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Angeline Marie Martinez
Shoes? NO! Clothes? NO! Pens? YEAH! Brushes? YEAH! Art supplies? YEAH
All the art supplies, mostly pens, that I bought at La Carpeta in Barcelona and the little art shop Casa Piera. What great little shops!
Hi! I’m Angie, and I’m Addicted to Pens!!!
When Andy and I returned to our cruise cabin while in port in Funchal, Portugal, you bet I refilled my fountain pen!
Fountain Pen Refill in Funchal, Portugal
I went on vacation with only fountain pens and a single mechanical metal pencil. At least I took refill ink! What was I thinking!?
Shopping Memories with Tia: Art Supplies Over Clothes
Many years ago, I was shopping with my Tia. She was so excited about a department store sale! I happily helped her shop. I don’t care about clothes and shoes. Tia turned to me and asked what shopping does get me excited, since the department store didn’t. As soon as she asked, she answered her own question: art supplies! We began laughing while she continued to shop and I carry her packages.
The Joy of Stationery and Art Supply Shops
What does all this about refilling my fountain pen and shopping with Tia have to do with anything? Shopping for clothing, bags, or shoes? BORING. High dollar, ugly colors, bad fitting, hours of trying on clothes is NOT my idea of fun. It’s torture. Now, let me loose in a stationery or pen or art supply shop… oh yes please yes! Bonus if I can try out or touch anything!
The Beauty of Specialty Shops
Please notice I describe these shops as BEAUTIFUL. Lingering, exploring, and asking questions are encouraged. Staff enjoys answering questions! They even give extra information and tell stories!
Comparing Art Stores: USA vs. Costa Rica
The art stores I know in the USA and Costa Rica are functional. Lists with aisle numbers are encouraged if you don’t want to buy online and pick up or ship home. Good luck getting a cell signal to use the app, and better luck if you find a helpful store employee.
Memorable Pen Shopping Sprees
The last times I was set free in beautiful pen, stationery, or art supply shops were 2011 in Paris, France, and 2017 in Cincinnati, Ohio. I added 2024 Barcelona, Spain to my fun list now, lol!!!!
If you'd like to see my favorite places to shop online (or in person) for art supplies in the USA, please sign up for my drawing kit email ebook! It's full of ideas for gifts for your favorite artist or yourself!
PS: Happy Holidays, as it's mid-December when I post this!
When Andy and I returned to our cruise cabin while in port in Funchal, Portugal, you bet I refilled my fountain pen!
Fountain Pen Refill in Funchal, Portugal
I went on vacation with only fountain pens and a single mechanical metal pencil. At least I took refill ink! What was I thinking!?
Shopping Memories with Tia: Art Supplies Over Clothes
Many years ago, I was shopping with my Tia. She was so excited about a department store sale! I happily helped her shop. I don’t care about clothes and shoes. Tia turned to me and asked what shopping does get me excited, since the department store didn’t. As soon as she asked, she answered her own question: art supplies! We began laughing while she continued to shop and I carry her packages.
The Joy of Stationery and Art Supply Shops
What does all this about refilling my fountain pen and shopping with Tia have to do with anything? Shopping for clothing, bags, or shoes? BORING. High dollar, ugly colors, bad fitting, hours of trying on clothes is NOT my idea of fun. It’s torture. Now, let me loose in a stationery or pen or art supply shop… oh yes please yes! Bonus if I can try out or touch anything!
The Beauty of Specialty Shops
Please notice I describe these shops as BEAUTIFUL. Lingering, exploring, and asking questions are encouraged. Staff enjoys answering questions! They even give extra information and tell stories!
Comparing Art Stores: USA vs. Costa Rica
The art stores I know in the USA and Costa Rica are functional. Lists with aisle numbers are encouraged if you don’t want to buy online and pick up or ship home. Good luck getting a cell signal to use the app, and better luck if you find a helpful store employee.
Memorable Pen Shopping Sprees
The last times I was set free in beautiful pen, stationery, or art supply shops were 2011 in Paris, France, and 2017 in Cincinnati, Ohio. I added 2024 Barcelona, Spain to my fun list now, lol!!!!
If you'd like to see my favorite places to shop online (or in person) for art supplies in the USA, please sign up for my drawing kit email ebook! It's full of ideas for gifts for your favorite artist or yourself!
PS: Happy Holidays, as it's mid-December when I post this!
- Published on
Angeline Marie Martinez
Sketching at Bogota's Gold Museum was a dream come true - a dream I didn't know I had!
Sketches of faces and views from the hotel.
Sketches while walking around Bogota, near the National Museum.
