Pages of History: The Best Stationery from Ancient Mills

After a beautiful ink, the most important accoutrement for afficianado's of fountain pens and the practice of writing by hand is, of course, the very best paper. Since the 15th century, the Amatruda family of the Amalfi region of Italy have been making paper in their mill, charmingly built over the Canneto River. Their 100g paper, with its characteristic decalled edges and rustic, pressed texture is evidence of a family practicing an ancient tradition over multiple generations.

This artisanal paper is ideal for letters or note cards, and A5 Amatruda stationery and envelope sets are conveniently available from Montblanc. In Vancouver, those who are interested in this fine stationery can consult the Montblanc boutique for availability.

Having their paper crafted at the Papierfabriek Schut in the Netherlands, which has been making paper for the past 400 years, Paris-based G. Lalo has provided stationery to the royal houses of Europe. Georges Lalo began his trade in Paris in 1920, and his fine quality products fast became esteemed classics, valued and used in the courts of continental royal families.

G. Lalo's Vergé de France laid paper has the unique texture of press-made paper, with almost embossed lines running horizontally across the page, and compressed, water-mark like lines running vertically. This exquisite stationery makes for impressive, handwritten letters, or the very best personal note paper, and is available in downtown Vancouver at Charals.

Montblanc Vancouver
1055 Alberni Street
Phone: (604) 235-1770

Charals
171 Robson Street
Phone: (604) 689-3497