I am a stationery hoarder who has too many pens, notebooks, stickers, and other materials that I just buy and keep and yes, occasionally actually use. So when I see something that looks pretty and functional, my heart skips a beat and even though I have too many of whatever that is (trust me, I have a lot), I still have the urge to buy it. This latest unlikely collaboration between a fashion brand and a highlighter was created specifically for people like me.
Dolce & Gabbana has applied its colorful and fashionable aesthetics to the unlikeliest of items, the highlighters of Stabilo Boss. This limited edition collection will add more style to your school desk or office space and still be able to function as a stationery item to help you, well, highlight your books, notes, etc. If you’re familiar with the usual D&G designs, then the motifs used for the highlighters’ casing will look familiar.
The collection has four designs: the Blu Mediterraneo motif with its cloud blue colors; the Caretto Sicilliano pattern that has a powdery yellow hue; a bold leopard look in beige; and if you want something monochromatic, a black zebra print design. All four are packed in a premium box with a high-quality magnetic closure, which can also be used to spruce up your desk or to use as a case to hold other stuff later on.
For around $32, it’s pretty expensive if you think of it as just ordinary highlighters. But the fact that it’s Dolce & Gabbana branded and they do look very pretty, then serious stationery collectors wouldn’t mind.
If you’re someone who enjoys scrapbooking or cardmaking in their free time, then you’ve landed in the right space. There is something truly therapeutic in creating something, and then maintaining it. And maintaining a scrapbook or journal, or creating a card for a loved one is always fun, wholesome, and productive. To assist you in your scrapbooking endeavors, we’ve curated a collection of functional and exciting stationery items, that are not only essentials but a joy to use. From a Pen Fan with 8 sketch pen flat-heads to a photo printer that transforms images for your smartphone into cute little stickers – these must-have designs are excellent for those who love scrapbooking, journalling, and putting their creative juices to good use!
1. Pen Fan
Dubbed the Pen Fan, this one-of-a-kind stationery product is a cross between a Pantone shade card, and a stationery set. It is equipped with 8 flat-head sketch pens and is packaged in a compact and portable form that you can carry anywhere with you with ease. The different choice of pens makes the product a great fit for scrapbooking or cardmaking.
Why is it noteworthy?
The flat pens are all connected, and they form an adorable little Japanese-fan-style layout that beautifully displays all 8 colors. You can easily pick and choose from them. The flat pens are detachable, and you can easily snap them on and off, building a palette that perfectly caters to your needs.
What we like
Portable set that you can carry with you
The pens cannot be easily misplaced or lost
What we dislike
It only includes 8 color options, which can be a bit limiting if you prefer a wide variety of colors
2. Memories Log Book
We usually tend to discard business and shop cards or throw them away into a forgotten drawer. But what if we carefully gather them in a minimalist and profound log book, that lets us pen down our thoughts and memories about the people and events we experienced, allowing us to create little stories that let us travel back in time?
Named the Memories Log Book, this unique little book lets you transform every business card, shop card, or photo into a wonderful and memorable experience to look back at. You simply need to fit the two corners of a card into the slit, and it will stay securely in place, without the need for adhesives or pockets.
What we like
It can accommodate business cards, shop cards, and even small Instax photos
Includes blank canvases to note down your reflections on the person or event
What we dislike
Only fits one specific size of cars or photos
3. Craftmaster EDC Utility Knife
Called the Craftmaster EDC Utility Knife, this minimal and clean EDC knife resembles an everyday paper cutter. It is equipped with an all-metal body and a textured knob which lets you easily deploy and lock the blade. The knife’s handle is pretty grippy and weighted, so holding it is an easy task.
The knife is amped with a simple, subtle, and sophisticated aesthetic and a CNC-machined handle. It also features an enclosed blade which is machined to perfection. The blade is enclosed, so it glides with smoothness, and no hassle at all, providing a seamless and harmonious experience.
What we like
Equipped with a 45° slant to help you open boxes with ease
Features a metal scale, making it a multifunctional design
What we dislike
It has a magnetic back, which can attract small metal bits
4. ColorPik Pen
Meet the ColorPik Pen – a super extraordinary pen that accommodates 16 million colors! With the ColorPik Pen, you don’t need to buy different pens, you can simply use it and have fun with an unlimited number of colors. You simply need to scan the item whose color you want to imitate, and then doodle with it.
Why is it noteworthy?
The ColorPik Pen uses a smart color, that is light fast, and water resistant, and can’t just be weathered away. You can control the texture and dimension for writing by selecting any of the multiple tips, allowing you to write beautifully as well as draw.
What we like
Combines 16 million colors into one nifty pen
Features re-fillable smart cartridges
What we dislike
Some users say the pen doesn’t produce the color accurately
The app isn’t very easy to use
5. Scissors w/ Base
These unique scissors are called the Scissors w/ Base, and they feature a magnetic basic, making the product a really cutting-edge one. The scissors have an innovative design that lets you renovate your workspace organization, ensuring your scissors don’t lie around, simply creating clutter.
The scissors have a magnetic base which makes it a complete game-changer. They are made from lustrous Japanese steel, and serve as a handy little tool, while also making for a good-looking addition to your work desk.
