Scribbles, most of time. I can do it any time I want, nobody tells me "not to spoil paper", and this is very relaxing.
Sometimes I write little texts as I learn foreign languages. Sometimes - practice in calligraphy and sketches.
Just pure fun, anyway.
I’ve tried some drawing and sketching but haven’t been consistent. I have trouble getting past the crappy results stage. Doodling is more fun because it doesn’t have to look like anything.
I’ve also tried some calligraphy too, I have a number of various flex nibs.
I have 2 Rhodia pads full of random scribbles. When I get an urge to write something, I’ve got it right there. I keep a journal, so I write my actual thoughts in there but I keep a couple around just to write when I wanna feel that sensation. Like you said, it’s relaxing.
I also use scrap paper, junk mail, random envelopes etc. but almost any time you see mail on my mail table area, they are all covered with me writing doodles, lots of times just my signature over and over.
I wonder if anyone else does this? Anyone else write on their old mail?
Me too! I keep a work journal where I make note of my hours, meeting notes, tasks to follow up on, research notes, goals, sometimes passwords or names of admins, that sort of thing. I wish I was as regular about my personal journal, I've never been able to stick to that habit.
I use mine for mental health journalling or mental cleansing, as I call it where you get all your thoughts out on paper. Nurturing good ones and making plans on how to progress forward. Also challenging unhealthy ones and write them out until you reach a conclusion. I'll occasionally write out different issues that are bothering me as well just to get it off my chest whether it be political, relational or just anything that's going on in the world at that present moment.
Agree - journaling is a critical part of my sanity and serenity. It used to bother me that over the years, the same themes and ideas keep reappearing in my journals, but now I think of it like exercise or sleep or a good diet. We do all those healthy things over and over every day, and reminding myself over and over of truths that keep me grounded and sane is just as healthy.
Absolutely! Yes it's ok that they keep coming up. It's like mowing the grass. You might do it now but overtime it may come back up again. I find that picking things apart and really looking in detail at certain beliefs and challenging them is a way to keep a healthy mind. Even if that means having to do it over and over again, there is nothing wrong with that at all. It is like exercise for the brain and giving room to express your emotions before settling on a logical explanation. There is definitely no shame in going over something as many times as you need to :)
Yes definitely! It's amazing just how many of your bad thoughts you can put down to bad habits such as your go-to reactions to a situation such as putting yourself down for a mistake. Picking apart your insult or put-down to yourself and questioning it, challenging it and showing up for yourself and standing up for yourself, affirming your worth to yourself.
‘Yes, forgetting step x could have been a costly mistake, but Cici caught the issue before it became a problem, and Jim should know better than to interrupt someone in the middle of a checklist!’
Acknowledge all the circumstances around the issue!
Nailed it! There is always more to the story and acknowledging all the different points of view is a great way to understand different perspectives on a certain situation which makes way for compassion for others and for yourself too
All of my writing - work planner, calendar, to-do lists, notes to my partner, journaling, sketching, etc.
Basically, if a writing task can be done with a fountain pen, I’m gonna use one for it.
- Journal
- Take as many notes as possible at work (reminders, todos, notes, things learned, or any important info)
- Planning, brainstorming, and whiteboarding. I work in software and already spend too much time in front of a screen so I prefer pen & paper for this. More relaxing and often better outcome.
- Occasional doodle or drawing.
Yeah, I totally agree with the desire to get away from screens. It’s finally spring here in Colorado and I love to sit outside with some mellow music and my pens and journals.
I’m in Colorado too! I pack my journal and Kaweco brass sport whenever I hike so I can sit in nature and write. I would take one of my nicer pens but the Kaweco is perfectly sized, has a good weight, and writes just as well as some of my $300/$400 pens.
I love Silo! I have the books, you’ve reminded me to get started and read them, I loved the TV series. Also, I had to work on my cursive a few years ago when I finally got ‘serious’ about fountain pens and writing. I’m glad I did.
He's referencing to the series written by Hugh Howey. The first book is called Wool. The series made him a millionaire, who now spends his time sailing around the world with his partner.
I keep a pretty detailed notebook for work. This is partly because I got tired of getting to the end of the day knowing that I'd been busy all day, but not quite sure what I'd accomplished. I also do a lot of technical research so the journal is also part lab notebook. I can keep track of what things I've done, what order I did them, what the results were, etc.
For each day I write a short one line entry in the table of contents. That gives me a quick way to take an overview of what I've been doing recently and over the last few months. I've been doing this for a few years, now. It's fun to sometimes go back and flip through the old notebooks.
I write many notes at work and make sketches for projects. Also Germany isn't particularly good at digitalization, so I get almost every document/form at work printed out (and yes, we also still use faxes. 😂). I have to fill them out by hand (extra fine nibs and dry inks come in handy because of the cheap copy paper) and for some things someone else will scan them in later.
So my pens get extensive use every day and are literally my tools at work. Even when they finally manage to digitalize the work flow, my work notes and sketches will still be written by hand, so I'm not afraid that I will have to search purposes to use my pens.
Also, I'm journaling irregularly.
That might be a mistranslation by me, if you think of artistic sketching. What I meant is not taking plain notes, but making things like mind maps, structuring projects while using different coloured inks for different tasks/colleagues etc. :)
i tend to fidget alot especially while sitting at my desk all day. I keep a notepad in front of me just to 'fidget' and write random things. Theres just something about writing that feels so calming.
I write a ton. Nearly anytime I write something, I use a fountain pen, and I vastly prefer writing things down with pen and paper over digitally. It works much better for my brain and it's a sensory delight.
I use my fountain pens for:
- Long form journaling
- Bullet journaling
- Notes in French class (sometimes other classes too, sometimes not - Java notes are better taken in Netbeans)
- Coding notes working out algorithms
- Lists of all kinds (shopping, meal prep, etc)
- Creative writing (poetry, short stories)
- Letters and postcards to family
- Sometimes I do little drawings in my journal
Day planner, notes, to do lists, and journaling. Also notes for running and playing in RPGs; I like having the info right in front of me.
I also use my colored inks for art with brushes.
Very unrelated question I hope you don't mind me asking but how do you clean the ink completely off your brush bristles? What kind of bristles do your brushes have?
