What not to do at your first pen show ever ever.

Do not run around and squeal and behave like it’s your first pen show ever ever. Even if you see many, many beautiful pens.

Do not even think of going out for food or air if you value your place in Mike Masuyama‘s nib magic queue.

Do not buy more ink than what your baggage allowance can cover.

Do not bypass the parts bins!

Do not miss the chance to hug people you previously knew only as avatars, email addresses, or podcast voices.

Do not leave the Franklin-Christoph booth without trying all the tester nibs (and inks!) and singing happy birthday to resident nibmeister Jim Rouse.



Do not be shy, because everyone else probably is too. However, be reassured that shiny objects (and a party van) can lure introverted pen people out of their invisible caves. Thank you to Nock Co. for Sassafling15!

—–

Don’t miss what others have already written about Atlanta Pen Show 2015:

Ana at The Well Appointed Desk (start with Day One)

Joe at Gentleman Stationer

Johnny Anypen’s recap

Dave Rea’s Yet Another Pen Show Wrap-up

Rev Kyle’s Sunday rush 😉

And of course, the live Penaddict podcast which many of us backed on Kickstarter.

—–

Here’s a do: do let me know if you have an Atlanta Pen Show 2015 write-up I missed, so I can link to it here.

Next up, how to explain pointed metal objects to customs officials in three countries. 😉