Receiving Pens As Gifts

[theoddcopy]

I'm fairly new to this whole thing and have heard people say it's better not to ask for pens as a gift to avoid getting something you won't use-

 

but, my in-laws are the kind of people who like to support my hobbies and would like some suggestions for possible gifts for my upcoming birthday.

I was thinking of requesting a TWSBI, but am open to other suggestions for sub $75 FPs (since I'll probably be purchasing any $100+ pens myself).

 

 

 

 

[tamiya]

No idea what your tastes & preference is.

 

Just a reminder I'd prefer gifts not be engraved with my name

[theoddcopy]

No idea what your tastes & preference is.

 

Just a reminder I'd prefer gifts not be engraved with my name

 

Lots of quick note jotting, occasional long form journal or blog draft writing. I like something that writes fine since I typically use dot pads or 5mm graph paper.

 

Wouldn't mind something that is portable since I like to carry with me every day to work.

[senzen]

Create a wishlist on Amazon or your preferred store and send them the link, explaining it's merely for illustration purposes and they don't have to buy it there. I was was kindly given a Kaweco Sport, which I hate.

[LizEF]

I agree with the wishlist idea, thought it doesn't have to be a store list. Include all the models (complete with color and nib size options) that you like, and then they can pick one and know that you will like it, but it will still be a surprise for you. Include a wide enough range of prices that they are free to choose a price that works for them.

 

You might also include accessories like ink and paper you enjoy (or want to sample), so they can mix and match, if they wish.

 

To people who aren't familiar with fountain pens, anything less might present them with overwhelming uncertainty.

[MsRedpen]

You may want to list several inks and papers on your wish list (totally agree with the wish list, with options, to keep it a surprise). Inks, paper and accessories IMO seem more modest compared with the pen, regardless of the price range.

[Ada]

I agree with the wishlist idea, thought it doesn't have to be a store list. Include all the models (complete with color and nib size options) that you like, and then they can pick one and know that you will like it, but it will still be a surprise for you. Include a wide enough range of prices that they are free to choose a price that works for them.

 

You might also include accessories like ink and paper you enjoy (or want to sample), so they can mix and match, if they wish.

 

To people who aren't familiar with fountain pens, anything less might present them with overwhelming uncertainty.

If they're not fountain pen users, I'd check first to see if they'd like to get you a pen. And I agree with LizEF; a wiahlist with several options (and specific nib widths) and even several places that sell them would make it less overwhelming. And if they aren't interested in gifting a pen, ink and paper (again with several options) is less overwhelming.

 

Most of my pens have been gifts, from my non-FP using spouse, usually from a set of suggestions including nib widths and models. (And sometimes not, now that he knows what brands and nib widths I like). And a lot of my inks have been gifts too -- all of my bottles of Iroshizuku ink were complete, unasked for surprises which I thoroughly appreciate.

[theoddcopy]

If they're not fountain pen users, I'd check first to see if they'd like to get you a pen. And I agree with LizEF; a wiahlist with several options (and specific nib widths) and even several places that sell them would make it less overwhelming. And if they aren't interested in gifting a pen, ink and paper (again with several options) is less overwhelming.

 

Most of my pens have been gifts, from my non-FP using spouse, usually from a set of suggestions including nib widths and models. (And sometimes not, now that he knows what brands and nib widths I like). And a lot of my inks have been gifts too -- all of my bottles of Iroshizuku ink were complete, unasked for surprises which I thoroughly appreciate.

I like the idea of the wishlist as well. Most people who give me gifts are usually good to get what I ask for so I think I could trust them with a wishlist.

 

I also like the idea of telling people a brand or two of ink that I like and having them surprise me with a color.

[rudyhou]

i would recommend a more affordable brand of fountain pen for others to buy one for you as a gift, so that just in case you'll find that you don't use it as often, you won't feel bad about it. and if they want to spend more, they could include a bottle of ink or two, along with the pen.

Edited January 6, 2017 by rudyhou

[TheRealMikeDr]

Lots of quick note jotting, occasional long form journal or blog draft writing. I like something that writes fine since I typically use dot pads or 5mm graph paper.

 

Wouldn't mind something that is portable since I like to carry with me every day to work.

 

Sounds like a Pilot Metropolitan would fit the bill. They're priced right ($15 USD) so they can get you some ink and a Rhodia pad and maybe a cool leather pen case etc etc too. It's a rugged workhorse pen (metal body) that writes a nice dependable fine line (Japanese fine is pretty fine) and comes in varied colors. I like the idea of getting a pen/paper/ink bundle!

[sidthecat]

My sister has given me pens that turned out to be quite valuable, but they weren't for me. The issue was flexibility: they had none.

 

I confess I sold them and used to money to buy other pens...of course I haven't told her.