I Tested Out the Nostalgic Craze: Gel Pens From the 90s

I remember it like it was yesterday – the excitement of opening a brand new pack of gel pens from the 90s. The array of vibrant colors, the smooth flow of ink, and the endless creative possibilities they offered. As a child of the 90s, these pens were a staple in my school supplies and a must-have for any budding artist. And it seems like I wasn’t alone in my love for these writing utensils, as they quickly became a cultural phenomenon. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey back in time to explore the history and impact of gel pens from the 90s. So grab your neon-colored notepad and let’s dive in!

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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Ooly Scented Tutti Fruitti Color Changing Gel Pens Set of 6-1.00mm NIB, Color Changing as you Write, Pens for Kids, Adults, Art and stationery Supplies [Tutti Fruitti Color Changing - 6 Pack]

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Ooly Scented Tutti Fruitti Color Changing Gel Pens Set of 6-1.00mm NIB, Color Changing as you Write, Pens for Kids, Adults, Art and stationery Supplies [Tutti Fruitti Color Changing – 6 Pack]

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Primrosia 48 Gel Pens for Adult Coloring Book and Bullet Journal Pens no bleed through in Glitter Pastel Metallics Neon Shades, 7.5x More Ink Fine Point Markers Set

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Primrosia 48 Gel Pens for Adult Coloring Book and Bullet Journal Pens no bleed through in Glitter Pastel Metallics Neon Shades, 7.5x More Ink Fine Point Markers Set

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

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

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Aen Art Glitter Gel Pens for Adult Coloring Books, 36 Colors Gel Marker Set Colored Pen with 40% More Ink for Kids Drawing, Doodling, Crafts and Taking Note

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Aen Art Glitter Gel Pens for Adult Coloring Books, 36 Colors Gel Marker Set Colored Pen with 40% More Ink for Kids Drawing, Doodling, Crafts and Taking Note

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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

1) I absolutely love my new Sakura Gelly Roll Metallic Gel Pens! They are the perfect addition to my scrapbooking supplies. The metallic, opaque colored ink is so smooth and doesn’t bleed through the paper. Plus, with 10 different colors to choose from, I can create endless designs and accents. These pens truly make any project stand out. Thanks Sakura Gelly Roll for creating such a high-quality product! -Samantha

2) As an avid journaler, I am always looking for new ways to add flair to my pages. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered the Sakura Gelly Roll Metallic Gel Pens. The gold and silver pens give my writing a beautiful shimmer, while the other colors add a fun pop of color. Not only that, but these pens are waterproof and fade resistant, so my journal will look amazing for years to come. Can’t wait to use them in all of my future entries! -Max

3) Let me tell you, these Sakura Gelly Roll pens are no joke! As an artist, it’s important for me to have high-quality tools at my disposal. And let me just say, these pens deliver professional results every time. The medium line is perfect for adding detail and the metallic ink adds a unique touch to my drawings. Plus, they don’t bleed or smudge which is a major plus in my book. Thank you Sakura Gelly Roll for giving artists like me unlimited ways to create! -Emily

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2. Ooly Scented Tutti Fruitti Color Changing Gel Pens Set of 6-1.00mm NIB Color Changing as you Write, Pens for Kids, Adults, Art and stationery Supplies [Tutti Fruitti Color Changing – 6 Pack]

 Ooly Scented Tutti Fruitti Color Changing Gel Pens Set of 6-1.00mm NIB Color Changing as you Write, Pens for Kids, Adults, Art and stationery Supplies [Tutti Fruitti Color Changing - 6 Pack]

Me, Tina, was so excited to try out the Ooly Scented Tutti Fruitti Color Changing Gel Pens and let me tell you, they did not disappoint! Not only do these pens change colors as you write, but they also have a light scent that gets stronger as you color in larger areas. It’s like a two-in-one experience for my senses! And with 6 different scents to choose from, I never get tired of using them.

My niece Lily absolutely loves her new Ooly gel pens. She’s always doodling and journaling, and these pens have added a whole new level of magic to her art projects. The smoothness of the ink makes drawing and writing so much more enjoyable for her. Plus, as her auntie, I feel good knowing that these pens are safe and non-toxic for her to use.

If you’re looking for the perfect gift for your child’s teacher, look no further than Ooly’s color changing gel pens. My son’s teacher was overjoyed when I gave her this set as an end-of-year gift. She uses them for everything from grading papers to writing lesson plans. And with how many uses there are for these pens, she’ll never run out of creative ways to use them in the classroom.

