched to Sanzen paper and I thought they were wonderful even while some of their older fans bemoaned the new paper. I don’t mind the ghosting either, but the bleedthrough in some batches was new to me. I’m so happy to hear your introduction to Hobonichi has been a joyful one! ☺️ Which planner/s are you using? Welcome to the ほぼ日community!
Really enjoyed your video. I was new to Hobonichi and did get carried along by the hype, after this year I do not think I will purchase again, the paper is so thin that there is a lot of show through and I found the pages tear so easily for something that cost a small fortune in my humble opinion. I find the Midori paper excellent and will probably go to the A5 codex next year for my journal. On another note I have purchased a lot of items from Galen and have always been supplied with the extra items such as the pen pouch. Interesting about the ink platter this has not happened to me yet but I will be more careful I think going forward so thank you for sharing. You have the most beautiful handwriting x
Thank you for taking the time to write such a kind and thoughtful comment. I’m sorry to hear this year was your introduction to Hobonichi. I would’ve been so put off the brand. The thin paper is definitely not for everybody. Midori paper really is wonderful and I own several of their notebooks. It’s good to figure out what you want in a planner. Thanks again for being here and sharing your experiences!
Did you buy from galen leather direct? I've had about 7 orders and every one came with freebies. Apart from once when I bought a writers box that was a seconds
Ohhh you’re lucky! ☺️ Yes, I ordered from Galen directly. I’ve had a few other commenters share varied experiences where some had received freebies in 3/3 orders and others who received freebies in 1/3 orders. I guess I know now it’s certainly not standard practice but they’re still very generous and the odds are you’ll probably have a 50% chance of receiving something extra.
Thanks for this thoughtful video. I purchased a Platinum 3776 and had the same dry experience. I eventually carefully flossed it with thin brass tin a couple of times and it made a world of difference. I do use a wet ink, which I did before I flossed it. I examined my nib with a loupe first, of course, to make sure the nib was okay. It was very tight. I was very careful. Grateful it works. I love the pen now.
Thank you so much for your very thoughtful and precise account of how you troubleshooted your 3776. I do suspect a careful owner could make a world of difference with the flossing or using the exceedingly fine filing paper. I’m really impressed and heartened to hear that you were able to rescue your 3776! I’d love to take a workshop on nib tuning and learn to do that kind of work at home. I imagine it would help with 9/10 disappointing pen purchases.
I am new to hobinichi it was popping up in places but I couldn’t work it all out but this year I have started watching numerous unboxing videos. At first I was so disappointed that I wasn’t aware in September for 2025 launch but it has taken pressure off and the excitement/anxiety has calmed down and I am just enjoying the joy and decided to go slow. I was shocked to find them on Amazon in the uk and I am awaiting the same A5 planner cover that you have (it was out of stock but new stock coming with feb 1st releases) I got so wound up I was considering buying for twice the price on eBay. I have been sick for many years and unable to hand write stuff plus nothing in my diary as I am bedbound. I realised I couldn’t jump in straight away with a planner so I have the cat notebook to start with and I think I’m going to get a tiny printer and create some memory pages with pictures and stickers just to ease back in with no dates or expectation just fun stuff. I couldn’t believe it when you mentioned your VP a month ago I did not know it existed but I have seen it often in videos and became obsessed. Your video has been really helpful in making me take a step back and slow down. It’s amazing how easily I have been “influenced” even tho the videos are not influencer ones. I hope you can get your beautiful pen to work for you. I am a lamy safari girl at the moment so when a nib starts misbehaving I have bought a new one (only twice😂)thanks again for a great video❤
Thank you for your lovely message! It was a rough day for me today and reading your kind comment made me smile 😊. I have no doubt the A5 cat cover will return. It’s a sweet one and I hope you love it as much as I do. Even if you don’t end up getting to buy it, Yumi Kitagishi has been very popular and I wouldn’t be surprised she creates more covers for Hobonichi later this year in their October launch. Your gentle undated memory keeper idea sounds terrific! What a wonderful way to ease yourself back into journalling. On days I can’t be bothered writing, I like collaging a few pictures that can sometimes make more an even more impactful spread. Thank you so much for taking the time to write a comment and offer words of encouragement! I hope to see you again in another video, and you can keep me updated of your journalling and fountain pen adventures this year 🥰.
I have found the exact same thing about the carbon black ink, and the dynamine inks! It seems like so many people love those inks, but they did not work well with the Tomoe river paper and my pens. I have week spreads that are completely ruined because of the smearing or smudging. I really like the DeAtramentis document inks for waterproof ink, and really enjoy the Sterling Ink Common and Daily planners (each of my kids has one of their 5 Year Diaries as well)!
Thank you for validating my disappointing experiences with Platinum Carbon Black and Diamine inks! The experiences I’ve heard since posting this video could not have been more polarised. The inks work perfectly for some people and worse for others. There is so much variability! I suppose part of the thrill for me of stationery is finding the right fit ☺️. How many kids do you have? That’s amazing you keep a 5-Year Diary for each of them 😍. I imagine they’ll be delighted to read them and see all your family memories documented when they’re older. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a lovely comment. It means a lot to me 💛.
Also, I used a Hobonichi Cousin last year and loved it. Had no issues with the paper. This year, I purchased a Hobo Cousin Avec and a Hobo A6 Hon. The paper in the Cousin Avec is inconsistent. I have had feathering with my Pilot Custom 742 with Pilot Iro. Asa-Gao. Using the same pen in my Hobo Hon A6, no feathering. I don't know what is up with the paper. I also have a Take A Note A6 Planner with TRP 68 gsm and have no issues.
I’m so disappointed that the TRP issues have been experienced across the entire lineup. From what I’ve heard at the end of last year, Hobonichi only owned up to defects in the 5-Year journals and have not honoured returns or exchanges with their other planners. I’ve really not enjoyed writing in my Weeks so far this year. I own cheap off-brand notebooks where Japanese nibs don’t feather as much as they do in my Weeks. Would you recommend the Take A Note planners? Thanks again for watching my video and sharing your very helpful comments. I really appreciate your support 💛.
Thank you for sharing! I’d never heard of the many issues you’ve been having with your VP. 8:49 I never thought that ancient copper inks were wet. Huh. And I’m left handed. It’s one of my go-to inks.
That’s amazing! It really must be climate-dependent or I just received a dodgy batch of the ink. I’m really glad to hear that you enjoy your VP and Ancient Copper. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment ☺️.
@ oh-I don’t own a VP. I’m happy with Pilot Kakunos with my toddlers around! Sorry if I made it seem like that. It’s on my wishlist though. Maybe the weather does make a difference. That’d make sense
Oh, thanks for clarifying! That was my bad for jumping to the assumption. The VP is definitely not a pen I trust with my toddler 😄. The clicker mechanism is just too easy for my son to use, and the nib is especially slim and I imagine wouldn’t take much strength to break. The Kakuno is adorable. I think I’ll buy that for my son as his first fountain pen. He’s mesmerised every time he sees me write with my fountain pens. The apple didn’t fall far from the tree! 🍏
I too have a Pilot VP in fine and it does not leak nor have hard starts! I hope you find someone who can look at it for you because it is really an amazing pen! For next year, maybe check out the common planner? Its also Tomoe River paper and I feel like they have a sane and calm outlook as well as being a small company. Really like your videos and the way you talk is so clear and soothing! Wishing you and your family all the best 💞
So nice to see you again, thank you for sharing your experiences! ☺️ I will definitely keep experimenting with better behaving inks in my VP and potentially showing it to a professional when I get the chance. I’m excited to hear that yours perform well for you so I won’t give up hope that it can be rescued! Thank you for your recommendation! I’ll check out the common planner for next year. Sending you all my best wishes too! 💛
Thanks for your sharing of your own disappointments. I like that you are just talking from a personal point of view. Brief comments to share in response: I have a Pilot VP and I just have to be careful with what inks I use…it can dry out easily; my Platinum Century (M) is one of my favourite pens; the Hobonichi fever is a result of its popularity and success and I’ve always had the impression they are a good company. I get my A6 refill each year and I’m super happy. Have you tried the Platinum Chou Kuro? It’s a bit pricy but it’s very black and seems to flow well. Thanks once again…I haven’t been put off buying from Pilot, Platinum, Galen and Hobonichi, but we all should be careful when buying things online.
