fountain pen – Kayastation

Posted on September 8, 2023September 8, 2023 by Karen Castro

Daily Journal – September 7, 2023

(Hey guys, hope you are having a wonderful day! Is currently 12:47AM September 8, 2023. Forgot post this.)

I wanted to share my ‘drawing’ for today’s daily journal and basically life update. I currently am using a Hobonichi HON A6 2023, I got this journal in early April. I really didn’t have any plans on buying a Hobonichi A6 this year but while ‘surfing’ through their website I noticed there was one in stock and I snatched it and added to my order that I had on hold (sadly that’s no longer an option, but is okay, I will manage), but since I started using it I have not stopped. I missed a couple days but nothing like a whole week which i am proud off since I used to not touch my past Hobonichi Techo original in weeks and later feel bad about it haha

I always journal and if I miss a day I go back to fill it up with what happened or write about something that I was doing or thinking that day. I am not a person who have specific things they journal in their journals. I am a messy journaler* sometime but I am fine with that, each page have it’s own unique story.

I wrote an extra ‘r’ on very, I am verrry sorry!

This was todays drawing. It’s been hot the past few days and today it was in the 90*s. We live in a camper van and my van sometimes get’s more hot than it is outside.

I also received my Hobonichi 2024 order on Wednesday 6 and finished editing the unboxing today, did the voice over as well and as soon as I could I uploaded the video.

I might stop recording videos soon, I feel like I force myself sometimes to make a video, it used to just be relaxing and fun, now I am not sure. I do feel that I have done a good job this year keeping my channel flowing with at least one video a month, either way, I haven’t made my decision yet, we will see.

I always wanted to use my fountain pens as my “watercolor” pens but I really didn’t knew where to start and how should I do it. I have tried many ways and learned what works best or best for me.

This is the first time I make something that is supposed to be fluffy or hairy and it ends up looking exactly how I wanted! Haha
This is the microphone I use in my phone to record the voice over for the Hobonichi Unboxing. It have a dead cat on, I really did liked how this end up looking.

I think they call this technique “Ink wash” but I am not sure because there is a lot of art that looks more like they added the ink and end up making something out of it. I draw mine and used a brush to activate the “watercolor” style. Does this count as a Ink Wash? I am new to all of this, I don’t really know the proper words, I try.

I am using Diamine Graphite, this color works so well with water. I don’t noticed odd colors when is wet, is easy to use and the ink activates quickly when using my water brush. It blends very well, I have a couple other Diamine inks and their inks is so good for drawing/watercoloring.

I am also using Sailor Fountain Pen Pro Gear – Fika II Christmas Spice Tea – Special Edition (2022) in a M nib. (STORY TIME) Since I laid my eyes on this pen I couldn’t forget about it, unfortunately it was pretty expensive and I just didn’t have $300 laying around so I let go of the idea of buying one. A few of months ago this was around $200 in a website but I still couldn’t afford it. A month or 2 ago, EndlessPens have this pen in Pre-Order and with a sale going on and another extra discount, I paid $124 for this pen including shipping. Best buy ever, I just couldn’t believe it, there it was, in my favorite, unhealthy, website!

Sailor Pro Gear – Fika II Christmas Spice Tea, (M) 21k gold nib.
(2022 Special Edition)

The theme of Tea Time Around the World #2 is ‘Christmas Tea’. Tea is enjoyed in England and other European countries during the Christmas season. As winter approaches, tea blends are released by various tea manufacturers, and many of them contain spices such as cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg, etc. and mixed with dried peels. Sailor celebrates such a concept with the introduction of three new models
Christmas Spice Tea, Christmas Pudding, and Christmas Tea.

The Regular Pro Gear Christmas Spice Tea fountain pen is a limited production regular sized that comes with same cut-away cap and inlaid Sailor anchor logo on the top. It features a bright translucent red orange barrel and cap, with cut away cap in caramel color. Accented with gold plated trims.

I love the color of this Fountain Pen, I am a fan of tea (although I haven’t tried that many of them) and a lover of Christmas, this pen was basically release for me! Haha
The fact that I was able to find this for less than $130 is crazy and I just couldn’t believe my luck!

