Back to School: Stationery Essentials

Get Ready for the 2023/2024 Academic Year with The Hamilton Pen Company 

It's that time of year again - even if it feels like it comes round quicker and quicker each year - when the scent of freshly sharpened pencils fills the air. That's right, it's back to school season! Whether you're a student or a parent, getting ready for the new school year can be both exciting and overwhelming. But fear not, because we've got you covered with all your stationery essentials that will make you the talk of the classroom.

As the new school year approaches, it's time to stock up on essential stationery items that will help students stay organised and motivated. Whether you're a student yourself or a parent preparing your child for the upcoming academic year, here are some must-have stationery essentials to kick-start a successful school year.

Whether you are shopping for a little one about to start big school for the first time, or perhaps it’s a return to primary or secondary school that looms.  Maybe you’re in need of college supplies, have just secured your place at University or maybe (if you’re like me…) the pure hit of joy that ‘new school year’ supplies brings has become an annual tradition well into your career - whatever your stationery needs, The Hamilton Pen Company is here to help!

From basic pens and pencils through to specialist tools and the little touches of luxury, The Hamilton Pen Company has a huge range of stationery available to support you in your academic endeavours. Whether you are learning how to write or are writing your thesis (and everything in between) there's something for everyone and every subject. Need quality art supplies? we’ve got them, need Maths sets? we’ve got them, fancy a beautiful pen to make the late nights in the library more enjoyable? we’ve got them, need every day stationery that will take your studies from the first day of term all the way through to the end of the year?…look no further!

Here is our round up of some of the most useful and most popular stationery items ready for ‘back to school’ September.

School Starters and Primary School Stationery

There will be enough to think about with new school drop-offs, tiny school uniforms and oversized backpacks...not to mention putting name labels in what feels like a million things! Stationery does not need to be a worry added to that list!

For the littles just starting school for the very first time, there will be very little in the way of required items but you can give your tiny human a head start with the tools below. Make those early school years bright and joyful with a range of colouring crayons, art supplies and fun pens to make learning an adventure. 

Stabilo -  A household name ...and with good reason! You would be hard pressed to find a brand which designs specifically for children quite so well. Stabilo are so much more than highlighter pens (see more on these later!). Their EASY collections are exceptional products which will support your little ones from when they first learn to hold a pencil all the way through to writing their name and, before long, full sentences!

EASYgraph

The Stabilo EASYgraph graphite pencil is part of the EASY Start family of products designed to help new writers get their first words on paper. This ergonomically designed pencil is perfect for those learning to write and schoolchildren.

Available for both left and right handed users and in HB or 2B lead grades. The triangular design and non-slip grip moulds ensure a relaxed hand posture and the break resistant 3.15mm lead allows for building confidence with press pressure. To make things a little easier, there is also a space for a name tag on the barrel - one less thing to think about!

EASYoriginal

This ergonomically designed rollerball pen is perfect for those learning to write and with several colours available, you're sure to find one your child will like and want to use! Unlike other models in the EASY collection, there is only a right-handed option available. There is a brilliant grip zone made with non-slip materials and a relaxed hold prevents pain and fatigue. The comfortable feel also helps create neat and tidy handwriting and with refills available, your child will be able to write, and write, and write with this pen.

EASYergo

The Stabilo EASYergo 1.4mm mechanical pencil is part of the EASY Start family and is a great little bridge tool between pencil and pen. This ergonomically designed mechanical pencil is perfect for those learning to write and is available for both left and right handed users. It is non-slip and allows for a relaxed hand posture and is easy to refill. It comes with 1.4mm HB lead and does not require sharpening.

 EASYbuddy

Start as you mean to go on with the EASYbuddy. A wonderful starter fountain pen suitable for older primary school aged children.

