Why Matte Finishes May Be the Perfect Choice for Your Next Fountain Pen
When it comes to fountain pens, the finish plays a crucial role in both the pen’s aesthetic and tactile experience. While glossy finishes have a timeless appeal, matte finishes offer a unique allure—one that invites a more intimate and sensory connection between the pen and its user. As someone who has crafted pens for years and shared them with enthusiasts worldwide, I’ve noticed a pattern: once people experience the warmth and natural texture of a matte finish, they often prefer it over the glossy options.
In this blog post, I’ll explore the unique qualities of my matte finishes—Velvique and StriaLux—the story behind how these names were created, and why these finishes might just be the better choice for your next pen.
The Story Behind Velvique and StriaLux
The names Velvique and StriaLux are not merely chosen at random; they are crafted to reflect the distinct qualities of the finishes.
- Velvique is a blend of “velvet” and “unique.” The “unique” suffix hints at the distinctive, luxurious feel of this finish. Velvique combines the softness and smoothness of velvet with a touch of exclusivity, offering a finish that feels as gentle as a leaf or a petal. When you hold a Velvique pen, it provides a soothing, velvety sensation that invites you to interact with it. This finish is not just about appearance; it’s about creating a tactile experience that feels both refined and personal.
- StriaLux merges “stria” (referring to grooves or lines) with “lux,” symbolizing the elegant yet rugged texture of this coarser matte finish. Inspired by natural elements such as wood grain and brushed surfaces, StriaLux offers a more pronounced texture that provides both visual and tactile appeal. The lines and grooves in this finish give it a distinctive character, making it both functional and stylish. StriaLux captures the essence of a natural, textured feel while maintaining an understated elegance.
Glossy vs. Matte: A Quick Comparison
Glossy finishes are undeniably striking with their reflective surfaces and polished look. They have a classic charm that many find appealing. However, my experience and feedback from customers suggest that matte finishes offer something different—a warmth, a natural feel, and a tactile interaction that glossy pens simply can’t replicate.
Velvique: The Velvet-Like Matte Finish
Imagine this: you’re sitting at your desk, deeply engrossed in your writing. You pause, letting your thoughts wander, and absentmindedly begin to rub your pen between your fingers. This is where the Velvique finish truly shines. Its texture feels like the soft touch of velvet or the delicate surface of a flower petal. It invites you to interact with it, creating a soothing, almost meditative experience. As I find myself doing this often, it helps me relax and concentrate on my thoughts—almost like a fidget that calms and centers the mind. This tactile interaction is a unique feature of matte finishes and something many people come to cherish.
StriaLux: The Textured Matte Finish
For those who appreciate a more pronounced, natural texture, the StriaLux finish is ideal. This finish mimics the grooves and lines found in natural materials like wood grain or brushed metal, offering a deeper, tactile experience. Each ridge and line tells a story, adding a layer of character and functionality to the pen. The textured feel provides a secure grip, enhancing the writing experience and making StriaLux a perfect choice for those who enjoy a more grounded, sensory connection to their pen.
Experiencing Matte Finishes in Person
One of the challenges in showcasing matte finishes online is that photos can’t capture their true essence. While glossy pens shine brightly in pictures, the subtle textures and tactile satisfaction of matte finishes need to be felt in person. At events like the Dutch Pen Show, I’ve found that people are often captivated by the matte finishes once they get the chance to hold them. In fact, I’ve consistently sold more matte pens than glossy ones at these shows.
A notable example of this preference is a YouTube review by cerealnana, who runs a channel focused on pens and stationery. In her video titled New Pen Day – Wet and Wise Pharos Metallurgy, she reviews one of my pens made from DiamondCast material in a Velvique matte finish. Her review highlights her genuine appreciation for the unique feel and visual appeal of the matte finish. Her enthusiasm resonated with viewers, leading to a significant increase in orders for that same finish. The feedback from these customers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many sharing similar sentiments about the joy of holding and using a matte pen.
Why You Should Consider a Matte Finish
So, why choose a matte finish over glossy? Here are a few reasons:
- A Warm, Natural Feel: Matte finishes, particularly Velvique and StriaLux, offer a tactile warmth that glossy finishes can’t replicate.
- Better Grip and Comfort: The textures of matte finishes provide a secure and comfortable grip, enhancing your writing experience, especially during long sessions.
- A Relaxing Experience: Both finishes encourage tactile interaction, making your pen a calming presence during moments of thought or reflection.
- Distinctive Elegance: Matte finishes have a refined, understated elegance that sets them apart from traditional glossy options.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Judge by Photos Alone
If you’re considering a new fountain pen, I encourage you to explore my matte finishes. While glossy pens have their place, the warmth, texture, and natural feel of a matte finish offer something truly unique. Whether you’re drawn to the velvet-like smoothness of Velvique or the textured richness of StriaLux, these finishes are best appreciated when held and felt in person.
Next time you’re at a pen show or have the chance to try one of these pens, take a moment to experience the difference. As many others have discovered, matte finishes provide a deeper, more connected experience that can enhance both your writing and your relationship with your pen.
Side Note: For customers who have previously ordered pens with the “Velvet” finish, such as the Sake Velvet or Bauhaus Velvet, please note that the term “Velvet” was originally used for the coarse matte finish but has since been replaced with StriaLux to avoid confusion. The updated names are designed to better reflect the characteristics of each finish. If you have any questions or concerns about your order, feel free to reach out—I’m here to help!
email: info@wetandwise.com