I think I would be the last person to review this 21k gold nib since I don’t have much knowledge in gold nibs. All I can say is that the nib does write pretty smooth, not scratchy or anything. Ink flow is great and I loved using this pen for drawing, pretty comfortable.

I own a, Sailor Manyo Fountain Pen Set II – Special Edition – Overseas Exclusive (2023) – Grass / Medium. (I copy this from my order).

Sailor Manyo II, Grass, (M) 14K gold nib

I enjoy this pen, is a pretty pen too, I love the color combination. My experiance when I received this pen was different. I first inked it up with a Ferris Wheel Press Down the Don Valley and I am not sure if it was the shimmery ink or what but the nib didn’t feel as smooth as the Fika II Christmas Spice Tea.

I also felt that the 21K nib was a bit more “flexible”, this (M) nib actually write like a (M) nib which I enjoy. The (M) nib of the Sailor Manyo II writes more fine than medium.

Currently using a Diamine ink and it seems like the Ferris Wheel Press ink I initially used was not the problem is just this nib makes finer lines.

But either way, this are my current sailor pens with gold nib that I own, and I have been enjoying this journey. I want to say that I have no interest in any sailor pens but that would be a lie. I still hope I can buy a Sailor Habanero but they are pretty expensive and I don’t think I can afford expensive pens right now, it have been a pretty expensive month already and is only the start haha!

This was a crazy update but I been trying to be more artistic and learn how to draw and watercolor and just try things out.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend and enjoy your day! Hopefully is not too hot out there for you guys!

You can follow me on:
IG & TikTok @TheJournalingType

Posted on August 21, 2023August 22, 2023 by Karen Castro

Ferris Wheel Press Cabernet on the Lake & Brilliant Beanstalk Ink and Fountain Pen 🖋️

Hey guys, I hope you all having a great start of the week! I just received the new Ferris Wheel Press Inks and Fountain Pen and I wanted to make a quick unboxing, thoughts post on this new release!

I get excited for every release and this one is another one of my favorite, the packaging design is very nice, creative! When I saw this release I was very happy and everything just looks so much better in person.

I will first leave a little information about our first ink, Brilliant Beanstalk and some ink samples. I will also leave a little video unboxing/swatch video below. Let know what you think.

Brilliant Beanstalk

FWP Brilliant Beanstalk Ink Inspiration:
In an enchanted realm, where giants roam and mystical beanstalks reach for the heavens, join Princess Patch as she embarks on a perilous journey to procure the shimmering golden champagne egg from the clutches of a slumbering giant. Whether weaving tales of daring escapades or exploring the boundless realms of imagination, let Brilliant Beanstalk sprout the tone for your enchanting odyssey into a world where dreams take flight.

This packaging is so pretty. That chicken in the vines is so cute, is one of my favorite little creature in this design. All around the box there is so many cute creatures and vines, is very pretty! (There is a video below, where I do the unboxing, check it out)

This is a gorgeous green ink with champagne shimmer. It also have high shading,

Brilliant Beanstalk reminds me of ‘The Princess and the Frog’ which is funny because in the description it says about joining Princess Patch embark on a journey 💚

I will leave you here a little Unboxing of the new inks and pen, some swatches and writing samples. I hope you guys enjoy it.

Used Glass pen, watercolor brush & the Carousel FWP FP

Cabernet On The Lake

FWP Cabernet On The Lake Ink Inspiration:
Pack your favourite hand-knit blanket and accompany Bearnice the Bear on a delightful frolic through the picturesque vineyards of the Niagara wine region, where rolling hills and lush vineyards beckon. Embark on a journey of discovery through scenic greenscapes while exploring internationally recognized vineyards of this region. Indulge in the nectar of Niagara with this burgundy ink that captures the feeling of joyous laughter, shared stories, and cherished memories.

I am in awe with this Cabernet on the Lake ink, I did enjoy this ink a lot more than I though.

First this box is very pretty, I am a fan of crochet and knit products but mostly crochet and I love the crochet touches in this art and the crochet hook, very nice!

I wasn’t sure about this ink. I get pretty bored with red inks but Song of Scarlet and this one (Cabernet on the Lake) are pretty fun inks to write with. The characteristic for this ink are Warming, velvety, romantic, cosy.

