I am the sort of person who is always keen to try novel writing apparatus. For instance, I have become an appreciator of Sharpie pens in the last few months, though I think the blue, red, and green inks are a bit thin-looking when dry (especially compared with the hard-to-find Pilot G2 colours).
It was therefore with a certain level of excitement that I purchased one of Sharpie’s new ‘liquid pencils’. Unfortunately, the machine is a complete disappointment. Basically, the thing writes like a really bad pen. It applies inconsistent amounts of ink when slightly different levels of pressure are applied, and a lot of pressure needs to be applied at all times – decidedly not a pleasure to use. Furthermore, the results it produces are rather ugly. They look like the work of a very cheap ballpoint pen.
All told, I would say that people who are looking for a convenient way to produce erasable text should stick with mechanical pencils. They are nicer to use, produce much finer lines, and produce output that is nicer on the eye (even for someone with handwriting as appalling as mine).
P.S. As a bonus for those living in Ottawa: you can now buy Pelikan’s highly-regarded student fountain pen at the Wallack’s art supply store on Bank Street. From what I have read, the pen incorporates a relatively high quality writing and ink delivery mechanism into a simple and fairly inexpensive body. Usefully, it also has a guide dot to assist those of us who aren’t all that familiar with fountain pen use, but appreciate the smooth and effortless way such pens allow you to write.
Pentel Sharp Kerry Mechanical Pencil
I’ve been testing Pentel’s Sharp Kerry mechanical pencil for over a year now, and I’m ready to give it an enthusiastic thumbs up. I’m a graphic designer by trade and, in addition to everyday use, I find it to be an excellent tool for sketching out ideas on a tracing paper pad. (I’m partial to Bienfang Parchment 100 Fine Tracing Paper.)
This is a precision-made instrument: fairly heavy, made from metal and plastic. It’s unique in that it features a removable cap that when placed on the other end still functions to advance the lead with a click of the button. You pull the cap off and click it back onto the opposite end of the pencil; an action that makes me feel as though I’m about to draw something brilliant.