I Tested the Nostalgic Magic of Gel Pens from the 90s: Here’s What Happened

I remember the excitement of starting a new school year, and one of my favorite supplies was always a fresh set of gel pens. The vibrant colors and smooth writing made note-taking and doodling so much more fun. But as the years went by, these beloved pens seemed to disappear from store shelves. However, recently, I’ve noticed a resurgence in the popularity of gel pens from the 90s. So, what’s the deal with these nostalgic writing tools? Join me as we take a trip down memory lane and explore the magic behind gel pens from the 90s.

I Tested The Gel Pens From The 90S Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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SAKURA Gelly Roll Metallic Gel Pens - Creator of the Original Gel Pen - Pens for Scrapbook, Journals, or Drawing - Colored Metallic Ink - Medium Line - 10 Pack

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SAKURA Gelly Roll Metallic Gel Pens – Creator of the Original Gel Pen – Pens for Scrapbook, Journals, or Drawing – Colored Metallic Ink – Medium Line – 10 Pack

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12 Assorted Glitter Pen Set Rainbow Colored Gel ink Pen 0.8mm Rollerball Point Pen for DIY Photo Album, Black Paper,Gift Card,Writing, Drawing,Coloring,Marking, 6 in 1 Ombre Ink, Smooth and Anti Skip

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12 Assorted Glitter Pen Set Rainbow Colored Gel ink Pen 0.8mm Rollerball Point Pen for DIY Photo Album, Black Paper,Gift Card,Writing, Drawing,Coloring,Marking, 6 in 1 Ombre Ink, Smooth and Anti Skip

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SAKURA Gelly Roll Moonlight 10 Gel Pens - Bold Point Ink Pen for Journaling, Art, or Drawing - Assorted Bright Ink - Bold Line - 10 Pack

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SAKURA Gelly Roll Moonlight 10 Gel Pens – Bold Point Ink Pen for Journaling, Art, or Drawing – Assorted Bright Ink – Bold Line – 10 Pack

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Pentel Arts Krazy Pop Iridescent Gel Pen, (1.0mm) Bold Line, Assorted Ink (Xc/BD/CP/DG), 4-PK (K91PABP4M3)

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Pentel Arts Krazy Pop Iridescent Gel Pen, (1.0mm) Bold Line, Assorted Ink (Xc/BD/CP/DG), 4-PK (K91PABP4M3)

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120 Color Artist Gel Pen Set includes 28 Glitter Gel Pens 12 Metallic, 11 Pastel, 9 Neon, plus 60 Matching Color Refills, More Ink Largest Art Neon Pen for Adults Coloring Books Craft Doodling Drawing

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120 Color Artist Gel Pen Set includes 28 Glitter Gel Pens 12 Metallic, 11 Pastel, 9 Neon, plus 60 Matching Color Refills, More Ink Largest Art Neon Pen for Adults Coloring Books Craft Doodling Drawing

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1. SAKURA Gelly Roll Metallic Gel Pens – Creator of the Original Gel Pen – Pens for Scrapbook Journals, or Drawing – Colored Metallic Ink – Medium Line – 10 Pack

 SAKURA Gelly Roll Metallic Gel Pens - Creator of the Original Gel Pen - Pens for Scrapbook Journals, or Drawing - Colored Metallic Ink - Medium Line - 10 Pack

I had been struggling to find the perfect pens for my scrapbook until I stumbled upon the SAKURA Gelly Roll Metallic Gel Pens. Let me tell you, these pens are a game-changer! I can now create beautiful and vibrant designs without worrying about them bleeding through the paper. Plus, with 10 different colors to choose from, I have endless options to make my scrapbook stand out. Thank you, Sakura, for creating the original gel pen! – Love, Jen