I feel that velvety is a good way to describe this ink, this ink checks all that and we are getting into the Autumn and Winter season soon, this ink is a great color if you like to match your inks with your months/season. I do enjoy matching my inks with my months, seasons or holidays but is not like I do this constantly. Sometimes when I like an ink so much I don’t care what month or season it is, or how many times I have used them already!

I am so lucky to have received a Carousel fountain pen, my experience with them have been great. I had/have shimmery inks for a month and would write perfectly when you uncap it.

Sometimes I wish it had a clip or a removable one but is not something I care that much about since most times I carry a pencil case or a stationery bag.

I am very excited with my new inks, they remind me of christmas, they are great inks for this holidays. Specially the Cabernet On The Lake, with that gorgeous shimmer! Thanksgiving and Christmas are two of my favorite holidays, there is cheer and joy and this ink will fit in perfectly.

Also I want to add that Brilliant Beanstalk doesn’t take a long time to dry. Pretty impressive for Tomoe River Paper and for a person like me that is a lefty I tend to brush my hand on wet ink a lot haha!

Thank you kindly Ferris Wheel Press for sending this inks and fountain pen for me to try!

I hope you guys enjoyed this little “Unboxing” video and just some comments and thoughts about this ink.

Ink will be available for purchase in September 1st. I am happy that this post is up before the release so that you guys have the chance to get your hands on one of this inks and/or fountain pen or all of it haha

Like always, if you guys are interested I have an affiliate link for a free ink charger set on your next order or you can use my code ‘TJT at check out!

Also I been posting more often in my social media so you can follow me on my TikTok(will take you to a video, couldn’t find the profile link) or Instagram, which I like to post new inks and filling up new fountain pens.

Thank you so much for being here, I hope I manage to show you some good pictures and/or video of the new inks. Have a wonderful day, God bless you all!

Posted on July 4, 2023July 7, 2023 by Karen Castro

Hobonichi Weeks/Standard Travelers Notebook

Okay, this tittle seems a bit confusing and honestly I am too! Haha

I hope you guys had a wonderful 4th of July and are doing amazing, enjoying every minute. I know it can be hard but is sad to see time past and noticed how time was wasted in nonsense, believe me it happens to me all the time but I am trying to change that!

Either way, let’s get on with this confusing tittle. Since 2019 I been using Hobonichi Weeks, it have been my favorite size and planner. For a person like me who really don’t have much going on and have a very simple life this planner worked so well for me.

Although I noticed that one thing I enjoyed the most was planning in the form of journaling. Basically by the end of the day I will write what I did, little things of my days. Last year I divided an area for writing little reminders and I would also use the right page for Task/tracking for the week.

It worked out well for a few months, I really liked this setup but I am a simple girl and not every week I feel up to use this setup, sometimes I just wanted to write and that’s it. No planning, writing task or reminders.

December 2022 Planner @thejournalingtype

I have used many Hobonichi weeks just for journaling in the past but after a while I felt that the setup that Hobonichi Weeks have was getting in the way of my creativity, BUT no one makes such well made pretty covers with delicate paper like Hobonichi 🥰.

I came across a video of people cutting their Hobonichi Plain A5 notebooks into Weeks size and I WAS intrigued. I needed to buy one and try it out. Of course, the cover is nothing like my Weeks but I wanted to try something similar.

Unfortunately I was broke and buying a $22 notebook from JetPens wasn’t an option at that moment. So I remember I had a DayFree A5 from Hobonichi and I only used a couple pages, so I looked for my notebook and on my way I went to Fed-Ex!

I have to let you know that, I bought a Hobonichi Weeks size notebook a couple of years ago but haven’t used the notebook because of the paper quality. And at that time there wasn’t a lot of options where I could have bought a Hobo Weeks size notebook, not like this year, where there is a lot of shops making their own notebooks with Tomoe River Paper which can’t complain.

I wasn’t going to say this but I went to UPS to do the cutting and well they were confused lol! But it was okay because there was a FedEx a few steps away so I was glad, embarrassed but glad!

