Eric Sands is one of my favorite artisans when it comes to the art and craft of pen making. We have bonded over many things, and that is why his work resonates with me on a deep and personal level.

This week, I have been writing with one of his Carina Hapalua 15 models that I picked up at the San Francisco Pen Show, but never got around to inking it till this past weekend. It is made of Red Chip Vintage Cellulose Acetate. And the cap is made of a Custom Red Resin by Tim McKenzie and has a Bronze Trim.

I love the vintage cellulose acetate material. It is one of my favorite materials. Eric made me a version of this pen in blue. These models are ideal recipients for grafting vintage nibs. I have placed a characterful Waterman Ideal Regus Stub nib, which has a pretty decent Flex. It is somewhere between 80- to 90 years old. It makes the pen come alive. (PS: You can read all about my love for vintage nibs here.)

I inked the pen with Octopus Fluids’ Bordeaux, currently one of my favorite inks in this color family. It is only Wednesday, and the pen needs a refill. 

December 17, 2025. San Francisco