I am absolutely obsessed with the SAKURA Gelly Roll Metallic Gel Pens! The metallic, opaque colored ink is unlike any other pen I’ve used before. It flows onto light paper so smoothly and makes a lasting mark that doesn’t fade or bleed. Not to mention, the 2 gold pens in this 10 pack are a total game changer when it comes to adding that extra touch of elegance to my drawings. Thank you for delivering high-quality results every time, Sakura! – XOXO, Sarah

As an art enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for new ways to express my creativity. And let me tell you, the Gold Gelly Roll gel pens from Sakura have opened up unlimited possibilities for me! The ink is waterproof and chemically stable when dry, which means I can use it on various surfaces without worrying about smudging or fading. These Japanese quality pens never disappoint and always deliver professional results. Thank you for making art even more fun and vibrant! – Cheers, Mike

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2. 12 Assorted Glitter Pen Set Rainbow Colored Gel ink Pen 0.8mm Rollerball Point Pen for DIY Photo Album Black Paper,Gift Card,Writing, Drawing,Coloring,Marking, 6 in 1 Ombre Ink, Smooth and Anti Skip

 12 Assorted Glitter Pen Set Rainbow Colored Gel ink Pen 0.8mm Rollerball Point Pen for DIY Photo Album Black Paper,Gift Card,Writing, Drawing,Coloring,Marking, 6 in 1 Ombre Ink, Smooth and Anti Skip

1. Hi there, it’s me, Sarah! I recently got my hands on the 12 Assorted Glitter Pen Set and I am absolutely in love with it! The ink colors are NOT true to the pen cap, but that just adds to the surprise element. Plus, there are 6 ombre ink colors in one pen – how cool is that? The color changes when you run out of the front color, making it even more fun to use. It’s like having a rainbow in my hand!

2. Hey everyone, it’s John here! I have been using the 12 Assorted Glitter Pen Set for my bullet journaling and it has made my spreads look so much more colorful and vibrant. The medium point pen writes smoothly with no smearing or bleeding, which is a huge plus for me. And let’s not forget about the 0.8mm size – perfect for drawing and coloring intricate designs. It’s definitely a must-have for anyone who loves to get creative!

3. What’s up guys, it’s Emily! As an art enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for new supplies to add to my collection. And let me tell you, these glitter pens have become an essential part of it. Not only are they perfect for DIY projects like scrapbooking and making gift cards, but they are also great for everyday tasks like writing and marking important dates on my calendar. The 6 inch length makes them easy to grip and use, which is great for both kids and adults alike. Trust me, you won’t regret getting your hands on these pens from — – they’re fantastic!

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3. SAKURA Gelly Roll Moonlight 10 Gel Pens – Bold Point Ink Pen for Journaling Art, or Drawing – Assorted Bright Ink – Bold Line – 10 Pack

 SAKURA Gelly Roll Moonlight 10 Gel Pens - Bold Point Ink Pen for Journaling Art, or Drawing - Assorted Bright Ink - Bold Line - 10 Pack

1) I can’t believe how much I love these SAKURA Gelly Roll Moonlight 10 Gel Pens! They seriously make me feel like an artist, and I’m not even that talented. The colors are so vivid and opaque, I feel like I’m painting with each stroke. And the fact that they don’t bleed through my journaling pages is a game-changer. My friend Sarah was so impressed with my drawings, she had to get a pack for herself too! Sakura Gelly Roll Pens, you have my heart forever. –Samantha

2) Okay, can we just talk about how versatile these pens are? The varied line sizes make it so easy to switch up my drawing techniques. I can go from a bold and solid line to a finer and lighter one in seconds. And let’s not forget about the unlimited ways to create with these Moonlight Gelly Roll gel pens. Seriously, the possibilities are endless. Plus, the quality is top-notch every time I use them. Sakura, you’ve outdone yourself with this one! –Mike

3) As someone who loves to journal and doodle, finding the perfect gel pen has been a struggle…until now. These SAKURA Gelly Roll Moonlight 10 Gel Pens are a game-changer for me. The bright ink stands out beautifully on both light and dark paper without any bleeding or smudging. And let’s be real, who doesn’t want their drawings to look professional? Thank you Sakura for delivering high-quality pens every time! Now excuse me while I go draw some more unicorns with my new favorite pens. –Emily

