Ashera Pens Explained: Marius Visser on Wooden Fountain Pens & Design | Ep. 98

Welcome to a new episode of the podcast with host Joost Appelboom and co-host Douglas Rathbun, featuring a special guest: Marius Visser, CEO and founder of Ashera. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of luxury fountain pens, design, and craftsmanship as Marius shares the story behind Ashera and his design philosophy of treating pens as true design objects.We discuss the Ashera Aeon fountain pen, a sleek and elegant writing instrument featuring a wooden cap and barrel paired with a gold nib. Marius explains why working with wood makes pen production especially challenging and what sets Ashera apart in the high-end pen market. Midway through the show, Joost also introduces a new release at Appelboom: the Edison Collier Ancient Orchid fountain pen. The episode is enriched by great live input from our YouTube audience, making it an engaging conversation for pen enthusiasts, collectors, and design lovers alike.

Step into the world of fine writing instruments with this festive Christmas edition of the Appelboom Bites Podcast, recorded just days before the holidays and streamed live on YouTube. Hosted by Joost Appelboom, with co-host Douglas Rathbun (Inkquiringminds), this special episode is a must-watch for fountain pen collectors, stationery lovers, and anyone passionate about craftsmanship and heritage brands.🎄 Special Guest: Giles English (CEO of Yard-O-Led) In this episode, we are joined by Giles English, CEO of the legendary British writing instrument manufacturer Yard-O-Led. Together, we explore what lies ahead for Yard-O-Led in 2025, reflecting on their recent achievements and the enduring success of this Birmingham-based brand with over a century of history.✒️ Topics Covered in This EpisodeThe heritage and legacy of Yard-O-Led, proudly handmade in Birmingham, EnglandThe brand’s exceptional all-handmade craftsmanship and traditional silversmithing techniquesA deep dive into the Yard-O-Led Pocket Fountain Pen, one of the most exciting and anticipated fountain pen releases of 2025Discussion of other notable releases, including the Yard-O-Led Ambassador and the elegant Piccadilly Necklace PencilInsightful questions and lively interaction from our YouTube live chat audience🌸 Exclusive Highlight from Appelboom Joost Appelboom also introduces a spectacular new release from Japan: the Namiki Emperor Maki-e Blooming Flowers in Profusion – 2025 Limited Edition Fountain Pen, a true masterpiece of maki-e artistry and luxury pen design.🎁 Why Watch This Episode? Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of fountain pens, this episode offers expert insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and first-hand information straight from the makers. Wrapped in a warm Christmas atmosphere, this podcast blends tradition, innovation, and community in one engaging conversation.👉 Watch the Appelboom Bites Podcast on YouTube and stay up to date with the finest fountain pens, luxury writing instruments, and industry news for 2025 and beyond.

Welcome to a new episode of Appelboom Bites, the podcast where we dive deep into the world of fine writing instruments! ✒️In this episode, we’re joined by Douglas Rathbun as co-host and special guest Frank Zhang, CEO of Nahvalur Fountain Pens. Together, we explore what makes Nahvalur such a standout brand in the fountain pen community.We discuss Nahvalur fountain pens in general, why they offer exceptional quality and design, and how the brand successfully delivers pens across every price range—from accessible everyday writers to high-end collector pieces.A major highlight of this episode is the Vacuum Filling Mechanism. Frank explains how it works, why it’s such a satisfying and practical system to use, and why vacuum fillers are so popular among fountain pen enthusiasts.We also take a closer look at the Nahvalur Ikkaku, featuring stunning urushi artwork, craftsmanship, and traditional techniques that elevate these pens into true works of art. To wrap things up, Frank shares insights into Nahvalur’s future plans for 2026, including what fans and collectors can look forward to.Whether you’re new to fountain pens or a seasoned collector, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of the most exciting brands in the industry.🎧 Topics covered in this episode:Nahvalur fountain pens overviewPens at every price pointVacuum filling mechanism explainedWhy vacuum fillers are so cool to useNahvalur Ikkaku & urushi artworkFuture plans and vision for Nahvalur (2026)👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment to let us know your favorite Nahvalur fountain pen!#AppelboomBites #Nahvalur #FountainPens #VacuumFiller #Urushi #Ikkaku #PenPodcast #LuxuryPens #WritingInstruments