The new EASYbuddy fountain pen from Stabilo is the next progressive writing stage from the EASYoriginal and is aimed at school children between the ages of 8 and 10 who are looking to find the best writing technique.
Developed together with children, teachers and handwriting experts, EASYbuddy comes in a choice of 3 nib styles - Beginner, Medium and Left Handed.
  • Ergonomically designed especially for children's hands.
  • Grip zone made from non-slip material gives a relaxed hold and prevents muscle fatigue.
  • Removable cap with pocket clip.
  • Large viewing window for monitoring ink level.
  • Uses international standard ink cartridges, 1 blue cartridge included.

PenAgain Twist n Write Mechanical Pencil - Set of 4

 

These are a lot of fun! Standard shaped pencils can be hard to grip for kids who are learning to write, especially those with fine motor skill issues or other special needs. The PenAgain Twist 'n' Write's cool ergonomic rocket shape is easy to hold and even easier to use!
Parents and teachers love the PenAgain Twist 'n' Write pencils because it's a simple, innovative educational tool that accelerates how quickly kids learn to write and improves their handwriting skills. Just as importantly, kids are drawn to it because of its playfulness and ease of use.
  • Attractive sparkling finish.
  • Tension-free writing with "no grip" design.
  • Works for both left and right handers.
  • Refillable with 2mm leads.

Sakura Gelly Roll 24 Mix Pack Rollerball Pens

Bring a splash of colour to schoolwork and homework with the Sakura Gelly roll rollerball pen set. In an assortment of the most popular Gelly Roll colours, the pack contains twelve Stardust Gelly Rolls for extremely high glitter effects, six Metallic Gelly Rolls for deep shine, five Moonlight Gelly Rolls with spectacular backlight effect and one Classic white Gelly Roll. Surprisingly beautiful writing, drawing and decorating can be achieved using this set of Gelly Rolls! Perfect for school projects and weekend crafts!

Swordfish Wavez Eraser

 

The Swordfish Wavez Eraser is a fun, ergonomic and aesthetically designed PVC and phthalate free eraser available in a choice of 4 trendy designs. This non-toxic eraser comes with a plastic sleeve to help keep the eraser clean and is suitable for use by young children.

Swordfish Soft Grip Twin Pencil Sharpener

The Swordfish Soft Grip Twin Pencil Sharpener is perfect for school or office.

  • Double hole for standard (8mm) & large (10.5mm) diameter pencils.
  • Soft rubber edging for a comfortable grip.
  • Ergonomic shape suitable for young children.
  • Inset blades so no sharp edges accessible.

Available in a choice of blue, green, red or yellow.

Stationery Essentials This Academic Year

New starters and young learners get their own category in this year's essentials list but whether this is your first 'back-to-school' or your 15th, there are some stationery essentials that every academic setting can benefit from.

As the new academic year begins, it's time to gear up with the essential stationery items that will make your studying experience more organised and enjoyable. Whether you're a student or a professional, having the right tools can make a significant difference in your productivity and creativity. 

Back To School Essentials - Notebooks

Investing in high-quality notebooks is a game-changer when it comes to taking notes and staying organised. Opt for notebooks with durable covers and smooth, thick pages that can handle the rigours of daily use. 

Yop & Tom Dot Grid A5 Journal - Dandelion Sage Green

This lovely journal from Yop & Tom is tastefully embossed with a Moon and Stars emblem in gold foil and contains extra thick 160gsm paper to prevent ghosting and bleeding. 160 numbered pages, 152 with dot grid.

More designs are available

Yop & Tom Goal Planner - Charcoal

A paper planner to plan, organise and achieve your goals, with a simple system inspired by science.

    Step away from the noisy digital world and dive deep into your planning without distractions. It’s time to dream big and live your potential, with a planner that creates the space to design goals that actually matter to you.

    More designs are available

    Rhodia A6 Rhodiarama Webnotebook - Sapphire Blue

    With something of a cult following, the Rhodia A6 Rhodiarama Webnotebook (nicknamed the Webbie!) comes in a range of on-trend colours, has a hardback Italian leatherette cover and features superior quality paper from Clairefontaine that offers minimal feathering and bleed-through when using fountain pens.