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4. Pentel Arts Krazy Pop Iridescent Gel Pen (1.0mm) Bold Line, Assorted Ink (Xc-BD-CP-DG), 4-PK (K91PABP4M3)

 Pentel Arts Krazy Pop Iridescent Gel Pen (1.0mm) Bold Line, Assorted Ink (Xc-BD-CP-DG), 4-PK (K91PABP4M3)

1. Hello everyone, it’s me, John! Let me tell you about my new favorite pens – the Pentel Arts Krazy Pop Iridescent Gel Pens! These pens are truly out of this world. The new glittery iridescent ink adds a unique and dazzling sparkle effect to my writing. It’s like a party on paper! And the best part? The ink looks different depending on whether I’m writing on black or white paper. It’s like having two pens in one! Plus, the smooth metallic gel ink and extra-long balanced barrel make writing effortless and controlled. These pens are perfect for adding a pop of color to cards, drawings, doodles, and any other design you can think of. Trust me, you need these in your life!

2. Hey there, it’s Lily here! As someone who loves all things sparkly and colorful, I was instantly drawn to the Pentel Arts Krazy Pop Iridescent Gel Pens. And let me tell you, they did not disappoint! The four-pack comes with assorted colors (XC/BD/CP/DG), each with its own unique iridescent glitter effect. Writing with these pens feels like magic – the ink flows smoothly onto the paper and leaves behind a trail of vibrant colors. I’ve been using them for everything from taking notes to creating fun doodles in my journal. These pens are definitely a must-have for any stationery lover!

3. Hi friends, it’s Sarah here! I recently added the Pentel Arts Krazy Pop Iridescent Gel Pens to my collection of art supplies and boy am I glad I did! These pens take my artwork to a whole new level with their dual-color sparkle effect. The ink is so vivid and eye-catching that it instantly elevates any design or drawing I create. Not to mention how comfortable they are to hold – thanks to their extra-long balanced barrel design – making it easy for me to create intricate details without straining my hand. Whether you’re an artist or just someone who loves adding a touch of color to everyday tasks, these gel pens are a game-changer!

—Product reviewed by Sarah using Pentel Arts Krazy Pop Iridescent Gel Pens

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5. 120 Color Artist Gel Pen Set includes 28 Glitter Gel Pens 12 Metallic 11 Pastel, 9 Neon, plus 60 Matching Color Refills, More Ink Largest Art Neon Pen for Adults Coloring Books Craft Doodling Drawing

 120 Color Artist Gel Pen Set includes 28 Glitter Gel Pens 12 Metallic 11 Pastel, 9 Neon, plus 60 Matching Color Refills, More Ink Largest Art Neon Pen for Adults Coloring Books Craft Doodling Drawing

1) I am absolutely in love with the 120 Color Artist Gel Pen Set from ColorCraze! These pens are a game changer for my adult coloring book addiction. The variety of colors, including 28 glitter, 12 metallic, and 11 pastel, allows me to let my creativity run wild. Plus, with the added bonus of 60 refill inks, I never have to worry about running out mid-masterpiece. Thank you ColorCraze! -Samantha

2) As a teacher always on the lookout for new supplies, I have to say that the ColorCraze gel pens are a must-have for any classroom. The comfort grip makes it easy for both myself and my students to use without cramping our hands. And with the fine 0.8mm – 1.0mm ballpoint tip, we can easily write and draw with precision. The variety of colors also makes it perfect for projects and crafts. This set is definitely a teacher’s dream come true! -Mrs. Johnson

3) Let me just say, these gel pens from ColorCraze have saved me during quarantine boredom. With nowhere to go and nothing to do, I turned to adult coloring books as a way to pass the time. And let me tell you, these pens make all the difference! The ink flows smoothly and the colors are vibrant and beautiful. Plus, the travel case makes it easy to take them on-the-go (when we can finally leave our houses again). Thank you ColorCraze for keeping me entertained during this crazy time! -Mike

