Okay, let’s talk about writing. Sounds simple, right? Grab a pen, grab some paper, and boom—words magically appear. But for those of us on the autism spectrum, choosing the right writing tools can be an adventure in and of itself. It’s not just about what looks cool or what works for your average Joe—it’s about the deep, philosophical relationship we have with our writing instruments and paper types.
So, buckle up, grab your favorite pen (you know, the one you’ll never let anyone borrow), and let’s dive into why some autistics prefer certain pens and paper types like they’re selecting a weapon for a battle royale.
1. The Ballpoint Pen—The Reliable Old Friend
Let’s start with the ballpoint pen. Ah yes, the dependable, slightly clicky, smooth-writing hero. But it’s not just any pen. It’s the pen that offers control and consistency, like a security blanket with a fine tip. For some autistics, this pen feels like the best friend you never have to explain things to. It just works. There’s no skipping, no smudging, and it doesn’t feel like you’re writing on a greased slip-and-slide like some other pens (fountain pen, I’m looking at you). It’s a go-to when you need to put some serious thoughts down without any unpredictable drama.
Hashtag it: #SmoothOperator #BallpointForLife #PencilWho?
2. The Fountain Pen—For When You Need to Feel Fancy (and Slightly Pretentious)
Now, the fountain pen. Ah, the elegant tool of luxury. This pen makes you feel like you’ve been transported to a high society dinner where everyone is discussing the finer things in life. The smooth ink flow, the delicate pressure needed—it’s all artistic. But not everyone’s cut out for that kind of high-maintenance relationship. Some of us love it, though, like a drama queen loves their spotlight. For some autistics, it’s all about feeling that glide across the page, like you’re the Shakespeare of your time, except with fewer sonnets and more grocery lists. Plus, no eraser? It’s all or nothing. Fountain pen life is the ultimate statement: “I have my life together… except when I forget to refill the ink.”
Hashtag it: #FountainPenVibes #FeelingFancy #InkFlowGoals
3. The Pencil—For When You Need to Erase the Mistakes (or Your Entire Existence)
Then, there’s the trusty pencil. For those who like to erase things, we get you. Sometimes you just need a do-over. Pencils are all about control. You can adjust the pressure and—when things get tough—you can erase it all. But let’s not forget the sound. That distinctive scratching sound of pencil on paper can either be therapeutic or send you into a full-on meltdown. But if you can manage the sound (and the fact that you’ll need to sharpen it every 10 minutes), pencils are your ticket to writing nirvana.
Hashtag it: #PencilPower #EraseTheMistakes #SharpAndReady
4. Paper: The Unsung Hero (or Villain) of the Writing Process
Now, let’s talk about paper. Oh, paper. You thought pens were complicated? Just wait until you encounter the land of paper types. Some of us are loyal to photocopier paper. It’s simple. It’s reliable. It doesn’t ask for much, and that’s how we like it. It’s thin, it’s smooth, and it’ll take whatever ballpoint abuse you throw at it.
But then, there’s cartridge paper, which is thicker, smoother, and just all-around fancier. It’s like the difference between a budget restaurant and a high-end café—same meal, but the vibe is totally different. Some autistics need that heavier texture to feel grounded. If photocopier paper is the friend you text when you’re bored, cartridge paper is the one you bring to dinner parties.
And don’t even get me started on linen paper. Oh, you thought you were fancy with cartridge paper? Linen paper is for those days when you want to feel like you’re writing a formal letter to royalty—or maybe it’s just for when you want to feel like a boss while making your grocery list. It’s textured, it’s unique, and it’s not afraid to show it.
Hashtag it: #PaperGoals #PhotocopierPaperForever #LinenPaperIsLife
5. The Emotional Rollercoaster of Finding the Right Combo
The relationship with writing tools and paper isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a sensory experience. Some autistics might love the way their pen feels in their hand or the texture of the paper beneath their fingers. For others, it might be the absolute worst. Writing tools can be a source of comfort, focus, or anxiety, depending on how they interact with those sensory quirks. It’s like trying to find the perfect pair of shoes—except, instead of shoes, it’s pens, pencils, and paper, and you can’t even return them.
So next time you see someone with a very specific writing tool and paper preference, just know they’re not just being picky—they’re embracing their sensory needs in a world that doesn’t always understand the importance of smooth writing and perfect paper.
Hashtag it: #ThePaperIsALie #SensoryOverload #AutismWritingTools