If you find yourself screaming at the "Computer Wiz" of the family while attempting to find your way through our website, then you've come to the right place! We are always open to your suggestions, and strive to make your browsing experience as painless as possible. You can contact us here to let us know how we are doing. Now, if you are having problems, we have a few Q&A's and other information below that should aid you in your quest. We hope this helps!
Q: Where are the links for the rest of the website (the navigation bar)? The only page that I can get to is the "Home" page.
A: If you are using IE 6.0 or higher, you may have to activate ActiveX controls to view our website. A popup should appear on your screen when you first visit the "Home" page, asking you to look at the information bar at the top of the browser window. If you click on this bar, you will be given the option to view information on ActiveX controls, or to allow them to be used. You will have to click "Allow Blocked Content" (and then click "OK" on the popup that follows) to correctly view our navigation, and other aspects of our website. This will allow ActiveX content to be viewed on our site only, for one visit only. Once you leave our website, you may have to perform the same actions listed above upon your return. Unfortunately, if you are using FireFox, you will not be able to view our navigation correctly at this time. A site map will soon be available, so that those of you using FireFox will be able to browse our website.
Q: There is so much information here, where do I start?!
A: The best way to answer this query is to give descriptions of each portion of our website: Home - Here you will find information about the company, as well as how to contact us and order our products. The Links page will take you to our Pen Community Database (or PCD), which is our attempt to unite the online pen collecting community in a comprehensive, easy-to-use application, that we hope will grow to become a valuable resource. Products - Our list of available pen reproductions and originals, categorized for quick and easy navigation. There is also an essay by Chris Thompson, owner and operator of Thompson Pens, entitled "Why I turn Replicas", included in the Handcrafted Replicas section. An important note about our replicas can be found under this section as well. Shop Talk - Have you ever wanted to turn pens? An essay by Chris Thompson will help you make the decision. There is also a list of needed items, and a section devoted to unique ideas and custom parts labeled "Parts". Vintage Pen Collecting - Information on collecting and valuing vintage pens, and an article named "Nib and Point Considerations" by Chris Thompson that details his views on nib selection. Soon to come are pages documenting Chris's favorite pens, and his vintage pens that are up for grabs. In The Press - There are several articles featuring Thompson Pens that can be found here. Each article is labeled by Publication Name and Volume, and Article Name. All content is reproduced with permission. Help - YOU ARE HERE!!
Q: How do I place an order?
A: Point to "Help" in the navigation bar below the Thompson logo, and follow the drop-down menu until "Order Form" is highlighted. Click here and you will be taken to our order form.
Basic Information:
You can always return to the "Home" page by clicking on the Thompson logo at the top-left corner of the page.
If you find any errors or "bugs" in the site, please contact us, and bring it to our attention so that we can remedy the situation as quickly as possible.
