Analog + Digital reccomendationsMy Favorite Creative Tools
This is not about collecting more tools. It is about using the right ones thoughtfully.
Everything here is something I actually reach for, use regularly, and would recommend without hesitation. My setup blends analog and digital in a way that keeps things flexible and intentional.
If you are building your own creative practice, you do not need everything on this list. Start with what resonates and let your system grow from there.
(* Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)
Drawing & Writing Tools
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Sketchbooks
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Journals & Planning
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What’s on My Desk
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Content Creation
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Drawing & Writing Tools ✳︎ Sketchbooks ✳︎ Journals & Planning ✳︎ What’s on My Desk ✳︎ Content Creation ✳︎
Drawing & Writing Pens
Best Affordable Fountain Pens
Pilot Kakuno*: A great entry point into fountain pens. It’s affordable, reliable, and a good introduction to Pilot nibs, which are some of the most consistent out there. I personally use extra fine, fine, and medium depending on the sketch.
Jinhao 82*: Comes in a wide range of colors, which makes it fun to match your aesthetic. The nibs are surprisingly smooth for the price. I recommend fine or medium.
Pilot Iro-Utsushi Dip Pen*: Perfect for testing inks without committing to a full fill. Simple, functional, and great to keep on your desk.
Medium Tier Fountain Pens
Esterbrook (Estie / Niblet): If you’re looking for something more elevated, Esterbrook pens have a lot of personality. They feel more like a long-term tool rather than something disposable.
Tools for Fountain pen Maintenance
Blunt Needle Syringe (for ink refilling)
Bulb syringe (for fountain pen cleaning)
Pilot CON-70 converter* (for larger ink capacity)
Technical Writing Pens
Tom’s Studio Lumos Pro: A refillable “felt tip” style pocket pen that writes smoothly and consistently.
Tom’s Studio Wren Pen: A highly versatile, refillable pen with interchangeable tips, think micron but sustainable and reusable!
You can use the promo code: IZZAWEIHAAS to receive 10% off all Tom’s studio products, with a minimum purchase of £30.00 or more.
Favorite Black Inks
Current
Fav
Platinum Chou Kuro*: The blackest of black inks. It dries completely matte and is archival and waterproof
Platinum Carbon Black*: A deep, waterproof black that has a slight sheen
Dr. Ph. Martin’s Black Star India Ink, matte*: Best for bold, matte black areas. I use this when I want a more graphic, opaque finish for flat black areas.
Ink Brand Recommendation
Pilot Inks(Japan): Perfect for everyday writing, these inks are known for their exceptional consistency, smooth flow, and high-quality formulation. They offer rich colors, quick drying times, and perform reliably on a wide range of papers.
Diamine Inks(UK): Available in a huge range of colors, Diamine inks are affordable and offer unique properties like shading and sheen, all while performing consistently.
Ferris Wheel Press Inks(Canada): Expressive and visually striking, these inks are known for their whimsical colors and shimmering effects that make writing a playful experience.
PencilRecommendationsPencils
Pentel GraphGear 1000*: A precise mechanical pencil that’s great for detailed work. I’ve had mine for over 10 years.
Rotring 600*: Heavier and more structured. Feels very controlled and intentional when drawing.
NJK #531S Long Point Pencil Sharpener: The BEST long point sharpener on the market! If you are in Japan, seek out this pencil sharpener, it is difficult to find in the US ;(
Blackwing Pencils: A classic. Smooth graphite and a really satisfying drawing experience. Soft*, Balanced*, Firm*
Blackwing Pencil Guard*: Protects your pencils if you’re carrying them around.
Kneaded Eraser: Soft, flexible, and essential to my took kit. I also use it to stabilize fountain pen cartridges when I’m filling ink.
Pilot Neox Graphite Lead*: Smooth and consistent, especially for mechanical pencils.
PaperRecommendationsSketchbooks & Journals
Midori MD Notebooks: My go-to sketchbook. The paper is thin but surprisingly durable and handles fountain pen ink beautifully.
Midori Covers: Simple and functional protection without adding bulk. A5 with Cover* | A6 Cover*
Planning & Organization
Hobonichi Weeks: The core of my planning system. It gives me structure without feeling restrictive and pairs well with digital tools.
Hobonichi Cover*: Adds durability and lets you personalize your setup.
Midori MD Memo Block:Great for quick notes, ideas, and loose planning. Lined | Graph | Blank
Leather Journal Cover: Adds longevity and a more tactile experience to everyday use. Amazon* or custom like Charmed LA
Stickers: Mini 7mm stickers that fit inside the small hobonichi grid - Etsy: FairyDustDecals
What’s on My Desk
Studio Supplies
These are small things, but they make the space feel functional and intentional.
Productivity
Mac Mini*: A compact setup that handles everything I need without taking up too much space.
Architect Desk Lamp*: Directional lighting that’s essential for both drawing and filming.
Rechargeable Reading Light*: Useful for focused lighting without committing to a full setup.
Content Creation
This is an evolving system. The goal isn’t to have the perfect setup, but to build one that supports your creativity over time. If you want to see how these tools fit into my actual process, I you can visit my socials.
Digital Tools
Notion: For organizing ideas, content, and systems.
Google Workspace: For everyday communication and file management.
Dropbox: For storage and backups.
Squarespace: My prefered website platform and what I use for my website!
DaVinci Resolve: Free video editing software