Writing Implements
When it comes to writing, everyone has their preferences. Some prefer to type on a computer, some prefer a typewriter, while others prefer pen and paper. Each has their pros and cons, but all are perfect tools for writing.
Personally, I prefer a mix of the two. When I first start writing, I prefer to use pen and paper. The particulars are usually based on whim. My favorite paper to write on is 20lb lined filler paper or “stone” paper. Which one I use depends on the pen that I feel like writing with that day.
Because of the texture and waterproofness of stone paper, it’s best to use a ballpoint pen, of which I prefer the Bic Atlantis Comfort. It writes very well with little to no skipping, and is very comfortable to hold, as it has a squishy gel grip.
If I am writing on the 20lb filler paper, my options are broader. As such, it also depends on what I feel like using that day. I do like needlepoint pens with liquid ink of which Staples has a nice pen called the “Optiflow,” however, it’s only available online. In terms of gel pens, I prefer the Pentel EnerGel Alloy pen. I have multiple colors for the refills, including black, sky blue, and purple. I recently ordered a box of sky blue refills that are needlepoint, which should be interesting. When I feel like being fancy, I pull out my favorite fountain pen which is a Jinhao Medium nib in the “shimmering sands” pattern. It writes beautifully and I have never had it leak on me. Any of these options provide a lovely writing experience on the 20lb paper.
Once I have a chapter or part written out by hand, I then turn to my computer to type it up. Of course, any computer will do. I personally use a mid-2012 MacBook Pro or my 2013 iMac (both of which I got used). As for word processor, nothing beats Microsoft Word, if you can obtain it. A handy alternative is OpenOffice, which is a free office suite and has quite a few of the same features of Microsoft Word.
I personally like to write this way because I edit while I hand-write, then I do secondary edits as I type up the piece. My very first fanfiction was written this way, mostly because most of my writing was being done during school hours, and it wasn’t as easy to get to a computer as it is today. Now, you can always have something to write with, whether or not it’s a notebook, computer, or even your phone!
Now, I am not stating that my way of writing is better. It honestly depends on the person, where they’re writing, and what they’re writing. Of course, it’s much handier to write on a computer as it provides grammar and spellcheck, but don’t forget that J.K. Rowling wrote “Harry Potter” on a napkin. Anything goes.
Items mentioned in this blog post:
Pentel EnerGel Alloy Pen and Refills
computer, fountain pen, notebook, paper, pen, staples, stone paper, writing
