(Jeff Abbott is a regular contributor at The Pen Addict. You can find more from Jeff online at Draft Evolution and Twitter.)
You can never have enough bags, pouches, and cases, and that's a good thing because there's always a new one that fits an aesthetic or functional need for your everyday life. The Mr. Rouge Estuche is a lovely case made of leather and felt that does one thing really well and with great style.
This handmade case is on the smaller side, but still manages to fit plenty of writing instruments or other small objects. The two snaps on either side keep the top flap from opening easily and letting the contents spill out. The snaps are actually really strong, so I have no worries in terms of the case accidentally opening.
The leather that makes up the exterior of the case is supple and pleasing to touch. It has a nice aroma and a great medium brown hue that will age wonderfully with use. The interior is made of natural gray felt that is incredibly soft and thick enough to provide some good protection. I like that the felt extends past the leather on the exterior of the case, but I wonder if the felt will wear out or discolor quicker than the leather.
The straight stitching that holds the case together is well done and features a cream-colored thread that provides a nice contrast of color against the brown leather. Every corner and edge on this case is meticulously precise, and that just adds to the luxurious and high-quality feel.
There's no branding on the case outside of a red leather loop on the side of the case, which gives you a hint as to who made it (Mr. Rouge).
In my testing, this case comfortably holds 6-10 ballpoint or gel ink pens, and 6 fountain pens. It's not wide enough to hold a new woodcase pencil, but it does fit an Apple Pencil or a woodcase pencil that's been sharpened down to less than seven inches.
Since this pouch is a flat design, it bulges as you put objects inside it, so you can't overstuff it. It's not meant for carrying an excessive amount of stuff, but it also comfortably holds more than you'd think.
The Estuche (which is Spanish for case) is handmade in Mexico and retails for $26 USD from Amarillo Stationery. For the materials and precise craftsmanship, this is a great deal. I really look forward to using this and watching the leather take on its own personality as time goes on. This would make a great gift for stationery fans, but it's also great for those people in our lives who aren't as mesmerized with pens and paper since you can use this pouch for anything.
(Amarillo Stationery provided this product at no charge to The Pen Addict for review purposes.)
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