    Other designs are available

    Leuchtturm1917 Medium (A5) Hardcover Notebook - Pacific Green

    Pencil included for size illustration purposes

    The 145mm x 210mm medium A5 size notebook from Leuchtturm1917 is as suitable for your writing desk as it is on your travels. These notebooks have a sturdy hardcover, rounded corners, a pocket in the back cover, elastic fastener, bookmark and a thread bound spine. Classic German quality makes this our most popular notebook!

    Explore our full notebook and paper collection 

    Back To School Essentials - Highlighters

    Make studying more engaging and effective with a set of colourful highlighters and markers. These vibrant tools can be used to emphasise important information, create visual aids, and make studying more enjoyable. Colour-coding notes and textbooks will help students retain information better and stay motivated.

    Staedtler Textsurfer Classic Pastel Highlighter Pens - 10 Assorted Colours

    The Staedtler Textsurfer Classic Highlighter is a robust highlighter with a large ink reservoir for extra-long performance.

    Zebra Mildliner Pastel Highlighter Set - Fluorescent

    Zebra’s Mildliner features a unique mild colour that shows up softly on paper and a broad and fine point tip for all hand lettering and marking applications. Whether you are using the Mildliner for your bullet journal, planner, hand lettering or studying for your next exam, it will help you express yourself in a unique way!

    Stabilo Swing Cool Pastel Highlighter Pens - 6 Assorted Colours

    The Stabilo Swing Cool pastel edition is the perfect solution for all those who want to create highlights and play with subtle, soft colours on the move.

    Stabilo Boss Original Pastel Highlighter Pens - 6 Assorted Colours

    Stabilo Boss Original highlighter pen, the original and market-leading highlighter pen, first introduced in 1971! Absolute Classic

    Check out all of our highlighting products

    Back To School Essentials - Organisers and carry cases

    A clutter-free workspace is essential for productivity and focus. Invest in desk organisers such as pencil cases, file trays, and pen holders to keep your study area neat and tidy. Having everything within reach will minimise distractions and help you stay focused on your schoolwork.

    Objectiza Pocketo Small Desk Tidy - Walnut

    Beginning with a touch of luxury. The Objectiza Pocketo Small Walnut Desk Tidy accommodates the different accessories that usually we like to keep accessible on top of the desk, like the writing instruments, paperclips, eraser, sticky notes block, etc.
    The slightly rounded corners of Pocketo, delineated by a black rim, bring a touch of sophistication to this wooden valet tray. The black rim is made of PLA, a bio material obtained from renewable sources, it is 3D printed and finished by hand in order to achieve a matte surface that creates a contrast with the walnut, enhancing its natural colours and highlighting the fine details that make this minimalist object so unique.

    Rhodia Round Pencil Case - Turquoise

    Attractive, colourful pencil case suitable for storing all types of pens and pencils from Rhodia. Features an Italian leatherette exterior with the Rhodia logo embossed, an orange leatherette zip puller and an ivory jersey inner lining.

    Available in a choice of 16 colours.

    Nahvalur Crab Pen Stand - Various Colours

    The Nahvalur Crab Pen Stand is a delightful little addition to your desk! Available in a range of 4 colours designed to complement the colours of the Nahvalur Original Fountain Pens, these pen stands will ensure you never have to search your desk looking for the pen that has become buried under a pile of papers!

    Shop our full range of accessories

    Back To School Essentials - Pens

    Pens are an essential tool for students of all ages. They are not only used for writing, but also for taking notes, completing assignments, and expressing creativity. The right pen can make a significant difference in a student's academic performance and overall learning experience. Although the majority of school work is done on computers and tablets, there is no substitute for pen to paper. It not only provides a kinaesthetic process for studying but is also an essential skill for note taking and working through problems.