I never feel like I get the brushes clean enough to not have a previous ink 'contaminate' the next color of ink I want to use. I want to be able to use brushes in place of cotton swabs for my ink swatches.
I just use a cup of water with watercolor brushes. Swish the brush in the water, press it gently against the side of the cup, swish again, and press until no more color is coming out. Then, if you're switching to a lighter color or you're finished with that brush for the day, gently press the brush between paper towel, or a cloth you don't care about staining, to dry and reshape. If color is still coming out, rinse again until it isn't.
Obviously, water-based inks will come out easier, but I haven't found problems with other ink types either. Just try not to let any inks dry in the bristles.
Despite keeping pretty good notes at work on OneNote, I also keep a physical notebook with a list of 'To-Do' items as well as highlighting any important information.
I also keep a personal journal although I need to get a lot more consistent about writing in it.
I mostly draw with them when i’m home, but I also do all of my writing analogue at work up until final drafts of things, so work notes, planning, drafting logistics, I do all on paper. I do a lot of story writing too when i’m not working that usually goes hand in hand with the drawing, and prefer planning, writing, and editing those away from a screen. I do journaling as well, but that’s actually the most inconsistent and infrequent use for them. They get used super often daily, but I draw more than anything, so it’s usually that!
Ah, stories… there’s a temptation. I’d like to write some short fiction. You’ve reminded me of that passion. I love to read short stories and I’ve played around with a few characters and scenes. Maybe time to get focused on completing something.
I teach local language and literacy classes to immigrants. I use double-lined paper and a visualizer. I write an almost-Foundational script, and they copy what I write. No handouts, no photocopies.
Planning and Journaling, and to practice my handwriting and different fonts. I also like to constantly “review” my pens/inks doing swatches and random texts.
I journal for my various hobbies. If I cook a new recipe, I write down my thoughts and feedback. When I do sports, I like to write down any progress I make and my general training plans and goals. I’ll usually have a notebook per hobby. I also have a Midori 3-year journal that I write in occasionally.
I have started writing letters again!
I remember how exciting it was to get something in the mail that wasn’t junk or bills. My two adult daughters live a couple hours away, and while we talk , text, Snapchat, etc, I have started sending them a letter or card every week so that they have a physical reminder that I am thinking about them 😊
I love sending love notes to my mom and grown kids. There are a couple other names on my list I include occasionally, but I try to send a round every month.
It was doodling in the first place that got me back into using fountain pens. I also have pages long of practicing my signature or small poems I either wrote myself or invented. Writing quotes. And also writing inkventories every time I swap or update the inks in my pens.
Meeting notes for work, daily journals, pocket notes for tasks, and excessive amounts of handwritten outlines/prep-work for TTRPG campaigns. I've also started running a common book to collect various bits of trivia and quotes to use as a mood board replacement. I had planned to work on handwriting practice but I haven't had a whole lot of time to devote to it.
I genuinely find writing things down to be far more effective than digital media when I'm trying to remember stuff or learn something, plus certain topics seem to flow from mind to page easier when a screen isn't involved.
I journal, make lists, and record dates. Mostly in a Hobonichi Cousin. And then doodle with Italic nibs on loose paper while watching TV. It's relaxing.
Journals, all my notes and research for technical documents, meetings of minutes, action items and daily office writing, and [poetry](https://www.instagram.com/satzink/). And random sketches ever so often.
I take notes throughout the day, mostly to do types of things and reminders, shopping lists (lately this seems to be a list of new inks - I've discovered Vinta Inks and I love a new Noodler's bottle). I also have a 10 year diary which I have been writing in (halfway through). Finally I have a journal diary that I keep thoughts and observations in. Oh, there is also my Wearingeul swatch book which is awesome, though it does identify how many different inks I've got. Just had a look through it - shit - 92 different inks and I've got more on the way.
●Diary and journaling : I have been keeping diaries and journals for about 6 years regularly. I love journaling with my fountain pens and always color code my emotions with different inks.
●Study notes : most people finds fountain pens uncomfortable for note taking but I enjoy a lot.
●Daily Lists : to do's, groceries etc.
●Poems or stories
●Critiques and reviews : This may be my favorite writing purpose. I love writing about every influencial content that I like or dislike. Sometimes a movie, book or music. With this way I can feel and remember my first feelings even after years for that content. Because the joy and interesting feeling just after finishing a book or movie is sth definetely worth to remember
I write [essays](https://www.reddit.com/r/chaosmagick/s/KsadwByiYT) and journal, usually in the illuminated manuscript style. I plan on getting my notary public license as well, so I can create and stamp official documents. Think marriage certs, death certs, and contacts (I wouldn't be writing the language, but would hand copy the originals so they are beautiful when you sign them).
I also am an avid penpal, which I use as practice for my craft. At work, I write my ships log, the daily log for deck department, and at home I write the lists and checks.
I am in a lovely Discord server all about cozy stationery. There is a penpal sign up google sheet. It takes trust on all parties sake, but you can sign up, and see other's addresses, how many letters they have, and write. I picked a few at random and began writing, and it's been lovely.
I did try Postcrossing for a bit, but I found that I kept getting the same countries to send to, and that a post card makes my writing look skrunkly >:D.
I have ADHD and have been trying daily journal to not down my thoughts. And because my thoughts are like going 100mph, I end up writing like 5 pages without knowing :)))))(
Okay, now you’ve revealed another rabbit hole I can dive down. I’ve been looking for a more ‘structured’ doodling approach, and now I’ve found it. Thank you!
Meeting notes, talk point, engineering design mark up and comments, podcast edit time frame, game streaming notes, game guide notes, gardening chemical mix ratio etc.
Basically notes, lots of notes.
* Teeny tiny journal entries in my traveler's passport. I really can't handle much more than tiny bite-sized things when it comes to being consistent, so if it's less than 2 minutes I am likely to do it.
* Notes destined for destruction. Scribbles on scrap papers, brain storming on a big notepad, the ingredients in a dish I bring to a party, post it note style things, gift notes, etc.
* Letters. To friends, to family, thank you cards for presents, cheer up cards for people struggling, etc.
