Julian Vance
Portland, Oregon
Former architectural draftsperson turned fountain pen enthusiast and restorer. Julian lives for the tactile experience of a well-tuned nib on paper and understands pen mechanics with the precision of someone who spent fifteen years at a drafting table. He's the guy bringing neglected vintage pens back to life, one careful restoration at a time.
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Latest from Julian
View all →The Ghost in the Machine: AI, Handwriting, and the Physics of a Nib
While AI can generate text endlessly, it fundamentally lacks the feedback loop of a tuned nib on 52gsm paper. Why the future of handwriting is an analog rebellion.
How to Clean and Restore a Vintage Fountain Pen Safely
Discover the essential steps to safely clean, flush, and restore a vintage fountain pen without damaging its nib or barrel finish.
April 14, 2026
How to Store and Display Your Fountain Pen Collection Like a Pro
Discover the best ways to store, organize, and showcase your fountain pen collection while protecting nibs, inks, and finishes from damage over time.
April 14, 2026
Beginner's Guide to Collecting Vintage Fountain Pens
Discover how to start your own vintage fountain pen collection with expert tips on spotting authentic nibs, evaluating condition, and finding hidden gems at estate sales and auctions.
April 13, 2026
How to Restore Vintage Fountain Pens: A Collector's Complete Guide
Learn expert techniques for restoring and caring for vintage fountain pens. From cleaning clogged nibs to replacing sacs, this guide helps collectors preserve their prized writing instruments for generations.
April 11, 2026
Why Does Ink Color Matter for Your Vintage Fountain Pen Collection?
Don't ruin your vintage collection with the wrong ink. Learn why ink chemistry matters and how to protect your precious fountain pens from damage.
April 11, 2026