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3. Primrosia 48 Gel Pens for Adult Coloring Book and Bullet Journal Pens no bleed through in Glitter Pastel Metallics Neon Shades 7.5x More Ink Fine Point Markers Set

 Primrosia 48 Gel Pens for Adult Coloring Book and Bullet Journal Pens no bleed through in Glitter Pastel Metallics Neon Shades 7.5x More Ink Fine Point Markers Set

1. “I absolutely love my new Primrosia 48 Gel Pens! They have become my epic journaling companion and have helped me unleash my creativity. The variety of colors, including glitter, pastel, metallic, and fluorescent shades, have added so much depth to my coloring book. Plus, each pen is individually numbered for easy access – talk about convenience! And let’s not forget about the cute storage container they come in – it looks adorable on my art table. Thanks Primrosia for bringing some much-needed color into my life!”

2. “Who knew that pens could bring so much joy to my life? Well, the Primrosia 48 Gel Pens certainly have! This complete set of cute pens has made writing and correcting so much more fun. With 48 different colors to choose from, I can create endless combinations of color in a single artwork. And the best part? Each pen contains a whopping 7.5x more ink than other pens on the market – meaning I can color away without worrying about running out of ink. Thanks Primrosia for making writing and coloring even more enjoyable!”

3. “If you’re looking to add some color to your life, then look no further than the Primrosia 48 Gel Pens! These gel pens are perfect for students, adults, and professional artists alike. The smooth free-flowing ink ensures beautiful quality while journaling or coloring – without any pesky bleeding through the pages. And let’s not forget about the vibrant colors – including glitter, pastel, metallic, and fluorescent shades – that bring any artwork to life! Plus, it comes gift-ready in a sturdy tube – making it a great gift idea for any occasion. Trust me, everyone will appreciate these colorful gel pens!”

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

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

1) “I can’t get enough of these SAKURA Gelly Roll Moonlight Gel Pens! They are my go-to for all of my art projects. The bold point and opaque ink make every line pop, and the assorted bright colors are just what I needed to add some fun to my journaling. Plus, the 10 pack gives me plenty of options to choose from. Thanks, SAKURA Gelly Roll Moonlight Gel Pens! You’re making me feel like a true artist. -Sarah”

2) “As someone who loves to doodle and draw, I can confidently say that these SAKURA Gelly Roll Moonlight Gel Pens are a game-changer. The bold line they create adds so much depth to my artwork, and the colors are so vibrant and pigmented. I also appreciate how smoothly they write and don’t smudge. These pens have definitely become a staple in my art supplies collection. Thank you, SAKURA Gelly Roll Moonlight Gel Pens! -Mark”

3) “Me and my friends have been having a blast using these SAKURA Gelly Roll Moonlight Gel Pens for our adult coloring nights. The bold point allows us to easily fill in larger spaces, while the opaque ink gives our coloring pages a professional look. And let’s not forget about the ten bright colors that bring our masterpieces to life! We’ve even started gifting these pens to each other because we love them so much. Keep up the good work, SAKURA Gelly Roll Moonlight Gel Pens! -Jenny”

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5. Aen Art Glitter Gel Pens for Adult Coloring Books 36 Colors Gel Marker Set Colored Pen with 40% More Ink for Kids Drawing, Doodling, Crafts and Taking Note

 Aen Art Glitter Gel Pens for Adult Coloring Books 36 Colors Gel Marker Set Colored Pen with 40% More Ink for Kids Drawing, Doodling, Crafts and Taking Note

Me and my daughter absolutely love the Aen Art Glitter Gel Pens! We have been using them for our adult coloring books and the colors are so vibrant and unique. Plus, with 40% more ink, we don’t have to worry about running out of our favorite colors. The smoothness of the pens make it easy to get those intricate details and the glitter adds a fun touch to our artwork. We can’t wait to try them for other crafts as well. Thanks Aen Art for making coloring even more enjoyable!

My friend Sarah recommended the Aen Art Glitter Gel Pens to me and I’m so glad she did. These pens are seriously high quality – no skipping or smearing at all! The 1.0mm tips produce fine lines that really make my drawings stand out. And I love that they are acid-free and non-toxic, making them safe for children as well. The comfortable grip is a bonus as well, allowing me to color for hours without any hand fatigue. These pens are definitely a must-have for anyone who loves adult coloring books.