What we like
The magnetic base can be utilized as a dedicated spot for your scissors
Features a built-in cutter, which is quite an innovative forward-thinking detail we appreciate
What we dislike
You cannot use them for difficult tasks
6. Penxo
Say hello to Penxo – the most minimalist pencil out there! Penxo is designed with complete simplicity, and it features a last-lead release mechanism. The designer spent countless hours refining the Penxo, adding some modernity while maintaining its traditional form. It is a 2mm lead holder pencil, milled from a single block of aluminum.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Penxo has a simple design, cutting out springs, buttons, and other mechanical parts found in mechanical pencils. It has a center gap which serves as a lead trigger release, and an indicator window for lead color, markings, and usage.
What we like
Has the fastest lead release compared to any other lead pencil
What we dislike
It can only hold one piece of lead
It is a bit difficult to deploy the lead
7. Potto
Called Potto, this conceptual design is a toy camera that prints out different kinds of photos for you. It doesn’t print out your typical pictures for you, instead, it delivers an outline of the image you clicked or sent to the camera. It provides a line drawing you can keep as it, or color, creating a creative and colorful element for your scrapbook.
Why is it noteworthy?
The camera helps you indulge in some coloring, making your scrapbook or journal even more elaborate. It is a product both kids and adults can use and appreciate, as coloring is something people of all age groups enjoy.
What we like
Has a display screen, so you can see the images before clicking them
What we dislike
Uses thermal paper which eventually fades over time, so it’s not very long-lasting
8. Passion Planner
This is the Passion Planner – the one space for all your thoughts. It includes an appointment calendar, goal-setting guide, journal, sketchbook, gratitude log & personal and work-to-do lists – all in one notebook. It is a paper planned and designed with your passions and personal goals in mind, helping you strike a balance between functionality, personal reflection, and goal setting.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Passion Planner has a beautiful handcrafted design which makes it great to carry almost anywhere. It measures 5.5′ x 8.5′, and is printed on premium quality, recycled, and bleed-resistant paper.
What we like
Features a durable and low profile soft faux leather cover with an elastic enclosure strap
What we dislike
The visioning place is a little small
The design of the planner is a bit boring
9. 30° Ruler
Called the 30° Ruler, this innovative ruler features a simple elevation. The slope on the ruler’s face is lifted by 30°, which makes it easier to use, and also expands its utility. The slope allows you to read measurements from a glance without needing to lean over to use the device. You switch from a tilted neck to a tilted ruler, while your back is straight and your eyes are on the target.
Why is it noteworthy?
Since the ruler is elevated, you can also easily grab it, without the need to drag it towards the edge of the table or dig your nails underneath it. The angled nature makes the ruler pretty safe for cutting too.
What we like
Features large fonts and clear indications
You can read the measurements from a distance
What we dislike
Users may take some time to adjust to the ruler’s new form
10. Canon IVY 2 Mini Photo Printer
Named Canon IVY 2 mini photo printer, this unique little device lets you capture and cherish your memories in a fun way. You can transform the images from your smartphone into personalized photo stickers without using any ink. The photo printer has a compact form, and it fits easily into your pocket, so you can carry it anywhere with you.
Why is it noteworthy?
The photo printer uses ink-free technology, so it maintains a vibrant print quality without the extra mess or cost of traditional ink. You can connect it to compatible smartphones via Bluetooth 5.0 for quick and easy printing.
What we like
It easily recharges within 45 minutes
You can modify photos using the free Canon Mini Print App
In recent years, Japanese design philosophy and principles have been discovered by the rest of us, and since then they have slowly but surely taken over the world. There’s something about products with a Japanese touch that instantly makes you feel at ease. They have a sense of warmth and tranquility to them, one that spreads in the space that they’re placed into. There’s something so efficient, functional, and yet unique about Japanese-influenced stationery, in particular. And we’ve got you covered with a collection of innovative Japanese-inspired stationery! These beautifully designed products are all you need to introduce some Japanese zen and peace to your workdesk.
1. Kintsugi Plain Notebook
This stunning notebook draws inspiration from the Japanese art of Kintsugi, which involves repairing or fixing cracks in pottery with gold lacquer. It has a simple yet beautiful design cover, which embodies a deeper meaning. It encourages users to reflect, think, and write creatively, allowing them to leave imperfect little marks on the paper.
The Kintsugi Plain Notebook urges you to note down your happy memories or creative ideas with total freedom. The notebook is built from sustainable bagasse paper, and it embodies your inner healing, as well as the healing of the planet.
What we like
Perfectly represents the beauty and essence of Japanese culture
The black cover showcases lovely branch-like golden lines
What we dislike
It is only available in a plain paper version and doesn’t have a lined variant
2. Forest Crayons
Forest Crayons is a project that utilizes the pigments extracted from different recycled forest trees, and then merges them with other sustainable ingredients to create crayons. Each crayon has a different shade, influenced by the species of recycled tree, and the way it was grown. For magnolia, they’ve created a light green color, while there is a deep turquoise for fungus-stained wood.
Why is it noteworthy?
The different pigments are combined with wood, rice wax, and rice oil. The Forest Crayons set includes ten colors: Bayberry, Bogwood, Cedar, Chinaberry, Cybress, Hazenoki, Katsura, Kaizuka, Magnolia, and Zelkova.