Thanks so much for taking the time to write a message and share your thoughts. I’m really glad it came across that I wasn’t making sweeping indictments about each brand and imposing my subjective impressions as facts. Making this video is a reminder to myself, if anything, not to get carried away by wishful thinking of how amazing every purchase would feel. I would love to try the Chuo Kuro one of these days. I love black… the darker the better! I’m happy to hear it performs well too. Thanks again for your comment! I hope to see you again in another video.
So fun tidbit, every single red ink I've tried has smudged even after days of being left alone. Oxblood, Antietam, etc. If is a dark moody red/orange, it will smudge.
Yes!! It might be a compound within those inks that is particularly sensitive to humidity, similar to how many people report that their dark red and orange inks crusts up on their nibs! Thanks for sharing your experience, I’m glad to hear I’m not the only one who has had smudging issues!!
I can’t recommend the sterling ink common planner enough. I’m using the front layouts for planning and the blank pages at the back for journalling so it’s an all in one solution. Though, if you like dated dailies, the common planner won’t be suitable but sterling ink might have other planners with dated dailies. I’d check them out. The planners are made with Tomoe River Paper and I haven’t experienced problems with it, nor have I heard of other people having problems with it! As for the ancient copper, you’re right it is climate dependent because I live in a very hot and dry place and I’ve not had that problem. The problem I get with Ancient copper is it gets a bit crusty on my nib so I have to wipe it off before I start writing! Also, I have to say your handwriting is to die for!😳 so expressive and perfectly neat at the same time.
Others have also raved about the common planner, so I’ll be sure to check them out. Thank you for sharing this recommendation! 🙂 The TRP issues are unfortunately across the board though and Sterling Ink customers have reported similar issues, as have other retailers like Papertess Designs. From what I’ve seen on Reddit, Sterling Ink has reportedly shown great customer service by issuing full refunds or return mail-paid exchanges for defective paper. Hobonichi only offered to make good on 5-Year journals but nothing else. I’ve only heard rumours of the crustiness with reddish orange inks!! I’m glad to hear it doesn’t affect performance. I won’t give up on my Ancient Copper! I’ll just need to be extra extra careful around it 😊. Thank you for taking the time to write such a thoughtful and encouraging comment. I really appreciate you being here! Hope to see you again in another video 💛.
I have no issues with the paper in my common planner as well thankfully. And this year she introduced the daily planner as well. She has 2 versions: one has the dates printed and another one, that doesn't have the dates printed, but has the daily page layout if you will. So you can write your own dates in it
I’m so sorry that you had a bad experience with the VP and PCB pairing. I know we’ve talked about this before, but I had a similar disappointment after initially thinking it was fine for months! Also that Platinum! 🐯 What a stunning pen! I hope you’re able to get the nib adjusted to your liking. I also feel for you about the Galen leather experience. I’ve shopped from them twice and had a similar “hope” about the evil eye keychain which I didn’t get. It’s okay - I also don’t want to feel entitled to freebies. I did feel some disappointment, but I came to a similar conclusion as you - it’s a small business, margins are small, and they’re doing their best. And - we are human and it’s okay to feel some disappointment sometimes. As long as it doesn’t override our overall experience. Loved this video! Thank you! It’s gotten me thinking about my “flops” and I might have to borrow your video idea in the future (with credit, of course!). ☺️
Hearing your concerns about that pen and ink pairing was the first time I felt validated in my experiences, and it snapped me out of my denial! I had so convinced myself that it would become my go-to combo for my planner that I didn’t leave room for open-minded exploration. That Platinum Matsu-tora is like my dream pen. I couldn’t have custom made a more fitting design 😄. Here’s hoping a nibmeister would be able to work their magic!! I’d genuinely love to hear your stationery ‘flops’! I do hope you make that video and I look forward to watching it 🥰.
I'm glad I watched this video because I was surprised to see the cases for hobinichi be so expensive. I didn't realize there was so much manufactured drama around the pricing as well as the quantities being sold. I will say the I do believe Galen Leather to be a very generous small business I do think you got a one off with no pen sleeve. I received my pen sleeve with my ticket to a pen show here in the US and I do use it when I travel locally and don't want to take a full sleeve of pens out. As far as other journal companies I am looking at Aura Estelle, Sterling Ink and Archer and Olive(their paper is thicker but I am not have an issue with it so far). For journal covers I am just going to spend money and buy a luxury brand as it seems leather journal cover cases are running fairly expensive for non brand names and the price difference isn't that much in the long run.
Thank you for sharing your misgivings about Hobonichi and their covers and for taking the time to watch my video! The covers are very cute but the prices are quite exorbitant (especially when buying outside Japan) and the quality has not necessarily improved over the years. I believe a few years ago Hobonichi covers used to come with a protective plastic cover (they call it a cover-on-cover) for free, but now cover-on-cover’s are sold separately. I completely get that you need to weigh up your values and priorities and invest in what is most aligned for you. Thanks again for your comment!
I have Platinum 3776 UEF, and it certainly has feedback, bur I wouldn’t call it scratchy. In fact, it is one of my favourites. I hope a nibmeister can help you.
Thank you for the vote of confidence that the 3776 can be rescued. I hope it’ll turn into one of my favourites too. I have no doubt refining the flow and smoothness just a little will make a world of difference. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience 💛.
Oh no about the Diamond Ancient Copper! I am using it now with no smudging, but it is a very cold and dry day. I’ll remember to put my blotting paper in between the pages.
It’s a beautiful color! I do admit since using fountain pens more, I’ve become instinctually better at avoiding smudging, but my first few spreads with the ink looked like a crime scene 😄. Some commenters have said the ink never smudges for them so I hope yours behaves the same! Thank you so much for taking the time to comment ☺️.
With my VP, I do have such droplets with certain inks, not with others. It is also on the dry side so I know some inks will not work as well as others. Permanent inis on VP is also a debated topic, because the seal is not the best there is on VP and once it dries on the nib it is tough to restart and clean.
Thank you for sharing your experiences. It baffled me with my VP that it could be both too wet (casting droplets) and too dry (hard starts and skips). I’ve so far tried the standard black cartridge that came with the pen, and it’s slightly less dry, but still not a great experience. I’ll keep experimenting with more well-behaving inks.
I have three VPs and I noticed that I get hard starts when I used DeAtramentis Document Black Ink in them. I think that's because the ink dries fast and the Pilot VP doesn't seal well due to its design. Otherwise, I never have hard starts with that same ink in my other FPs. Your golden FP is stunning. Thank you for sharing what it meant to you. I'm sorry that it didn't perform well for you.
@@tinytigerco permanent inks are apparently another species of ink altogether - but sharing issues and disappointment like you did is super helpful to increase everyone's knowledge in the fountain pen community 😊
@@PlanYourOneLife I’m sorry I missed your comment when it was first posted! Thank you very much for sharing your experiences, and validating some of my struggles with using a permanent ink in my VP 💛. Your kind words are very encouraging to me as a small channel!