Discovering Bogota: From Jet Lag to Gold Museum Inspiration
Why We Chose Bogota Instead of Flying Home
From Spain, we flew into Bogota, Colombia. The flight options were less than ideal, and knowing how jet-lagged Andy and I would feel, we decided to spend a couple of nights in Bogota instead of rushing home after a short stay in a San Jose, Costa Rica hotel. We thought this would give us a better chance to recover from the jet lag.
A Surprising Twist at the National Museum
We had planned to visit two museums while in Bogota: the National Museum and the Gold Museum. Excited to start our day, we headed to the National Museum first—only to find out it was closed due to a water outage! We weren’t too disappointed, though, as we spent some time exploring a nearby park before heading to our next stop.
Exploring the Gold Museum: A Must-See in Bogota
WOW, what a museum! If you ever visit Bogota, the Gold Museum is a must-see. It’s packed with stunning exhibits that tell the story of Colombia’s rich history. Andy, who rarely buys museum books, even grabbed the coffee table book from the gift shop! That says it all.
How We Spent the Day Immersed in Gold
Andy and I spent hours exploring the Gold Museum. Between reading the exhibit cards, admiring the intricate displays, and taking short breaks, the day flew by. I couldn’t resist sketching almost everything I saw. The museum is now one of my all-time favorites.
Why We Chose Bogota Instead of Flying Home
From Spain, we flew into Bogota, Colombia. The flight options were less than ideal, and knowing how jet-lagged Andy and I would feel, we decided to spend a couple of nights in Bogota instead of rushing home after a short stay in a San Jose, Costa Rica hotel. We thought this would give us a better chance to recover from the jet lag.
A Surprising Twist at the National Museum
We had planned to visit two museums while in Bogota: the National Museum and the Gold Museum. Excited to start our day, we headed to the National Museum first—only to find out it was closed due to a water outage! We weren’t too disappointed, though, as we spent some time exploring a nearby park before heading to our next stop.
Exploring the Gold Museum: A Must-See in Bogota
WOW, what a museum! If you ever visit Bogota, the Gold Museum is a must-see. It’s packed with stunning exhibits that tell the story of Colombia’s rich history. Andy, who rarely buys museum books, even grabbed the coffee table book from the gift shop! That says it all.
How We Spent the Day Immersed in Gold
Andy and I spent hours exploring the Gold Museum. Between reading the exhibit cards, admiring the intricate displays, and taking short breaks, the day flew by. I couldn’t resist sketching almost everything I saw. The museum is now one of my all-time favorites.
Look at all the abstract goofy happy silly characters! Who'd thunk abstract art existed before recorded history!?!? In SOUTH AMERICA, no less!
Artistic Inspiration from Ancient Gold Designs
Abstract art existed long before we recorded history! The gold jewelry and artifacts on display featured designs of bats, toucans, lizards, jaguars, birds, dragonflies—you name it, it was sculpted in gold! The negative space, lines, and intricate details of these designs captivated me. I purchased my own smaller book for reference in my studio and plan to incorporate many of these designs into my future artwork.
Dining and Rest After a Day of Exploration
After leaving the Gold Museum, we enjoyed a meal at a highly recommended restaurant. By 6 PM both nights in Bogota, we were fast asleep, exhausted from our travels and the full day of inspiration!
One More Set of Sketches to Share
I filled TWO sketchbooks while on this trip: the one I’ve shared so far and a “cabin/hotel” sketchbook. I never thought I’d fill both, but I did! Overall, the entire trip will influence me for years to come!
If you'd love to see what was in my sketchbook kit, please check out my free ebook about my drawing kit! Click on these sentences to get your supply lists in time for holiday shopping! Maybe you'll find some super deals on some of the resources I share!
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone in USA! It's in two days from the publishing of this blog post.
Abstract art existed long before we recorded history! The gold jewelry and artifacts on display featured designs of bats, toucans, lizards, jaguars, birds, dragonflies—you name it, it was sculpted in gold! The negative space, lines, and intricate details of these designs captivated me. I purchased my own smaller book for reference in my studio and plan to incorporate many of these designs into my future artwork.
Dining and Rest After a Day of Exploration
After leaving the Gold Museum, we enjoyed a meal at a highly recommended restaurant. By 6 PM both nights in Bogota, we were fast asleep, exhausted from our travels and the full day of inspiration!
One More Set of Sketches to Share
I filled TWO sketchbooks while on this trip: the one I’ve shared so far and a “cabin/hotel” sketchbook. I never thought I’d fill both, but I did! Overall, the entire trip will influence me for years to come!
If you'd love to see what was in my sketchbook kit, please check out my free ebook about my drawing kit! Click on these sentences to get your supply lists in time for holiday shopping! Maybe you'll find some super deals on some of the resources I share!
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone in USA! It's in two days from the publishing of this blog post.
More Bogota Gold Museum sketches...
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Angeline Marie Martinez
Stopped and sketched often in Barcelona - thank you, Andy!