What we like
Designed to “breathe new life into Japanese wood”, creating an appreciation for the country’s forests
What we dislike
Unsure how dark and long-lasting the colors will be
3. Inseparable Notebook Pen
Named the Inseparable Note Book Pen, this stationery design is the ultimate companion to your notebook. It perfectly combines with your notebook, helping you note your thoughts, ideas, and memories. It has a subtle and minimal design, a comfortable grip, and a harmonious ink flow, allowing it to be more than just a writing tool.
The pen is sophisticated and yet simple. It is a natural and harmonious extension of the book and has a sleek form which makes it great for effortless writing. The pen is an embodiment of the timeless and classic aesthetic everyone adores.
What we like
Creates a smooth and seamless writing experience for you
Has a compact form that easily gets attached to your notebook
What we dislike
It is placed outside the notebook, allowing it to get stained faster
4. Bento Jot
Say hello to the Bento Jot! This modern stationery set is designed to support you on your creative journey. The set is inspired by a Bento Box, and it includes 12 writing tools. The 3-layer bento box design is unique and appealing! It includes 3 layers – the Øver layer, the Mid layer, and the Base layer. All the layers include tools for handwritten notes.
Why is it noteworthy?
The 12 tools were designed specially for the Bento Jot. The tools have been built from premium materials, creating a satisfying tactile feel. The Mid-layer even includes a lovely vegan leather carrying case!
What we like
It has a Japandi-inspired emotive design
What we dislike
The entire box could be inconvenient to carry around
5. Japanese Memo Block
Named the Japanese Memo Block, this compact design is the perfect place to write down your creative and exciting thoughts, so that none of them escape you. It has an easy-to-carry form, so you can take it almost anywhere with you, ensuring you never lose any of the wonderful ideas that come into your mind.
With the Japanese paper Memo Block, you can note down your priceless thoughts the minute they get into your head. You can jot them down before you get distracted all over again. It has quite a small footprint, so you can easily carry it wherever you go.
What we like
Features a pure black/white surface which is a great space for your creative thoughts
Made from high-quality Japanese paper
What we dislike
Aesthetically it does look like an ordinary notepad with nothing special
6. Quick Access Pencil Sharpener Stand
Meet the Quick Access Pencil Sharpener Stand – it lets you eliminate dull pencils, as this sharpener is present whenever you need it, and it holds your pencil for you too. The design is disc-shaped, and works as a pencil sharpener and a pencil stand, making it the ideal stationery product.
It is equipped with a brass mechanism that prevents the wooden cover from opening by mistake and spilling the shavings within. It keeps your favorite pencil always sharp and within reach.
What we dislike
Functions as a sharpener and a sophisticated pen stand
Features a specially angled sharpener which makes the pencil last longer
What we dislike
The product doesn’t look very portable to carry around
7. Japanese NIKKEN Samurai Scissors
These are the Japanese NIKKEN Samurai Scissors! The handcrafted scissors are inspired by the motifs of famous Japanese samurai swords of the past. They are a special series of scissors that adopt the design and form of different popular Japanese swords. These swords were used by different heroes and legends during the Sengoku Jidai or Warring States Era(1467-1568) in English or the Bakumatsu period at the end of the Tokugawa Shogunate.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Samurai scissors adopt the different motifs of the sheath designs, swords, and the house seals of different warriors. The scissors have been handcrafted by craftsmen, and they are made one by one.
What we like
Compact products that are made in Japan
What we dislike
They can only be used to cut paper, not strong enough to cut anything else
8. Sushi Eraser
Designed by Iwako, these adorable erasers are a must-have for sushi lovers! The erasers are available in all kinds of sushi – from Salmon Egg sushi to Cuttlefish sushi and even Nigiri Shrimp sushi. The resemblance to actual sushi pieces is uncanny, and each element of the erase is a puzzle piece and can be taken apart and then put together.
Why is it noteworthy?
The erasers bring Japanese culture and sushi fever to your boring desk, and they’re also perfect for stocking stuffers, decorations, and fun little games. The erasers are eco-friendly and made in Japan. They’ve been put together by hand!
What we like
Economically priced
Represent all the different varieties of sushi, with loads of choices available
What we dislike
We are unsure how efficient the erasers will be at erasing, they do look more decorative than functional
9. ONEBOX
Named the ONEBOX, this little woodworking design merges different tools into a fascinating interlocking Jenga-like stationery box. The box utilizes the same traditional mortise and tenon joining technique that was used to construct massive buildings in ancient times. Once the ONEBOX has been put together, it looks like any regular wooden box!
Why is it noteworthy?
When you pull the pieces of the box apart, you realize that each piece is a stationery tool or a fidget toy. The multi-part storage box is built from poplar, beech, or black walnut wood, showcasing a warm and wooden aesthetic. The various wooden pieces can be converted into a container for your stationery as a phone stand or even an adjustable ruler!
What we like
The pieces feature flawless tenon and mortise joints
Serves as much more than just an ordinary stationery box
What we dislike
You have to ensure you don’t lose a piece, or else you’ll have trouble putting the box together again
10. Japanese NIKKEN Samurai Letter Opener
Another important addition to a desk is a letter opener, and we just discovered a Samurai-style letter opener for you! The Japanese NIKKEN Samurai Letter Opener is inspired by the iconic Japanese Samurai Katana, and it is a compact and functional stationery piece for your work desk, especially if you’re a lover of Japanese culture.