Nice video. So refreshing to see a video that not sugar coating everything from stationery reviews. You also prevent me from buying ancient copper that I was considering. I already have a few inks have similar issues on Hobonichi. Don't want to add another one. For the Galen Leathers. I ordered 3 times from them so far. All have free one-pen case with various qualities. So it could be an overlook from Galen side. I also don't have the droplet issue on my Pilot Capless pens. But their fine nibs can be inconsistent on size and ink flow. Maybe try a different ink. I usually would try out with one of the iroshizuku inks as a baseline for a new pen.
My Ancient Copper also smears on Midori paper, but lots of commenters have said their ink doesn’t have that problem, so it may very well be climate-dependent. Or I just received a bad batch. Iroshizuku inks are so reliable. I’m currently using the standard black cartridge from the box with my VP and it’s slightly less dry, but still not great. I’ll be trying my iroshizuku with it next.
Another thoughtfully done video, as always! :) I've sadly had the same experience with the Hobonichi Weeks. I'm really not enjoying how the ink is spreading on the paper, plus I feel like it takes wayyy longer to dry? My pages look so smudged up close!
Oh no! That’s disappointing to hear you’ve had similar experiences with the Weeks! 💔 Some of my pages are worse than others. Even flipping it back over the last two months, I can see some variation with pen performance. I feel for the people whose introduction to Hobonichi is through this year’s poor paper consistency. I’d wonder what all the hype is about. They’re not cheap planners!
Really related to your discussion and especially point about scarcity in general. Definitely something that gets me too many times 😅 I very much dislike the feeling…
Thank you for making me feel less alone! 😅 Is it me or are more and more stationery brands using limited edition runs as a sales strategy? Whenever something is launched, I feel equal parts excitement and anxiety! Here’s to the both of us finding more intention and ease with our stationery this year! 🥂
@@tinytigerco yes, you hit it in the head regarding equal excitement and anxiety. And that’s why I dislike it… that I feel forced to buy for fear of it being gone. It does seem like the easy marketing tactic! I am trying to learn and flag the negative feelings and evaluate my purchases more carefully moving forward. It’s not easy but the intention has been helping already. Personally it has helped to journal out thoughts before shopping. No impulse buys for sure! My best to you for 2025 as well!
That’s such a great practice! I’m going to try journaling before shopping this year too. I imagine it’ll help me work through the dilemma of, “do I genuinely love this pen, or am I just afraid to lose the chance to own it?” Thank you so much for sharing! 💛
I own multiple platinum 3776 and I have one that is overly scratch but the right wet ink makes a huge difference. Have you tried the diamine ink in it? Or the vanishing point?
That’s really good to know. I’ve tried J. Herbin Vert de Gris and Pilot Iroshizuku Kiri-Same in my Platinum. I think the latter is a fairly wet ink but I didn’t notice much of a difference. I don’t really get hard starts or skips, it’s not dry in that sense, but just scratchy. I’ll keep experimenting with my wettest inks, thank you for your good tips!
I am so sorry that you had no luck with the Ancient Copper! It totally has to be your environment/humidity. I live in a dry area and never had issues with it. In fact I enjoyed it so much, I used my whole ink sample and have seriously considered ordering an entire bottle. As for Galen Leather, I ordered a fountain pen from them recently and the product description said that in included the single pen sleeve. I wonder if it is just orders that include fountain pens. And I was soooooo in the Hobonichi debacle too. I was pouting the whole night refreshing often while I was playing video games in between refreshes he he. Unfortunately, it seems that all the TRP planners this year have some paper quality issues & I have a few other brands of TRP planners this year with bleed through and feathering issues. The only brand I know that hasn't had any paper issues is Wonderland222 because they are using original Tomoegawa TRP (from the original manufacturer and not Sanzen) for their 2025 planners. I've seriously considered grabbing a few of their 2025s to re-date for future years because I am not sure I trust any of the Sanzen TRP anymore after this years flop!
I think you’re right about Ancient Copper! Lots of others have said the ink doesn’t smudge for them either. I may even try it again in a drier pen and see if that helps! I do believe Galen Leather has included free pen sleeves even for people who haven’t ordered a fountain pen. Really seems to be the luck of the draw! Video games sound like the perfect way to pass the otherwise stressful time of the Hobonichi 2025 launch! 😄 I’ve also heard reports of other brands having issues with the TR Sanzen paper. I suspect Hobonichi is the biggest brand so the complaints about their products are the most prominent, but I think some of the smaller brands have been devastated by the paper failures. Sounds like Wonderland222 commands a rare and precious commodity! ☺️ Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experiences! 💛
I really enjoy watching flop videos, as not everything we think we will like will be a perfect match. I wonder about the stiff pen clip pen, that could you just put it into the case the other way around. Then the clip wouldn't touch the floppy elastic. I know having one pen upside down would drive me crazy, but maybe it would help with the elastic getting damaged. My biggest 2024 purchase regret was buying a full priced pocket moleskine and having the worst paper experience I've ever had with a notebook. Yet, I keep going back to the brand, because something about it just lures me in. Hope you find a good tomoeriver notebook for next year. I'm not a huge fan of the paper but I've heard a lot of positive things about goodInkpressions.
I completely agree! A lot of the disappointments I have in stationery is because I got too swept up in the hype and forgot that everybody is different and will develop a unique relationship to the pen, the planner, and everything else. That’s not a bad idea! I just tried it out and the Pilot Custom 823 is so large that it’ll holds securely without the clip in most of the bands. Thanks for the clever fix!
Moleskine was my first ‘fancy’ stationery investment in my early 20s and that brand has a special place in my heart. So sorry to hear that they were a disappointment. It’s time Moleskine staged a grand comeback and upgrade their paper to compete with the industry leaders. I’ve heard nothing but good things about Inkpressions as well. I’ll keep my eyes open for it!
You’re too sweet!! I cannot accept such a generous gift, but your comment nevertheless made my day. Once my channel is more established, I will produce some goodies of my own (e.g., stickers, ink samples, etc.) and may then agree to a trade if you’re still interested ☺️. Thank you for the kind offer though. It means a lot!
Have you considered to use your Galen Leather case upside down? The loops would be on the right side but also more on the bottom. This means the clips wouldn‘t touch the loops as well. I didn‘t knew about the higher prices of hobonichi just heard about the paper issues and they didn‘t adress them well. They acknowledged the issue for their 5-year journals. But blamed their customers for alle the others.I think the disappointment is justified. Hobonichi will probably notice it during their spring release.
Nice video. Thanks for sharing! I had the same hard stopping with my pilot metro. For that reason, I have not tried another pilot. I have a kakuna but have never inked it.
Sorry to hear that the Metro put you off Pilot! I had a similar experience with Lamy, but thankfully, their 2000 model redeemed the brand for me 😄. What are your favorite pens now?
Thank you for sharing and validating my poor experiences with the Vanishing Point, but I’m sorry to hear they were flops for you too! Hopefully you have many other beautiful pens to write with 😊.
Are you in Brisbane by any chance? I got a pen sleeve in my last Galen order that I won’t use. I’d be happy to pass it on. Thanks for your videos. I’ve been really enjoying them so far.
Gosh, you’re so lovely, but I’m on the Gold Coast! 🙂 I’m really grateful to be connected with you. Thank you for taking the time to write a kind note, and for your very generous thought!!
