The DC Pen Show.

The DC Pen Show has a rhythm of its own. Early mornings, packed aisles, and long conversations that stretch well into the evening. As the biggest show on the East Coast, it’s a show we never want to miss. And this year, that sense of shared enthusiasm was stronger than ever.

From the moment the doors opened, our table was full of activity. Collectors stopped by to try nibs, compare colors, and talk through what they’d been writing lately. We heard stories about first pens, favorite inks, and personal collections that had been built over decades. We saw friends we’ve known for years, people we’d only talked to online, and plenty of newcomers who were just getting into the hobby and eager to learn.

One of the biggest hits at our table was the new Niblet. This is our compact, everyday pen—small enough to carry easily, but still a reliable and smooth writer. It’s available in our core colorways, and a lot of people told us it filled a gap they didn’t even realize they had. For those who like to journal on the go, sketch out ideas, or always keep a pen close at hand, the Niblet seemed to strike the right chord. Watching people pick one up, try it out, and nod in approval never gets old.

And then came Saturday!

We’d been keeping it quiet, but on Saturday, we officially launched Funkytown, our newest Estie collection. It’s a set of four bright, joyful colors—green, yellow, pink, and orange—designed to bring a little 1970s flair to your writing desk. The response was immediate. People lined up to see them in person, and we had a disco ball spinning above the table to match the mood. It was fun, lively, and completely in the spirit of the collection. Some people were drawn to nostalgia, others just loved the bold colors, but everyone seemed to leave with a smile.

The DC Pen Show reminded us how lucky we are to be part of this community. It’s a place where writers, artists, collectors, and newcomers all find common ground. Whether you came by to try out a nib, grab a new release, or simply talk about why you love pens, we’re grateful you spent part of your weekend with us.

Want to visit us for the next show? Check out our events calendar here!