Today’s topic is a fun one: my tiny JetPens hauls.

Last year my sister wanted something from JetPens (a pencil holder). Since we were already placing an order, I browsed around to hit the free shipping threshold.

I ended up picking a few pens and watercolor markers to try, and it turned into a surprisingly delightful mini‑experiment.

Uni-ball Zento — My Ultimate Favorite

This one immediately became my top pick.

I used Japanese gel ink pens constantly as a teenager in Singapore, and nothing else compares.

The Zento has that same smooth, bold, unbeatable feel, and it comes with refills, which is a huge plus.

Marvy Le Plume Watercolor Markers

I got two color sets:

• Primary — vibrant, punchy, very alive
• Victorian — softer, subtler, more muted

Both were great for sketching, and I love how different the moods are.

Micron Pigment Liner

I tried one out, but I still prefer my long‑time Staedtler pigment liners.

The Micron isn’t bad at all. It’s just a bit too fine on slightly thicker paper for my taste.

OHTO Graphic Liner Needle Point

This one has a metal rollerball tip, which gives it a different feel from typical fineliners.

I’ve used it for one or two sketches so far, and it’s pretty solid.

What’s Next?

I still have a bit left on a JetPens gift card, so I’m debating what to try next. Probably some ballpoint pens.

I used ballpoints exclusively for drawing as a teenager because they were cheap, reliable, and gave me bold, controlled lines in a way pigment liners never quite do.

There’s something nostalgic and grounding about returning to the tools that shaped your early creative instincts.