Many everyday carry pens are good at one thing but compromise on another. Some are compact but uncomfortable to write with. Others feel solid but are too bulky for pocket carry. Some look refined but use proprietary refills or awkward mechanisms.
This project began with a simple question:
Could I design a better everyday carry pen that balances portability, comfort, and practicality?
My goal is to create a pen built around the widely used Parker-style G2 refill, combining proven refill compatibility with a more thoughtfully designed exterior.
This project joins my broader collection of engineering projects.
Design Goals
This pen is being developed around several key priorities:
Compact Carry-Friendly Size
The overall proportions are inspired by pens such as the Parker Jotter, which is small enough to carry easily, but large enough to remain comfortable in use.
Comfortable Grip
The planned grip diameter of approximately 10 mm is influenced by the comfortable proportions of the Muji gel pen, while the surface texture draws inspiration from knurled metal products such as the Rotring 600 and the milder patterning found on Victorinox Alox scales.
The goal is to improve control and tactile confidence while remaining comfortable for extended writing sessions.
Reliable Click Mechanism
A retractable click mechanism is planned for quick one-handed operation and everyday practicality.
Semi-Deep Carry Clip
The clip is intended to allow the pen to sit deeper in the pocket than a traditional pen clip, improving security while maintaining quick access.
Material and Finish
The final pen is likely to have a metal construction for durability and weight balance, with finish options still under consideration as the design develops.
Current Progress
At this stage, the refill model has been completed and early material options for the final pen have also been considered, with durability, weight, and finish quality in mind. The next phase will focus on:
- click mechanism layout
- internal packaging
- body dimensions
- grip detailing
- clip geometry
- prototype feasibility
Why This Project Matters
This project is more than just designing a pen. It’s an opportunity to work through the complete product development process from concept definition and CAD modelling through to material selection, prototyping, and outsourced manufacture.
Like my previous hands-on refurbishment work, it also reflects an interest in understanding how products are built, improved, and brought back into practical use.
Rather than remaining a purely digital concept, the intention is to progress towards a physical product produced through a machining supplier. Interest from others in owning finished versions has also reinforced the value of designing something practical, desirable, and suitable for small-batch production.
The project combines engineering problem-solving with user-focused design, where comfort, portability, aesthetics, and manufacturability all need to be balanced.
What Comes Next
Future updates will cover the click mechanism, evolving CAD geometry, and how the design changes as practical constraints emerge.
The goal is not just to make a pen, but to create one that genuinely improves everyday carry and writing experience.
Project Timeline
- April 2026 — Project initiated
- Refill model completed
- Material direction shortlisted
- Click mechanism in development