Are these not the most beautifully old school looking crayons? Well, guess what? They are not vintage. I bought them just before Christmas at the local Hallmark shop. They are super smooth crayons perfect for labeling boxes, ceramic, plastic, and just about anything else.

Packaging for Staonal

Testing the Staonal marking crayons

Tested on a piece of scrap paper found in the Desk. I recognize the marks from many an auction and thrift store.

Staonal marking crayons

Sold eight per box for about $2.50. Found in boxes of all black or all red.

(via Me on Flickr)

One of my resolutions for 2012 is to learn more about fountain pens and inks. This handy tool called the Nib Nook lets you create a comparison of nibs from the various manufacturers carried at Goulet Pens.

If you are also interested in learning more about fountain pens and inks, Goulet Pens offers ink samples and an ink sampling subscription called the Ink Drop — a great way to try out lots of different inks before buying full bottles.

(via Goulet Pens and Rhodia Drive)

The agony of choosing just the right planner/agenda for the New Year tend to put my teeth on edge. Then, I stumbled across the Moleskine comparison tool. Oh, finally!

First, you select what you are looking for, be it planner or something else, and then refine your search based on your size preference, format preference and even if you like a hardcover or softcover. In the case of my search for a new agenda for 2012, I was able to quickly narrow down the options to just four options. Then I hopped over to the online big box store and found exactly what I wanted on sale. Done and done.