Are you familiar with Blackwing? If not, no worries, we will fill you in. Per Blackwing's "About Us" page:

"Blackwing’s roots go back to the 1930’s when the 602 model was first introduced by the Eberhard Faber Pencil Company. Over the years, the pencil with the unique rectangular eraser became synonymous with quality. Then, in 1998, after several corporate acquisitions, it was discontinued, but not forgotten. In fact, fans began paying as much as $40 on eBay for a single Blackwing pencil.

In 2007, we introduced our Palomino range of pencils using Genuine Incense-cedar and premium Japanese graphite. Artists and writers started comparing them to their beloved Blackwing 602s, and folks began asking us to consider reviving the Blackwing brand. We tapped into over 100 years of family-run pencil industry experience to re-introduce Blackwing pencils in 2010.

In the 10 years since its revival, Blackwing has grown from a single pencil into a culture. It’s a culture that's all about living mindfully and finding balance in our fast paced lives."

We here at LBYC are very fond of Blackwing. We purchase their products on a regular basis and have even signed up for their pencil subscription. We did a little bit of research and found out that they have a Bespoke program where companies can inquire about collaboratons.

After sharing LolaBean Yarn Co's origin story and providing links to the various articles and podcasts that we have been highlighted in, we were pleased when we received an email back that said "...your brand sounds exactly like the kind of brand we like to work with on our Bespoke and Branded programs".

Several emails and two checks later, the fruit of our collaboration has been realized.

Introducing the "Bean Book"

This medium Blackwing Slate is an A5 hardcover notebook that is a bit wider than a standard notebook (148 x 210 mm). It features 160 pages of 100 GSM ivory ruled paper that is perfect for graphite or ink.

Every Slate notebook features a signature lay-flat binding, matte cover, and pencil holster that comes loaded with a Blackwing pencil. This particular notebook features the all-new LBYC "All Growed Up" logo designed by our friend Shelli.Can.

We were very intentional with selecting this artwork for the cover because we truly believe that representation matters. We want to ensure that we continue to put out images of Black joy and excellence to combat against the negative stereotypes and depictions of our people.

Wait... Are you saying that this notebook is only for Black people?

Absolutely not! This notebook is for everyone that believes in equal rights for all, regardless of color, race, religion, how one chooses to identify or any of the other constructs that were created to keep us divided.

To say that we are pleased with the final product is an understatement. We would like to thank Alexander Poirier, VP of Development, and the rest of the team at Blackwing for helping us bring this project to fruition. We are excited to add this product to our shop and are certain you all will be just as pleased with it as well.