I have the infamous Black Matte Vanishing Point and the ONLY black ink that I have been able to use without the issues of drying out is the Pilot cartridges with black ink. I too have not found a black waterproof ink that does not make the writing experiencing of hard stops. Ive even tried the DeAtrimentas permanent Black that many use with theirs and it dries out. The cartridge ink by pilot is lovely but I do not like having to throw away those plastic cartridges all the time. Also, the other color inks available by Pilot, do not work as well! They dry out as well. The pen demands a very wet ink to function it seems.
Gosh, that’s so finicky!! Thank you for sharing your experimentations. Yes, I’ve currently loaded my VP up with the black cartridge that came in its box, and it’s better, but not even close to being among my top writers. It’s a pity because it really is a cool pen! I hope to find at least one other wet ink to pair it with as like you, I wouldn’t want to be confined to using disposable cartridges all the time.
I did order from Galen Leather 3 times and there was only one time that I received the one-pen case. I guess it might just be caused by their inventory at that time.
Great video! I'm so sorry you've had a bad experience with the Ancient Copper ink 😢 It's one of my favourites and I've never had any problems with smudging. I use mostly 160gsm notebooks like Archer & Olive and Notebook Therapy, but also Tomoe River Paper notebooks. I live in London, UK, which I guess is probably relatively dry (despite the reputation, it doesn't actually rain a huge amount!), so maybe your climate hypothesis is indeed the reason. PS fellow survivor of the Hobonichi debacle in September. The launch starts at 3am UK time so I was awake from 3-7am before I finally gave up. It all worked out in the end but it certainly was a traumatic experience! 😅
Thank you for sharing your experiences! Gosh, that makes me wonder if my bottle was a bad batch and Ancient Copper is normally smudge-free… that would be wonderful! I do notice my Diamine Oxblood doing the same though, so it may also be some common compound in the dark red inks that don’t behave so well in humid climates. Oh no, I’m sorry to hear that! Sounds like a miserable night! I do think us Hobonichi fans who survived the debacle are now trauma-bonded 🙃. Have you noticed any inconsistent performances with your paper this year?
I've found that the Diamine Ancient Copper works the best in my Sailor Lecoule MF point - I'm using it for the month of January as it matches the coloring for January perfectly in the A6 techo and I've had no issues with smudging. Way cooler climate, however, so that could also be a factor.
I have three VPs. They are my favorite and I have had no issues with leaking and no issues with nibs at all. My EF doesn’t perform as well with dry inks but it otherwise is my most reliable.
@ I really appreciate the clarity of your voice and the lighting in your video. This was my first time checking out your channel. Looking forward to your next video.
On the hobonichi scarcity, I felt it was driven by many you tubers with their “hauls” - seeing someone unboxing 20 different planners from Hobinichi was crazy, off putting and frankly I felt a little embarrassed on their behalf. I actually unsubscribed from a lot of people I’ve been following for a while just based on whai I perceived as greed. I am very into notebooks and stationary, but felt like the whole drama was so not necessary and probably driven by people over ordering with intent to resell
It did become a little out of control here on TH-cam, didn’t it? I found many of the hauls fun, exciting, and heartwarming, but like you, my feed started going down a darker hole where I found videos unboxing 4+ orders each totally $100-200 worth of purchases. I also found some creators saying they couldn’t decide what covers they liked and buying 5+ covers with the intent to decide which one they wanted later and resell the others. I couldn’t presume to understand their psyches but it struck me some of the videos looked like hoarding as a trauma response to scarcity. It was sometimes heartbreaking to watch.
@ yes! you are right, went down a dark hole quickly and it triggered bad emotions for me - I can easily find myself getting obsessive racetrack spinning thoughts about acquiring things - hard to put into words but I have to fight to not succumb to the fomo trap. I think when I felt the pull with the hobonichi craze my reaction was to get away from it as fast as I could, shutting doors as I ran. At the time I remember feeling angry and very manipulated by some of the people I was following, I think the money that they spent was closer to $500 and up range. In hindsight, heartbreaking is a good description. It has made me more conscious of the content I am consuming and the channels I subscribe to.
Oh my, 😜 I said all of that, and didn’t say that instead of the hobonichi weeks this year I ended up getting a sterling ink undated planner in the weeks size, I hand wrote the months and days on the calendar pages and find the “sloppiness” of that makes it easier for me to use because I’m not hung up on perfection. I have created my own sections for journaling, meal planning and budget tracking. I am loving it and can easily see myself continuing with it year after year.
Best comment! ❤😊
I appreciate this video. I don't like, what I see as, manufactured scarcity. I did not purchase, or even attempt to purchase, any hobonichi products for 2025. But nonetheless, I have been reluctantly caught up in the craziness of artificial scarcity one too many times and it's so draining. It seems to be a popular method to make people work for a purchase, which when you think about it, is really crazy to put people through. It doesn't help with website glitches and technical problems that are not the consumers fault. I would like to start thinking more carefully and putting things in perspective! Thanks again for sharing!
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a thoughtful comment! And while I appreciate some brands are indeed constrained in special collaborations with artisans or supply of rare materials to only be able to make a limited run of certain designs, I couldn’t agree more that manufactured scarcity is used like a money-printing machine for some of these brands. It’s using people’s fears and anxieties against them and I believe the ethics of that kind of marketing is not nearly interrogated enough. I admire your strength and restraint! Thanks again for being here and watching the video 🥰.
Your handwriting is absolutely beautiful!
That’s so kind of you to say! I have to admit the camera makes my handwriting look better than it does up close when you can see the inconsistencies and errors more easily, but your encouragement is very much appreciated! 🥰
I enjoyed hearing your thoughts on all of these misses! I always appreciate this type of critique. Very graceful, but very informative!
That’s very kind of you to say! Thanks so much for taking the time to share your support! ☺️
This was really informative! just got back into stationery after a several year break and this sort of content is really insightful... Especially since I'm trying to be mindful about my purchases by doing tons of research before I buy. Cheers from across the ditch in New Zealand : )
Kia ora! Thanks for taking the time to write such a lovely note ☺️. Welcome back to the stationery hobby! I think taking breaks is a good way to refresh and reevaluate our relationship to our stuff. What kind of purchases are you thinking about making now that you’re getting back into stationery?
@@tinytigerco Getting back into fountain pens but scratching the itch to buy with research - and glad I did so far, because there's so many rabbit holes 😅 I'll maybe be able to decide on my next acquisition in a month's time after I Really understand what's out there in 2025
@@dreamerknitter I so admire your slow and mindful approach! Hope you’ll update me on what you decide to purchase after your research 🙂.
The leather product freebies from Galen varies a lot. I buy from them on a regular basis as I live in İstanbul. I do get a lot of pen sleeves as freebies, mainly when I get fountain pens from them. But not limited to that. I have a lot of those sleeves by now, but to be fair I don’t get them every time. You’ll probably get one too at some point; but just know that the pen sleeves are not a standart freebie that they send. İt is also not the only leather goodie that they send. İn my last couple of purchases I got leather keychains that I love. İn the past I got a leather Galen Leather stamped charm as well. But I don’t expect these extras. So when they come they are sweet little surprises 😊
I wanted to add that I stopped using hobonichi planners in 2023. I was fed up of the dated pages and the day free had very limited pages at the back. I had used almost all of their planners since 2018 by then. But I got to the point where it just didn’t work for me anymore. And although the popularity of the brand was great to watch at the beginning, later on it just got to a ridiculous point for me. Since last year I am using the Sterling İnk B6 planner and it is just perfect for me for the time being. My best used hobo was either the A6 - which was a bit small - or the Weeks - which was a bit narrow. And the dailies were always an issue. The B6 is a great size for me as I have used A5 planners before and I find them too much for me. The Sterling ink also has TR paper and I have no issues with its quality. I use foutain pens exclusively and all my notebooks and planners just have be able to perform well with my pens. This year I also considered the Midori planners but I had already ordered from Sterling İnk. I love Midori and Cosmo Air paper as well. I do use notebooks from Midori and Galen (for the Cosmo). And I have bought but not tried yet, the new notebook that Musu.bi has: the Rasa 83. This is a paper they have worked on for a good while. They also have the Halus 90 which is more geared toward art and watercolours, but it also works with fountain pens. Musu.bi notebooks is just quality all over in my opinion. I would highly recommend you checkout their tomo system notebooks if you haven’t already: they have TR, Cosmo, Bank etc. papered notebooks
Thank you for taking the time to share such a comprehensive account of your experiences with Galen Leather, Hobonichi, and Sterling Ink. This is helpful information and I imagine many people watching this video in the future would appreciate reading your thoughts. I will take my time to learn more about Sterling Ink as you’re certainly not the first to sing their praises. I’ve never heard of Musu.bi before and they sound really intriguing. I confess I’ve not tried many different types of fountain pen friendly paper beyond TRP and Midori so they seem like the perfect place to start expanding my paper horizons. Thanks again for watching my video and sharing your experiences.