The lady in the counter didn’t seemed happy, I tried my best to help by nicely asking her if she could cut the notebook 7.4in x 3.7in but she said that she could cut the width but not the hight, I was sad but I already drove there and well honestly didn’t mind.

This notebook is the hight of a standard notebook and the width of a weeks. AND is the most amazing thing everr!

I made this ‘cover’ because I love covers and I felt crafty! I have some scrapbook paper that I been hoping to utilize. I used some distress ink, stencils and I finished it up with a stamp! Pretty nice not going to lie ❤️!

After holding it and just flipping through the pages I felt that this size might be a new size for me, I would like to do again but with a Plain notebook. I do enjoy Hobonichi products, their paper and how well is put together. Plus I think I like the idea of creating my own cover.

Here is my first page in this notebook, nothing but great time using it. I have enough space to craft around my spread and space to writing as well! I have felt so creative using this notebook and it was worth it, I am actually happy she couldn’t cut the hight of it because I wouldn’t have ever discover this “size”.

I feel that the Travelers Notebook Standard Size is a good size but not for me, I find it a bit too wide for me and I like the idea of a narrow notebook. Another size I enjoy quite a bit is a Personal size, I own an insert from PaperPenguinCo and is super good but I keep going back to weeks!

So this experience have been fun and I love that this new notebook helped me be more creative. I had many days where I felt like journaling in it multiple times a day while still using my weeks and standard planner all at the same time.

I have some decorated pages that I haven’t done any writing to it but this video was uploaded a couple of months ago so I have journal in it some more.

I probably would have finished this notebook by now but I started to journal in my new Hobonichi Techo and since I bough a January start planner on April I been trying to journal from January to April while still journaling in my daily and weeks. I had to let go of the Standard Planner, it was too big and too much for me.

Okay guys, I know I been rambling about this journal for a while now and honestly is 2:46am for me right now and I think I should end this post here.

I wanted to share this notebook/journal that I had no plan of it and it end up being the best notebook for me. If you guys would liked an updated journal flip through let me know. I can post the video here or you can go follow me on TikTok @TheJournalingType!
Thanks for reading and being here, have a wonderful week, God bless you all!

Posted on May 6, 2023May 31, 2023 by Karen Castro

Ferris Wheel Press | Sweetbriar Rose

Before we talk about how I feel about this ink I want to go through some information.

I am very happy to be here and share another release from Ferris Wheel Press, it have become a favorite brand of mine and I am happy I was able to be part of the team and share this awesome inks with you all!

I recently received this new Calligraphy ink (that is not meant for Fountain Pens) to use with dip pens or brushes. There is 4 colors in this collection.

Left to right: Sage Advice, Bride to Be, Borrowed Blue and Sweetbriar Rose.

With their soon to be release Carousel Inkwell and the Gumdrop glass dip pen, this inks came in at a perfect timing. I do like the choice of color they selected for this release.

By the way guys, the Carousel Inkwell and Gumdrop Glass dip pen will be available to purchase through Kickstart, I will be making a post soon with pictures and videos before May 9, which is the date this will be available for purchase. More details here

Notable design details:
Capture the delicate essence of love in full bloom. Embrace the beauty of our vintage-inspired dusty rose calligraphy ink.

Pattern inspired by vintage 1930s floral wallpaper This nostalgic ink colour pays homage to one of our most popular inks ever, Lady Rose, a familiar hue in a new medium!

This bashful crocodile dons a stylish ensemble from the 1930s; a statement slinky dress punctuated by a classic fascinator hat.

It can be compare to Lady Rose Ink, I don’t own this ink so I am not able to give you any information on this but you can look it up online and might even be available for purchase.

I do own The Fluttering Heart, a limited edition by Ferris Wheel Press and here is a side by side comparison.

Sweetbriar Rose is a more opaque ink, like a vintage pink while the Fluttering Heart is more light pink with gold shimmer!

This is the thickest calligraphy ink that I own and I do like that with one dip I can write quiet a lot before running out of ink.

I am not an expert but I can only tell you my experience and I feel that this ink have a thick consistency, which online it says is a waterproof acrylic ink. I made a little water test, I prayed some water, I dab a paper towel and in the third picture I rubbed the same paper towel.