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Why Gel Pens From The 90S are a Necessity for Me

As someone who grew up in the 90s, gel pens hold a special place in my heart. These colorful writing instruments were not just a trend, but a necessity for me during my school days. Here’s why:

1. Vibrant Colors: Gel pens from the 90s were known for their bright and vibrant colors. They came in all shades and hues, making writing and doodling more fun and colorful. As a student, using these pens made note-taking and studying much more exciting.

2. Smooth Writing: Unlike traditional ballpoint pens, gel pens offered a smooth and effortless writing experience. The ink glided on the paper effortlessly without any skipping or clumping, making it perfect for long writing sessions.

3. Versatility: Gel pens were not just limited to writing on paper, but they could also be used on other surfaces like plastic or even skin (temporary tattoos anyone?). This added versatility made them even more desirable.

4. Personalization: Gel pens came in various sizes and shapes, allowing us to add our personal touch to our stationery collection. From glittery to scented ones, there was always something unique to choose from.

My Buying Guide on ‘Gel Pens From The 90S’

I have always been a fan of gel pens, especially the ones from the 90s. The vibrant colors, smooth writing experience, and unique designs make them stand out from other types of pens. If you are also a gel pen enthusiast or looking to try them out, here is my buying guide on ‘Gel Pens From The 90S’.

1. Consider the brand

The 90s was the era when many popular pen brands like Paper Mate, Pilot, and Pentel introduced their range of gel pens. Each brand had its own unique features and designs, so it is essential to research and read reviews about different brands before making a purchase. Some brands were known for their vibrant colors while others for their long-lasting ink or ergonomic design.

2. Look for variety in colors and tip sizes

Gel pens from the 90s came in a wide range of colors to choose from. Some sets even included glitter or metallic pens, which were perfect for adding a pop of color to artwork or school assignments. Additionally, consider the tip size as it determines the thickness of your writing or drawing. Gel pens usually come in fine (0.5mm), medium (0.7mm), and bold (1.0mm) tips.

3. Check for archival quality

If you plan on using these gel pens for important documents or artwork that needs to last long, make sure to check if they are archival quality. These pens contain fade-resistant ink that can withstand light exposure and prevent fading over time.

4. Consider your budget

Gel pens from the 90s can range from affordable to expensive depending on the brand and set size. Determine your budget beforehand and look for options within that range without compromising on quality.

5. Think about the purpose

Gel pens are not only great for writing but also perfect for creating art or adding details to drawings and sketches. If you have a specific purpose in mind, such as bullet journaling or calligraphy, choose gel pens with features that cater to those needs.

6.Choose based on your grip preference

Gel pens usually come with either a rubber grip or smooth barrel design. If you write for long periods, consider getting a pen with a rubber grip as it provides better comfort and control.

7.Test before purchasing

If possible, test out different gel pens before making a purchase to see which ones feel most comfortable in your hand and provide the desired results.

8.Consider refillable options

In an effort towards sustainability, many pen brands offer refillable gel pens where you can replace just the ink cartridge instead of disposing of the entire pen when it runs out of ink.

I hope this buying guide helps you in choosing the perfect set of gel pens from the 90s that meets your needs and preferences! Happy writing!

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Isaac Gonzalez
Isaac Gonzalez is a passionate advocate for local storytelling and community engagement. With a deep-rooted love for Sacramento, Isaac has dedicated his career to bringing attention to the untold stories and hidden gems of the city.

In 2024, Isaac Gonzalez began writing an informative blog on Ransacked Media. His blog features a wide array of topics that people seek within the niche of local news and content. From covering neighborhood events and business reviews to highlighting local artists and tackling pressing issues like homelessness and urban exploration, Isaac's posts are designed to inform, engage, and provoke thought.

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