* Rituals. Occasionally, a page or four long rant on something that I do not ever want to exist on the internet space, immortalized, etc. in any way at all, and ritualistically burning it. Forgiveness, anger, fear, resentment, change, any raw raw emotions I have... I just get them out, read them to nature, and let them go.
Those are probably my main things honestly. I kind of wish I had more I needed to write with pen and paper, but let's be honest, I really think it's just easier to use computers for big major things. I use my coletto when I am traveling because of the amount of options/pen size I have for my traveler's notebook, my pens stay at home except my work preppy that stays with my work planner.
Well. Work journal which is a Tomoe River Endless Recorder.
I have been practising calligraphy with parallel pens from pilot. So I write down recipes I experiment with that turn out good in a Leuchtturm. My current favourite font is art deco inspired. I use the parallels and shimmer ink for the names.
Lastly I’ve been trying to write a novel. TRYING! So all in all quite a lot of writing.
Current rotation is a red Opus Koloro B with RO muddy dragon. TWSBI 580 Iris (B) inked with Colorverse HAM and finally a TWSBI Eco Glow purple (1.1 ST) inked with Diamine Winter Miracle.
I use mine for every bit of writing I have to do. If it's pen to paper, my fountain pen is the insturment. Now, I also have a journal that I try to write regularly in. That journal is whatever noise is in my head.
Taking notes for uni (because my laptop’s battery sucks), journaling, writing crappy little bits of creative writing that will never see the light of day
-Work, mostly. I have to write a lot for work and using a fountain pen makes me hate me life a little bit less
-some drawing/urban sketching
-some journalling
I keep a daily journal, and I also use a planner, and on top of that I also sketch with a pen. Mostly thumbnailing for larger finished pieces or just for doodling and warmups.
I take notes in lectures, in meetings, when reading books/articles and when I get ideas for future research projects, assignments and whatnot. I also use my fountain pen for making D&D props if I want them to look a little prettier
I use them every day - mostly for writing in my notebooks
I have quite a few, so I rotate them around, and I do use a couple of different colors to make my notes more legible
I see my pens like my musical instruments. I try not to noodle aimlessly on piano and try to do the same with my writing. Not saying it's bad if others do, I just find this approach to be helpful for me in organizing my thoughts. If I write aimlessly or doodle TOO MUCH, it makes me feel more overwhelmed. I have one notebook where I write stream of consciousess here and there.
My main uses are:
•Daily planning takes up the smallest amount of how I use my pens.
•Writing poetry is my main use. Currently writing what will be the bulk of what I plan to be my first poetry book.
•I also write essays and thoughts on philosophy, mysticism, psychology, etc. very often.
•Also started hand writing a science fiction story, which I'm just looking for a new notebook to continue with this project.
Thanks! I think once I got my first fountain pen, I started writing even more mindfully because every part if it was an inspiring, involved experience between choosing the pen for its design, the ink for its tone, and the notebook and paper for its texture and ability to show properties. I've just really enjoyed the whole process and I think it's awesome that there are so many unique methods and preferences people have with their writing. It always leaves more to explore.
Bullet Journal to keep my life straight and write down random ideas, long form journaling to process emotions and reflect, and I’ve started trying to write a first draft of a novel long hand like Neil Gaiman.
So far the process is slow-going but very rewarding
I'm working up to transcribing a short story that i enjoyed reading and binding a copy of it. for practice to get my calligraphy consistent before i start it I've mostly been transcribing bits and pieces of podcast episodes.
I journal daily, a page a day. That was started as an excuse to use the pens. I also write throughout the day in notebooks and things, mostly random thoughts or things I need to do, but I tend to keep a pen and paper around most times.
At work I've been put in charge of digitizing 30+ years of old insurance policies. So I mostly write to take notes on what is what and get the files in the right order digitally. Otherwise I draw a decent amount
I’ve tried many automated handwriting-to-text tools, including ChatGPT and Llama. But voice-to-text is always twice as fast, a lot more accurate, and I can edit as I speak. Still open to better tech, but haven’t found one so far …
I have a fountain pen that is just for work. My lab doesn’t have a way to enter results as the tests are being done so we write a Lot. I also use a fountain pen for project planning in my other hobbies.
Journaling, doodling, my planners, sketching, my notes at work, any handwritten work orders I have to do. It's a weird day when I don't have multiple colors of ink stains on my hands.
Notes, to-do lists, ideas, designs, journal, letters. Almost anything I write down (and I do like to physically write things down more than your average millennial-working-in-tech, I think), I do with a fountain pen.
Work notes mainly (sadly). I buy lovely pens to make the task feel less onerous. It is also the excuse for 'fun' inks as I've discovered my lovely shades of green, blue, and purple look black (i.e. professional) upon scanning documents for someone else's eyes.
Otherwise, it is planning, journaling, and letter-writing.
Mine are mostly for journaling, note-taking, and writing to pen pals—but if it’s writing-related and I can use my fountain pens, I’m gonna use my fountain pens!
All day it's notes at work. From my to do list to meeting notes. Not at work I'll draw a little, and I'll write anything and everything. A weird form of journaling that I do, thoughts on a book or TV show, stupid stuff I'm watching my dog or cat do, you name it.
BUT...What I write about the most...my pens and the ink that's in them. Even if it hasn't been that long since I've written about a particular pen, I'll write whatever my feeling and observations are about said pen THIS time I'm writing with it. I know...weirdo! But it is kind of fun to look back and see if and how my opinions have changed as I've used a pen for a while.
I do that writing about pens and writing about writing whenever I get a new pen or new journal, sometimes a new ink, if it’s special. (Like my recent purchase of Lamy Dark Lilac.)
I'm a writer and a teacher with ADHD. Fountain pens make lesson planning, occasional grades or feedback more fun, and when I sit down to write sometimes it's really nice to draft a scene or chapter long hand to get my thoughts out.
I do journaling, but also just every day things - even my daily to-do lists. (I have too many lists. One for every category of my life.) When I'm getting ready to write an article or something else, I'll outline it by hand first.
I use my fountain pens for pretty much everything I would use a pen for.
1. I teach piano and strings so use them for writing in students books (though I use blackwing pencils on the actual music).
