I really wanted to try the TO-MEI HAN Ka-Sa-Ne Clear Stamp Sets in the Japan and Nordic designs ($27.50 each). Each set includes three texture stamps and then a series of simple flat shapes that can be layered with the patterns or with each other. I liked the simplicity and experimentation that could happen with…
I can’t help but watch videos where people share what’s in their purses or backpacks. They’re a fun way to learn more about someone and their interests. If it means I’m nosy, so be it. It’s only fair that I share what’s in my bag after my voyeuristic swiping on Instagram reels. To keep within…
I was really curious about the Shachihata Daily Log Stamps. I grabbed the Weather and Days of the Week ($26.50) as I was hoping that it might make a fun, new way to add the date and the weather info to my daily page spreads. The stamp includes an assortment of weather icons, a line…
I have fallen in love with the MU Clear Splice Stamps ($4.40 per set). Each of these tiny clear stamp sets feature delicate, tiny stamps perfect to accent a journal or planner. There are over 50 stamp sets available but I chose designs that featured plant life mostly. There are a few other elements scattered…
Review by Tina Koyama For the past couple of years, my favorite everyday-carry sketchbooks have been colorful Uglybooks (my review at the Desk is here. Uglybooks now also offers perfect-bound editions; see my personal blog for a review of those). I’ve experimented with various media, and one of the best is acrylic paint markers. You…
Review by Tina Koyama I’m always curious about art materials with unique properties, and Kokuyo Pasta Solid Markers (30/$82.50; smaller sets available) certainly fill the bill on many counts. (And Pasta – what a curious name!) First, let’s talk about the packaging and design – both of the product set and the product itself. The…
Review by Tina Koyama I have a penchant for teeny-tiny things, especially art materials. Tiny pencils, paint palettes and sketchbooks may be adorable, but unfortunately, most are too small to be practical. As an urban sketcher, I am constantly trying to strike the ideal balance between portability and useability, and my sweet spot for sketchbooks…