Monserrat Sketchbook Page
Monserrat doodles
More Monserrat doodles, lol
Montjuic sketchbook page
Why We Chose Barcelona
Since the Scarlet Lady’s last port was Barcelona, Andy and I decided to spend 10 days there. We had both been wanting to explore the city for some time, and this was the perfect opportunity.
Our Cozy Apartment Stay
The apartment was small but very practical. It was on a major rambla, had a small public grocery store on the base floor, and had some cafes close by as well as a metro stop. The two balconies overlooked the rambla, and the tree tops brushed right over them. It was a great spot to relax and recharge after long days of exploring.
Since the Scarlet Lady’s last port was Barcelona, Andy and I decided to spend 10 days there. We had both been wanting to explore the city for some time, and this was the perfect opportunity.
Our Cozy Apartment Stay
The apartment was small but very practical. It was on a major rambla, had a small public grocery store on the base floor, and had some cafes close by as well as a metro stop. The two balconies overlooked the rambla, and the tree tops brushed right over them. It was a great spot to relax and recharge after long days of exploring.
More Montjuic
Miro Museum
More Miro Museum
Exploring the Contradictions of Barcelona
Barcelona is an interesting city full of contradictions. There are places that were built in the 1500s, and right next to them, there are modern, new buildings. There’s gothic gargoyles perched on centuries-old brick facades, and just down the street, you’ll find art nouveau details in the ironwork of sleek, contemporary buildings.
It’s the perfect blend of ancient and new. You can walk along bustling streets full of traffic, yet still be surrounded by old-growth trees and birds. Whether you’re sipping a cafe con leche inside or sitting at a sidewalk table people-watching, there’s always something interesting happening.
The Architecture: Old Meets New
One of the most striking features of Barcelona is its architecture. On one street, you’re admiring a centuries-old church, and on the next block, you’re taking in the sleek lines of a modern building. The contrast is sharp, but somehow, it all fits together perfectly. Andy and I marveled at how seamlessly old and new exist side by side in this vibrant city.
Barcelona is an interesting city full of contradictions. There are places that were built in the 1500s, and right next to them, there are modern, new buildings. There’s gothic gargoyles perched on centuries-old brick facades, and just down the street, you’ll find art nouveau details in the ironwork of sleek, contemporary buildings.
It’s the perfect blend of ancient and new. You can walk along bustling streets full of traffic, yet still be surrounded by old-growth trees and birds. Whether you’re sipping a cafe con leche inside or sitting at a sidewalk table people-watching, there’s always something interesting happening.
The Architecture: Old Meets New
One of the most striking features of Barcelona is its architecture. On one street, you’re admiring a centuries-old church, and on the next block, you’re taking in the sleek lines of a modern building. The contrast is sharp, but somehow, it all fits together perfectly. Andy and I marveled at how seamlessly old and new exist side by side in this vibrant city.
Sagrada Familia sketchbook page
More Sagrada Familia sketches
A Stroll Through History on the Ramblas
I had wanted to visit Barcelona for a long time. My first and last visit included visiting distant family members, going to mass in another old church, and rushing along the rambla because we were going to be late for the tour bus’s scheduled departure.
This time was different. Andy and I took our time, window-shopped, stopped for snacks, and just enjoyed the city life. We wandered through the streets, taking in all the sights, sounds, and smells of Barcelona at our own pace. It was a much more relaxed and enjoyable experience!
I had wanted to visit Barcelona for a long time. My first and last visit included visiting distant family members, going to mass in another old church, and rushing along the rambla because we were going to be late for the tour bus’s scheduled departure.
This time was different. Andy and I took our time, window-shopped, stopped for snacks, and just enjoyed the city life. We wandered through the streets, taking in all the sights, sounds, and smells of Barcelona at our own pace. It was a much more relaxed and enjoyable experience!
Sketching doodling Gaudi
Paella restaurant we visited TWICE! It was DELICIOUS and more importantly, it was open when we were ready for dinner, lol!
Our Relaxed Adventure in Barcelona
In the end, we loved everything about our trip. Barcelona is a city where you can lose yourself in history, but still enjoy all the modern conveniences. From the balconies of our cozy apartment to the lively streets below, this trip was everything we hoped for and more. If it weren't for other places in this world to explore, Andy and I would return to Barcelona!
My Sketchbook Pages in Barcelona
If you're wondering, no, I didn't share all of my Barcelona a sketchbook pages, as there are 30 pages in my "walking sketchbook." These are just the highlights...and to me the more interesting ones to show.
If you'd love to see what was in my sketchbook kit, please check out my free ebook about my drawing kit! Click on these sentences to get your supply lists in time for holiday shopping! It is Black Friday in the States just next week, lol! Happy Thanksgiving to USA!
