The Largest Pen Event in the World

On Sunday, August 5th, I went to the 27th Annual DC Collectible Fountain Pen Super Show. This was my first time at such an event so I can’t confirm that it was actually the largest in the world but there was certainly a lot of pens there; I racked up 2,317 steps.

Given the purpose of this blog, I was interested to see how everyone was displaying and marketing their pens. And as a pen maker myself, I was excited to see some other makers representing the craft as I know it.

At the front of the show, I discovered a publication called Pen World, subscribed, got several back issues that I quickly thumbed through, and then proceeded to walk around the show. I went on Sunday afternoon which looked a lot less crowded than pictures I saw of Saturday but I also missed some demonstrations and classes.

It was really great to see all the various artists and displays from some big names in pens, which were also new to me. There were some beautiful displays! Everyone I met at the show was super nice and helpful, eager to discuss their pens and inks and pen cases and everything. I actually saw a few of the pens from the list of most expensive pens in the world which was incredible!

I bought a few leather cases that I intend to pair with some of the pens I’ve made to sell. I also bought a few pen folios that I just thought were neat to carry my own pens. I’m definitely looking forward to going again and in the meantime, I plan to learn more about pens, especially fountains. If you’re near one of these pen shows I’d encourage you to check it out.