— Our Story —
Writing Is Thinking Made Visible
We started Antbyte because we believed that the tools of writing matter — not just functionally, but emotionally. The weight of a pen in the hand, the texture of paper beneath the nib, the colour of ink on the page. These things shape how we write, and how we think.
“Write with intention.”
Our Belief
The Pen Is an Extension of the Mind
Handwriting slows you down — and that is precisely the point. When you write by hand, you cannot type faster than you think. You are forced to choose words carefully. The sentence forms as the nib moves.
We believe this slowness is not a limitation. It is a feature. It is why writers, artists, thinkers, and planners continue to reach for pen and paper in a world that offers every digital alternative.
Our job is to make sure that when you reach for your pen, it is worth reaching for.
— What We Stand For —
Our Values
Made with Intention
Every product we carry has been tested by hand. We write with each pen, fill each bottle, and fold each sheet of paper before it reaches you.
Rooted in Edinburgh
Our studio sits in the Old Town, between a bookbinder and a printer who has been on the same street since 1952. We are proud to be part of that tradition.
Considered Packaging
All orders are packed in unbleached kraft paper and sealed with our wax stamp. No plastic, no excess. The packaging itself is worth keeping.
Sustainability
We work only with makers who can trace their materials. Every paper product we sell is either recycled, FSC certified, or made from cotton and linen waste.
— History —
Our Story
Antbyte opens in Edinburgh's Old Town with 80 products.
First international shipments. James Doyle joins as nib specialist.
Launch of the Oxford Leather Journal, our most popular product.
Aoife joins. We expand the paper range to 60 products.
The Antbyte Signature Pen — our first own-brand pen — launches.
Now shipping to 38 countries with over 2,400 products.
— The People —
Our Team
Catriona Mackay
Founder & Head Buyer
Catriona spent ten years as a calligrapher before opening Antbyte in 2018. She selects every product personally.
James Doyle
Nib Specialist
James trained under a nibmeister in Kyoto for three years. He tunes and adjusts every pen that passes through the studio.
Aoife Brennan
Paper Curator
Aoife's background is in conservation and archival work. She tests every paper for acid content, longevity, and feel.
— Start Writing —
Find Your Perfect Instrument
Browse our full collection of pens, inks, papers, and journals. Every item has been chosen with care.
Explore the Shop