In the end, we loved everything about our trip. Barcelona is a city where you can lose yourself in history, but still enjoy all the modern conveniences. From the balconies of our cozy apartment to the lively streets below, this trip was everything we hoped for and more. If it weren't for other places in this world to explore, Andy and I would return to Barcelona!
My Sketchbook Pages in Barcelona
If you're wondering, no, I didn't share all of my Barcelona a sketchbook pages, as there are 30 pages in my "walking sketchbook." These are just the highlights...and to me the more interesting ones to show.
If you'd love to see what was in my sketchbook kit, please check out my free ebook about my drawing kit! Click on these sentences to get your supply lists in time for holiday shopping! It is Black Friday in the States just next week, lol! Happy Thanksgiving to USA!
- Published on
Angeline Marie Martinez
Even while traveling, I have ink and paint on my hands!
The buildings were pasted with layers and layers of old posters! I snuck over to this one and picked some of it off. Who cares what it advertised?! It was too pretty!
The Trip That Skipped Valencia
I never made it to Valencia with my parents when we traveled through Spain. The bus tours passed right by the city, leaving it as a place I regretted missing—until now.
Arriving in Valencia: A Walk Through the Old Town
Our cruise ship dropped us off within walking distance of Valencia's historic center. The narrow, winding streets were packed with souvenir shops at every turn, a typical experience for a busy tourist destination.
Tourist Crowds and Short Time in Valencia
With only a short stop, we braved huge crowds at all the major attractions—churches, markets, and even a military defense structure. The cruise had shortened our visit due to an emergency onboard, leaving us with little time to explore.
Valencia Wasn't What I Expected
Valencia was not what I had imagined all those years ago. Though I missed it on my first trip to Spain, after finally visiting, I realized I hadn’t missed much after all.
Capturing Valencia in My Sketchbook
Even with the rushed experience, I managed to capture Valencia in my sketchbook. Here are some pages from the short, busy day we spent exploring the city!
If you'd love to see what was in my sketchbook kit, please check out my free ebook about my drawing kit! Click on these sentences to get your supply lists in time for holiday shopping!
I never made it to Valencia with my parents when we traveled through Spain. The bus tours passed right by the city, leaving it as a place I regretted missing—until now.
Arriving in Valencia: A Walk Through the Old Town
Our cruise ship dropped us off within walking distance of Valencia's historic center. The narrow, winding streets were packed with souvenir shops at every turn, a typical experience for a busy tourist destination.
Tourist Crowds and Short Time in Valencia
With only a short stop, we braved huge crowds at all the major attractions—churches, markets, and even a military defense structure. The cruise had shortened our visit due to an emergency onboard, leaving us with little time to explore.
Valencia Wasn't What I Expected
Valencia was not what I had imagined all those years ago. Though I missed it on my first trip to Spain, after finally visiting, I realized I hadn’t missed much after all.
Capturing Valencia in My Sketchbook
Even with the rushed experience, I managed to capture Valencia in my sketchbook. Here are some pages from the short, busy day we spent exploring the city!
If you'd love to see what was in my sketchbook kit, please check out my free ebook about my drawing kit! Click on these sentences to get your supply lists in time for holiday shopping!
I love picking up maps, brochures, stamps, etc while traveling, cutting them up, and gluing them down. It's also fun to doodle random small details of what catches my eye - like the dragon looking thing on the right in above photo. I'm just having fun!
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Angeline Marie Martinez
Usually has ink or paint or both on her hands!
Tourist maps from Malaga, Spain along with some random bits of paper cut and found. Page from "walking sketchbook."
Random doodles from the walk.
A Day in Malaga, Spain: Our Adventure Begins
Andy and I took a Hop On Hop Off (HOHO) bus after I made a quick list of three must-see places. We thought this was a good way to keep our day simple…
Our Must-See List, Keeping it Simple
🏰Gibralfaro Castle
🛒Atarazanas Central Market
⛪️Basílica de Santa María de la Victoria
The Cruise Ship Crowd Invasion
There were three cruise ships in port, meaning about 8000 swarming tourists and completely full HOHO…and Disney-style crowds and lines to get into everything (including the HOHO buses).
Finding Solitude at the Basilica
We hopped off at the loneliest stop. We had a great time at the Basilica de Santa María de la Victoria. We were almost alone. It was the last peaceful and lonely visit we had to any church! It was gorgeous!
A Tasty Stop at a Local Cafe
Across the street was a small cafe bar where we snacked on delicious empanadas and cafe con leches. There was almost no people watching!
Gibralfaro Castle: Overwhelmed by Tourists
We arrived at Gibralfaro Castle and walked around it. It was flooded with tourists waiting in long lines for entry tickets to its central areas. We walked away to the market.
