Midori MD Notebook A5
Midori MD versus Tomoe River — choosing between them
Both Midori MD and Tomoe River are considered premium Japanese fountain pen papers, but they serve different needs. Tomoe River is the ink-performance paper: its extreme thinness and slow absorption maximise shading and sheen visibility, at the cost of significant show-through and slow dry time. Midori MD is the practical daily writing paper: 80gsm cream-toned stock absorbs ink slightly faster, shows shading well but less dramatically, has minimal show-through, and dries faster. The cream tone adds warmth to the page — dark inks look slightly different on cream than on white, which some practitioners prefer and others find inaccurate. The choice is a function of use: if your priority is seeing your inks at their maximum potential and you accept show-through and dry time trade-offs, use Tomoe River. If your priority is a premium daily writing notebook that performs beautifully with fountain pen inks without the trade-offs, use Midori MD. Many practitioners keep both for.
Blank, ruled, or grid — which format
Blank is the most versatile: accommodates writing, sketching, and mixed use without constraint. For a journalling notebook that will contain primarily writing, ruled provides line consistency and allows faster, more comfortable sustained writing. Grid is for systematic, structured use — planning, layouts, grids, and any application where the grid reference is actively useful rather than just a constraint. If in doubt, start with blank.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between blank, ruled, and grid?
Does the cream tone affect how inks look?
Should I choose Midori MD or Tomoe River?
Shipping
Packaging:
We know art supplies are fragile. All professional pair and boards are shipped in reinforced rigid flat mailers. No tubes, no folds, no crushed corners.
Order Processing Times:
Orders are processed within 1–2 business days - we always aim to dispatch all “in-Stock’ items within 24 hours..
Note: Orders placed after 2 PM GMT on Fridays will be processed the following Monday.
Domestic Shipping (UK):
Standard (2–4 days): £3.50 (Free for The Illustrator & Studio Master tiers).
Priority (1–2 days): £4.50 (Free for Studio Master tier)
International Shipping:
We ship globally. Costs are calculated at checkout based on weight and destination. Please note that customers are responsible for any local customs duties or taxes.
Order Tracking:
You will receive a tracking link via email the moment your tools leave our studio.
Returns
30-Day Change of Mind:
We offer a 30-day return window (exceeding the UK legal minimum of 14 days). Items must be unused, in original packaging, and in "as-new" condition.
Faulty Goods:
In the rare event of a defect, you are entitled to a full refund or replacement within 30 days. We will cover all return shipping costs for faulty items.
Defective Nibs:
Occasionally, a pen may arrive dry or a nib maybe scratchy. Contact us within 7 days of purchase with a photo/video of the issue and we will send a replacement immediately.
Exclusions:
Due to the nature of the product, unless faulty we cannot accept returns on opened markers or used paper pads returned.
Digital Goods:
The "Birthday Palette" and other digital downloads are non-refundable once accessed.
How to Start a Return:
Email studio@inkwellartsupplies.com with your order number. We aim to process all refunds to the original payment method within 5–10 business days of receiving the item
The Nib Safety Net
"Gravity Happens. We’ve Got You Covered."
We know the heartbreak of a fountain pen hitting the floor. As a member of our Creative Rewards, you don't have to worry about the 'tines.' If the worst happens, just send us a photo and we'll send you a 50% discount for a fresh start.
"The Nib Safety Net" – Terms & Conditions
- Eligibility: This benefit is exclusive to active members of the Creative Rewards program at the time of the accident.
- Coverage: The 50% discount applies strictly to accidental damage (e.g., dropping the pen) that renders the nib unusable. It does not cover intentional damage, loss of the pen, theft, or normal wear and tear.
- The Claim: To activate your discount, you must provide a clear photo of the damaged nib and your original order number to oops@yourstore.com.
- Limitations: This discount is valid for a one-time replacement per pen purchased and applies only to the cost of the replacement nib unit. It cannot be combined with other promotional codes or used for full pen replacements.
- Availability: We will provide the discount for the exact nib model where stock is available. If the model is discontinued, we will offer a 50% discount on a comparable alternative nib unit.