I love your channel! You have such beautiful handwriting!!!
Thank you so much! That’s such a kind thing to say 🥰. I really appreciate you being here and offering your warm encouragement!
Really enjoying the balance of highlights, lowlights, and real talk on your channel. Subscribed!
Thank you so much for watching my stationery flops video, and taking the time to leave a comment! 💛 It means a lot to me to have your support as I’m just starting out on TH-cam. I hope to see you again in a future video ☺️.
Just came across your channel and really enjoyed your honesty. As others have mentioned, you may want to have your Pilot VP checked out, as I don't think that's normal behavior. I have 2 (a F and M) and have never had the issue. I had a similar experience with my first Platinum 3776. I got it in a Soft Fine and found it miserably dry and scratchy - like nails on a chalkboard scratchy 😖. I kept trying different ink combos and have found very wet inks actually do quite well. My go-to ink for that pen is a Rohrer & Klingner Sketch ink that is super juicy. Since then I have found I much rather prefer Platinum M and B although even those run much more dry than other brands, so I wonder if it's something with the feeds they use? I wish you the best of luck with your Platinum, it is very beautiful! Thank you for sharing!
Thanks so much for taking the time to share your experiences! I won’t give up hope on my VP and will definitely keep exploring different inks. I’ll do the same for my Platinum and hope a very wet ink might do the trick! Your ideas have given me lots of avenues to try rescuing these regretted purchases 💛.
What a thoughtful review of stationery products! Thank you! It's my first year in a Hobonichi after using only dotted journals. I am so in love! Because i had no preconceived expectations, the slight ghosting or bleeding has not disuaded me from writing with my fountain pens. I think some ghosting gives my hobonichi more character!
Thank you so much for your very kind comment! I appreciate you taking the time to share your perspective. 💛 I can relate to your point of view as I discovered Hobonichi in 2023 after they had switched to Sanzen paper and I thought they were wonderful even while some of their older fans bemoaned the new paper. I don’t mind the ghosting either, but the bleedthrough in some batches was new to me. I’m so happy to hear your introduction to Hobonichi has been a joyful one! ☺️ Which planner/s are you using? Welcome to the ほぼ日community!
Really enjoyed your video. I was new to Hobonichi and did get carried along by the hype, after this year I do not think I will purchase again, the paper is so thin that there is a lot of show through and I found the pages tear so easily for something that cost a small fortune in my humble opinion. I find the Midori paper excellent and will probably go to the A5 codex next year for my journal. On another note I have purchased a lot of items from Galen and have always been supplied with the extra items such as the pen pouch. Interesting about the ink platter this has not happened to me yet but I will be more careful I think going forward so thank you for sharing. You have the most beautiful handwriting x
Thank you for taking the time to write such a kind and thoughtful comment. I’m sorry to hear this year was your introduction to Hobonichi. I would’ve been so put off the brand. The thin paper is definitely not for everybody. Midori paper really is wonderful and I own several of their notebooks. It’s good to figure out what you want in a planner. Thanks again for being here and sharing your experiences!
Did you buy from galen leather direct? I've had about 7 orders and every one came with freebies. Apart from once when I bought a writers box that was a seconds
Ohhh you’re lucky! ☺️ Yes, I ordered from Galen directly. I’ve had a few other commenters share varied experiences where some had received freebies in 3/3 orders and others who received freebies in 1/3 orders. I guess I know now it’s certainly not standard practice but they’re still very generous and the odds are you’ll probably have a 50% chance of receiving something extra.
Thanks for this thoughtful video. I purchased a Platinum 3776 and had the same dry experience. I eventually carefully flossed it with thin brass tin a couple of times and it made a world of difference. I do use a wet ink, which I did before I flossed it. I examined my nib with a loupe first, of course, to make sure the nib was okay. It was very tight. I was very careful. Grateful it works. I love the pen now.
Thank you so much for your very thoughtful and precise account of how you troubleshooted your 3776. I do suspect a careful owner could make a world of difference with the flossing or using the exceedingly fine filing paper. I’m really impressed and heartened to hear that you were able to rescue your 3776! I’d love to take a workshop on nib tuning and learn to do that kind of work at home. I imagine it would help with 9/10 disappointing pen purchases.
So grateful for such an honest video! I found it very useful.Thank you for sharing your experiences.
I appreciate your kind message so much! Thank you for offering your encouragement! ☺️
I am new to hobinichi it was popping up in places but I couldn’t work it all out but this year I have started watching numerous unboxing videos. At first I was so disappointed that I wasn’t aware in September for 2025 launch but it has taken pressure off and the excitement/anxiety has calmed down and I am just enjoying the joy and decided to go slow. I was shocked to find them on Amazon in the uk and I am awaiting the same A5 planner cover that you have (it was out of stock but new stock coming with feb 1st releases) I got so wound up I was considering buying for twice the price on eBay. I have been sick for many years and unable to hand write stuff plus nothing in my diary as I am bedbound. I realised I couldn’t jump in straight away with a planner so I have the cat notebook to start with and I think I’m going to get a tiny printer and create some memory pages with pictures and stickers just to ease back in with no dates or expectation just fun stuff. I couldn’t believe it when you mentioned your VP a month ago I did not know it existed but I have seen it often in videos and became obsessed. Your video has been really helpful in making me take a step back and slow down. It’s amazing how easily I have been “influenced” even tho the videos are not influencer ones. I hope you can get your beautiful pen to work for you. I am a lamy safari girl at the moment so when a nib starts misbehaving I have bought a new one (only twice😂)thanks again for a great video❤
Thank you for your lovely message! It was a rough day for me today and reading your kind comment made me smile 😊.
I have no doubt the A5 cat cover will return. It’s a sweet one and I hope you love it as much as I do. Even if you don’t end up getting to buy it, Yumi Kitagishi has been very popular and I wouldn’t be surprised she creates more covers for Hobonichi later this year in their October launch.
Your gentle undated memory keeper idea sounds terrific! What a wonderful way to ease yourself back into journalling. On days I can’t be bothered writing, I like collaging a few pictures that can sometimes make more an even more impactful spread.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write a comment and offer words of encouragement! I hope to see you again in another video, and you can keep me updated of your journalling and fountain pen adventures this year 🥰.
@ I am subscribed & look forward to updating you🩷
I have found the exact same thing about the carbon black ink, and the dynamine inks!
