I like gadgets, and this applies to art supplies too (like travel paint kits and waterbrushes). After getting my Sketch Wallet, I went looking for an appropriate pen to keep inside. I ended up giving the very small Ohto Minimo 0.5mm pen a try.
Ohto Minimo: A Small Wonder
When it came to a pen to keep in my Sketch Wallet, I wanted a pen small enough to fit, and still be usable. This wouldn’t necessarily be an everyday use pen, more of a “back up” pen. The Ohto Minimo’s size caught my eye right away. It’s only about as long as a credit card.
Speaking of credit cards, the Ohto Minimo comes with a credit card sized holder. You slide the pen into the sleeve on the card, and then tuck the card into your wallet. Neat! I do like a good concept.
Quick Video Review: Ohto Minimo 0.5 mm
Watch the video on my YouTube channel if the embed doesn’t work. (Make sure to subscribe!)
Read my full, detailed review below.
Ohto Minimo: Writing with a Toothpick
The header says it all, really. While I liked the concept of the Ohto Minimo, actually using it isn’t very comfortable–for me. I have large hands, and this petite pen does feel like I’m writing with a toothpick.
But–that’s the trade-off. I wanted a portable “back up” pen and that’s how it goes, I guess. I can for sure write and draw with the Ohto Minimo, just not for a long time. It’s difficult for me to get a good, lasting grip on the pen, because of my big hands, and this leads to cramps.
However, if you don’t have oven mitts like me, I doubt you will have the same problem. It is well-made too, with a metal body and a retractable tip.
The ink is black and because it’s a ballpoint pen, it dries super fast (great for sloppy writers/sketchers like myself). At 0.5mm it’s a very fine line, which I like. I slapped on some water with a waterbrush and the ink held up great, no smearing or bleeding. If the ink isn’t waterproof (I think it is), then its extremely water-resistant.
I don’t regret getting this pen. The Ohto Minmo serves its purpose and has come in handy several times. Like other art supplies and pens, it is best suited for a specific scenario (like how I wouldn’t try writing a letter with small text using my Pentel Pocket Brush). In my case the specific scenario is when I need to jot something down and I my usual everyday carry pen (or my new fountain pen) isn’t handy.
