Category: Office Supplies

The RIIND revolution is a pen lover’s dream

L.T. HanlonLeave a comment
Photo of four

Today, the act of writing might seem like a bygone era to some. But for those who value the tactile experience of pen on paper, a well-crafted pen isn’t just a tool — it’s a statement.

And if you’re looking for a statement, look no further than the lineup of finely engineered pens by RIIND.

I own three of the company’s iconic designs, I can confidently say these aren’t just pens — they’re an experience. Each meticulously crafted one is a testament to the brand’s commitment to excellence.

Let me take you through my collection:

“The Pen” — This is where my RIIND journey began. Their original design accepts the much-loved Pilot G2-type refills. (This includes refills with PIlot’s incredible, erasable FriXion ink.) Sleek, sturdy, and built to last, “The Pen” embodies precision and elegance.

“The Compact Pen” — This shorter rendition of the original caters to those who prefer Parker-type refills. Don’t be fooled by its size, this compact marvel packs in all the features of its elder sibling.

“The Slim Pen” — The Slim Pen redefines minimalism. With its shorter, slimmer profile and absence of a clip, it is designed for the modern minimalist. And like the Compact, it graciously accepts Parker refills.

But the genius of RIIND doesn’t stop at aesthetics or refill compatibility. One of the standout features of these pens is the innovative continuous cam mechanism. By simply twisting a small piece at the end, the pen point is smoothly advanced or retracted. The best part? You can twist it in either direction. This is not only functional, but it also doubles as a fantastic fidget device.

Now, let’s talk refills. With RIIND, you’re spoiled for choice. Whether you’re a G2 enthusiast or a Parker purist, there are a lot of options available. It’s this accessibility, paired with impeccable design, that makes RIIND stand out.

While I might not indulge in many luxuries, the joy of holding a fine pen is an affordable indulgence I allow myself. To write with a RIIND pen is to celebrate the art of writing, and I wholeheartedly recommend one to every pen aficionado out there.

NOTE: For some reason, Pilot designated its gel pen and refill as “G2” — or “G-2”; the company can’t decide how to style the name. Unfortunately, Parker had already designated its refill as “G2” many decades ago. To avoid confusion here, I’m calling the Pilot refill a “G2,” and the Parker refill a “Parker.”

DO YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Jet Pens’ “The Ultimate Guide to Pen Refills” explains it all for you.

Unsharpen’s “Best Parker-Style G2 Refill of 2021” analyzes inks and points.

Unsharpen’s “Pen Refills Guide” demystifies the ISO standard.

Reviews of RIIND pens: The Gentleman Stationer, Kraftycats, The Pencil Case Blog.

Maximize YouTube learning with Field Notes

L.T. HanlonLeave a comment
Photo of an opened Field Note notebook feature notations I wrote while watching YouTube videos.
Recent notes I took while watching YouTube videos.

It was just another ordinary day in 2022 when I chanced upon the intriguing idea of keeping a small notebook while binge-watching YouTube videos.

What began as a whim transformed over time into a beneficial habit that would change how I consumed and processed online content.

Today, friends, I want to share the unexpected advantages of this journey, taken side by side with my trusty, pocket-sized partner — a Field Notes notebook.

Take a moment to look at the illustration – it’s my most recent YouTube session, distilled into the pages of my Field Notes. The brand deserves a special shout-out here. With their rustic charm, durable build, and perfect pocket size, Field Notes has been an ideal companion in my writing adventures everywhere.

Now, about my notes: I’ve developed the habit of numbering each one. The first note might encapsulate a gut-busting joke, the second an intriguing piece of trivia, while the third could enshrine an eloquent quote for future dinner table conversations.

This technique has turned my YouTube viewing into an active rather than passive experience in the past year. My ability to connect the dots between different ideas from various videos has significantly improved.

And here’s the great part: I’ve amassed over 3,000 entries.

Every numbered note is a beacon of my engagement, each leading me back to a moment of knowledge or laughter. These entries archive my online explorations, serving as conversation starters, sparks of inspiration, and sources of amusement.

In my daydreams, I think of myself as a digital-age Samuel Pepys, chronicling my everyday experiences through the videos I watch, the laughter I share, and the knowledge I gain. My entries are light on royal scandals and plague reports, but they capture the essence of my gallivanting through our modern, interconnected era.

So, the next time you embark on a YouTube journey, consider bringing a notebook along for the ride. It might feel odd, but I promise it will enrich your experience.

You might end up with your unique diary brimming with fascinating tidbits, insightful revelations, and abundant personal insight.

Bits of tid that make life interesting

L.T. Hanlon4 Comments

Photo of letter from 3M to a woman who worked at New Jersey Bell. Beneath it is the 3M facility that sent the letter. Below that is a photo of what once was New Jersey Bell's office's, where the recipient worked.
TOP: Photo of envelope from 3M to a woman who worked at New Jersey Bell. MIDDLE: The 3M facility in St. Paul, Minnesota, that sent the letter. BOTTOM: A building in Jersey City, New Jersey, that once housed New Jersey Bell’s offices, where the recipient worked.

Here's the letter from 3M that included a sample of a special paper used to clean typewriter type slugs.
Here’s the letter from 3M that included a sample of a special paper used to clean typewriter type slugs.

Here's the cleaning paper ready to be used in the Hermes 3000. The little piece of paper at right also was in the typewriter case; it has information about the kind of typewriter ribbon the owners needs to buy.
The cleaning paper stands ready to be used in the Hermes 3000. The little piece of paper at right also was in the typewriter case; it has information about the kind of typewriter ribbon the owner needs to buy.

At left is the back side of that little piece of paper. It has an add for Green Cross Pharmacy in Morristown, New Jersey. The pharmacy used to occupy the building with the "Boutique 161" sign.
At left is the backside of that little piece of paper. It’s an ad for Green Cross Pharmacy in Morristown, New Jersey. The pharmacy used to occupy the building with the “Boutique 161” sign.

Before purchasing the Hermes 3000 for Allied, its owner might have considered getting a machine from Smith's Office Machines & Equipment Inc. A coin-operated laundry now stands on the site.
Before purchasing the Hermes 3000 at Allied, its owner might have considered getting a machine from Smith’s Office Machines & Equipment Inc. in East Orange, New Jersey. A coin-operated laundry now stands on the site.