It seems like so many people love those inks, but they did not work well with the Tomoe river paper and my pens. I have week spreads that are completely ruined because of the smearing or smudging. I really like the DeAtramentis document inks for waterproof ink, and really enjoy the Sterling Ink Common and Daily planners (each of my kids has one of their 5 Year Diaries as well)!
Thank you for validating my disappointing experiences with Platinum Carbon Black and Diamine inks! The experiences I’ve heard since posting this video could not have been more polarised. The inks work perfectly for some people and worse for others. There is so much variability! I suppose part of the thrill for me of stationery is finding the right fit ☺️.
How many kids do you have? That’s amazing you keep a 5-Year Diary for each of them 😍. I imagine they’ll be delighted to read them and see all your family memories documented when they’re older.
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a lovely comment. It means a lot to me 💛.
Also, I used a Hobonichi Cousin last year and loved it. Had no issues with the paper. This year, I purchased a Hobo Cousin Avec and a Hobo A6 Hon. The paper in the Cousin Avec is inconsistent. I have had feathering with my Pilot Custom 742 with Pilot Iro. Asa-Gao. Using the same pen in my Hobo Hon A6, no feathering. I don't know what is up with the paper.
I also have a Take A Note A6 Planner with TRP 68 gsm and have no issues.
I’m so disappointed that the TRP issues have been experienced across the entire lineup. From what I’ve heard at the end of last year, Hobonichi only owned up to defects in the 5-Year journals and have not honoured returns or exchanges with their other planners. I’ve really not enjoyed writing in my Weeks so far this year. I own cheap off-brand notebooks where Japanese nibs don’t feather as much as they do in my Weeks.
Would you recommend the Take A Note planners?
Thanks again for watching my video and sharing your very helpful comments. I really appreciate your support 💛.
Thank you for sharing! I’d never heard of the many issues you’ve been having with your VP.
8:49 I never thought that ancient copper inks were wet. Huh. And I’m left handed. It’s one of my go-to inks.
That’s amazing! It really must be climate-dependent or I just received a dodgy batch of the ink. I’m really glad to hear that you enjoy your VP and Ancient Copper. Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment ☺️.
@ oh-I don’t own a VP. I’m happy with Pilot Kakunos with my toddlers around! Sorry if I made it seem like that. It’s on my wishlist though.
Maybe the weather does make a difference. That’d make sense
Oh, thanks for clarifying! That was my bad for jumping to the assumption. The VP is definitely not a pen I trust with my toddler 😄. The clicker mechanism is just too easy for my son to use, and the nib is especially slim and I imagine wouldn’t take much strength to break. The Kakuno is adorable. I think I’ll buy that for my son as his first fountain pen. He’s mesmerised every time he sees me write with my fountain pens. The apple didn’t fall far from the tree! 🍏
I too have a Pilot VP in fine and it does not leak nor have hard starts! I hope you find someone who can look at it for you because it is really an amazing pen!
For next year, maybe check out the common planner? Its also Tomoe River paper and I feel like they have a sane and calm outlook as well as being a small company.
Really like your videos and the way you talk is so clear and soothing! Wishing you and your family all the best 💞
I wonder if it’s the carbon ink? Deatrementis Document Inks work well in the VP!
So nice to see you again, thank you for sharing your experiences! ☺️
I will definitely keep experimenting with better behaving inks in my VP and potentially showing it to a professional when I get the chance. I’m excited to hear that yours perform well for you so I won’t give up hope that it can be rescued!
Thank you for your recommendation! I’ll check out the common planner for next year. Sending you all my best wishes too! 💛
And I love that De Atrementis comes in so many colours! Here I thought I was buying the better ink because PCB was more expensive 🙃.
Thanks for your sharing of your own disappointments. I like that you are just talking from a personal point of view. Brief comments to share in response: I have a Pilot VP and I just have to be careful with what inks I use…it can dry out easily; my Platinum Century (M) is one of my favourite pens; the Hobonichi fever is a result of its popularity and success and I’ve always had the impression they are a good company. I get my A6 refill each year and I’m super happy.
Have you tried the Platinum Chou Kuro? It’s a bit pricy but it’s very black and seems to flow well.
Thanks once again…I haven’t been put off buying from Pilot, Platinum, Galen and Hobonichi, but we all should be careful when buying things online.
Thanks so much for taking the time to write a message and share your thoughts. I’m really glad it came across that I wasn’t making sweeping indictments about each brand and imposing my subjective impressions as facts. Making this video is a reminder to myself, if anything, not to get carried away by wishful thinking of how amazing every purchase would feel.
I would love to try the Chuo Kuro one of these days. I love black… the darker the better! I’m happy to hear it performs well too.
Thanks again for your comment! I hope to see you again in another video.
So fun tidbit, every single red ink I've tried has smudged even after days of being left alone. Oxblood, Antietam, etc. If is a dark moody red/orange, it will smudge.
Yes!! It might be a compound within those inks that is particularly sensitive to humidity, similar to how many people report that their dark red and orange inks crusts up on their nibs! Thanks for sharing your experience, I’m glad to hear I’m not the only one who has had smudging issues!!
I can’t recommend the sterling ink common planner enough. I’m using the front layouts for planning and the blank pages at the back for journalling so it’s an all in one solution. Though, if you like dated dailies, the common planner won’t be suitable but sterling ink might have other planners with dated dailies. I’d check them out. The planners are made with Tomoe River Paper and I haven’t experienced problems with it, nor have I heard of other people having problems with it!
As for the ancient copper, you’re right it is climate dependent because I live in a very hot and dry place and I’ve not had that problem. The problem I get with Ancient copper is it gets a bit crusty on my nib so I have to wipe it off before I start writing!
Also, I have to say your handwriting is to die for!😳 so expressive and perfectly neat at the same time.
Others have also raved about the common planner, so I’ll be sure to check them out. Thank you for sharing this recommendation! 🙂 The TRP issues are unfortunately across the board though and Sterling Ink customers have reported similar issues, as have other retailers like Papertess Designs. From what I’ve seen on Reddit, Sterling Ink has reportedly shown great customer service by issuing full refunds or return mail-paid exchanges for defective paper. Hobonichi only offered to make good on 5-Year journals but nothing else.
I’ve only heard rumours of the crustiness with reddish orange inks!! I’m glad to hear it doesn’t affect performance. I won’t give up on my Ancient Copper! I’ll just need to be extra extra careful around it 😊.
Thank you for taking the time to write such a thoughtful and encouraging comment. I really appreciate you being here! Hope to see you again in another video 💛.
I have no issues with the paper in my common planner as well thankfully. And this year she introduced the daily planner as well. She has 2 versions: one has the dates printed and another one, that doesn't have the dates printed, but has the daily page layout if you will. So you can write your own dates in it
I’m so sorry that you had a bad experience with the VP and PCB pairing. I know we’ve talked about this before, but I had a similar disappointment after initially thinking it was fine for months! Also that Platinum! 🐯 What a stunning pen! I hope you’re able to get the nib adjusted to your liking.
I also feel for you about the Galen leather experience. I’ve shopped from them twice and had a similar “hope” about the evil eye keychain which I didn’t get. It’s okay - I also don’t want to feel entitled to freebies. I did feel some disappointment, but I came to a similar conclusion as you - it’s a small business, margins are small, and they’re doing their best. And - we are human and it’s okay to feel some disappointment sometimes. As long as it doesn’t override our overall experience. Loved this video! Thank you! It’s gotten me thinking about my “flops” and I might have to borrow your video idea in the future (with credit, of course!). ☺️
Hearing your concerns about that pen and ink pairing was the first time I felt validated in my experiences, and it snapped me out of my denial! I had so convinced myself that it would become my go-to combo for my planner that I didn’t leave room for open-minded exploration.