    When choosing a pen for school, there are several factors to consider:

    • Smoothness: A smooth pen allows for effortless writing, reducing hand fatigue during long study sessions.
    • Ink quality: The ink should be vibrant, quick-drying, and smudge-free to ensure neat and legible notes.
    • Comfort: A comfortable grip promotes proper hand posture and prevents discomfort during extended writing periods.
    • Durability: Pens that are built to last will withstand the rigours of daily use without breaking or leaking.

    With so many available, we have selected some of our most popular ballpoints, rollerball, mechanical pencils, traditional pencils and fountain pens - explore our full collection to find your perfect companion for this academic year.

    Pilot G-2 Rollerball Pen - 14 Colours

    The Pilot G-2 rollerball pen is favoured worldwide by professionals and the public alike, the smooth gel ink provides a blob-free and vivid writing experience from start to finish.

    The cushioned ergonomic grip and smooth curves of the pocket clip give the pen a simple yet elegant finish that fits in the pocket, pencil case or hand with equal ease, letting you simply write. Barrel colour denotes ink colour.

    Caran d'Ache 844 Fluoline Mechanical Pencil - Orange

    The Caran d'Ache 844 Classicline Mechanical Pencil is the perfect partner for the 849 ballpoint pen. Similar in design with an all-metal hexagonal barrel, the Classicline pencil takes 0.7mm lead and is available in a range of colours.

    Blackwing 602 Palomino Pencil - Firm Graphite (Box of 12)

    The Blackwing 602 pencil - praised in the New Yorker and The Boston Globe, the Blackwing 602 features a firm and smooth graphite core that helps it deliver on its promise of "Half the Pressure, Twice the Speed". The Palomino Blackwing is the firmest pencil in the Blackwing portfolio and comes in a box of 12 pencils.

    LAMY AL-star Fountain Pen - Ocean Blue

    The LAMY AL-star was first introduced in 1996 and was derived from the LAMY safari. Produced with a high-end aluminium surface wrapped around a resilient ABS plastic core, AL-star is light in the hand yet well balanced and with its ergonomic grip section, a comfortable writing experience is ensured.

    The AL-star fountain pen uses LAMY T10 ink cartridges or can be used with bottled ink by purchasing the optional LAMY Z28 converter. The nib is made from polished stainless steel and is available in a range of different sizes. Supplied with one blue LAMY ink cartridge.

    TWSBI ECO Fountain Pen - Black

    The TWSBI ECO is a piston filler type fountain pen that has a nice smooth action, a crystal-clear plastic barrel that reveals the pens inner workings and of course shows the ink level too and is perfect for all types of writing.

    Cross Bailey Light Ballpoint Pen - Amber & Gold

    The Cross Bailey Light ballpoint pen is crafted to the usual Cross exacting standards. The design shares the statement-making appeal and quality performance of the original Cross Bailey metal pen, but it weighs less due to the glossy resin construction.

    Nahvalur Horizon Fountain Pen - Dusk

    Treat Yourself! 

    The Nahvalur Horizon fountain pen draws inspiration from the view of the horizon at different times of the day or under different natural phenomenons. With its curved metal ring, representing the waves of the ocean, and Nahvalur’s signature ink window, representing the sky behind the waves, this collection strives for the perfect balance between modern creativity and cherished classic.

    From Nahvalur's signature transparent ink window, to the piston-filling mechanism, all the way through to its smooth Nahvalur in-house stainless steel nibs in fine, medium, broad, stub, and double broad sizes, the Horizon collection confidently embodies the best of Nahvalur.

    Available in other colours.

    Choosing the right pen is an important decision for students. By considering factors such as smoothness, ink quality, comfort, and durability, students can find a pen that enhances their writing experience and helps them excel academically. These top pens for students are sure to make a positive impact on their back-to-school journey.

