(Sarah Read is an author, editor, yarn artist, and pen/paper/ink addict. You can find more about her at her website and on Bluesky. And her latest book, The Atropine Tree, is now available!)
2025 has not been my best stationery year. My favorite pen store closed, I didn't get to go to the Chicago Pen Show for the first time in nearly a decade, and if you refer back to my post a year ago, when I made my stationery goals for 2025, you'll see that I didn't do any of that stuff. On the bright side, however, I did review some awesome things. These were my favorites.
My favorite fountain pen of the year was definitely the Leonardo Momento Zero Grande 2.0 Guilloche. The perfect blue-grey color, the elegant texture, the bouncy nib--all of these factors have kept this pen in rotation all year. It may even be one of my favorites in my collection overall. A runner-up is the Kaweco AL Sport Piston Filler, which has been riding around in my purse since its arrival. One of my favorite pocket pens, for sure.
My favorite ink I used this year was the Ink Institute Lavender Coral—the perfect shade of dusty purple. This ink in the Leonardo is an elite combination. There's so much character and depth to the color. I literally catch myself staring at it, watching it dry.
My favorite non-fountain pen this year was the Tactile Turn Short Ultem Bolt Action pen. I love how light it is, and the bolt fidget factor has kept me sane through some grueling meetings.
My favorite pen storage of the year is the SheDesigns Pen Sleeve roll. I will never stop nerding out over cool fabric and inspiring makers.
My favorite stationery-related accessory is the Retro 51 X Pularys wallet, which continuously delights me with its practicality. I use it every day, and I appreciate its fantastic design every time.
My favorite notebook of the year was the Archer and Olive Beneath the Willows notebook. Even though I haven't filled it yet, its presence on my desk brings a lot of joy. It looks fantastic and writing in it is a pleasure.
Looking back on all these great tools makes 2025 seem pretty great, after all! This is one of those hobbies that brings a lot of light, even when things are a bit grim. I suspect because it's all a part of a creative ecosystem. Pen makers, ink artists, bookbinders, weavers, writers--we're all one family. And hopefully, in 2026 I'll get to spend more time in company with that family. Hey, that's you! I hope your 2025 ends with joy. Love to you all, pen fam.
Enjoy reading The Pen Addict? Then consider becoming a member to receive additional weekly content, giveaways, and discounts in The Pen Addict shop. Plus, you support me and the site directly, for which I am very grateful.
Membership starts at just $5/month, with a discounted annual option available. To find out more about membership click here and join us!
