BENU: Where fantasy turns into a fountain pen

What if a fountain pen could make you smile before you even wrote a single word?

That’s exactly the kind of reaction Benu inspires. While many brands pursue understated elegance, this Armenian company has chosen a very different path—one of fantasy, color, and visual boldness. If you think you’ve seen it all in the world of writing instruments, get ready. Benu is here to challenge your expectations.

The origin of Benu: a vision that broke the mold

Benu was founded in 2016 by two seasoned writing instrument designers: Alex Semanin and Kate Dmitrieva. From the very beginning, their goal was clear—to create fountain pens unlike anything else on the market. They weren’t interested in replicating the classics or competing with century-old houses. Instead, they wanted to open up a new category: more playful, artistic, and experimental.

From its first models, it was evident that Benu wasn’t aiming for the conventional. Their approach broke away from the traditional aesthetics of the industry, embracing a philosophy that merges craftsmanship with a bold, colorful, and undeniably original visual identity.

Resin: raw material with a soul of its own

One of Benu’s most fascinating aspects is its use of resin—not just as a technical material, but as an artistic canvas. Unlike other brands that use uniform or understated resins, Benu creates its own resin blocks with rich pigments, pearlescent effects, metallic sparkles, and intense shimmer.

Each pen is unique, not only in color but also in how the layers and optical effects are arranged. Some seem to capture the movement of a galaxy; others, the depth of a precious gem. In Benu’s hands, resin stops being just a medium and becomes a message: writing doesn’t have to be serious to be meaningful.

Design and shape: curves that tell stories

When it comes to design, Benu embraces unconventional forms. While some models follow a classic or torpedo silhouette, others explore shapes reminiscent of faceted crystals or asymmetrical structures. This is no coincidence—the goal is for each pen to be a piece worth contemplating.

Models like Euphoria, Talisman, and Briolette embody this duality of ergonomics and artistry. Writing comfort is guaranteed, but so is visual surprise. Writing with a Benu is not just a tactile experience—it’s also an aesthetic one.

Fountain pens for those seeking something different

Benu users tend not to be traditional collectors. These fountain pens appeal both to newcomers to the world of writing and to those looking for something that breaks away from what they already own. They stand out in any collection—and often spark conversation.

The brand has also been very savvy in creating themed editions inspired by nature, gemstones, constellations, mythical creatures, and folk superstitions. This narrative approach enriches each pen even more: you're not just getting a beautiful object—you’re getting a story to tell.

So, how do they write?

A fair question. Sure, they may look “whimsical,” but the truth is that Benu pens are solidly built. Most of their stainless steel nibs are made by Schmidt or Bock—two German manufacturers known for outstanding quality—ensuring a smooth, reliable, and precise writing experience.

These aren’t pens for ultra-fine or professional calligraphic writing, but they’re perfect for those who value smoothness and consistency in medium, fine, or broad strokes. The ink flow tends to be generous, which perfectly matches the brand’s expressive spirit.

Emotional writing: when your pen reflects your personality

One of the reasons Benu has built such a loyal following is because it taps into writing as an emotional act. These pens invite you to write for pleasure—to keep a journal, play with words, or give a gift that means something.

People rarely choose a Benu out of necessity—they choose it because they want a pen that inspires them. And that’s a powerful thing in a world where most everything is digital, gray, and impersonal.

Is Benu for you?

If you're looking for a discreet pen to use in a corporate setting, Benu may not be for you. But if you want a piece that bursts with color, celebrates creativity, and turns writing into a magical moment—then yes, Benu could be your next favorite.

This brand proves that fountain pens don’t have to be serious to be great. They can be fun, fascinating, and different. And that’s exactly what Benu offers: a universe where resin sparkles, writing stirs emotion, and imagination knows no bounds.