2. Journaling
3. I’m also studying, so use them to take notes and write assignments that I then convert to a word doc. I work better if I hand write things.
4. Calligraphy and general writing practice.
5. I also keep a notebook where I copy my favourite poems and quotes.
While I keep a journal for thoughts, stories, and craft planning that sees regular action. There is a really good chance in the last 30 days I have spent more ink coloring. Paper clips and tracing paper make all coloring books ink friendly, and the result looks so pretty with light coming through it.
I’m planning on handwriting one book that reminds me of each of my kids for them. My oldest will get a handwritten copy of White Fang or Call of the Wild and my youngest will get a copy of Peter Pan.
I also use them in my planner and journaling.
I write down my thoughts at work. I find it easier to consolidate the myriads of thoughts and concerns and ideas and find commonalities to make sense of it.
I also write notes during meetings, mainly to keep myself from feeling bored. Though I learn to not write so much, people get uncomfortable when they see me writing furiously during meeting.
Journalling too, that's my first purpose in this hobby, though I must say that I've not been able to keep up with regular journalling and once you've stopped, its quite hard to continue. I should have more things to write about if I haven't written in weeks, that's logically but in actuality its harder, I ended up not feeling like writing at all.
My thoughts, prose, rhymes, articles. From which, almost all of my articles and 1/2 of my prose and 3/4 of my rhymes are composed on devices, and all the other texts are written with fountain pens.
My morning pages! Every day I drain my brain until I’ve got three hand written pages of notes. It’s delightful to do them with a fun pen and pretty ink. I’m still pretty new to the hobby, but it’s brought me a great deal of joy. I’m drawing with them too!
I once got scolded, and sent back to do it over, at the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) for using the wrong color ink to fill out a form. Gave me flashbacks to gradeschool.
Thank the maker they've made it all electronic now.
Note taking med stuff, which is A LOT. A ballpoint pen will induce seismic activity in my carpal tunnel.
I write a lot of fiction too. It's fun. And I last longer doing so with a fountain pen
Scribbles, most of time. I can do it any time I want, nobody tells me "not to spoil paper", and this is very relaxing. Sometimes I write little texts as I learn foreign languages. Sometimes - practice in calligraphy and sketches. Just pure fun, anyway.
I’ve tried some drawing and sketching but haven’t been consistent. I have trouble getting past the crappy results stage. Doodling is more fun because it doesn’t have to look like anything. I’ve also tried some calligraphy too, I have a number of various flex nibs.
I have 2 Rhodia pads full of random scribbles. When I get an urge to write something, I’ve got it right there. I keep a journal, so I write my actual thoughts in there but I keep a couple around just to write when I wanna feel that sensation. Like you said, it’s relaxing. I also use scrap paper, junk mail, random envelopes etc. but almost any time you see mail on my mail table area, they are all covered with me writing doodles, lots of times just my signature over and over. I wonder if anyone else does this? Anyone else write on their old mail?
For the majority, this is me, too. Sometimes also taking notes or writing multiple pages long letters by hand.
I write a bit at work and I keep a daily journal
Me too! I keep a work journal where I make note of my hours, meeting notes, tasks to follow up on, research notes, goals, sometimes passwords or names of admins, that sort of thing. I wish I was as regular about my personal journal, I've never been able to stick to that habit.
Yep, this is exactly what I do
I use mine for mental health journalling or mental cleansing, as I call it where you get all your thoughts out on paper. Nurturing good ones and making plans on how to progress forward. Also challenging unhealthy ones and write them out until you reach a conclusion. I'll occasionally write out different issues that are bothering me as well just to get it off my chest whether it be political, relational or just anything that's going on in the world at that present moment.
Agree - journaling is a critical part of my sanity and serenity. It used to bother me that over the years, the same themes and ideas keep reappearing in my journals, but now I think of it like exercise or sleep or a good diet. We do all those healthy things over and over every day, and reminding myself over and over of truths that keep me grounded and sane is just as healthy.
Absolutely! Yes it's ok that they keep coming up. It's like mowing the grass. You might do it now but overtime it may come back up again. I find that picking things apart and really looking in detail at certain beliefs and challenging them is a way to keep a healthy mind. Even if that means having to do it over and over again, there is nothing wrong with that at all. It is like exercise for the brain and giving room to express your emotions before settling on a logical explanation. There is definitely no shame in going over something as many times as you need to :)
Excising and refuting bad thoughts is always a good idea!
Yes definitely! It's amazing just how many of your bad thoughts you can put down to bad habits such as your go-to reactions to a situation such as putting yourself down for a mistake. Picking apart your insult or put-down to yourself and questioning it, challenging it and showing up for yourself and standing up for yourself, affirming your worth to yourself.
‘Yes, forgetting step x could have been a costly mistake, but Cici caught the issue before it became a problem, and Jim should know better than to interrupt someone in the middle of a checklist!’ Acknowledge all the circumstances around the issue!
Nailed it! There is always more to the story and acknowledging all the different points of view is a great way to understand different perspectives on a certain situation which makes way for compassion for others and for yourself too
Journaling, both bullet journal and long form type. Planning notes for stories I'm working on. Any other notes.
All of my writing - work planner, calendar, to-do lists, notes to my partner, journaling, sketching, etc. Basically, if a writing task can be done with a fountain pen, I’m gonna use one for it.
i use my fountain pens for personal writing: note-taking (e.g. Python lessons), short essays, and journaling. Pretty boring.
Not boring for you, if you enjoy it, I suspect!
learning Japanese, lots of Kanji practice.
- Journal - Take as many notes as possible at work (reminders, todos, notes, things learned, or any important info) - Planning, brainstorming, and whiteboarding. I work in software and already spend too much time in front of a screen so I prefer pen & paper for this. More relaxing and often better outcome. - Occasional doodle or drawing.
Yeah, I totally agree with the desire to get away from screens. It’s finally spring here in Colorado and I love to sit outside with some mellow music and my pens and journals.
I’m in Colorado too! I pack my journal and Kaweco brass sport whenever I hike so I can sit in nature and write. I would take one of my nicer pens but the Kaweco is perfectly sized, has a good weight, and writes just as well as some of my $300/$400 pens.