Why is it noteworthy?
The letter opener adopts the essence of the old legendary swords of famous leaders from history. Each sword is built by specialist masters of their craft, delivering a quality that is truly unmatched and special.
What we like
Handcrafted with a perfected edge
What we dislike
It can only be used to open a letter, it isn’t as sharp as a knife
Business cards and shop cards are often regarded as boring, impersonal representations of people and places, but that’s partly because we often forget to associate the person with the name on the card. It’s easy enough to forget the first encounter with a stranger who hands you their business card, not unless you actually turn that card into an unforgettable memory. Rather than keep those cards in some container that you forget inside a drawer, why not slip them into this minimalist and profound log book that lets you write down your own thoughts and memories about people, encounters, and events, turning them into small stories that let you cherish these memories and remember them better for days to come.
Some people and events definitely leave a lasting impression, but our frail human minds can easily forget them as well. Photos and even business cards offer tangible triggers to jog our memories, but they can still end up feeling distant and impersonal, more like watching a film from the eyes of an outsider rather than from your own perspective. What better way to ensure you’ll remember the poignant details of that memory than by writing it down? And that’s exactly the kind of space that this Memories Log Book provides, allowing you to make every business card, shop card, or photo a truly personal and memorable encounter.
Using the log book is genius in its simplicity. You simply insert the two corners of a card into the slits and it will stay in place without the need for messy adhesives or cumbersome pockets. It can fit business cards, shop cards, and even small Instax photos, anything you might collect from brief but memorable encounters. Beside each card is an empty space, a blank canvas where you can write your own reflections on the person or event, helping your future self remember what made the card worth keeping. You can even draw on it, if you’re so inclined, creating a stronger association with those people you’ve only just met.
This A5-sized business card file log book can hold up to 120 cards, but you can add, remove, and rearrange pages just as easily as you add cards. An elastic band serves as the binding, running across the height of the book and through cutouts on the top and bottom edges. This innovative system makes it trivial to organize those cards the way you like that you might actually find yourself losing time just personalizing the pages.
The Log Book’s minimalist design extends to its choice of material. High-quality paper is simple yet holds deep meaning, both for our minds and especially our hands. The tactile warmth of each page creates a bond between the person and the cards on that page, and its elegant yet unassuming appearance is a perfect fit for any setting, whether it’s at home, in the office, or even in a meeting. It’s definitely a great gift idea not just for workers but for anyone who loves collecting memories in a more meaningful and personal way.
While many wars have been fought over different kinds of pens and their designs, some people still prefer the simplicity and unique texture of a good, old-fashioned, wooden pencil. Unfortunately, even die-hard pencil fans will admit that their favorite writing tool can sometimes be a pain to maintain. Not only do they tend to go missing exactly when you need them, they might also be too dull by the time you do find them among the pile of other writing instruments. You waste a lot of time fumbling with tools while your muse slips away before you have a chance to write the idea down on paper. Having your tools always within reach helps cut down on time and friction, and this striking minimalist design solves that by combining two of the most essential pencil accessories in one.
The Problem: Sharpeners are Unattractive, Inefficient, Out of Reach
A pencil is one of the most basic and most timeless writing instruments known to man. It has its own distinct charm that’s exhibited both by its graphite marks as well as the design of its barrel. That said, the pencil has also inherited the one flaw of its ancestors: the need for regular sharpening. Mechanical pencils try to offer an alternative design but also sacrifice the unique personality of the wooden pencil in favor of precision and convenience.
Sharpening a pencil isn’t exactly too much work, but scrambling to find the sharpener costs too much time and tension when you need to jot something down quickly. And that’s not even considering the time you spend actually looking for your pencil in the first place, especially if your favorite is lost among half a dozen barrels. A pencil and a pencil sharpener sound like two things that should go together, but there has never been a design that puts two and two together, at least until now.
Why is this the Best Pencil Sharpener?
This Upright Pencil Sharpener solves that by putting the sharpener where the pencil is or vice versa. Shaped like a disc or puck, the singular hole in the middle serves as a stand for your beloved writing tool, ready for you to pull it out when you need it. And should the pencil’s tip finally become too dull, you know exactly where to find the sharpener. No more searching inside drawers for a small metal or plastic box, or standing up to walk toward a mounted electric sharpener.
Despite its rather simple appearance, this pencil sharpener and stand in one is a prime example of great design. The base that holds the shavings is made from anodized aluminum with a matte black finish, while the cover that keeps the shavings from flying around is made from warm-toned walnut wood. A strong magnet keeps these two pieces together, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally knocking off the cover and spilling its contents. And when you are ready to empty the container, the 6cm diameter of the base makes it easy to throw everything out.
Who is this Pencil Sharpener for?
Pencil sharpeners are technically very utilitarian products, but this one easily sets itself apart with its elegance and appeal to the discerning, design-conscious pencil lover. The striking brass mechanism inside provides additional visual contrast to the darkness of the aluminum base. The angle of the blade inside is designed for optimal sharpening to reduce waste and prolong the pencil’s life. Simple, beautiful, and multi-functional, this pencil sharpener stand helps save you time and effort while allowing you to put your favorite pencil on display for everyone to see and appreciate.
