Recently a customer asked for an Idyll made with one of Jeff Powell’s unique Rotacrylic pen blanks. The special process Jeff uses to create his blanks, including CNC work and double casting, means that the blanks are much shorter than normal pen blanks, so any kitless pen made from them will be shorter than usual. An additional twist was added by the customer in that he wanted the inlaid design to be on the barrel, instead of the usual place on the cap, so that he could see the design while writing. That meant the section and nib had to line up perfectly with the barrel. Finally, the section had to be made longer to allow a standard converter to fit down inside it since the barrel itself would not be long enough to accommodate a converter.  The result of all this? A Short Idyll. 

Below are some photos of the first Short Idyll created, along with measurements. This one is a Medium size, & features Jeff Powell’s graceful Dragon Koi design on the barrel:

Closed = 137mm
Uncapped = 124mm (measurement includes nib, section, & barrel)
Barrel = 78mm (barrel only)
Grip = 22.5mm long, 11.6mm at narrowest part of grip
Cap = 65mm
Outer Diameter = 16mm

Overall, the Short Idyll is just a little bit shorter than a Pelikan M800 or a Lamy Al-Star:

• Short Idyll, closed: 137mm long
  Pelikan M800, closed: 141mm long
  Lamy Al-Star, closed: 139.5
• Short Idyll, uncapped: 124mm long
  Pelikan M800, uncapped: 127.5mm long
  Lamy Al-Star, uncapped: 130mm long

I’ve got a few more new model designs to add to the lineup, including a pocket pen.
Stay tuned for more info. 🙂

Dip Nib Holders

Epic Dip Nib Holders in Blue Nebula & Ghost Koi alumilite

A popular new addition to the Scriptorium Pens model line-up includes three new styles of Dip Nib Holders for pointed pen dip nibs.  The Epic Dip Nib Holder was created at customer request for a holder that would be about the same length as a regular fountain pen. It measures about 12mm in diameter at the grip and averages around 120mm to 130mm in length. Shortly after the introduction of this holder, requests came in for longer holders in the style of the Literati and Literati Academe Desk Pens.

Literati Academe in the Water Series of acrylics

As with my fountain pens, customizations can be added, including metal bands, caps, matching pen rests, etc. Epic holders start at $35, and the Literati and Literati Academe start at $45.

Upgraded Shipping

In order to get pens to customers more quickly, I’ve upgraded my default shipping from 1st Class to Priority, with the option of Priority Express for those who want their pens even faster. All packages will continue to be fully insured. For more details, see the Shipping page.

Current Wait Time

My work queue continues to grow. In an effort to keep customers informed, I’ve added a “Current Wait Time” notice in the top right corner of the home page. I’m doing my best to keep up, but health issues occasionally slow me down. If at any time you want to know where you stand in the queue, shoot me an email:  renee@scriptoriumpens.com

Polishing Silver, Brass, Bronze, & Copper Furnishings

Customers often ask how to keep their metal pen parts bright and shiny. I’ll now be including a Sunshine Polishing Cloth with all orders that include silver, brass, bronze, or copper furnishings. These soft cloths contain non-scratch, micro-abrasives that quickly restore luster to tarnished parts. Just a light touch is all that is needed.

New Clips

Several new custom clips are in the design phase right now, and I look forward to introducing them soon. 🙂