Good review, thanks. I'm definitely interested in the grey stuff, if they would make larger blocks for discount prices. Just tried carving a detailed stamp on pink, and it was a disaster. We can still get Staedtlers on Stampeaz. I just bought a modified and regular. And Kirbert's been showing the K gouge for a few weeks. But I'm not sure how many are left of the regular Staedtlers. Maybe none, at this point.

For Speedball users, I recommend the really inexpensive pen holder that Stampeaz sells. It's like $1.50 or something. You can easily stick the tips in, and it is easier to hold than the big bulb-shaped thing.

...and I LOVE the fact that there's no blade exchanging--Ughhh.

There's no reason to do that. First off, the Speedball handle is too bulky to use anyway. Just buy a handful of Speedball pen holders (less than $2 each) and press one nib into each one. Just pick up the one you need. The pen holders are a much better shape for stamp carving anyway. The nib that stays in my Speedball gouge holder is the #5, the great big U that I need to really shove through the rubber.

If you're cheap, you can just buy some 1/4" wooden dowel from Home Depot, cut them into 6" lengths, and tie a nib to the end of each one with glue and wire.

And if there are any deals for money you spend.....I LOVE my SU markers!!! A little pricey but so worth it (IMHO).....of course, I love SU ink period....and no, I don't sell it either! :-)