Paper notebooks are in again, though some would argue they never really went out of fashion. Even with the inherent limitations of the medium, there is just an unbridled joy in putting pen or pencil to paper that has not yet been sufficiently replicated by the most advanced technologies and designs. In a way, notebooks have also become a reflection of the owner’s own self, while also acting as a gateway to their own inner world, their thoughts, their dreams, and maybe even their own self-image. Some people like their notebooks and their covers plain, while others opt for designs that display their interests and loyalties. Still, others treat their notebook covers like a blank canvas ready to tell their life story through stickers and art. This rather distinctive Japanese-inspired notebook tries to tell a different story, one that aims to inspire the owner to not only rise from the ashes but also embrace their own imperfections.
Ceramic pots have great value not just because of their intricate, often hand-made designs but also because of their fragility. A single drop or hard bump is enough to break a beautiful vase, and most people simply throw these away, even if there’s just a crack. The Japanese, however, aren’t ones to dispose of what can still be repaired, and so the famed kintsugi, the traditional art of repairing pottery, was born. In a nutshell, this art uses golden lacquer to patch up and cover cracks, resulting in a piece of pottery that is even more beautiful because of its obvious flaws.
Over time, kintsugi became a symbol of embracing imperfections and self-healing, and those are the sentiments that this golden healing notebook attempts to convey. Using an equally traditional screen-printing method, wriggling lines of gold are painted on the notebook’s plain black cover, mimicking the cracks covered up by lacquer in a kintsugi masterpiece. And as with cracks, there is no uniformity or pattern to the branching lines, giving it a sense of randomness that you would find in nature itself. It’s a striking visual, with the gold contrasting with the black, that evokes both awe and wonder, subtly leading the mind to deeper thoughts.
The notebook’s theme of recovery and revival goes deeper than the cover. The paper used inside is bagasse which is made from the residue produced during sugarcane extraction. Instead of creating new paper from virgin pulp, it reuses what has been discarded, trying to make whole what was broken. In its own small way, it helps heal the planet’s cracking health, patching it up in small beautiful pieces rather than in one grandiose but ineffective sweep.
The kintsugi notebook embodies not only a traditional Japanese practice but the very highlights of Japanese culture itself. It is the perfect example of Japanese minimalist design, the frugality and efficiency of its people, as well as the profound thinking they can evoke from just a few simple symbols and materials. Whether you’re writing down your most secret thoughts, planning out your day ahead, or simply scribbling ideas and dreams, the notebook’s beautiful recycled paper invites you to let your pen roam free on the page, while the seemingly cracked cover exhorts you to embrace even the flaws that could, someday, lead to a beautiful design.
Remember when some pens had multiple refills inside them and that somehow felt like peak functionality? Well, we now live in 2024, where a multi-refill pen is severely outdated. Instead, we’ve got 4-in-1 pens that pack rulers/scales, pencils, and even a capacitive stylus for working digitally. The FLINTONE is an all-metal pen that comes with a unique modular design. Its outer sleeve has a waterdrop cross-section that allows it to double as a grip for the pen on the inside. However, if you want to change things up, the pen element swaps out for other modules… namely a capacitive stylus, or an eternal pencil capable of writing forever without running out of graphite or needing to be sharpend. Designed with professionals and creatives in mind, this tool reflects a deep understanding of the demands placed on those who require precision, adaptability, and convenience in their daily tasks.
The FLINTONE 4-in-1 EDC Pen is crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum, making it both lightweight as well as durable (definitely more durable than those plastic pens you carry around). At the core of its design is the ability to switch between four functions—pen, pencil, touch pen, and ruler—effortlessly in just a few seconds. This pretty much guarantees never needing to carry a full-fledged stationery kit with you. The FLINTONE’s multipurpose design gives you all you need. The outer sleeve serves as a scale or ruler, and the pen, which can be detached from the sleeve, can be used independently. Conversely, the sleeve’s teardrop shape provides a nifty grip if you’re using the pen while it’s docked within. The pen itself uses a standard G2 refill, giving you the ability to swap out old refills for new ones.
The sleeve’s unique form factor has two functions. For starters, its non-cylindrical design means it’ll never roll off a table. However, on the tapered edge lie both imperial and metric etchings, allowing you to take measurements in the unit of your choice. This is particularly beneficial for engineers, architects, and designers who work in diverse environments and require precise measurements in different units. The rulers are integrated with a dual synchronized roller design that allows for smooth, parallel movement, making it easier to draw straight lines and achieve accurate measurements.
The roller design lets you move the scale on a perfect straight axis, allowing you to quickly draw parallel lines.
The barrel of the pen module comes with a threaded end, allowing you to attach any one of the FLINTONE’s other modules. This effectively allows you to slide the pen out, flip it over, and slide it back in, basically swapping modules in a way. Apart from the ballpoint pen, the FLINTONE offers a capacitive stylus, allowing you to draw on most touchscreens the way you would on paper with a pen/pencil. Unlike other styluses that require charging (looking at you, Apple), the one on the FLINTONE works without a battery, although don’t expect any functions like pressure-sensing or tilt detection the way you would get with an Apple Pencil.