    Back To School Essentials - Art Supplies

    As the new school year approaches, it's time to start thinking about all the necessary supplies. While pencils, notebooks, and textbooks are essential, don't forget about the importance of art supplies. Art is not just a specific subject; it's a way for students to express themselves, think creatively, and develop important skills. By providing your child with the right art supplies, you are setting them up for success in and out of the classroom.

    What are the must-have art supplies for back to school?

    1. Coloured Pencils: Whether it's for drawing, shading, or adding vibrant colours to their artwork, coloured pencils are a must-have for any art-loving student.

    Caran D'Ache Swisscolor Coloured Pencils - Water Soluble Set of 40

    Caran D'Ache Swisscolor Colour Pencils are an affordable but excellent quality, water soluble pencil that is ideal for beginners and students as well as accomplished artists.
    Can be used with water to achieve water colour effects and techniques, but are just as comfortable to use as ordinary colouring pencils.
    Swisscolor colour pencils are designed and manufactured in the Geneva workshops of Caran D'Ache, in line with eco-friendly standards and certifications and according to the Swiss Made quality label.

    2. Sketchbook: Encourage your child to keep a sketchbook where they can jot down ideas, doodle, and practise their drawing skills. It's a great way to foster creativity and improve their artistic abilities.

    Ferris Wheel Press The Sketchbook A5 Enveloped in Rattan 

    The Ferris Wheel Press Sketchbook provides a blank canvas made for creatives, illustrators, artists and dreamers! 

    Imbue your most wondrous ideas on 120 pages of high quality, 160 gsm, PH neutral acid-free A5 paper.

    The Sketchbook has an elegant hard cover, features an accordion pocket to keep all your inspirations at hand, and you'll always find your way with a plump 23mm grosgrain ribbon place marker.

    3. Watercolour Paints: Watercolours are a versatile medium that allows students to experiment with different techniques and create beautiful, vibrant artwork.

    Rosa Gallery Watercolour Paints - Classic Set of 28

    ROSA Gallery Watercolour Paints are made of organic gum arabic and premium finely ground organic and inorganic pigments. This set contains 2.5ml pans that are easy to re-order in the metal case and are replaceable along with other colours.

    Most of the colours in the range are mono-pigmented which allow you to create pure shades when mixed.

    The metal case is convenient when working in the open air, travelling or in the studio. It has two palettes of different configurations and a cuvette holder.  Rows of fastening for pans are fixed with a special catch. This method of fastening makes their connection with the base strong and reliable, resistant to water. Also, if necessary, they are easy to detach and use the free space for a brush, liner or pencil.

    4. Erasers and Sharpeners: Mistakes happen, and that's where erasers come in handy. Look for a high-quality eraser that can cleanly remove pencil marks without smudging. Additionally, don't forget to have a reliable pencil sharpener to keep your pencils in tip-top shape for precise drawing.

    Faber-Castell Eraser - UFO Shaped

    Faber-Castell PVC-free eraser in the shape of a UFO suitable for both graphite and colour pencils.

    Makers Cabinet Høvel Pencil Plane - Blackwing Limited Edition

    The Collaboration of Dreams! Makers Cabinet have teamed up with Blackwing to create this Limited Edition Høvel. The Blackwing Høvel allows you to create custom pencil points tailored to your specific needs. It offers the benefits of a traditional woodworking plane right in the palm of your hand.

    Create your custom point by holding the Høvel at both ends with your dominant hand and shaving directly away from yourself until you’ve reached your desired point. You can also sharpen directly into the wooden base. Adjust the angle of the Høvel and the depth of the blade to achieve a variety of different points.

    The Blackwing Høvel is made from anodized aluminium and includes a matching black wooden base and 10 carbon steel replacement blades.

    Back to School Essentials at The Hamilton Pen Company

    By equipping yourself with these back-to-school stationery essentials, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the upcoming academic year. Remember, having the right tools not only enhances your productivity but also sparks creativity and enthusiasm for learning. So, gear up with these must-have stationery items and make this school year your most successful one yet!

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