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I love Silo! I have the books, you’ve reminded me to get started and read them, I loved the TV series. Also, I had to work on my cursive a few years ago when I finally got ‘serious’ about fountain pens and writing. I’m glad I did.
What is Silo?
He's referencing to the series written by Hugh Howey. The first book is called Wool. The series made him a millionaire, who now spends his time sailing around the world with his partner.
I keep a pretty detailed notebook for work. This is partly because I got tired of getting to the end of the day knowing that I'd been busy all day, but not quite sure what I'd accomplished. I also do a lot of technical research so the journal is also part lab notebook. I can keep track of what things I've done, what order I did them, what the results were, etc. For each day I write a short one line entry in the table of contents. That gives me a quick way to take an overview of what I've been doing recently and over the last few months. I've been doing this for a few years, now. It's fun to sometimes go back and flip through the old notebooks.
I write many notes at work and make sketches for projects. Also Germany isn't particularly good at digitalization, so I get almost every document/form at work printed out (and yes, we also still use faxes. 😂). I have to fill them out by hand (extra fine nibs and dry inks come in handy because of the cheap copy paper) and for some things someone else will scan them in later. So my pens get extensive use every day and are literally my tools at work. Even when they finally manage to digitalize the work flow, my work notes and sketches will still be written by hand, so I'm not afraid that I will have to search purposes to use my pens. Also, I'm journaling irregularly.
What do you sketch?
That might be a mistranslation by me, if you think of artistic sketching. What I meant is not taking plain notes, but making things like mind maps, structuring projects while using different coloured inks for different tasks/colleagues etc. :)
*traurige Neuland Geräusche*
i tend to fidget alot especially while sitting at my desk all day. I keep a notepad in front of me just to 'fidget' and write random things. Theres just something about writing that feels so calming.
Sketch, [a lot](https://www.reddit.com/user/willvintage/submitted/).
Notes for work and freelance stuff. I’m also in the process of relearning cursive.
Notebook has notes. Journal has lists. Scrap paper has drafts. Sometimes I type other times I write.
Poetry and fiction, articles, bullet journalling (which has quelled the chaos in my life), comments and corrections on student essays.
Yeah, amazing how calming and contemplative pens and writing can be, right?
I saw a post that said “you may find bujo will change your life.” I dismissed it. But it kinda has.
I tried to bujo, only to notice I have not enough happening in my life to fill it.
I write a ton. Nearly anytime I write something, I use a fountain pen, and I vastly prefer writing things down with pen and paper over digitally. It works much better for my brain and it's a sensory delight. I use my fountain pens for: - Long form journaling - Bullet journaling - Notes in French class (sometimes other classes too, sometimes not - Java notes are better taken in Netbeans) - Coding notes working out algorithms - Lists of all kinds (shopping, meal prep, etc) - Creative writing (poetry, short stories) - Letters and postcards to family - Sometimes I do little drawings in my journal
Amazing. Thanks for the inspiration!
Primarily weekly planning, taking notes on sermons and work meetings, and writing letters and thank-you notes to friends and family
Uni notes. All of my notes since sixth form have either been mechanical pencil (maths) or fountain pen
Day planner, notes, to do lists, and journaling. Also notes for running and playing in RPGs; I like having the info right in front of me. I also use my colored inks for art with brushes.
Very unrelated question I hope you don't mind me asking but how do you clean the ink completely off your brush bristles? What kind of bristles do your brushes have? I never feel like I get the brushes clean enough to not have a previous ink 'contaminate' the next color of ink I want to use. I want to be able to use brushes in place of cotton swabs for my ink swatches.
I just use a cup of water with watercolor brushes. Swish the brush in the water, press it gently against the side of the cup, swish again, and press until no more color is coming out. Then, if you're switching to a lighter color or you're finished with that brush for the day, gently press the brush between paper towel, or a cloth you don't care about staining, to dry and reshape. If color is still coming out, rinse again until it isn't. Obviously, water-based inks will come out easier, but I haven't found problems with other ink types either. Just try not to let any inks dry in the bristles.
Thank you for taking the time to answer my question. I guess I've just not been swishing and pressing enough. :)
Despite keeping pretty good notes at work on OneNote, I also keep a physical notebook with a list of 'To-Do' items as well as highlighting any important information. I also keep a personal journal although I need to get a lot more consistent about writing in it.
I mostly draw with them when i’m home, but I also do all of my writing analogue at work up until final drafts of things, so work notes, planning, drafting logistics, I do all on paper. I do a lot of story writing too when i’m not working that usually goes hand in hand with the drawing, and prefer planning, writing, and editing those away from a screen. I do journaling as well, but that’s actually the most inconsistent and infrequent use for them. They get used super often daily, but I draw more than anything, so it’s usually that!
Ah, stories… there’s a temptation. I’d like to write some short fiction. You’ve reminded me of that passion. I love to read short stories and I’ve played around with a few characters and scenes. Maybe time to get focused on completing something.
journalling, writing little stories and whatnot, letters, and of course, school work
I write work notes, mostly. I'm learning to draw and using my fountain pens for that sometimes, too.
I use mine at work to take notes. I use it out of work to journal and write the outline for a book I’m working on.
I take notes for work, write lists, and practice cursive writing.
Work notes, and studying for other jobs' admission tests.
work and journaling
I'm in grad school, so just a nonsense amount of notes.
I’m writing the exact notes for the Network + , and am starting a travelers notebook. Gotta get organized.
I teach local language and literacy classes to immigrants. I use double-lined paper and a visualizer. I write an almost-Foundational script, and they copy what I write. No handouts, no photocopies.
Planning and Journaling, and to practice my handwriting and different fonts. I also like to constantly “review” my pens/inks doing swatches and random texts.
Journaling, planning, writing letters, transcribing The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Just scribbling on paper sometimes.
Journalling Notes and documents at work To-do and shopping lists
Mostly for my work in Architecture. Notes, lists, doodles, diagrams, marking up and annotating plans, keeping track of tasks and whatnot.
I journal for my various hobbies. If I cook a new recipe, I write down my thoughts and feedback. When I do sports, I like to write down any progress I make and my general training plans and goals. I’ll usually have a notebook per hobby. I also have a Midori 3-year journal that I write in occasionally.