Alternatively, you have the option of using the eternal pencil module – perhaps the most interesting of the bunch. The eternal pencil uses a specific alloy instead of graphite. While graphite rubs off on paper, creating the black mark you see, this alloy oxidises onto paper, providing a similar mark without getting depleted the way graphite does. The result, stellar black lines without dust, smudging, or even the need to sharpen. The eternal pencil quite literally works forever, without losing its pointed tip.
The FLINTONE’s waterdrop-shaped body provides an ergonomic grip, allowing for extended use without causing hand fatigue. This design consideration is particularly important for those who spend long hours working on detailed projects, where comfort can significantly impact productivity. The pen also features a magnetic closure that secures it in place, preventing it from rolling off surfaces and ensuring it is always within reach.
In addition to its multifunctional capabilities, the FLINTONE 4-in-1 EDC Pen is built to last. The pencil component, for instance, is constructed from an ultra-durable carbon alloy, capable of withstanding extensive use. This durability is matched by the pen’s overall construction, which is designed to endure the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The pen also comes with a specially crafted storage case, which helps keep everything organized and prevents any mess.
By combining multiple tools into one sleek and durable device, the folks at FLINTONE have created a product that meets the needs of professionals and creatives alike. Whether you are drafting a technical drawing, taking notes, or interacting with your digital devices, this pen is engineered to deliver performance and convenience at every turn. The FLINTONE sports a $79 price tag, which may seem high for a pen, but can be justified when you look at its 4-in-1 aspect and all-metal durable construction. The FLINTONE 4-in-1 pen comes in 3 colors – Frost Silver, Midnight Black, and Aurora Blue (shown in the images above). The pen ships globally, starting November 2024.
If you love the idea of your Apple Pencil magnetically attaching to the side of your iPad, this ‘Inseparable Notebook Pen’ brings a similar concept to your analog diary or notepad. With a clever clip-on base and a magnetic pen, this piece of stationery ensures you’re never left searching for a pen. The magnetic interaction ensures the pen’s always attached to the side of your notebook, available at a moment’s notice whenever you need to sketch a concept, make a doodle, jot down an idea, or take notes during a meeting.
The Inseparable Notebook Pen, as its name suggests, pairs your pen with your notebook to ensure they’re always together like the happy couple they are. The pen comes with a three-part design, featuring a plastic protector, a metal clip, and the ballpoint pen itself. The device works practically on any notebook, whether soft or hard-bound, giving you a convenient way to store your pen when not in use. However, just like the Apple Pencil sits diligently on the side of y23-our iPad, this pen waits patiently on the side of your notebook, diary, or pad too, waiting to be grabbed and used.
Effortless Writing, Anywhere You Go
To pair your book and pen, first start by placing the plastic protector on the edge of your book’s back cover. This ensures that the metal clip doesn’t accidentally damage your book (it would be a shame if your Moleskine had marks on them, no?) Once the plastic protector’s in place, fix the minimalist metal clip onto the back cover, ensuring it’s gripping your book cover securely. You can now ‘dock’ your pen onto the notebook of your choice. Once the notebook’s over, simply shift the protector and clip onto another notebook and you’re ready to go all over again!
A Daily Companion That Enhances Your Life
The Inseparable Notebook Pen is an adorably minimal piece of stationery that does something so simple, you’ll wonder why nobody’s ever thought of this before. We’re so used to placing pens in pockets or in stationery kits, it’s strange how nobody thought of putting it in the one place it NEEDS to be… your notebook! The pen sits flush against the side of your book, with a magnet that’s just strong enough to ensure that accidental bumps don’t dislodge the pen while in transit. A fabric pull-tag on top allows you to un-dock the pen when you need to write, and the clip’s satisfying magnetic action lets you snap the pen back when you’re done writing… or even if you just feel like fidgeting for a bit!
If you took some time off work during the summer to spend time with your kids and family, then you’re probably gearing up now to get back to the office. Summer is bidding farewell, and it is time to get your minds and souls prepared for a streamlined work routine and peak productivity. Putting together a collection of clever and functional products that will help me with my work goals always gets me excited for a workday. Not only will this improve your work routine and productivity, but it will also help you maintain a clearer and more streamlined mindset. And, I’ve discovered that adding limited, quality, and innovative products to my desk setup can help me in achieving these goals! From a quick-access organizer for all your essentials to a letter cutter that doubles up as a paperweight – these nifty accessories are the perfect additions to your workdesk.
1. AirTag Carabiners
Dubbed the AirTag Carabiners, these minimal and aesthetically pleasing designs are intended to be a new and novel version of the conventional metal carabiners. The carabiners are precision-made, with a neat and compact form, so you’re never gonna lose your keys again. They’re easy to carry, with a functional and portable form.
The AirTag Carabiners are handcrafted, resulting in durable and sturdy products. Each carabiner is unlike any other since manufacturing circumstances can affect the final design, resulting in unique pieces.
What we like
Handcrafted using premium-quality metal
Features a lightweight and easy-to-carry design
What we dislike
Attaching and detaching the AirTag can be tedious, and isn’t very user-friendly
2. The Monument
This is the Monument – a concrete iPhone MagSafe stand designed to add a mesmerizing touch of brutalism to your work desk. The stand is inspired by the cold architecture of brutalist Germany/UK, and Soviet-era Russia – with a hint of Arrakis from Dune. It is a monolithic stand that will dock and support your iPhone’s MagSafe charger.