Definitely waterproof and smudge resistant. Looks no different, I honestly am a little sad I didn’t picked up the other colors in the collection haha!

Is an opaque ink, in their website it says that is formulated for legibility on black stock, I haven’t tried that but I can’t wait to see how it comes out!

Here is a picture showing the silicon stopper, excused the messy look, but I think this is an awesome idea, I haven’t seen any dryness in the bottle or around, consistency is always the same.

The only problem I experience was cleaning the nib, the ink dried quickly and it took a while to remove. It could have been my nib, I am not sure, I did used my glass dip pen and it was easy write with and clean. I would have to do some research on that.

I will leave you with a video here with writing samples.

Sweetbriar Rose by Ferris Wheel Press

I hope you enjoyed this first impression/review, I am excited to see what is next with Ferris Wheel Press and their new Kickstarted Carousel Inkwell.

Like always, if you guys are interested I have an affiliate link for a free ink charger set on your next order or you can use my code ‘TJT at check out!

Also don’t forget to follow me on my Instagram @thejournalingtype.

Posted on February 20, 2023February 21, 2023 by Karen Castro

Ferris Wheel Press The Fluttering Heart

Hey guys, today I have a little review/first impression of Ferris Wheel Press new ink The Fluttering Heart.

“Celebrate the return of extraordinary love with our 2023 Limited Edition ink.”
“Visually inspired by iconic high jewellery collections; motifs from the Strathmore Rose Tiara, Fife Tiara, Princess Grace’s Engagement ring, and cues from vintage Van Cleef & Arpels pieces are beautifully woven into the ornate pattern.”

*Ferris Wheel Press The Fluttering Heart* *38ml*

Here in the packaging shows more of what this ink is about. I like the details in the background, the diamonds, the butterflies, it give me tiara vibe. I wasn’t a fan of pink until last year where I found myself using pink in my journals and planners. I have come to appreciate certain pink shades and this soft muted pink is very pretty.

Very nice details, like always, Ferris Wheel Press and their product presentation always on point.

*“…we’ve created an endearing blush toned ink with a scintillating metallic champagne sparkle to represent the return of gathering, community, events, and the celebration of love.”*

*Ferris Wheel Press The Fluttering Heart (brush ink swatch)*

This ink is definitely beautiful, I find myself looking at my writing samples of this ink. I would like to mention that for this ink swatch I did pass my brush two times. It turns into a beautiful mauvy pink on the second swatch . The metallic in this ink is perfect, I wouldn’t want more than that, in some angles it looks like a pearlescent mauve, I like that..

Swatching Video

Took about 18 to 20 minute for this to try. When using a brush with the amount of ink I used, is understandable it will take more time than using a fountain pen.

I love the process of drying, I was watching a show while waiting for this to dry naturally. As you can see there is a different in the ink bottle and the swatch underneath.

*Ferris Wheel Press The Fluttering Heart (ink swatch)*

I felt that for me when using this ink, it came out light but after it dries it looks slightly darker-ish.

The ink swatch in the bottle (^) is a more accurate color of what you are going to get when using a fountain pen or maybe even a bit brighter.

*Ferris Wheel Press The Fluttering Heart (ink sample with 1.1 stub nib)*

Tools Used:
Brush
Glass dip pen
1.1 stub nib
on a Tomoe River Paper.

So final thoughts! This ink is a nice medium bright tone of pink, drying time with a fountain pen stub nib is around 2 to 3 min, it really depends. I never had a drying problem with Ferris Wheel Press Inks.
I am a lefty, I take a bit of time before going back into my writing if I feel that my hands will be in the way and it will smear on the page.

With the description giving to this ink and the performance of this ink, it gives a luxurious look to it.
I can’t really afford a luxurious ring, necklace or tiara but this ink is all the jewelry I need haha

So thank you Ferris Wheel Press for this gorgeous ink, can’t wait to see what else you guys got in storege for us.

This ink will be available for purchase on March 3rd, 2023.

Use TJT at checkout to support my creative journey and receive a free Ink Charger Set. Click the link and your code will be applied automatically! http://bit.ly/3RqT1zF

You can get any Ink Charger Set your heart desires, just remember to add it to your cart before checking out. I hope you liked this little review/thoughts of this ink. I been using my FWP shimmery inks on a stub nib and they end up looking gorgeous!