The Chaos of Mercado Atarazanas
Mercado Atarazanas was so crowded, a local complained that he couldn’t walk to his usual stalls to shop. Shopping was impossible. Seeing the architecture was impossible. Andy and I left after trying to walk and browse maybe a half aisle of miscellaneous stalls, most selling foods we couldn’t cook anyway.
Souvenir Shopping Woes
Did we want souvenirs? Not really. Every port has so many souvenir shops! It’s sad that nowadays most of the stuff is mass-produced. What you get in one shop is the same you get in all of them. It takes a lot of work to find something actually made in the area (besides food).
Discovering Local Treasures
We found a delicious seafood tapas and wine restaurant. We then spent a little while in a bazaar shop. I found little practical things that I didn’t find in Miami. Andy actually bought Pirula some dog toys!!!!!! Instead of souvenirs, we bought stuff we will use at home. Those are the best kinds of souvenirs, anyway.
Wrapping Up Our Day
That was our day in Malaga, Spain.
If you'd love to see what was in my sketchbook kit, please check out my free ebook about my drawing kit! Click on these sentences to get your supply lists in time for holiday shopping!
Andy and I took a Hop On Hop Off (HOHO) bus after I made a quick list of three must-see places. We thought this was a good way to keep our day simple…
Our Must-See List, Keeping it Simple
🏰Gibralfaro Castle
🛒Atarazanas Central Market
⛪️Basílica de Santa María de la Victoria
The Cruise Ship Crowd Invasion
There were three cruise ships in port, meaning about 8000 swarming tourists and completely full HOHO…and Disney-style crowds and lines to get into everything (including the HOHO buses).
Finding Solitude at the Basilica
We hopped off at the loneliest stop. We had a great time at the Basilica de Santa María de la Victoria. We were almost alone. It was the last peaceful and lonely visit we had to any church! It was gorgeous!
A Tasty Stop at a Local Cafe
Across the street was a small cafe bar where we snacked on delicious empanadas and cafe con leches. There was almost no people watching!
Gibralfaro Castle: Overwhelmed by Tourists
We arrived at Gibralfaro Castle and walked around it. It was flooded with tourists waiting in long lines for entry tickets to its central areas. We walked away to the market.
The Chaos of Mercado Atarazanas
Mercado Atarazanas was so crowded, a local complained that he couldn’t walk to his usual stalls to shop. Shopping was impossible. Seeing the architecture was impossible. Andy and I left after trying to walk and browse maybe a half aisle of miscellaneous stalls, most selling foods we couldn’t cook anyway.
Souvenir Shopping Woes
Did we want souvenirs? Not really. Every port has so many souvenir shops! It’s sad that nowadays most of the stuff is mass-produced. What you get in one shop is the same you get in all of them. It takes a lot of work to find something actually made in the area (besides food).
Discovering Local Treasures
We found a delicious seafood tapas and wine restaurant. We then spent a little while in a bazaar shop. I found little practical things that I didn’t find in Miami. Andy actually bought Pirula some dog toys!!!!!! Instead of souvenirs, we bought stuff we will use at home. Those are the best kinds of souvenirs, anyway.
Wrapping Up Our Day
That was our day in Malaga, Spain.
If you'd love to see what was in my sketchbook kit, please check out my free ebook about my drawing kit! Click on these sentences to get your supply lists in time for holiday shopping!
- Published on
Angeline Marie Martinez
Either paint or ink is on her hands...and don't mean nail polish!
Front cover and inside first two pages of "walking" sketchbook, May 2024
We went on a transAtlantic Cruise in April - May of 2024.
We didn't advertise or share photos before or during our trip. We live in a place that house and pet sitters are recommended...so for our safety and those who help us, we just stay quiet on social media when we travel.
I'm also pretty bad about taking photos. Since visiting Paris in 2011, sketchbooks are how I capture places I visit.
Our first port was Funchal, Portugal.
Andy likes to say we visited the African continent because technically, Funchal is on the tectonic plate of Africa. Ok with me!
Exploring Funchal: Our First Stop
We walked around with our friends Dave and Kay. They’ve been here before, so they led the way. Lucky me, a beer and pastry stop was planned…that stop being close to a pen and stationery shop…since my single fountain pen (or pen at all) ran out of ink within steps of the port.
We didn't advertise or share photos before or during our trip. We live in a place that house and pet sitters are recommended...so for our safety and those who help us, we just stay quiet on social media when we travel.
I'm also pretty bad about taking photos. Since visiting Paris in 2011, sketchbooks are how I capture places I visit.
Our first port was Funchal, Portugal.
Andy likes to say we visited the African continent because technically, Funchal is on the tectonic plate of Africa. Ok with me!
Exploring Funchal: Our First Stop
We walked around with our friends Dave and Kay. They’ve been here before, so they led the way. Lucky me, a beer and pastry stop was planned…that stop being close to a pen and stationery shop…since my single fountain pen (or pen at all) ran out of ink within steps of the port.