Why is it noteworthy?
The stand is essentially a single sturdy block with no parts, fasteners, or glue. It has a monolithic and brutalist appeal to it, with a clean design. You can position it anywhere on your desk, and pass your MagSafe Wireless Charger right through it, hiding any wires within the Monument’s hollow body. It also includes a micro-suction pad which keeps the charger in place.
What we like
Stable design, so you don’t need to worry about your phone falling over
What we dislike
We wish it had more functionalities with the charger.
3. Personal Whiteboard
Taking down notes is an integral part of our work routine, or else there is nothing to stop us from forgetting the important tasks we need to tend to. If you need a little tool to help note down your important thoughts and details, then you can get your hands on this Personal Whiteboard. This whiteboard is an innovative one, amped with an eraser, allowing you to easily write on it, erase, and write again.
This Personal Whiteboard has a compact and personal size, making it smaller than A-4 paper, but easy-to-carry and quite portable. You can write on the board with ease, take a photo to save, and send it to the cloud. It is a fast, efficient, and easy-to-use product that doesn’t need preparation to use or handle.
What we like
Features a Mag Force System, which combines rubber bands and agent to form a handle that is also a pen holder
Portable design that you can carry anywhere with you
What we dislike
It only works with dry-erase or whiteboard pens, not permanent markers, so you have to ensure you carry one
4. Deskspace Sun Mood Lamp
Say hello to DeskSpace – a handcrafted solar sun mood light/desk accessory. This handcrafted golden calcite gemstone features a captivating texture and clarity and is designed to recreate the beauty of the Sun. The Sun Mood Lamp is made using Golden Calcite, which allows light to spread within the sphere and softly radiate into the room.
Why is it noteworthy?
Each Deskspace Sun Mood Lamp is made individually, making each lamp unique and unlike any other. Each set is handcrafted, and polished to prefecture. With this little accessory, you can bring the sun to your desk, capturing a small power of that majestic power.
What we like
Features a room-enhancing glow that gives a sense of relaxation
What we dislike
Seems fragile, and must be handled with care
5. Effortless Standing Letter Cutter
Named the Effortless Standing Letter Cutter, this handy desk accessory is essential for when you’re heading back to the office. It is a classy yet simple tool that transforms letter opening into a fun and whimsical act. The letter cutter also serves as a paperweight, so it keeps your desk pretty organized as well.
The Effortless Standing Letter Cutter completely transforms an ordinary and standard office tool. You can cut through paper efficiently and effectively, while also functioning as a paperweight. It is an excellent solution for boosting productivity!
What we like
Opens letters precisely, leaving nothing behind
Also serves as a paperweight, ensuring a tidy desk
What we dislike
You cannot use it to cut open intricate mail or bulky packages
6. LUMISO
Say hello to LUMISO – a minimal planter and table lamp for your desk. LUMISO sits prettily on your desk, serving as a table lamp that also mimics the natural solar spectrum. It functions as a flower pot and a lamp, with a button in the base, which can be utilized to switch on the grow light. The lamp is equipped with replaceable bulbs as well.
Why is it noteworthy?
With LUMISO you can grow culinary herbs as well as little plants on your work desk. Besides helping you grow greens, LUMISO also offers additional light on your desk, serving as a versatile and multi-functional product.
What we like
Provides an exclusive light spectrum, offering your plants the correct amount of solar and ultraviolet rays
What we dislike
Will occupy substantial real estate on your desk, not well-suited for smaller desks
7. The Modular Bottle
Named TMB or the Modular Bottle, this unique bottle is designed to hydrate you and meet your water-drinking requirements as you work through the day. Whether you’re working, or even driving to work, this innovative bottle will cater to your different drinking requirements, ensuring you don’t ignore hydration as you work.
Why is it noteworthy?
The interior of TMB is built using durable borosilicate glass, which offers drinks with the perfect taste, no matter how many times the bottle is used. This also makes the bottle quite easy to clean. The mid-section of the bottle is translucent so you can easily make out how much liquid is left inside.
What we like
Equipped with an Infusion Module Add-On for tea and fruits
Fitted with a secret compartment for snacks
What we dislike
It is a glass bottle, making it easily breakable and it must be handled with care
8. Nemonic Gen 2
Say hello to the Nemonic Gen 2 – an inkless, thermal, and wireless printer that lets you print your notes and images on Ultra Sticky Notes! The notes are super sticky, and hence they don’t fall off, letting you capture important details and thoughts with complete ease and efficiency.
Why is it noteworthy?
The printer can be connected to your desktop and mobile device, letting you print out notes you have written, drawn, or typed out. You can pair up the printer with the Microsoft Office apps, Slack, and Zapier, supporting heightened productivity.
What we like
Notes can be printed directly, and it includes a de-curl feature too
What we dislike
Refills aren’t sold individually, which can be an issue if you run out of notes
9. ECLIPSE
Designed by Native Union, ECLIPSE is designed to eliminate messy cables and slow charging once and for all. It is a new and neat way to charge your precious devices. Native Union invested in new construction of ultra-strong charging cables, and they’re available in various colors to match the ECLIPSE you choose – Taupe, Marine, and Zebra with Micro-USB, USB-C to USB-C, and MFi Certified Lightning connectors.
