Please, help me choose a pen!

[bretto]

All,

So I got my sketchbook ready and now I can really use some solid pen knowledge. I just need a pen that I can sketch with (since when I sketch I don't erase, no need for pencil) and do gesture drawings. I like having tools that last and grow with me which is why I use Staedler 780 lead holders for penciling....but I don't know much about pens.

Can anyone recommend a solid pen that won't smear?

[xadrian]

bic

(serious, I don't know, I use uniballs, sharpies and microns)

[dpedicinijr]

Microns used exclusively for the past 3 years!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[bretto]

Are Mircrons disposable!?!?!?! :)

[Dash Martin]

Yes...yes they are. However, you should meet my new best friend, the Staedler Pigment Liner. It kicks Micron's ass in my opinion. You can find a 4 pack of various sizes at your local Office Depot.

[nate lovett]

i do the same thing, whenever i'm sketching i always use a pen. but personally, i just use a normal bic. it's just something about the ability to actually draw lightly with them.

[dpedicinijr]

The main reason I use Micron's is that I can get them for about $1.50 each at a store called Pat Catan's. I get 50% off of the listed I think $1.99. However I just got a coupon in the mail for 75% off the price as long as it's all one transaction. Hmmmm, that would be $1.00 each. And guess who gets paid this week. I will be loading up on them, I wonder what the shelf life is????

[Tony Moore]

most all those pigment liners are nice, and the size range is a big plus for 'em. also, their ink is archival, so chances are, it'll hold up longer than most of the papers you're sketching on.

personally, i draw with whatever leaves a mark, and my weapons of choice are the Pilot V5 and V7's. They're cheap, they look good, and they're juicy enough to keep up with even my fastest and craziest strokes without skipping, and they'vce got a decent lifespan. the ink's probably not very archival, but i don't really care about that kinda thing right now because i'm young and stupid. When i get old and all my drawings are faded and messed up, i'll whine, but for right now i'm all about the moment.
;bp;

-T