I will be posting more pictures of this ink soon on my Instagram and more writing samples if you are interested. Follow me here @TheJournaligType on IG for more pictures and updates!

Thank you so much for being here and I hope this post was useful.

Have a wonderful day and God bless you all!

Posted on February 20, 2023February 21, 2023 by Karen Castro

Ferris Wheel Press – Cloak and Forest

The flutter of a red cloak and the soft padding of feet on a mossy floor can be heard as Little Red rushes through a dimly lit forest on her way to grandmother’s house. Forest residents chatter from their humble abodes, warning her of the peeping Big Bad Wolf lurking in the shadows, but fear not! The silvery light of the sun peeks through the lush canopies of the wizened trees, lighting her way, giving her the hope and courage needed to continue her daring journey.

Hello guys, I hope you are all doing fantastic, today I have a little review. I recently received Cloak and Forest from Ferris Wheel Press and I been very excited to share this new ink.

I am a huge fan of green inks well green in general and when I noticed that this ink had green as a base, red as a sheen and silver as shimmer I was very intrigued and I just needed to know how this ink reacts.

Ink information (Do you see the Big Bad Wolf creeping?)

I love Ferris Wheel Press packaging, it always have beautiful illustrations and every single box is unique with illustration made for for each ink. Most time I don’t really pay attention to packaging but it means a lot that Ferris Wheel Press takes the effort to present their products in such beautiful way. I appreciate that they care about how their products look not just how it performs.

This box have little creatures , I even spotted Ferris Wheel Press ink bottles in a corner and did you see it? Look at the first picture, there is something there o_o!

Ferris Wheel Press Cloak and Forest Ink Swatch with a brush

I don’t know about you guys but I always get so impressed when I see an ink dried, is like I don’t know exactly what I am getting until I put it on paper. Sometimes online picture doesn’t do it justice, this color is gorgeous, I made sure to shake the bottle very well to get a good look at this ink.

Ferris Wheel Press Cloak and Forest (Glass Pen)

Is like a mixture of light of hope and green with red just peeking through, I used a glass dip pen for this writing sample and you can see all that silver shimmer everywhere and that red sheen. Is a fun ink to write with, you can definitely see more of this ink when the light hits.

I also noticed that you can get this ink with low shimmer if you don’t shake the bottle before inking your pen.

Ferris Wheel Press Cloak and Forest (BB nib)

You can still see that red sheen and might get some shimmer in your writing but is not as much if you shake the bottle. I honestly like it, you have options and not going to lie this ink looks super nice without the shimmer too.

But the shimmer makes this ink unique so I love to see that shimmer in my writing.

This green base ink is like a forest green, you can see a little bit of blue when the light hits but a more consistent color I keep seeing is this forest green with red sheen. I think the glass dip pen did a good job at showing how this ink performs.

Ferris Wheel Press Cloak and Forest (Ink swatch + glass dip pen)
*I can make brush swatches all day with this ink, looks super pretty, reminds me of something magical* ✨

Ferris Wheel Press are very impressive with their drying time. Most time I worry when I write on Tomoe River Paper with fountain pen inks but they dry faster than most ink I own.

This is a great ink to add to your collection, Little Red Riding Hood used to be one of my favorite stories. The cloak was one of my favorite things from it, I been hoping to get one for years because like I said, used to be my favorite story growing up so seen this ink coming into this collection made me very happy.

This ink will be available for purchase on March 3rd, 2023.

Use TJT at checkout to support my creative journey and receive a free Ink Charger Set. Click the link and your code will be applied automatically! http://bit.ly/3RqT1zF

You can get any Ink Charger Set your heart desires, just remember to add it to your cart before checking out.

I hope you liked this little review/thoughts of this ink. I been using my FWP shimmery inks on a stub nib and they end up looking gorgeous!

I will be posting more pictures of this ink soon on my Instagram and more writing samples if you are interested. Follow me here @TheJournaligType on IG for more pictures and updates!

I have one more ink to share with you guys this month from FWP so stay tuned for that.

Thank you so much for being here and I hope this post was useful.

Have a wonderful day and God bless you all!