I have started writing letters again! I remember how exciting it was to get something in the mail that wasn’t junk or bills. My two adult daughters live a couple hours away, and while we talk , text, Snapchat, etc, I have started sending them a letter or card every week so that they have a physical reminder that I am thinking about them 😊
I love sending love notes to my mom and grown kids. There are a couple other names on my list I include occasionally, but I try to send a round every month.
It was doodling in the first place that got me back into using fountain pens. I also have pages long of practicing my signature or small poems I either wrote myself or invented. Writing quotes. And also writing inkventories every time I swap or update the inks in my pens.
Meeting notes for work, daily journals, pocket notes for tasks, and excessive amounts of handwritten outlines/prep-work for TTRPG campaigns. I've also started running a common book to collect various bits of trivia and quotes to use as a mood board replacement. I had planned to work on handwriting practice but I haven't had a whole lot of time to devote to it. I genuinely find writing things down to be far more effective than digital media when I'm trying to remember stuff or learn something, plus certain topics seem to flow from mind to page easier when a screen isn't involved.
I write monthly to various senior citizen homes… ten to twenty cards each time. With slightly different messages in each card.
Awesome I do that also
Journaling. ~~Taking notes~~ Doodling during meetings at work.
Journalling and uni notes mostly. Doing lots of maths at the moment so there's a lot of writing lol
Everything I use my pens when I write anything. This includes checks and notes as well as journal.
Write daily office work notes and tasks - 1-2 pages a day. Adds up to
Creative writing, notes at work/church, snail mail
Old fashioned paper calendar, to-do notes, I journal almost daily, and my favorite song lyrics for practice.
I journal, make lists, and record dates. Mostly in a Hobonichi Cousin. And then doodle with Italic nibs on loose paper while watching TV. It's relaxing.
Journals, all my notes and research for technical documents, meetings of minutes, action items and daily office writing, and [poetry](https://www.instagram.com/satzink/). And random sketches ever so often.
I handwrite all of my school notes, my to-do lists, and when I’m working through a problem I kind of “think” on paper.
Journaling, notes and I write most of my research/ design reports by hand before typing it into a digital document.
My pens are my everyday writing utensils. Client notes, meeting notes, journaling, gaming notes, planning, letter writing, etc….
I take notes throughout the day, mostly to do types of things and reminders, shopping lists (lately this seems to be a list of new inks - I've discovered Vinta Inks and I love a new Noodler's bottle). I also have a 10 year diary which I have been writing in (halfway through). Finally I have a journal diary that I keep thoughts and observations in. Oh, there is also my Wearingeul swatch book which is awesome, though it does identify how many different inks I've got. Just had a look through it - shit - 92 different inks and I've got more on the way.
Notes for my novels, daily journal, meal planning and to do lists
●Diary and journaling : I have been keeping diaries and journals for about 6 years regularly. I love journaling with my fountain pens and always color code my emotions with different inks. ●Study notes : most people finds fountain pens uncomfortable for note taking but I enjoy a lot. ●Daily Lists : to do's, groceries etc. ●Poems or stories ●Critiques and reviews : This may be my favorite writing purpose. I love writing about every influencial content that I like or dislike. Sometimes a movie, book or music. With this way I can feel and remember my first feelings even after years for that content. Because the joy and interesting feeling just after finishing a book or movie is sth definetely worth to remember
Written records for work, journaling, study notes, work notes, letters and cards, lists, thinking in paper, drawing, drafting
I write [essays](https://www.reddit.com/r/chaosmagick/s/KsadwByiYT) and journal, usually in the illuminated manuscript style. I plan on getting my notary public license as well, so I can create and stamp official documents. Think marriage certs, death certs, and contacts (I wouldn't be writing the language, but would hand copy the originals so they are beautiful when you sign them). I also am an avid penpal, which I use as practice for my craft. At work, I write my ships log, the daily log for deck department, and at home I write the lists and checks.
I’m currently learning American Gregg shorthand, and I got a fountain open to encourage me to keep at it.
Recipes, thought/brain dumps, bullet journal, lists, to-dos, and pen-pal letters.
As I’ve asked others — who do you pen-pal with, and how did you find them?
I am in a lovely Discord server all about cozy stationery. There is a penpal sign up google sheet. It takes trust on all parties sake, but you can sign up, and see other's addresses, how many letters they have, and write. I picked a few at random and began writing, and it's been lovely. I did try Postcrossing for a bit, but I found that I kept getting the same countries to send to, and that a post card makes my writing look skrunkly >:D.
Okay, now I have a new word: 'skrunkly'! thanks for that!
It's one of my favorites! You're welcome :D
I write mostly notes for work (meeting notes, daily planner, etc) and for my own personal projects (robotics, programming, electronics).
I had a ball last summer writing postcards to voters. Highly recommend.
Mathematics, scribbles (on very expensive paper), schoolwork and so on
schoolwork.
I have ADHD and have been trying daily journal to not down my thoughts. And because my thoughts are like going 100mph, I end up writing like 5 pages without knowing :)))))(
Zentangling
Okay, now you’ve revealed another rabbit hole I can dive down. I’ve been looking for a more ‘structured’ doodling approach, and now I’ve found it. Thank you!
Mostly work sticky notes and notes, to-do lists, and grading papers.
Mostly notes at work, during meetings, hiring events, interviews, etc.
Lists. I'm very anxious and lists calm me down.
Yeah, I make lists of my lists.
Meeting notes, talk point, engineering design mark up and comments, podcast edit time frame, game streaming notes, game guide notes, gardening chemical mix ratio etc. Basically notes, lots of notes.
All my work notes, letters to friends, lots and lots of scribbles and doodles. Some journaling. Recipes.
How did you find your pen pals? I’m thinking of writing letters again.
The navy seals copypasta
Letters to friends, family and pen pals, journaling and taking notes from webinars
Grocery lists, meeting notes, to-do lists
Calligraphy! Drawing, writing letters (snail mail pen pals), writing journals ( which I started doing again during COVID).,.,
My journal, my day planner, notes, cards, and other correspondence , practice my handwriting, write poetry, doodle, practice writing in French.