Buildings, graffiti, fort, fish in Funchal, Portugal
Cats, rubber Duckie stickers on a door, the backs of Dave & Kay, roosters on display in Funchal, Portugal
A Stroll with Friends in Funchal
The painted doors in the streets of Funchal’s oldest section were AWESOME. From ugly graffiti tags to almost fine art, I would’ve loved to photograph most of them. I leave the photos to Andy. I’ll stick to postcards and sketching.
Beer, Pastries, and a Pen Predicament
I didn’t try to buy any fountain pen at all in Funchal. Choosing a ballpoint is quicker! I want nice, prefer a happy color barrel, and definitely retractable with blue ink. Dave and Andy had time for a pastry and a beer while Kay patiently browsed the shop with me.
Discovering the Painted Doors of Funchal
After wandering the streets a bit, we sampled some delicious Portuguese port wines. We all agreed the aged 10 years was the best.
The painted doors in the streets of Funchal’s oldest section were AWESOME. From ugly graffiti tags to almost fine art, I would’ve loved to photograph most of them. I leave the photos to Andy. I’ll stick to postcards and sketching.
Beer, Pastries, and a Pen Predicament
I didn’t try to buy any fountain pen at all in Funchal. Choosing a ballpoint is quicker! I want nice, prefer a happy color barrel, and definitely retractable with blue ink. Dave and Andy had time for a pastry and a beer while Kay patiently browsed the shop with me.
Discovering the Painted Doors of Funchal
After wandering the streets a bit, we sampled some delicious Portuguese port wines. We all agreed the aged 10 years was the best.
The Great Pen Hunt
If you care to look closely, you can see the ink and line quality changes in my sketchbook. You can tell when I stopped using my fountain pen and when I used a ballpoint.
Sipping on Portuguese Port Wine
Funchal turned out to be more than just a first stop; it was a delightful mix of unexpected finds, good company, and new experiences. I can’t wait to see what our next destination has in store!
Sketchbook Tales: From Fountain Pen to Ballpoint
All in all, our adventure in Funchal was a colorful and flavorful experience. From the charming painted doors to the delicious pastries and the rich, aged port wine, every moment added a unique touch to our travel story. And yes, even the pen switch-up had its charm – it’s all part of the fun of exploring new places with friends!
Do you want to draw more?!
Do you wonder what I use for sketching while traveling or just around my local area? Over the years, I've made my kit smaller and smaller. There's an ebook, free, with art sketching and drawing and coloring supplies resources here! You can get it just by sharing your email address. I promise, even our cats Mani, Niki, and dog Pirula doesn't get to know who's on my email list! Get it here!
If you care to look closely, you can see the ink and line quality changes in my sketchbook. You can tell when I stopped using my fountain pen and when I used a ballpoint.
Sipping on Portuguese Port Wine
Funchal turned out to be more than just a first stop; it was a delightful mix of unexpected finds, good company, and new experiences. I can’t wait to see what our next destination has in store!
Sketchbook Tales: From Fountain Pen to Ballpoint
All in all, our adventure in Funchal was a colorful and flavorful experience. From the charming painted doors to the delicious pastries and the rich, aged port wine, every moment added a unique touch to our travel story. And yes, even the pen switch-up had its charm – it’s all part of the fun of exploring new places with friends!
Do you want to draw more?!
Do you wonder what I use for sketching while traveling or just around my local area? Over the years, I've made my kit smaller and smaller. There's an ebook, free, with art sketching and drawing and coloring supplies resources here! You can get it just by sharing your email address. I promise, even our cats Mani, Niki, and dog Pirula doesn't get to know who's on my email list! Get it here!
The pens purchased at the Funchal, Portugal store Cartonada
- Published on
The last few times Andy and I looked for decent blue ink ballpoint pens, we only found black ink ballpoint pens. We found lots of packages of black ink pens, but blue ink ballpoint pens only came in packs of rainbow colors.
From Costa Rica to Florida: The Pen Hunt Continues
I've looked for super cheap pens through super nice pens. I’ve visited stores in Costa Rica and in Florida. Amazon has many blue ink ballpoint pens, but Andy and I prefer retractable and don’t need a 100-pack! We kept finding just black ink. Eventually, we bought a huge-to-us pack of blue retractable pens from Amazon and took it home with us.
The 2020 Blue Paint Shortage: A Possible Cause?
In 2020, the paint color blue began to face a supply problem. Manufacturers stopped mixing blue. Blue pigments were not mined or mixed. Maybe this affected blue ballpoint ink pens, too?
Investigating the Blue Ink Shortage
I’ve spent a few hours researching all kinds of questions with the same theme: why are stores carrying almost only black ink ballpoint pens? Why can’t I find packs of blue ink ballpoint pens at the stores?
