I wanted to take some time to talk about commissioning pens. We have had quite a few pens commissioned in the last few weeks, and I wanted to get all the information out there to everyone and answer some commonly asked questions.
What I am willing to do
Almost any idea is great! I really enjoy designing different pens. I like mixing materials and colors. I can do all black, or as many colors as we can cram in there. We can add clips, ink windows, make clear parts, etc…
I also have had several customers that have given me artistic license to create something that meets some simple guidelines (colors they like, colors they don’t like, etc…) This is awesome as well. I will tell you that I will go to the shop and just stare at blanks for a while. That’s kind of my process. I will make a pen that is my interpretation of what the customer wants. Sometimes it may be way off, sometimes its better than expected haha. But that’s how the creative process works.
I won’t unfortunately copy another maker’s work. If I am asked to produce a pen from another makers design, that maker wouldn’t appreciate that. So, out of respect to the other makers, if a customer wants a copy of that pen, I will refer them to that pen’s maker.
How it works!
Commissioning a pen is simple, all you have to do is reach out, whether it is on our Instagram page @mythicpens, or through email at info@mythicpens.com. Starting the conversation about what you’re looking for is the best way to begin. I have a few people that have asked me what they should do or what they should want. One of the best parts of commissioning a pen is that you, the customer have an opinion. It is different than just purchasing pen that we list for sale. This is your chance to tell a pen maker exactly what you would like in a pen!!!!!!
Fist I like to know what body style you would like. Whether its from one of our Instagram posts or from the examples on our website. Then I look for inspiration from things like your favorite color families, or what you like about pens in general. After that, I will send pictures or video of what materials I have available that might meet those needs. Once we get the basics down, it’s on to the business side of things.
I charge a $30.00 non-refundable deposit, then the remainder is due when finished pen is approved by you. Payment is handled through PayPal, I send an invoice, so I pay the fees and you shouldn’t have to.
I will inform you how far out I am time wise before you pay your deposit. Like right now, for the moment, I am running about 14 days out. If you’re good with that, we go into production.
Pricing
The base prices of the commissions are the same rate as our production pens. Then I add the options requested. If you, for example, want an Aeschylus model ($185.00) with a 10mm ink window ($20.00) and a contrasting section material ($20.00), the final purchase price would be $225.00. The prices of all of the available options can be found at www.mythicpens.com/pens-1.
What to expect during production
While your pen is being made, I will send you progress pictures and videos. I want you to know how production is going and give you a bit of insight into how your pen is made. I usually do this through Instagram because my internet connection is the worst ever and this just works a little better than email. If something happens (things break sometimes) I will reach out and discuss those issues and we will get them resolved!
When I finish the pen, I will send you a final set of pictures and a video. If you approve of the finished product I will send you the final invoice. Once the invoice is paid I will get the pen ready and ship it out ASAP!
We ink the pen up and write with it to insure that the nib functions correctly and is as smooth as we (not nib grinders) can get it. Then the pen is cleaned, dried and packaged. I will send an email to let you know when it ships. Please understand that there may be traces of water in the pen parts or Noodler’s Midway Blue ink the nib. This is just from the cleaning process.
So, if you’re wanting to commission a pen, let’s get creative and come up with something really cool. This is however, a pen that is a collaborative effort between maker and customer.
Don’t hesitate to reach out, we are alway interested in innovation and creativity.
Brad