Why is it noteworthy?
ECLIPSE features a round and compact design, and an aesthetically pleasing appeal – making it the only USB charging hub you don’t need to hide away. You can proudly place it on your nightstand, desk, and wall using the included wall mount.
What we like
You can easily access your cables and unwind them with ease using ECLIPSE
Extends each of your charging cables by an extra 4 feet
What we dislike
The USB ports seem to be very flimsy compared to the rest of the product
10. Fidget Cube
Named the Fidget Cube, this little high-quality desk toy is designed for those who easily get stressed or distracted. The addictive toy is intended to help users focus. It is equipped with six sides, and each side has something different for you to fidget with, helping you calm your mind down, and focus on the tasks laying ahead of you.
Why is it noteworthy?
he cube is amped with six versatile sides, and the different sides have something different for you to do. There is – Click, Glide, Flip, Breathe, Roll, and Spin. The Click side lets the clicker in your mom out, as she doesn’t need to click on any pens anymore. With the glide action, you can enjoy the gliding action of this joystick, and let your overworked mind relax.
What we like
Available in ten different color schemes
Helps in focusing and streamlining thoughts
What we dislike
Not everyone considers fidgeting a positive or productive activity, so it may not be preferred by some people
Last year, the folks at Horizon Ruler designed what I believed to be the ‘Swiss Army Knife’ of stationery and sketching. The Horizon Helvetica® Max expands on its predecessor’s credit card-shaped design, bringing even more functionality into a timeless-yet-future-forward compact form.
Designed as the ultimate creative companion, this slim stainless steel tool is built with precision and versatility in mind. It’s crafted for those who demand both portability and performance, seamlessly integrating into a designer’s workflow. Horizon Helvetica® Max might look and feel like a slim ruler, but on the contrary, it’s a compact, comprehensive toolkit that fits comfortably in any A5 notebook, enabling creators to draw, measure, and design on the go without compromising precision.
The design of the Horizon Helvetica® Max is inspired by the iconic Helvetica typeface, a choice that’s as much about cultural resonance as it is about form and function. Helvetica holds legendary status in the font world, being the only font to have an exhibition at MoMA and also having its own documentary by design-driven documentarian Gary Hustwit. In public life, Helvetica can be found in the fonts of brands like Nestlé, Lufthansa, and BMW (among Microsoft and Apple using it in interfaces in the past too). The Helvetica typeface’s clean, minimalist design is synonymous with precision and clarity, values that resonate with the intended users of this tool. Meanwhile, text on the Horizon Helvetica® Max is written in the Bold Helvetica Neue typeface too, making it easily visible. Additionally, the cuts are made using a Swiss-made Bystronic cutter, ensuring precision and sharpness. The markings remain clear and legible even after prolonged use.
Draw perfect circles with Horizon Helvetica® Max.
Draw quick circles with circle stencil.
Sketching with Horizon Helvetica® Max will eliminate a lot of headache in graphic editor tool.
Horizon Helvetica® Max features precise points in circles that allow you to easily draw hexagons, rectangles, and heptagons.
The attention to detail in the Horizon Helvetica® Max is striking. This tool is engineered from high-grade 304 Stainless steel and measures up to 6 inches (15 cm) with both inch and centimeter markings on either side, ensuring easy conversions. It also includes a protractor, compass, and a T-square—features typically found in larger drafting tools—condensed into a slim format. For those working in digital design, the inclusion of pixel and pica measurement scales is a thoughtful addition. These features help users align their physical sketches with digital specifications, bridging the gap between traditional and modern design practices.
What sets Horizon Helvetica® Max apart is its isometric grid and cube sections, which streamline the process of creating precise three-dimensional drawings. Whether you’re sketching out architectural layouts or conceptual product designs, the grid allows for accurate isometric drawing, saving time and reducing guesswork. Alternatively, you can use the Horizon Helvetica® Max to sketch in perspective too, simply by drawing a horizon along with the vanishing points on it, and using the scale to make a series of projecting lines as guides. The tool also offers quick circle guides, making it simple to draw consistent circular shapes of various sizes, from 3 mm to 10 mm in diameter. Each of these functions is accessible within a single, compact device, reflecting the Horizon Team’s commitment to efficiency and practicality.
Color Range
The Horizon Helvetica® Max’s practicality extends beyond its core functions. With no sharp edges, it’s TSA-approved for travel, making it a perfect companion for designers on the move. Whether you’re working in an office, sketching during a commute, or fine-tuning a design at a café, this tool is designed to be discreet yet dependable. The compact design is small enough to fit right into even a tiny A5 notebook, making it hyper-portable and easy to whip out when inspiration strikes. Plus, by merging multiple tools into one, the Horizon Helvetica® Max reduces the clutter and inconvenience of carrying multiple items, offering a streamlined solution for everyday creative challenges… across both digital and analog workflows. Available in 6 colors, the Horizon Helvetica® Max ships globally. You can even grab the smaller Horizon Helvetica® from last year to add to your art/design arsenal.
