Sleek, Well-Designed Pencils and Pens: For Doodlers, Minimalists, Everyone
Writing tools are not necessarily a go-to gift, but man, why not? They're extremely useful, and a well-designed writing implement can spark joy on a daily basis. Coxsackie's Pilothouse Paper seeks out pencils and pens that are gorgeous enough to be gift-worthy. Personally, I would be super excited if Santa left a hot pink Le Pen in my stocking.
Shopkeeper Susan Baldaserini says, "I'm continuing to stock the shop with sleek and well-designed writing tools (sexy pencils, sleek French rollerball pens, colored pencils, brush markers, etc.) and accompanying pads and planners—all of the things that feel good to use, but that you might not necessarily buy for yourself. And aside from gifts, I'm packing the shop with single sheets and rolls of holiday gift wrap, boxed cards, ribbon, gift tags and ornaments!"
Above, these woodless pencils are made from solid graphite, but they're clear-coated so you won't end up with smudgy fingertips. These are some boss pencils, guys. No erasers, no looking back.
Below, note the iconic rectangular eraser of the Palomino Blackwing Pencil, which Susan calls, "The Sexiest Pencils Ever." These pencils were originally created in the 1930's and used by John Steinbeck and Chuck Jones, who use the pencils to create Looney Tunes characters like Bugs Bunny. So, they're pencils with a bit of history, and a portion of their sales goes to the Blackwing Foundation, which funds and develops arts and music education for kids.
While you're shopping, check out Pilothouse Paper's well-curated books, including coffee-table-ready hardcover lifestyle and design books, and cookbooks, too. Below, this pair of paperbacks on Catskill hikes and scenic drives cover all the bases for outdoor types and indoor types with a love for the mountains.
Pilothouse Paper is located at 49 Reed Street, Coxsackie, NY. Open Wednesday through Saturday, 11:00am to 6:00pm; Sunday through Tuesday by appointment. For a peek at their goods and wares, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