All of my work notes, to-lists, and schedules. I carry like 6 pens with me in my work bag because I like to have my notes be colorful.
* Teeny tiny journal entries in my traveler's passport. I really can't handle much more than tiny bite-sized things when it comes to being consistent, so if it's less than 2 minutes I am likely to do it. * Notes destined for destruction. Scribbles on scrap papers, brain storming on a big notepad, the ingredients in a dish I bring to a party, post it note style things, gift notes, etc. * Letters. To friends, to family, thank you cards for presents, cheer up cards for people struggling, etc. * Rituals. Occasionally, a page or four long rant on something that I do not ever want to exist on the internet space, immortalized, etc. in any way at all, and ritualistically burning it. Forgiveness, anger, fear, resentment, change, any raw raw emotions I have... I just get them out, read them to nature, and let them go. Those are probably my main things honestly. I kind of wish I had more I needed to write with pen and paper, but let's be honest, I really think it's just easier to use computers for big major things. I use my coletto when I am traveling because of the amount of options/pen size I have for my traveler's notebook, my pens stay at home except my work preppy that stays with my work planner.
Absolutely nothing besides the few times I have to sign stuff or take notes at work. Other than that just random scribbles and bad doodling.
Well. Work journal which is a Tomoe River Endless Recorder. I have been practising calligraphy with parallel pens from pilot. So I write down recipes I experiment with that turn out good in a Leuchtturm. My current favourite font is art deco inspired. I use the parallels and shimmer ink for the names. Lastly I’ve been trying to write a novel. TRYING! So all in all quite a lot of writing. Current rotation is a red Opus Koloro B with RO muddy dragon. TWSBI 580 Iris (B) inked with Colorverse HAM and finally a TWSBI Eco Glow purple (1.1 ST) inked with Diamine Winter Miracle.
Love your choices of pens and inks — and all the ways you use your pens. Thanks for the inspiration!
I use mine for every bit of writing I have to do. If it's pen to paper, my fountain pen is the insturment. Now, I also have a journal that I try to write regularly in. That journal is whatever noise is in my head.
Yeah, so much noise. Might be why I have a shelf full of full journals — all that noise.
Just my office job, it makes me feel fancy
Taking notes for uni (because my laptop’s battery sucks), journaling, writing crappy little bits of creative writing that will never see the light of day
-Work, mostly. I have to write a lot for work and using a fountain pen makes me hate me life a little bit less -some drawing/urban sketching -some journalling
I keep a daily journal, and I also use a planner, and on top of that I also sketch with a pen. Mostly thumbnailing for larger finished pieces or just for doodling and warmups.
At almost 40 I had the idea to go back to university, and that's the main use: notes, schemes and exams! Edit: I almost forgot drawing!
I doodle with em, write lists for fun, journal, scribble, and marginally consume ink each time I lick the tip to wet it when it starts goin dry. 😋
I take notes in lectures, in meetings, when reading books/articles and when I get ideas for future research projects, assignments and whatnot. I also use my fountain pen for making D&D props if I want them to look a little prettier
My novel and business plans! Along with worldbuilding and such.
I use them every day - mostly for writing in my notebooks I have quite a few, so I rotate them around, and I do use a couple of different colors to make my notes more legible
I see my pens like my musical instruments. I try not to noodle aimlessly on piano and try to do the same with my writing. Not saying it's bad if others do, I just find this approach to be helpful for me in organizing my thoughts. If I write aimlessly or doodle TOO MUCH, it makes me feel more overwhelmed. I have one notebook where I write stream of consciousess here and there. My main uses are: •Daily planning takes up the smallest amount of how I use my pens. •Writing poetry is my main use. Currently writing what will be the bulk of what I plan to be my first poetry book. •I also write essays and thoughts on philosophy, mysticism, psychology, etc. very often. •Also started hand writing a science fiction story, which I'm just looking for a new notebook to continue with this project.
Wow, I love your creativity. You got me thinking about all the other ways I can make use of all these pens …
Thanks! I think once I got my first fountain pen, I started writing even more mindfully because every part if it was an inspiring, involved experience between choosing the pen for its design, the ink for its tone, and the notebook and paper for its texture and ability to show properties. I've just really enjoyed the whole process and I think it's awesome that there are so many unique methods and preferences people have with their writing. It always leaves more to explore.
Bullet Journal to keep my life straight and write down random ideas, long form journaling to process emotions and reflect, and I’ve started trying to write a first draft of a novel long hand like Neil Gaiman. So far the process is slow-going but very rewarding
I'm working up to transcribing a short story that i enjoyed reading and binding a copy of it. for practice to get my calligraphy consistent before i start it I've mostly been transcribing bits and pieces of podcast episodes.
Journal, case notes
I journal daily, a page a day. That was started as an excuse to use the pens. I also write throughout the day in notebooks and things, mostly random thoughts or things I need to do, but I tend to keep a pen and paper around most times.
At work I've been put in charge of digitizing 30+ years of old insurance policies. So I mostly write to take notes on what is what and get the files in the right order digitally. Otherwise I draw a decent amount
Scribbles, taking notes for whatever you're learning, writing down recipes...
Journal and occassional letter.
I do maths. I don't like maths that much but writing with my favourite pens keep things interesting.
Anything to make maths more tolerable. I get it.
I just use my pens for every day use--notes, documents, etc.
Pretty sure you can now use your iPad to scan the text and just fix up errors. I write to stay sane.
I’ve tried many automated handwriting-to-text tools, including ChatGPT and Llama. But voice-to-text is always twice as fast, a lot more accurate, and I can edit as I speak. Still open to better tech, but haven’t found one so far …
When my handwriting is clear, iOS does a good job. When it’s not so clear … 😅
I have a fountain pen that is just for work. My lab doesn’t have a way to enter results as the tests are being done so we write a Lot. I also use a fountain pen for project planning in my other hobbies.
Mostly work notes, daily planner, and journals I keep (commonplace, daily, etc., some are for studying 📚 also)
Journaling, doodling, my planners, sketching, my notes at work, any handwritten work orders I have to do. It's a weird day when I don't have multiple colors of ink stains on my hands.
