@cosmic.pancake

How did you fall down the rabbit hole of fountain pens and stationery? AKA, the moment that made you fall in love with writing tools and supplies.
I have loved stationery products since I was a little kid and I remember having a bunch of cool pens and cute shaped erasers in my Space Maker pencil box in the 90s. Since then, I have still loved stationery and pens but once my wife discovered fountain pens, she definitely "pen-abled" me into enjoying fountain pens as well. Now I have a pretty nice, sizable collection!

What do you do for work? Is there any way this hobby is intermingled with your work?
I own an art business- Cosmic Pancake, so I spend a lot of time managing that and attending events to sell my products. Besides all of this though, I've worked as a graphic designer since 2008. I love to take on new freelance projects. It definitely keeps me interested. I am super glad I decided to go into graphic design, because I use it all the time when doing my illustrative work. Arranging layouts, creating logos for myself, etc.

What else are you in to that you would like to share with people to better know you?
I am a HUGE video game fan/nerd. I love retro games and I collect modded Game Boys and other consoles. I keep up with the modern games too. It's such a great way for me to kind of escape into a completely new world. I also love kpop, going antique shopping, going to art museums, and exploring California.

What words/quote would you like to share to other aspiring creatives?
Comparison is the thief of joy. There is room for everyone and all kinds of art in the creative world!

What do you believe is the best starter fountain pen? Where should people start?
I would say the Pilot Kakuno! It's still one of my favorite pens. I'm left-handed and I feel like it's the first fountain pen I really thought felt natural while writing.

What's your go-to pen and ink combo?
The Kaweco Sport and the Sailor Pro Gear Slim, with whatever ink my wife recommends from her giant ink collection. :)

What's your favorite color? :)
Seafoam green and periwinkle.