Scriptus draws folks who like the chance to slow down

Who would’ve thought in this digital age, so many people would be interested in handwriting?

For the fourth year, Scriptus, a trade show featuring pens, stationery, calligraphy, and inks in all colours, has grown at the Toronto Reference Library.

Four years ago the event had 35 vendors. On Oct. 29 this year, nearly 100 vendors took over the library floor to show nearly 100,000 pens and other accessories to the crowds in attendance.

And it’s not just the old-timers enjoying nostalgia for former writing implements. About 40 per cent of attendees self-identified as being in their 20s and 30s, according to Scriptus organizers.

“They’re attracted by the element of having to slow down to write,” said one organizer. “It’s something they lack in the modern fast-paced world.”