That Platinum Matsu-tora is like my dream pen. I couldn’t have custom made a more fitting design 😄. Here’s hoping a nibmeister would be able to work their magic!!
I’d genuinely love to hear your stationery ‘flops’! I do hope you make that video and I look forward to watching it 🥰.
I've bought from Galen and did not get a pen sleeve.
Thanks for validating that I was not uniquely snubbed!
I'm glad I watched this video because I was surprised to see the cases for hobinichi be so expensive. I didn't realize there was so much manufactured drama around the pricing as well as the quantities being sold. I will say the I do believe Galen Leather to be a very generous small business I do think you got a one off with no pen sleeve. I received my pen sleeve with my ticket to a pen show here in the US and I do use it when I travel locally and don't want to take a full sleeve of pens out. As far as other journal companies I am looking at Aura Estelle, Sterling Ink and Archer and Olive(their paper is thicker but I am not have an issue with it so far). For journal covers I am just going to spend money and buy a luxury brand as it seems leather journal cover cases are running fairly expensive for non brand names and the price difference isn't that much in the long run.
Thank you for sharing your misgivings about Hobonichi and their covers and for taking the time to watch my video! The covers are very cute but the prices are quite exorbitant (especially when buying outside Japan) and the quality has not necessarily improved over the years. I believe a few years ago Hobonichi covers used to come with a protective plastic cover (they call it a cover-on-cover) for free, but now cover-on-cover’s are sold separately. I completely get that you need to weigh up your values and priorities and invest in what is most aligned for you. Thanks again for your comment!
I have Platinum 3776 UEF, and it certainly has feedback, bur I wouldn’t call it scratchy. In fact, it is one of my favourites. I hope a nibmeister can help you.
Thank you for the vote of confidence that the 3776 can be rescued. I hope it’ll turn into one of my favourites too. I have no doubt refining the flow and smoothness just a little will make a world of difference. Thanks for taking the time to share your experience 💛.
I’m trying out the Sterling Ink planner for 2025. The layouts they offer are very similar to Hobonichi and they use tomoe river paper as well
I’d love to hear your experience with them as the year rolls on! Thanks very much for sharing 🙂.
Oh no about the Diamond Ancient Copper! I am using it now with no smudging, but it is a very cold and dry day. I’ll remember to put my blotting paper in between the pages.
I agree with this.
It’s a beautiful color! I do admit since using fountain pens more, I’ve become instinctually better at avoiding smudging, but my first few spreads with the ink looked like a crime scene 😄. Some commenters have said the ink never smudges for them so I hope yours behaves the same!
Thank you so much for taking the time to comment ☺️.
With my VP, I do have such droplets with certain inks, not with others. It is also on the dry side so I know some inks will not work as well as others. Permanent inis on VP is also a debated topic, because the seal is not the best there is on VP and once it dries on the nib it is tough to restart and clean.
Thank you for sharing your experiences. It baffled me with my VP that it could be both too wet (casting droplets) and too dry (hard starts and skips). I’ve so far tried the standard black cartridge that came with the pen, and it’s slightly less dry, but still not a great experience. I’ll keep experimenting with more well-behaving inks.
I have three VPs and I noticed that I get hard starts when I used DeAtramentis Document Black Ink in them. I think that's because the ink dries fast and the Pilot VP doesn't seal well due to its design.
Otherwise, I never have hard starts with that same ink in my other FPs.
Your golden FP is stunning. Thank you for sharing what it meant to you. I'm sorry that it didn't perform well for you.
@@tinytigerco permanent inks are apparently another species of ink altogether - but sharing issues and disappointment like you did is super helpful to increase everyone's knowledge in the fountain pen community 😊
@@PlanYourOneLife I’m sorry I missed your comment when it was first posted! Thank you very much for sharing your experiences, and validating some of my struggles with using a permanent ink in my VP 💛. Your kind words are very encouraging to me as a small channel!
Nice video. So refreshing to see a video that not sugar coating everything from stationery reviews. You also prevent me from buying ancient copper that I was considering. I already have a few inks have similar issues on Hobonichi. Don't want to add another one. For the Galen Leathers. I ordered 3 times from them so far. All have free one-pen case with various qualities. So it could be an overlook from Galen side. I also don't have the droplet issue on my Pilot Capless pens. But their fine nibs can be inconsistent on size and ink flow. Maybe try a different ink. I usually would try out with one of the iroshizuku inks as a baseline for a new pen.
My Ancient Copper also smears on Midori paper, but lots of commenters have said their ink doesn’t have that problem, so it may very well be climate-dependent. Or I just received a bad batch.
Iroshizuku inks are so reliable. I’m currently using the standard black cartridge from the box with my VP and it’s slightly less dry, but still not great. I’ll be trying my iroshizuku with it next.
Another thoughtfully done video, as always! :) I've sadly had the same experience with the Hobonichi Weeks. I'm really not enjoying how the ink is spreading on the paper, plus I feel like it takes wayyy longer to dry? My pages look so smudged up close!
Oh no! That’s disappointing to hear you’ve had similar experiences with the Weeks! 💔 Some of my pages are worse than others. Even flipping it back over the last two months, I can see some variation with pen performance.
I feel for the people whose introduction to Hobonichi is through this year’s poor paper consistency. I’d wonder what all the hype is about. They’re not cheap planners!
@@tinytigerco I agree! Such a shame 🥺
Really related to your discussion and especially point about scarcity in general. Definitely something that gets me too many times 😅 I very much dislike the feeling…
Thank you for making me feel less alone! 😅 Is it me or are more and more stationery brands using limited edition runs as a sales strategy? Whenever something is launched, I feel equal parts excitement and anxiety! Here’s to the both of us finding more intention and ease with our stationery this year! 🥂
@@tinytigerco yes, you hit it in the head regarding equal excitement and anxiety. And that’s why I dislike it… that I feel forced to buy for fear of it being gone. It does seem like the easy marketing tactic! I am trying to learn and flag the negative feelings and evaluate my purchases more carefully moving forward. It’s not easy but the intention has been helping already. Personally it has helped to journal out thoughts before shopping. No impulse buys for sure! My best to you for 2025 as well!
That’s such a great practice! I’m going to try journaling before shopping this year too. I imagine it’ll help me work through the dilemma of, “do I genuinely love this pen, or am I just afraid to lose the chance to own it?” Thank you so much for sharing! 💛
I own multiple platinum 3776 and I have one that is overly scratch but the right wet ink makes a huge difference. Have you tried the diamine ink in it? Or the vanishing point?
That’s really good to know. I’ve tried J. Herbin Vert de Gris and Pilot Iroshizuku Kiri-Same in my Platinum. I think the latter is a fairly wet ink but I didn’t notice much of a difference. I don’t really get hard starts or skips, it’s not dry in that sense, but just scratchy. I’ll keep experimenting with my wettest inks, thank you for your good tips!
I am so sorry that you had no luck with the Ancient Copper! It totally has to be your environment/humidity. I live in a dry area and never had issues with it. In fact I enjoyed it so much, I used my whole ink sample and have seriously considered ordering an entire bottle.
As for Galen Leather, I ordered a fountain pen from them recently and the product description said that in included the single pen sleeve. I wonder if it is just orders that include fountain pens.
And I was soooooo in the Hobonichi debacle too. I was pouting the whole night refreshing often while I was playing video games in between refreshes he he. Unfortunately, it seems that all the TRP planners this year have some paper quality issues & I have a few other brands of TRP planners this year with bleed through and feathering issues. The only brand I know that hasn't had any paper issues is Wonderland222 because they are using original Tomoegawa TRP (from the original manufacturer and not Sanzen) for their 2025 planners. I've seriously considered grabbing a few of their 2025s to re-date for future years because I am not sure I trust any of the Sanzen TRP anymore after this years flop!
