Currently Inked: Warm Autunm Shades

Unlock my Currently Inked with this guide to perfect fountain pen and ink pairings that elevate everyday writing into a creative ritual. Discover unique pen setups, stunning inks, and pairing ideas—from shimmer-filled choices to timeless hues—that add color, personality, and inspiration to every page.

October Currently Inked: Elevating Everyday Writing with Fountain Pen Ink Pairings

There’s something special about being currently inked. The thrill of setting up your fountain pens, choosing that perfect ink, and blending colors and textures to reflect your personality—it’s an art form that enriches your daily life. For anyone who appreciates the magic of putting pen to paper, a well-thought-out fountain pen and ink combination is more than just writing; it’s a moment of creativity, expression, and, let’s face it, a bit of fun. Whether you’re refining your fountain pen setup, experimenting with ink and pen combinations, or curating an “Ink of the Month,” finding that perfect balance between pen and ink makes each stroke on paper feel like an artful celebration.

Let’s dive into some exciting fountain pen setups, each paired with a unique ink selection that brings out the best in both the pen and your writing style.

Pen 1: Twsbi Eco Black + Ferris Wheel Press - Queen and Castle

The Twsbi Eco Black is a staple pen, often chosen for its reliable performance and practical filling mechanism. Paired with Ferris Wheel Press’ “Queen and Castle,” this combination is undeniably eye-catching. The ink’s yellow-green hue with a delicate rose gold shimmer feels like a fairy tale come to life—part of Ferris Wheel Press’ beloved Ferritales collection.

Review: This is a stunningly unique ink, adding a dash of whimsy to any inky journal. However, it does come with the quirks often found in shimmer inks. The sparkle particles have a tendency to clog finer pens like the Twsbi Eco, which can sometimes interrupt the flow, especially if you prefer consistent, uninterrupted writing sessions. If you love shimmer but want it to work smoothly in a broader nib or stub, though, “Queen and Castle” will make you feel like royalty every time you pick up your pen.

Pen 2: Twsbi Eco Caffee + Diamine Saddle Brown

The Twsbi Eco Caffee, in all its earthy elegance, pairs wonderfully with Saddle Brown ink. This combination brings warmth and depth to your writing, with a classic shade that subtly reminds you of sepia-toned memories. Saddle Brown’s unsaturated red-brown adds just enough richness without overwhelming the eye, making it a versatile choice for both casual notes and journal entries.

Review: The wetness of this ink in the Twsbi Eco Caffee brings out a lovely shading effect that makes the color feel alive on the page. While the ink’s flow is a bit wet, it manages to stay in place, with minimal bleeding on most quality papers. This is a fantastic go-to combination for anyone looking to add a timeless touch to their everyday writings.

Pen 3: Pilot Metropolitan + Jacques Herbin Vert Empire

For those who appreciate a more refined writing experience, the Pilot Metropolitan is a popular choice for its smooth glide and lightweight design. Paired with Jacques Herbin’s “Vert Empire,” this combination is sophisticated yet subtly evocative of historical elegance. Vert Empire, inspired by the grandeur of Napoleon’s imperial green, embodies that classic appeal with its muted, earthy green.

Review: Vert Empire has a beautiful depth to it, although it appears lighter than expected in this setup. The understated green perfectly complements the Metropolitan’s sleek look, making it ideal for detailed notes or creative writing. However, one drawback is the Pilot Metropolitan’s Con-40 converter, which is tricky to fill completely. To make the most of Vert Empire, I recommend using refillable cartridges for a hassle-free, ink-rich writing experience.

Pen 4: Lamy Joy + Diamine Twilight

The Lamy Joy is a pen for those who adore a bit of flair, and paired with Diamine’s “Twilight,” it exudes a sense of elegance perfect for adding character to headings or titles. Twilight is a deep blue ink with a hint of green, creating a beautiful ombre effect that pairs especially well with the stub nib on the Lamy Joy.

Review: The stub nib accentuates the Twilight ink’s depth, giving it a captivating shading that makes each line stand out. Although the ink runs slightly wet, it doesn’t bleed, making it a reliable option for most types of paper. If you’re looking to enhance your October or autumn palette, Twilight is a fantastic addition to your collection, bringing a grounded yet vibrant feel to your inky journal.

Pen 5: Pilot Kakuno + Sailor Shikiori HaraHara

Sometimes the most affordable tools become indispensable, and the Pilot Kakuno is one of those pens that delivers surprising quality for its price. Paired with Sailor Shikiori’s “HaraHara,” this setup is a delightful combination of practicality and aesthetic appeal. HaraHara’s smoky mauve was inspired by the quiet drizzle of autumn rain, a perfect metaphor for those who love quiet, introspective moments with pen and paper.

Review: The Kakuno’s extra-fine nib is ideal for jotting down precise notes or organizing a planner. HaraHara complements the pen’s neat lines with its subtly captivating mauve hue, allowing you to stay organized while adding a touch of personality to your planning pages. This ink is easy-flowing, making it a perfect match for the Kakuno, especially for those longer, detailed writing sessions.

Wrapping Up: A Personalized Ink of the Month

Finding your ideal pen and ink pairing is all about experimenting with combinations that bring out the best in both your pen and your personality. Whether you’re currently inked with a warm Saddle Brown or diving into a creative streak with Queen and Castle, the art of pairing pen and ink transforms everyday writing into something extraordinary. A dedicated “Ink of the Month” choice can add a fresh layer of excitement and allow you to keep exploring new shades and styles that match the changing seasons and moods.

As you navigate your own fountain pen journey, keep a journal of your Currently Inked discoveries. Note down your favorite ink swatches, explore how each ink behaves with different nibs, and find combinations that resonate with your style. Embrace each setup, and let your fountain pen collection become a wellspring of daily joy, color, and inspiration. After all, the beauty of being currently inked lies in the journey of discovering what makes each combination uniquely yours.

This post was all about my currently inked!