Josh is a longtime fountain pen user and collector. Since high school, he has been drawn to their unique writing character and enduring nature. As he became more immersed in the hobby, several factors eventually led him to become a professional nib worker.

Many fountain pen users gravitate toward niches like vintage pens, inks, paper, or maker pens. Josh became especially interested in nibs and nib grinds as a consumer. He loved the expression and personalization a nib grind could offer, and found it remarkable how even simple tuning could turn a disappointing nib into a favorite. Over time, he enjoyed getting pens customized by nib workers, but also wanted to develop basic tuning skills of his own.

Around the same time, Josh was looking for ways to contribute more actively to the fountain pen community beyond simply consuming products. He wrote a blog, started a pen club, and worked at a fountain pen store. As he continued practicing nib tuning, he realized the nib work business model suited his sensibilities. Working at the pen store also allowed him to meet many nib workers, whose encouragement and advice inspired him to seriously pursue the craft.

He taught himself for a while, gathering every bit of information he could find online and studying the work of nib workers who inspired him. Eventually, he reached a skill plateau and decided to learn from more experienced professionals. Fortunately, he had the opportunity to briefly study under three outstanding nib workers: Ralph Reyes, Anabelle Hiller, and CY. Their instruction, along with the support of his local pen shop, helped him push past that plateau. He wouldn’t be here without them.

Today, Josh is pleased to offer nib grinds and other services to the fountain pen community, and looks forward to working on your pens.