Yes, it’s old-fashioned. Yes, they can be awkward to use. But I love my typewriters.
I still turn to them when I’m writing, using them to compose first drafts and sketch out ideas in words.
There’s something about the sound of the keys, the feel of the mechanism and the permanence of ink on paper that a computer simply can’t replicate.
This page is a little introduction to my collection of typewriters, each with its own character, history and place in my writing life.
My Hemes Baby from 1957
Perhaps the one I use the most for writing day to day.
Smith Corona Special Est. 1921
The one I often choose to take travelling to write on location or a beach, campsite, field... anywhere.
A design classic Olivetti Valentine.
Given to me as a gift, I use this for special occasions and of course, love poems.
A brother typewriter with faux wood panelling. - One of the last to be made in their North Wales factory.
Used frequently for long text work.
An Olivetti Splendid 66 with cursive script.
Easily my favourite typewriter. Only used for personal letters and notes.
A 3rd generation Freewite with their classic case.
I use this perhaps the most for travel away and for home writing when I need to be 'in the zone'.
I also have in various states of repair:
An extra wide carriage Olympia Deluxe SM4 in burgundy
A silver Olympia Deluxe SM4 in burgundy (in original 'rocket' case)
A Royal portable which I use for public use at events.
A Freewrite Traveller, which I hardly use to be honest.