EXHIBIT 23.1
 
                        CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
 
  We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" and to
the use of our report dated March 4, 1997, in the Registration Statement (Form
S-4 No. 333-   ) and related Prospectus of Pen-Tab Industries, Inc. for the
Offer to Exchange its Series B 10 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2007 for
any and all of its outstanding 10 7/8% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2007.
 
 
                                                  /s/ Ernst & Young LLP
 
Vienna, Virginia
April 3, 1997