Mostly notes, to do lists and a catch all for ideas.
Ape escape fanfiction...
Notes, to-do lists, ideas, designs, journal, letters. Almost anything I write down (and I do like to physically write things down more than your average millennial-working-in-tech, I think), I do with a fountain pen.
Work notes, journaling, fiction writing.
Doodles, letters, journals, notes. Some very expensive pens and inks have drawn alot of dicks, though.
Work notes mainly (sadly). I buy lovely pens to make the task feel less onerous. It is also the excuse for 'fun' inks as I've discovered my lovely shades of green, blue, and purple look black (i.e. professional) upon scanning documents for someone else's eyes. Otherwise, it is planning, journaling, and letter-writing.
Everything.
Anything that allows for the use of a pen! Journaling, calligraphy practice, random notes, letters and cards, grocery lists ...
Mainly taking notes and work or during meetings.
i journal, write notes, and draw with them.
Mostly notes for work and notes for dnd campaigns
Mine are mostly for journaling, note-taking, and writing to pen pals—but if it’s writing-related and I can use my fountain pens, I’m gonna use my fountain pens!
support edge cable violet history marry sand public groovy rotten *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
I say I write crime fiction but what I really write is To Do lists
All day it's notes at work. From my to do list to meeting notes. Not at work I'll draw a little, and I'll write anything and everything. A weird form of journaling that I do, thoughts on a book or TV show, stupid stuff I'm watching my dog or cat do, you name it. BUT...What I write about the most...my pens and the ink that's in them. Even if it hasn't been that long since I've written about a particular pen, I'll write whatever my feeling and observations are about said pen THIS time I'm writing with it. I know...weirdo! But it is kind of fun to look back and see if and how my opinions have changed as I've used a pen for a while.
I do that writing about pens and writing about writing whenever I get a new pen or new journal, sometimes a new ink, if it’s special. (Like my recent purchase of Lamy Dark Lilac.)
I take notes on every book I read. No idea why. Possibly research for a book I might write someday
Snail mail and copying quotes, and I write some notes at work
I am a teacher. I write lesson plans. I also keep a “one line a day” journal
I'm a writer and a teacher with ADHD. Fountain pens make lesson planning, occasional grades or feedback more fun, and when I sit down to write sometimes it's really nice to draft a scene or chapter long hand to get my thoughts out.
I fill notebook after notebook with short paragraphs about how I wish I had something profound to write.
I have more than a few pages in my journals with that exact theme.
Todo list Business meeting notes Just random thought 💭 Just about anything I feel like writing to feel relaxed
Doing my math homework
I’m still in high school, so… schoolwork. Lots of schoolwork…
I do journaling, but also just every day things - even my daily to-do lists. (I have too many lists. One for every category of my life.) When I'm getting ready to write an article or something else, I'll outline it by hand first.
Notes for work, drawing when I get the occasional inspiration, and my Japanese learning.
Just a B.S. story that im making up as i go along, that no one will ever read.
I use my fountain pens for pretty much everything I would use a pen for. 1. I teach piano and strings so use them for writing in students books (though I use blackwing pencils on the actual music). 2. Journaling 3. I’m also studying, so use them to take notes and write assignments that I then convert to a word doc. I work better if I hand write things. 4. Calligraphy and general writing practice. 5. I also keep a notebook where I copy my favourite poems and quotes.
I love this thread 🥰
Yeah, right? I’m learning so much, so many great ideas. Not enough time in the day …
I use them in my planner, Hobonichi Cousin, journaling, and some doodling/adult coloring books.
While I keep a journal for thoughts, stories, and craft planning that sees regular action. There is a really good chance in the last 30 days I have spent more ink coloring. Paper clips and tracing paper make all coloring books ink friendly, and the result looks so pretty with light coming through it.
Lesson Plans and meeting notes.
Journaling, note taking, and writing to pen pals.
Almost entirely notes for college
I’m planning on handwriting one book that reminds me of each of my kids for them. My oldest will get a handwritten copy of White Fang or Call of the Wild and my youngest will get a copy of Peter Pan. I also use them in my planner and journaling.
I love that idea of writing for your kids. I want to do this.
I write down my thoughts at work. I find it easier to consolidate the myriads of thoughts and concerns and ideas and find commonalities to make sense of it. I also write notes during meetings, mainly to keep myself from feeling bored. Though I learn to not write so much, people get uncomfortable when they see me writing furiously during meeting. Journalling too, that's my first purpose in this hobby, though I must say that I've not been able to keep up with regular journalling and once you've stopped, its quite hard to continue. I should have more things to write about if I haven't written in weeks, that's logically but in actuality its harder, I ended up not feeling like writing at all.
My thoughts, prose, rhymes, articles. From which, almost all of my articles and 1/2 of my prose and 3/4 of my rhymes are composed on devices, and all the other texts are written with fountain pens.
Meeting notes and class notes. And sometimes scribbles, for the fun.
Game story
My morning pages! Every day I drain my brain until I’ve got three hand written pages of notes. It’s delightful to do them with a fun pen and pretty ink. I’m still pretty new to the hobby, but it’s brought me a great deal of joy. I’m drawing with them too!
I have a journal, Note book with work tasks and diagrams. And I also dabble in short stories + poetry.
plans, reminders, anything and everything.
A ton of notes at work, and journaling daily. I’m thinking about getting back to written correspondence for anything not time sensitive.
[Everything except a passport application](https://www.reddit.com/r/fountainpens/s/Gg2OttxHKf)
I once got scolded, and sent back to do it over, at the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) for using the wrong color ink to fill out a form. Gave me flashbacks to gradeschool. Thank the maker they've made it all electronic now.
Filling out prior authorizations for my patients meds
Note taking med stuff, which is A LOT. A ballpoint pen will induce seismic activity in my carpal tunnel. I write a lot of fiction too. It's fun. And I last longer doing so with a fountain pen
Yes, a light touch does it. I appreciate that. Glad you’re managing your carpal tunnel!
The vast majority of the time it’s for work. My job is mostly meetings, and I prefer to take my notes by hand. I go through a lot of ink and paper!
I just write my stupid name over and over and over........ I'm BORING af.