Welcome back to another episode of On the Paper Trail! We originally had intended to record Episode 2 live from The Gentleman Stationer shop in Nashville, where we were planning to co-host an in-person weekend with Matthew Chen of Matthew’s Nibworks (@pactagon on Instagram). Unfortunately, the weather didn’t cooperate, and we ended up snowed/iced in with Matthew, who was kind enough to sit with us for a brief interview in which we discuss the ins and outs of nib customization. Topics include the difference between nib tuning and nib grinding, the most popular nib grinds and why you might want to get one, and Matthew's favorite creations.

Show Notes

1. Pilot Custom 912 with Waverly Nib (Joe's Pen)
2. TWSBI ECO Rose Gold (Lisa's Pen)
3. Matthew Chen (Matthew's Nibworks)
4. Matthew's Grinds, including Specialty Grinds
5. Arkansas Pen Show, Part II: Watch Matthew Grind a Nib

We also did a separate YouTube Live with Matthew in which he directly answered listener/viewer questions.

When they're not traveling, you can find Joe over at The Gentleman Stationer, and you can find Lisa over at Vanness Pens!

Welcome to On The Paper Trail! In our initial episode, we introduce ourselves and then dive into a thorough discussion of our 2026 notebooks and planners, and how we plan to use each one. We also answer a common customer question on Lamy pens, and talk about where you can see us in person at upcoming pen shows and other stationery-related events.

Show Notes and Links

1. On The Paper Trail Episode 1 Video (Watch the Video on YouTube)
2. Wonderland222 B6 Core Horizontal
3. Wonderland222 A5 Core Stacked (Vertical)
4. Brelio A5 6-Ring Binder
5. Roterfaden Recycled Leather A5
6. Roterfaden TGS_25 A5-Slim
7. Writing on in 2026 (Pen Addict - Kimberly)
8. Matthew's Nib Works
9. California Pen Show
10. Arkansas Pen Show
11. San Francisco Stationery Fest

When they're not podcasting or traveling, you can find Joe over at The Gentleman Stationer, and Lisa over at Vanness Pens.