Stationery Supplies Every Author Needs

Some might say that all an author needs is their inspiration to get the job done, a-la Hemingway and bar napkins. However, if you ask any passionate writer, you’ll find that they generally have a method to the madness! In this blog post, we interview a budding novelist and give a cursory overview of the writing tools that are most sought after in 2025.

1. Writing Tools

While researching, it quickly became evident that every author has their own personal preference for writing supplies. While some preferred luxury options like fountain pens and glass dip pens, others opted for the most affordable options they could find like ballpoint, gel pens, and even #2 pencils.

• LAMY Safari: This iconic German pen is often recommended because it is practical, great for beginners, and can take a beating during long writing sessions.

• Ticonderoga Pencils: If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it! This classic design never goes out of style and can be picked up at almost every retail store.

• Parker Jotter: Widely available in a ballpoint, gel, or fountain format, this pen was mentioned for its durability and affordability.

• Pilot Metropolitan: Don’t be fooled by its elegance! Although this gorgeous pen looks expensive, it is an entry-level pen that is perfect for everyday use.

• Uni Kuru Toga: A mechanical pencil with a mechanism intended to keep you going, this unique option keeps the tip sharp and consistent when working.
  

2. Notebooks & Paper

While there was some variance in this category, most preferred a notebook that was able to lay-flat and had an option for hard covers. It’s important to look at the paper quality for all of the options–for example, if you’re using a fountain pen, you’ll need something compatible with your inks so it won’t bleed through.

• Leuchtturm1917: Useful for organizing notes and research due to the numbered pages and index, this high-quality notebook has sewn bindings and a fresh look. Available in A7, A6, B6+, A5, B5, and A4+.

• Midori MD: These notebooks have a lay-flat binding and top-quality paper that makes writing a breeze. Available in A7, A6, B6 Slim, A6, and A4 variants.

• Moleskine: A very common response, these notebooks have an extremely popular design with an inner pocket that can be handy for storing notes & other small items. Available in pocket, medium, large, XL, A4, and XXL sizes.

• Rhodia: For those who are picky about paper quality, the Rhodia is a great option with a functional design that allows for you to tear pages out. Available in A4, A5, A6, A7 and 2 x 2.9” sizes.

• Looseleaf Paper & Binders: Many writers found it easiest to lay out the structure of their story within a binder, keeping resources such as maps, important plot points, and any drafts inside.

3. Technology

We’re living in a digital world, so let’s take advantage of it! Technology is integral in getting ahead and saving time, so here are the most frequently mentioned options you can add to your office.

• Tablets: While there was no particular brand that stood above the rest, many writers preferred to use an E Ink, Daylight Computer, or iPad with paperlike screen protectors.

• Software: Almost everyone surveyed said they use Google Docs or Microsoft Word. Despite a good portion recommending tools like Scrivener & ProWritingAid, many said they did not find a good use for them.

• Chromebooks & Laptops: It is very popular to keep drafts on a mobile computer so you can work while you travel. This allows for way more freedom when writing!

• External Hard Drive or Cloud Storage: These are crucial for backing up your writing projects, and without them you may find yourself starting over. Definitely choose one of the two to ensure you don’t lose all your hard work.

4. Organization Supplies & Desk Decorations

Although these aren’t traditionally what comes to mind when picking out stationery, it’s important to remember that there’s more to staying inspired and organized than pens and paper!

• Pen Cups & Pencil Cases: All of your writing tools need to be readily available, especially if you’re planning to be ready when inspiration strikes! While a pencil case can be kept in your backpack or tote bag, pen cups are best for your at-home setup.

• Stackable Desktop Organizers: It can be easy to lose track of notes and other important office supplies so you’ll want a central area to organize them. There are plenty of different designs and choices depending on your aesthetic preferences, so be sure to pick one that matches your style!

• Desk Decorations: Garland lights, light-up writing boards, and other desk accessories can add a certain atmosphere that helps you stay inspired and on task. Anything that adds a pop of color to your space will absolutely be worth it in the long run.

• Calendars & Planners: Staying on track with your drafts and setting deadlines can always be challenging. If you don’t already have a project management software, consider picking up a calendar or planner to keep track of your progress.

• Whiteboard & Corkboard: If you’re a visual thinker, it can be a good idea to lay everything out in one place. Write or pin notes, inspiration, and reminders or use the space to brainstorm.

Don’t forget that this tends to vary based on your living situation–if you're working in a small space, it’s especially important to stay organized and inspired. If you’re looking to optimize your setup, we recommend taking a look at Apartmentguide’s blog post below.

We were named a local expert on ApartmentGuide. Read the full article here: 

Watch Your Words Flow Like Water With These 6 Writing Room Ideas.

ApartmentGuide is a subsidiary of Redfin.com

5. Accessories

Much of what we listed previously is great if you’re at home, but what if you’re on-the-go? There’s something about a coffee shop that adds a certain ambiance and definitely gets me inspired! So if you’re looking for accessories that will help, be sure to check out:

• Tote Bags & Backpacks: When you prefer to work at libraries or during travel, you’re going to want something to transport your office supplies. You may consider picking up a craft tote designed specifically to keep things organized, or a backpack with a padded compartment to protect your digital devices.

• Sticky Notes, Memo Pads, or Index Cards: Perfect for jotting down ideas or quickly capturing fleeting thoughts, you should always have some sort of note-taking paper on hand. All of these options can be used for to-do lists, creating character profiles, or even outlining scenes.

• Correction Tapes: For anyone who prefers to work on paper, correction tapes can be an essential tool, allowing you to clean up any mistakes in your draft.

• Highlighters: If you need to color-code your notes or feel better about a project once it’s been visually organized, you’re much more likely to succeed when you have a highlighter.

• Noise-Canceling Headphones: Minimize distractions and stay focused either at home or while in your local cafe. If you’re someone who needs body doubling to stay on task but prefers to work in silence this is a great option.
  

An Opinion From A Budding Novelist

It can be hard to wrap your head around how these supplies are used, so we reached out to Alex C., a creative who is putting together their own original works. Here’s what he had to say about the information we gathered: 

“I think personal preference is right on the money. Some people are fine with just writing on a computer—I type faster than I write—but, personally, I like having pens and pencils on hand for a more tactile experience. 

The permanence of pens curbs my urge to edit as I go. I love writing with fountain pens too, as they require more concentration to use well, which cuts out distractions. Rollerball pens are also an extremely pleasant experience and worth the extra hassle in my view. 

With as much white noise as there is day to day, it's nice to be grounded by old technology. Writing on paper has a productive feeling to it that digital creation lacks for me.”

Final Notes

Now that you have a jumping off point, we can’t wait for you to get started! We know that sometimes the hardest part can be putting pen to paper, and we’re so thankful that you decided to spend some of your time with us today.

If you are interested in supporting us so we can create more blog posts in the future, please consider taking a look at our store. We are a creative small business focused on bringing the joy of journaling and stationery to the United States.

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