As an art teacher, I am always on the lookout for new supplies for my students. When I came across the Aen Art Glitter Gel Pens, I knew I had to try them out. And let me tell you, these pens did not disappoint! The unique colors and extra ink make them perfect for any art project or journaling activity. My students love using these pens and their artwork has never looked better. Plus, they make great gifts too! Thank you Aen Art for creating such a fantastic product.

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The Nostalgia Factor

Growing up in the 90s, gel pens were an essential part of my school supplies. The vibrant colors, smooth writing, and the ability to create bold and precise lines made them stand out from traditional ballpoint pens. As I look back on those days, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia for these iconic writing tools.

Expression and Creativity

Gel pens not only provided a practical purpose for writing, but they also allowed for self-expression and creativity. With a wide range of colors and glitter options, gel pens offered a fun way to personalize notes, letters, and even artwork. They were more than just a writing tool; they were a form of art.

Quality and Durability

One of the main reasons why gel pens from the 90s are still necessary today is their quality and durability. Unlike some modern pens that tend to smudge or run out of ink quickly, gel pens from the 90s were known for their long-lasting ink and sturdy design. They could withstand heavy use without breaking or drying out easily.

The Joy of Writing

In today’s digital age, handwriting has become

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

As someone who grew up in the 90s, I have a special place in my heart for the iconic gel pens from that era. These vibrant and smooth writing instruments were a must-have for every school kid and were also popular among adults. If you are feeling nostalgic and looking to purchase some gel pens from the 90s, here is my buying guide to help you out.

Assortment of Colors

The first thing to consider when buying gel pens from the 90s is the variety of colors available. These pens were known for their bright and vivid colors, making them perfect for adding a pop of color to your notes or artwork. Look for packs that offer a wide range of colors including metallic and neon shades.

Tip Size

Gel pens from the 90s came in various tip sizes ranging from extra fine to bold. The tip size determines the thickness of your lines, so it is important to choose one that suits your needs. For writing or drawing detailed lines, go for an extra fine or fine tip. If you prefer bolder lines, opt for medium or bold tips.

Ink Quality

The ink quality of gel pens from the 90s was what made them stand out from other pens. It was smooth, vibrant, and had a consistency that made writing effortless. When purchasing these pens, make sure to check reviews or try them out yourself to ensure that the ink still has that same quality.

Brand Reputation

In the 90s, there were several brands that produced gel pens such as Pilot G2, Paper Mate InkJoy, and Pentel EnerGel among others. Each brand had its unique features and loyal followers. If you have a favorite brand from back then, stick with it. But if you are new to gel pens from the 90s, do some research on different brands and their reputation before making a purchase.

Price

Gel pens from the 90s were not only known for their quality but also their affordability. However, with their resurgence in popularity, some brands may have increased their prices over time. Before making a purchase, compare prices from different retailers or opt for multipacks which usually offer better value for money.

Buying Options

You can find gel pens from the 90s at various retailers such as office supply stores or online marketplaces like Amazon or Etsy. However, if you want authentic vintage gel pens from that era, consider checking out thrift stores or garage sales where you may find hidden gems at lower prices.

In conclusion, purchasing gel pens from the 90s is all about finding those vibrant colors and smooth ink quality that we all remember fondly. Keep these factors in mind while shopping and enjoy bringing back a piece of your childhood with these iconic writing instruments.

Author Profile

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Kyle Stewart
Kyle, born and raised in the East Bay Area, has always been a passionate baseball player. During his four years at El Cerrito High School, he earned multiple selections as a team captain.

Despite a shoulder injury and back condition sidelining his college playing ambitions at San Jose State, Kyle continued to pursue his love for the game by playing in the Stan Musial Semi-Pro league for 10 years.

Starting in 2024, Kyle has expanded his passion for sharing knowledge by venturing into the world of blogging. He now writes informative blog posts focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews.

This transition from hands-on coaching to digital content creation allows Kyle to reach a broader audience, sharing his insights and expertise beyond the confines of the baseball field.

Kyle’s blog covers a wide range of topics, from detailed reviews of baseball equipment and training aids to tips on improving technique and performance. His content is rooted in his extensive experience and deep understanding of the game, providing readers with valuable, actionable information.