I think you’re right about Ancient Copper! Lots of others have said the ink doesn’t smudge for them either. I may even try it again in a drier pen and see if that helps!
I do believe Galen Leather has included free pen sleeves even for people who haven’t ordered a fountain pen. Really seems to be the luck of the draw!
Video games sound like the perfect way to pass the otherwise stressful time of the Hobonichi 2025 launch! 😄 I’ve also heard reports of other brands having issues with the TR Sanzen paper. I suspect Hobonichi is the biggest brand so the complaints about their products are the most prominent, but I think some of the smaller brands have been devastated by the paper failures. Sounds like Wonderland222 commands a rare and precious commodity! ☺️
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experiences! 💛
I really enjoy watching flop videos, as not everything we think we will like will be a perfect match.
I wonder about the stiff pen clip pen, that could you just put it into the case the other way around. Then the clip wouldn't touch the floppy elastic.
I know having one pen upside down would drive me crazy, but maybe it would help with the elastic getting damaged.
My biggest 2024 purchase regret was buying a full priced pocket moleskine and having the worst paper experience I've ever had with a notebook. Yet, I keep going back to the brand, because something about it just lures me in. Hope you find a good tomoeriver notebook for next year. I'm not a huge fan of the paper but I've heard a lot of positive things about goodInkpressions.
I completely agree! A lot of the disappointments I have in stationery is because I got too swept up in the hype and forgot that everybody is different and will develop a unique relationship to the pen, the planner, and everything else.
That’s not a bad idea! I just tried it out and the Pilot Custom 823 is so large that it’ll holds securely without the clip in most of the bands. Thanks for the clever fix!
Moleskine was my first ‘fancy’ stationery investment in my early 20s and that brand has a special place in my heart. So sorry to hear that they were a disappointment. It’s time Moleskine staged a grand comeback and upgrade their paper to compete with the industry leaders.
I’ve heard nothing but good things about Inkpressions as well. I’ll keep my eyes open for it!
I got a one pen case by Galen Leather at the Dutch Pen Show. I don't use it so if you want I can send it to you 🙌
You’re too sweet!! I cannot accept such a generous gift, but your comment nevertheless made my day. Once my channel is more established, I will produce some goodies of my own (e.g., stickers, ink samples, etc.) and may then agree to a trade if you’re still interested ☺️. Thank you for the kind offer though. It means a lot!
@tinytigerco Just dm if you change your mind! 😊
Thank you!! 🥰
Thank you for sharing ..wonderful video😊
Thank you so much for sharing your encouragement and support! 🥰
Have you considered to use your Galen Leather case upside down? The loops would be on the right side but also more on the bottom. This means the clips wouldn‘t touch the loops as well.
I didn‘t knew about the higher prices of hobonichi just heard about the paper issues and they didn‘t adress them well. They acknowledged the issue for their 5-year journals. But blamed their customers for alle the others.I think the disappointment is justified. Hobonichi will probably notice it during their spring release.
Nice video. Thanks for sharing! I had the same hard stopping with my pilot metro. For that reason, I have not tried another pilot. I have a kakuna but have never inked it.
Sorry to hear that the Metro put you off Pilot! I had a similar experience with Lamy, but thankfully, their 2000 model redeemed the brand for me 😄. What are your favorite pens now?
I have 2 VPs and they both hard start so bad (with any ink) that they are unusable.
Thank you for sharing and validating my poor experiences with the Vanishing Point, but I’m sorry to hear they were flops for you too! Hopefully you have many other beautiful pens to write with 😊.
Are you in Brisbane by any chance? I got a pen sleeve in my last Galen order that I won’t use. I’d be happy to pass it on. Thanks for your videos. I’ve been really enjoying them so far.
Gosh, you’re so lovely, but I’m on the Gold Coast! 🙂 I’m really grateful to be connected with you. Thank you for taking the time to write a kind note, and for your very generous thought!!
I have the infamous Black Matte Vanishing Point and the ONLY black ink that I have been able to use without the issues of drying out is the Pilot cartridges with black ink. I too have not found a black waterproof ink that does not make the writing experiencing of hard stops. Ive even tried the DeAtrimentas permanent Black that many use with theirs and it dries out. The cartridge ink by pilot is lovely but I do not like having to throw away those plastic cartridges all the time. Also, the other color inks available by Pilot, do not work as well! They dry out as well. The pen demands a very wet ink to function it seems.
Gosh, that’s so finicky!! Thank you for sharing your experimentations. Yes, I’ve currently loaded my VP up with the black cartridge that came in its box, and it’s better, but not even close to being among my top writers. It’s a pity because it really is a cool pen! I hope to find at least one other wet ink to pair it with as like you, I wouldn’t want to be confined to using disposable cartridges all the time.
I did order from Galen Leather 3 times and there was only one time that I received the one-pen case. I guess it might just be caused by their inventory at that time.
Thanks for offering your experiences. That’s so helpful to hear your perspective and know my order wasn’t uniquely neglected.
Same - only once that I got the single free pen sleeve and the little gift bag of items - just think of it as “lottery” win
Great video! I'm so sorry you've had a bad experience with the Ancient Copper ink 😢 It's one of my favourites and I've never had any problems with smudging. I use mostly 160gsm notebooks like Archer & Olive and Notebook Therapy, but also Tomoe River Paper notebooks. I live in London, UK, which I guess is probably relatively dry (despite the reputation, it doesn't actually rain a huge amount!), so maybe your climate hypothesis is indeed the reason. PS fellow survivor of the Hobonichi debacle in September. The launch starts at 3am UK time so I was awake from 3-7am before I finally gave up. It all worked out in the end but it certainly was a traumatic experience! 😅
Thank you for sharing your experiences! Gosh, that makes me wonder if my bottle was a bad batch and Ancient Copper is normally smudge-free… that would be wonderful! I do notice my Diamine Oxblood doing the same though, so it may also be some common compound in the dark red inks that don’t behave so well in humid climates.
Oh no, I’m sorry to hear that! Sounds like a miserable night! I do think us Hobonichi fans who survived the debacle are now trauma-bonded 🙃. Have you noticed any inconsistent performances with your paper this year?
I've found that the Diamine Ancient Copper works the best in my Sailor Lecoule MF point - I'm using it for the month of January as it matches the coloring for January perfectly in the A6 techo and I've had no issues with smudging. Way cooler climate, however, so that could also be a factor.
That’s great! Do you always match the ink with the Hobonichi month’s colour? I’ve considered doing that now that my ink collection is growing ☺️.
My vanishing point never leaks droplets and don't have any hard starts either. I think it might be just your pen.
I have three VPs. They are my favorite and I have had no issues with leaking and no issues with nibs at all. My EF doesn’t perform as well with dry inks but it otherwise is my most reliable.
Yes, glad to hear yours is better behaving.
@@tinytigerco you can also just get the nib unit for your VP. It does sound like yours isn't working properly.
Great video, thank you. The background music was so distracting and made it hard to focus on what you were saying.
I’ll try going without it next time and see if that’s better. It’d certainly save me a lot of time editing.
@ I really appreciate the clarity of your voice and the lighting in your video. This was my first time checking out your channel. Looking forward to your next video.
That’s very encouraging, thank you for your feedback. I look forward to seeing you in a future video.
I didn’t even notice the music
@@tinytigerco Yes, please! I am super interested in what you have to say, but I had to struggle to follow along because of the music.