OpenAI Shares Non-Answer
According to an AI model developed by OpenAI (2024), there could be several reasons for a localized shortage of blue ballpoint pens, including supply chain disruptions and increased demand.
OpenAI then pointed me to a few trade magazines. I found nothing about a blue pen ink shortage anywhere. To me, it seems it’s a marketing and sales choice to sell mostly black ink pens. After about an hour of searching for more info, I gave up to do other things like write and paint, lol.
What About You?
References
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From Costa Rica to Florida: The Pen Hunt Continues
I've looked for super cheap pens through super nice pens. I’ve visited stores in Costa Rica and in Florida. Amazon has many blue ink ballpoint pens, but Andy and I prefer retractable and don’t need a 100-pack! We kept finding just black ink. Eventually, we bought a huge-to-us pack of blue retractable pens from Amazon and took it home with us.
The 2020 Blue Paint Shortage: A Possible Cause?
In 2020, the paint color blue began to face a supply problem. Manufacturers stopped mixing blue. Blue pigments were not mined or mixed. Maybe this affected blue ballpoint ink pens, too?
Investigating the Blue Ink Shortage
I’ve spent a few hours researching all kinds of questions with the same theme: why are stores carrying almost only black ink ballpoint pens? Why can’t I find packs of blue ink ballpoint pens at the stores?
OpenAI Shares Non-Answer
According to an AI model developed by OpenAI (2024), there could be several reasons for a localized shortage of blue ballpoint pens, including supply chain disruptions and increased demand.
OpenAI then pointed me to a few trade magazines. I found nothing about a blue pen ink shortage anywhere. To me, it seems it’s a marketing and sales choice to sell mostly black ink pens. After about an hour of searching for more info, I gave up to do other things like write and paint, lol.
What About You?
- What color ink do you prefer in your pens?
- Do you like retractable pens, caps, or just don’t care?
- Have you noticed that most pens, especially in packs, are black ink?
- See my post How to Buy a Pen for Drawing
References
- Hyperallergic: Have You Noticed There's a Paint Shortage?
- Inside Edition: Paint Manufacturers Running Out of the Color Blue
- PaintMag: Paint Shortage Rising Paint Prices, Colors Hard to Find
- Manufacturing.net: The World is Running Out of the Color Blue
- InkWorldMagazine: The Pigment Industry Rebounds in 2022
Stay Updated!
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My favorite pen, ever, besides the Cross one I would steal from my Dad: Pilot Decimo.
Buying a super special pen for drawing means asking a bunch of questions!
You would think buying a pen to use for drawing all the time is easy? Here's some considerations as you reach for that cheap pen...
1. What color ink do you want to use most of the time?
2. Do you want the ink to be permanent or wash in water?
3. Do you want to buy cartridges to replace the ink, or use a bottle to refill the ink?
4. How are you carrying the pen? Are you carring it in a backpack or leaving it on a desk?
5. Do you like caps on you pens? Do you like the push button pens?
6. Do you like “heavy weight” or “light as feather” pens?
7. Do you want gel, ballpoint, fountain, or calligraphy pen? How do you want your pen to make lines on your paper?
8. Do you prefer plastic, metal, or wood for your pens? Is a combination of these materials ok with you?
I spent a lot of money on my Pilot Decimo pen, but I LOVE drawing and writing with this pen. This pen makes me feel special, even while drawing what I think is junk.
My Decimo Pilot pen is "retractable”! No cap to lose, no ink stains in my purses or pockets! I can refill the permanent dark blue ink easily by using its converter cartridge and a bottle of ink. It writes on all types of paper. I can use it make all kinds of lines, from think and heavy to thin and light. It’s a joy to use this pen. The medium weight and shiny blue and chrome metal makes me happy. This fountain pen is a luxury.
My pen makes me happy and I use it all the time. If you're into dollar cost averaging, this pen has been the best artist tool investment for me. Even my husband and better half Andy agrees with me about this pen!
If you're interested in seeing this and other pens, I invite you 411pens.com, the website for Cincinnati's store Appointments.
Below are a few more of my special pens...but my first choice for drawing and sketching is my Pilot Decimo!
From left to right, FaberCastell caliigraphy pen; Lamy fountain pen, Pilot Explorer fountain pen; vintage Cross ballpoint pen
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When your watercolor pills turn runny wet
In a few posts before this one, I showed how my watercolor paints melted, some solutions (no puns intended!), and maybe what I’ve found. In the meantime, my sketchbooks are full of just line drawings and little color.
I could wait until our new home is built. When we will have air conditioning on low in my studio. A week indoors with air conditioning and then a few hours daily outside with me and all will be ok.
I asked other artists in my Make Big Art Community and Kathy Whitehorn offered that I try Golden’s Qor Watercolor paints. I bought some in February and been using them since.
