Junktiques by Cutfingers
A mix of pens and writing paraphernalia, including fine leather goods and pen stands.
Junktiques by Cutfingers is a tribute to the late Mike Allen, a beloved friend and pen aficionado who fondly referred to his own collection as “Junktiques” and dubbed himself the “Merchant Prince.” A brilliant wordsmith and larger-than-life personality, Mike played a key role in shaping the early days of the Melbourne Pen Show. The name Cutfingers comes from the seller’s Instagram handle, inspired by a 2003 run-in with a circular saw that left him—quite literally—short-handed.
Alongside Peter Ford, Guido Staltari, Bernie Sweet, and Mike Allen, he was part of the original quorum that established the Melbourne Pen Show Committee back in 2000. The first show launched in February that year at what is now the Pullman Hotel in Albert Park, inspired by Peter Ford’s vision of creating an event in the spirit of the well-known American pen shows.
At this year’s event, Junktiques by Cutfingers will be showing a selection of pens and paraphernalia from a personal collection dating back to 1976 – loved, used, and (eventually) outgrown in favour of new temptations. Expect fine writing instruments, plenty of character, and perhaps a bit of cheeky banter on October 26.