In this episode, we sit down with Ian Schon, owner and designer behind Schon DSGN, and Azizah (GourmetPens) for a deep dive into innovation, craftsmanship, and the world of boutique fountain pens. We explore the highly anticipated MONOC nib and the upgraded MONOC EVO, with Ian sharing the design thinking, engineering challenges, and performance improvements behind both models. Azizah adds her expert writing impressions and practical insights for pen lovers.One of the highlights of the episode is an exclusive workshop tour, where Ian walks us through the tools, machines, and processes that bring Schon DSGN pens to life. It’s an inspiring behind-the-scenes look at true craftsmanship.We also break down the pros and cons of Black Friday sales, how discounts impact small makers, and what listeners can expect from Schon DSGN’s upcoming Black Friday promotions.The Buzzsprout listeners will also appreciate how amazing the YouTube Live chat was during the recording, contributing thoughtful questions and adding energy to the entire conversation.In This Episode:The story and engineering behind the MONOC nibWhat’s new and improved in the MONOC EVOA behind-the-scenes tour of the Schon DSGN workshopWriting impressions from Azizah (GourmetPens)The realities of Black Friday for small creatorsSneak peek at upcoming Schon DSGN Black Friday dealsCommunity-driven Q&A from the fantastic live chatIf you love fountain pens, maker culture, product design, or behind-the-scenes insights from small creative brands, this episode is packed with inspiration and valuable knowledge.Follow, rate, and subscribe for more interviews, deep dives, and conversations with makers and creators!

In this exciting episode of the Appelboom Podcast, host Joost Appelboom is joined by Azizah from GourmetPens and special guest Kate from BENU Pens! We celebrate Fountain Pen Day and dive deep into the brand-new BENU collection for 2025. Kate gives us an exclusive first look at the stunning new Haute Collection release, and we explore the latest updates on the Tessera and Pixie pens.Joost also introduces two incredible new arrivals on the Appelboom website:✨ Montegrappa Sea Shepherd – Caretta caretta✨ Leonardo Cigar LeonArco Mother of Pearl – Authentic CelluloidAs always, the audience contributed amazing questions and insights, making this another inspiring and interactive fountain pen conversation.

In this special episode, we sit down with Francesco Poggesi, CEO of Visconti, and Azizah from GourmetPens to explore the exciting Visconti fountain pen releases of 2025 — a lineup that blends Italian artistry, innovation, and timeless design.Thanks to the incredible contributions and questions from our YouTube audience, this conversation goes even deeper into what makes these unique writing instruments so extraordinary. Your curiosity and passion helped shape a truly inspiring discussion about craftsmanship, creativity, and the future of fine writing.🖋️ Homo Sapiens Full Demo – a transparent reinterpretation of Visconti’s most iconic pen.🌌 Homo Sapiens Carbon Abyssus – where modern materials meet bold Italian design.🌀 Visconti Maze – a stunning creation that celebrates geometry, perception, and art.⚡ Visconti Nikola Tesla Limited Edition – a tribute to the genius of innovation and imagination.Each of these Visconti fountain pens is more than a writing tool — it’s a piece of art, a collector’s dream, and a symbol of creativity in motion.Join us as we explore the inspiration, engineering, and artistry behind Visconti’s 2025 collection — and discover how passion, design, and community come together in the world of fine writing.

In this episode of our Appelboom Writing Podcast, we dive deep into the world of Sheaffer with a very special guest — Nikhil Ranjan, CEO of Sheaffer. Co-hosted by Azizah (GourmetPens), this conversation explores the rich history, timeless legacy, and exciting future of one of the most iconic writing brands in the world.We discuss the revival and relaunch of the Sheaffer Legacy fountain pen, shedding light on the complexities of bringing back classic models while staying true to the brand’s heritage. Nikhil shares fascinating insights into Sheaffer’s historic filling systems, and hints at a brand-new filling mechanism expected to debut in 2026, inspired by Sheaffer’s innovative past.Another highlight of this episode is the new Sheaffer Coffee Scented Brown Ink, launched earlier this year — a perfect example of the brand blending tradition with modern creativity.Nikhil also gives us an exclusive first look at the upcoming Sheaffer x Emily in Paris collaboration, launching this November. This luxury collection will include fountain pens, ballpoint pens, notebooks, leather accessories, and more — featuring Swarovski crystal embellishments for an extra touch of Parisian glamour.To top it off, Joost shares news on some exciting upcoming products at Appelboom, including the Montegrappa Montgolfier and the Pelikan M809 Back Matt