What I like about Qor paint is that the binder seems to be synthetic. I don’t have to keep my paint in a Ziploc bag because it has no honey to attract ants. I tossed this paint kit in my purse and it’s been ok: no mess. I have to get used to the paint…it’s different colors, consistency, saturation, and feelings than my other kits. Yes, watercolors and any paints have a feeling, the way they apply to the paper…lol, to me.
Next up is rainy season. Humidity ramps up about 10%...and every fabric from chair cushion to hung up clean tank top will feel damp no matter if inside or outside of the house. This will be the biggest test of my Qor watercolor paints. I filled up all the pans since I took this photo.
I think the paint will be just fine. I’ll check in with an update later this year, probably with a sketchbook page, lol! My sketchbook gets color, again!
I could wait until our new home is built. When we will have air conditioning on low in my studio. A week indoors with air conditioning and then a few hours daily outside with me and all will be ok.
I asked other artists in my Make Big Art Community and Kathy Whitehorn offered that I try Golden’s Qor Watercolor paints. I bought some in February and been using them since.
What I like about Qor paint is that the binder seems to be synthetic. I don’t have to keep my paint in a Ziploc bag because it has no honey to attract ants. I tossed this paint kit in my purse and it’s been ok: no mess. I have to get used to the paint…it’s different colors, consistency, saturation, and feelings than my other kits. Yes, watercolors and any paints have a feeling, the way they apply to the paper…lol, to me.
Next up is rainy season. Humidity ramps up about 10%...and every fabric from chair cushion to hung up clean tank top will feel damp no matter if inside or outside of the house. This will be the biggest test of my Qor watercolor paints. I filled up all the pans since I took this photo.
I think the paint will be just fine. I’ll check in with an update later this year, probably with a sketchbook page, lol! My sketchbook gets color, again!
Making my newest watercolor kit. Maybe this one will work and let me add color while away from home?
If you missed the previous posts about my melting watercolors, you can find them here:
Melting Watercolors Paint Make Them Stay Home
How to Fix Melting Watercolors Paint.
Melting Watercolors Paint Make Them Stay Home
How to Fix Melting Watercolors Paint.
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Last post, I showed how my watercolor paints melted.
Here’s what I’ve learned to get my watercolor paints dry:
I’m not one to really give up on adding color to my sketchbooks.
So.
I’ve added color pencils. Dissatisfying between the sharpening and how much color it really adds compared to effort, but at least it’s color.
So.
I guess I have little choice than to wait until our new home is built. When we will have air conditioning on low in my studio. A week indoors with air conditioning and then a few hours daily will be ok.
So.
I’ve asked other artists in my Make Big Art Community if they’ve had this problem. Artist Kathy Whitehorn offered that I try a particular paint brand. I’ll be trying it…but for now it’s dry season…and rainy season will be the real test.
Being in dry season didn’t help the watercolor paint that’s already melted…as I just keep laughing!
Here’s what I’ve learned to get my watercolor paints dry:
- Use an oven at about 200 degrees. Why I won’t: we have no oven AND the plastic would melt.
- Place in freezer or refrigerator. Why I won’t: condensation, lol.
- Keep in Ziploc bag with reusable desiccant packs. Result: The desiccant packs need constant swapping. When I used the paint, the paint stayed damp. Damp paint and wet desiccant packs let the paint melt again.
- Took the paint to Miami for air conditioning to dry them out. Result: This worked, but when we got home, it took a day to return to melted.
- Keep paints in air conditioning or a dry room type of place. Result: I’ll never use the paints ever again.
- Use something else. Result: Bulkier purse…which is why I began using watercolor in the first place.
- Try different watercolor brands of paint. Result: I might have a winner, but rainy season will tell. If my new brand stays as “pills” during rainy season…but if not, I may try yet another brand.
I’m not one to really give up on adding color to my sketchbooks.
So.
I’ve added color pencils. Dissatisfying between the sharpening and how much color it really adds compared to effort, but at least it’s color.
So.
I guess I have little choice than to wait until our new home is built. When we will have air conditioning on low in my studio. A week indoors with air conditioning and then a few hours daily will be ok.
So.
I’ve asked other artists in my Make Big Art Community if they’ve had this problem. Artist Kathy Whitehorn offered that I try a particular paint brand. I’ll be trying it…but for now it’s dry season…and rainy season will be the real test.
Being in dry season didn’t help the watercolor paint that’s already melted…as I just keep laughing!
When your watercolor pills turn into sticky caramel taffy, the watercolor paint stays home. I keep this kit and a few others inside a very well sealed Ziploc bag, flat, on a shelf. With this kit, I’m lucky it’s taffy caramel like…because my other kit’s paint turns into thick water and runs into the other pans.
