Important Spring 2025 Announcement

Dear Customers and Friends,

Over the past two years, Inkpen has experienced significant changes, driven by a welcome rise in customer service demands. We are immensely grateful for your trust and continued support. However, meeting these growing needs has been a challenge, especially as health issues have occasionally held us back from maintaining the level of precision and care we strive for in our repairs. This has led to an increase in returns due to overlooked details—something we deeply regret and aim to address.

Sherrell, who oversees Inkpen East, has been able to attend only a few shows over the past three years. My own attendance has been more frequent, but the physical toll each show takes on me has been substantial. Recovery often requires a month or more, leaving little room for other essential tasks, including repairs. As both body and mind must align for quality workmanship, this has affected my ability to deliver the standard of service I hold myself to. Too much has been forgotten, too much left undone.

On a personal note, I have faced several losses over the past few years, including two “brothers” who were pillars in my life. Their absence has been profound, and recent events—a friend’s passing and others undergoing serious surgeries—have only underscored the fragility of life. Adding to this, my beloved wife of nearly 60 years began dialysis treatment in May 2024. Family comes first, and I am committed to addressing her needs above all else.

Our culture’s shift toward less kindness and connection has also weighed heavily on me. While I hesitated to share this, I feel it’s important to be honest about the emotional and mental challenges I’m facing. To honor the friends and principles I hold dear, I remain committed to acting with integrity and compassion.

With these realities in mind, I must reduce the number of repairs I accept. Sherrell is in a slightly better position, but may have to follow me and take on more repairs, but I need to focus on catching up on my current commitments, which exceed 120 pending repairs. Until I’ve reduced this backlog to under ten pens, I will carefully evaluate each new request based on realistic criteria. My goal is to manage one repair per day, ensuring each pen receives the attention it deserves.

Thank you for your understanding, patience, and continued support during this challenging time. I remain dedicated to serving you with the best of my ability.

- Joel Hamilton