A unique store with an exceptional owner (Rob Beers) in the heart of Valley Junction's 5th Street. It was such a fun first visit! I'm a techy person, but I love great writing utensils, and I enjoyed exploring Beers' shop because he is the owner and one of the Midwest's last pen makers. He told me of the store's history and showed me some available (and very cool) items. If I hadn't just been getting over pneumonia, I would have bought some items, but I was running out of energy when I arrived at Quill and Nib. Cool calligraphy, fountain pens, notebooks, and writing paper are in the store, but it is the service that cannot be matched locally. I'm coming back. read more

the guy is really kind and amazing to purchase from and he has top quality pens. So good that I'm going to give it to my girlfriend for Christmas. read more

Quill and Nib is a nice little pen shop located on the main street of Valley Junction. The store features a robust selection of Rhodia notebooks, a number of well known brands (Caran d'Ache, Lamy, etc.) and various low to high price points. I enjoyed wandering around and only having to engage the owner when I had a question or comment. The owner also makes custom pens, and as you might expect has deep knowledge of anything pens. Pens might be a dying breed in this digital age, but I hope these functional pieces of art will still be around for a long time. read more

We were in Iowa visiting family and decided to take a stroll through Valley Junction. My wife pointed out the Quill & Nib as we walked past, knowing I love a good pen. She knew what was going to happen. Sure enough I walked out with a fine writing implement after a wonderful chat with the owner and clerk. They were very friendly and welcoming. Today I had a chance to do some writing with it and I am not disappointed in the least. I got a beautiful handmade rollerball with magnetic cap. It slid over the paper like silk, great balance, and was a joy to use. I look forward to visiting the next time I am in Des Moines, or seeing if they can ship to NC. Happy to support one of the few independent pen shops left. read more

Quill and Nib - My new favorite pen - Arts & Crafts Near Me - West Des Moines, Iowa

Owner and pen-turner made a fountain pen for me. Described how I hold my pen, nibs I prefer, etc. and came away with a beautiful pen. Writes perfectly, smooth, balanced in my hand, I love my pen. Beautifully made. I will ask for another next year. My husband bought a notebook recommended by owner in which my husband much enjoys note taking. read more

Simply the finest source for fine pens, ink and paper in the mid-west. Impressive inventory, outstanding product knowledge and amazing service. Carries prestige brands that are not easily available. read more

Call before you go-they were closed at 4:30. Went back the next day. It was a bit confusing and overwhelming at first, not knowing where to start, or what the differences were between pens and inks. I would've liked *some* guidance. The owner makes custom pens, roller ball or fountain. He showed us his studio. It is amazing, what he does. It's really something else. It would've been nice if they could've recommended a less scratchy but same/similar-price-level fountain pen, instead of jumping right to the more expensive, heavy, serious (albeit beautiful) pens. And if they had more stationery it'd be nice too! Lovely place - I could spend a lot of money here. read more

Quill and Nib - Ink - Arts & Crafts Near Me - West Des Moines, Iowa

See all

Recently I became interested I journaling and going back to paper notebooks. Writing with a good pen makes it a lot more satisfying and this is a great shop to get the pen and quality paper to make writing a pleasure. The owner is patient and really knows his stuff which makes buying here a lot more worthwhile. The prices are a bit more than the big box stores but you get something that will last and you will be much happier. This place will always have my business read more

Always great service here. Looking for Calligraphy supplies. Great paper choices. Love shopping here.

Stopped in today for help finding the right writing tool for a project. The owner was attentive and helpful and even let me borrow one to make sure it was right before I bought it. I'm so glad I found a place locally to meet my calligraphy needs. I will certainly be back and recommend it to everyone I can! read more

Handmade pens. Baron Fig notebooks, pens and Filofax. Fountain pens galore. A unique provisioner of fine pens and accessories with a national clientele. Owner Rob Beers is one of the last maker of pens in the Midwest. read more