In mid-June I typically take a break from fresh content in favor of a mid-year recap looking back at favorite posts, reviews, product launches, new discoveries, etc. from the first six months. I always enjoy doing these retrospectives! Up first are five favorite posts, videos, and more from the first six months of 2025, in no particular order. Since we’ve been making an effort to diversify site content, this year’s recap includes everything from blog posts to YouTube videos to podcast episodes!
Pen Review: The Pentel Sign Pen. It’s not often that I find classic stationery products I’ve never used before, but it’s sort of been this year’s theme. The Pentel Sign Pen has been around forever, and for a good reason.
On The Paper Trail Episode 3: We Visit Pilot Pens USA! So of course the highlight of my year so far has to be the recent trip to Tokyo, but a close second would be our trip to visit the Pilot Pens USA headquarters in Jacksonville, Florida, where we got to take a peek behind the curtain!
Japan Trip Journal: A Visit to Kakimori, Including Custom Notebooks and Inkstand! Personally, the best part of my trip to Japan was the opportunity to visit Kakimori and make both custom notebooks and an ink. In-store shopping offers opportunities and experiences online can never replace.
TGS 12th Anniversary: 5 Fountain Pens Everyone Should Experience. I took a bit of a different take on a “Top 5” list, with five pens that I don’t necessarily think everyone should own, but that everyone should definitely try.
Shimmer Ink for Everyday Writing? Why Not! I’ve really been exploring different inks this year and trying to reach a bit further outside my comfort zone. Shimmer ink for work? Go for it.
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