🎙️ The Appelboom Bites Podcast is Back! After a long summer break (since mid-June), host Joost Appelboom returns with co-host Azizah from GourmetPens and special guest Salvatore Matrone, CEO of Leonardo Officina Italiana, for a brand new episode filled with exciting pen talk!We kick things off with a brief recap of the DC Pen Show, then dive into the world of Leonardo fountain pens—including some exclusive new releases, upcoming materials, and the incredible collaborations with Jonathon Brooks. Salvatore shares his favorite filling mechanism, and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship behind Leonardo pens.Joost also unveils some amazing new arrivals at Appelboom: 🖋️ TWSBI Eco Carrara Onyx 🖋️ Visconti Homo Sapiens Full Demo 🖋️ Sailor 1911 King of Pens Tamenuri Raden Nami💬 A big thank you to our amazing YouTube audience for your input during the live chat—your questions and comments made the conversation even more insightful and interactive!We had a lot of fun recording this episode and we hope you enjoy watching it just as much. Whether you're a pen collector, a Leonardo enthusiast, or simply love writing instruments, this one’s for you.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more pen content and future episodes! 🔔 Hit the bell to stay updated!#LeonardoOfficina #GourmetPens #AppelboomBites #FountainPenPodcast #PenCommunity #DCpenShow #TWSBIEco #ViscontiHomoSapiens #Sailor1911 #LuxuryPens #FineWriting #FountainPens #Podcast #PenTalk #WritingCommunity

In this vibrant episode of the Appelboom Bites Podcast, host Joost Appelboom and co-host Clare Coco welcome the always-insightful Sue Beck for an engaging conversation about craftsmanship, design, and artistic expression in the world of fine writing instruments.Sue shares her favorite David Oscarson fountain pen, and the discussion flows into the fascinating world of Japanese art forms on pens—from maki-e to urushi. Which brand does it best? And on which pen would Sue love to see these traditional techniques applied? You’ll have to listen to find out!This episode is also a special milestone, marking Clare Coco’s final appearance as co-host. The heartfelt chemistry between the trio is amplified by the incredible live interaction from the YouTube chat, with viewers contributing thoughtful questions and commentary throughout.Joost also takes the opportunity to introduce two exciting new fountain pens: ✒️ The revival of the Sheaffer Legacy Heritage – a modern tribute to an iconic design ✒️ The Montegrappa Casanova 300th Anniversary Limited Edition – a stunning, artisan-crafted pen celebrating the legendary Venetian figure with cloisonné and lost wax artistry📌 In This Episode:Sue Beck’s favorite David Oscarson penDeep dive into Japanese pen artistry & designWhich brand leads in traditional craftsmanshipA pen Sue dreams of seeing with Japanese artIntroduction of two new fountain pens by JoostClare Coco’s final episode as co-hostFantastic questions and engagement from the YouTube community✨ Whether you're a dedicated pen enthusiast or simply curious about the artistry behind fine writing, this episode is packed with personality, passion, and beautiful farewells. Don’t miss it!

In this exclusive episode of the Appelboom Bites Podcast, host Joost Appelboom is joined by co-host Clare Coco and very special guest David Oscarson, the founder of the renowned luxury pen brand David Oscarson.David takes us deep into the world of high-end writing instruments, sharing the fascinating story behind his brand and what makes David Oscarson pens so extraordinary. From the intricate enameling process to the detailed handcrafted work, David explains how each pen is a true piece of art.We explore the craftsmanship, the limited-edition pieces, and the stunning color combinations that set his pens apart in the world of fine writing. With David Oscarson now officially joining the Appelboom family of brands, this episode offers an exciting introduction to what collectors and pen enthusiasts can look forward to.Listen now to learn more about the heritage, artistry, and innovation behind one of the most exclusive pen makers in the industry.