In this day and age of digital note taking, texting, and emailing it’s easy to forget about the humble, yet mighty, pen and paper. We all know how special it feels to receive a card with more than just the pre-printed Hallmark-ism inside and studies show writing by hand can benefit your brain. Having something nice to write with is nice! Check out these stores all around town for your next stationery stop.
Paper-Ya
Originally opened in 1986, this Granville Island treasure trove features hundreds of different sheets of creative handmade papers. In addition to single sheets, Paper-Ya carries notebooks, cards, leather goods, stamps, and quirky office supplies that would be a worthy addition to any desk. A must-see during your next Granville excursion.
The Regional Assembly of Text
The Regional Assembly of Text on Main Street carries all the accoutrements from cheeky greeting cards to stationery sets. Designed in-house, their items have a distinctly vintage vibe. They also offer button making, stationery subscriptions, a monthly letter writing club, the use of their typewriters, and a reading room full of hundreds of zines and self-published books (although these three latter offerings are on temporarily on hold).
MUJI
Japanese-owned MUJI’s unbranded pens, notebooks, and desk supplies are perfect for minimalists. With prices starting as low as .43 cents for an unbleached composition notebook, MUJI is a great choice for students who want affordable yet functional supplies. The store also supports sustainability through afforestation efforts, simple packaging, and streamlined manufacturing processes. Both you and your wallet can feel good about shopping here.
Porchlight Press
East Vancouver’s Porchlight Press products are all made using a letterpress, a centuries-old relief printing technique. Porchlight hosts workshops and can handcraft any paper product you imagine. According to their Instagram, they even made themed coasters for an episode of Riverdale. Now that’s a claim to fame! Their online shop and charming East Van storefront sells pun-packed cards and Vancouver-inspired paper goods.
Vancouver Pen Shop
We’ll keep this short and sweet, unlike the letter you could write with one of the amazing pens from Vancouver Pen Shop. After all, with all that paper you’re going to need something to scrawl with! Whether you’re a pen connoisseur or new to the hobby, stop by this Gastown store front for fountain pens, ink refills of all hues, ballpoint pens, and more fun pen related accessories.
Buchan’s Stationery & Gift
More of a traditional store than the rest on this list, Buchan’s carries all the best brands for planning and penning like Moleskine, Leuchtturm1917, Pilot, and FILOFAX. Located in Kerrisdale’s shopping district, Buchan’s is a good stop for anyone seeking tried-and-true stationery.
