A lot of people prefer a fine nib because it’s well-suited to smaller handwriting.

But, with so many fountain pens with a fine point on the market today, which ones are worth your money? Read on for our suggestions. 

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Is it better to get a fountain pen with a fine or medium nib?

For those with small handwriting, fine fountain pens are the best choice. 

Of course, the most popular nib width is medium (M). Although it might vary, the width for this type of pen is typically 0.6mm. Also, most manufacturers use this as their default nib width.

However, if you want to experiment with different styles of writing or you have a small handwriting style, you should try a fine nib fountain pen. 

The best fountain pens with a fine point

There are many great fountain pens on the market, so it’s always a good idea to spend some time thinking about your budget and the qualities that are important to you.

To help you narrow down your search effectively, we’re going to take a look at five of the best fountain pens with a fine point on the market today. 

Kaweco Bronze Sport Special Edition Fountain Pen

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You can purchase this pen in both extra fine and fine versions (as well as medium, broad, and double broad). 

It has a raw finish that is composed of solid bronze. Over time, this will deepen and develop a distinctive patina, giving it an antique, vintage look. Those who prefer a more robust pen will love its hefty, well-balanced design.

The sporty, slim design endures the test of time and remains as desirable today as it did when it was first developed. 

When capped, each pen is small (4.1 inches long), but when posted, they are incredibly comfortable (5.2 inches long). 

The Kaweco Bronze Sport Special Edition Fountain Pen, which is manufactured in Germany, has a metal Kaweco emblem on the cap tip, a chrome-plated steel nib with an iridium tip, and a screw-on cap for added security.

Waterman Hemisphere Stainless Steel Chrome Trim Fountain Pen

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The elegant simplicity of the Waterman Hemisphere fountain pen is highlighted by its sleek lines and understated details. 

Here, subtle flashes of chrome trim contrast with modern brushed steel to create a pen that will appeal to both traditionalists and aficionados of contemporary design. 

A ridged foundation on the grip supports the fingertips and provides unmatched comfort and control.

Diplomat Magnum Crow Black Fountain Pen

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The Diplomat Magnum fountain pen is a reasonably priced but masterfully made pen. 

It comes with an ergonomically curved grip, a metal pocket clip, and an ink-level reveal window by the side of the pen barrel. 

It is available in six vibrant colors and a range of nib sizes. 

It’s one of the more functional yet simplistically built fountain pens on the market today. 

The pen also uses international standard ink cartridges, and there is enough room in the barrel to easily fit an extra cartridge.

Esterbrook Estie Tortoise Gold Trim Fountain Pen

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A true American Original, the Esterbrook Pen Company, is busy rewriting its illustrious history with a brand-new pen lineup. 

Named Estie, this pen pays homage to the company and its colorful past. 

“Estie” also evokes memories of the 1930s, when words like dizzy, doggy, dingy, and brodie were frequently used. Of course, this was a time when most Americans used fountain pens on a regular basis for writing and communicating.

Although Esterbook started producing nibs in the US in the middle of the 19th century, the 1930s were a significant decade because, in 1933, they unveiled their first interchangeable nib system. 

The user is presented with a variety of writing possibilities thanks to the replaceable nibs, whether for personal or professional use. 

With the Estie and the specifically designed MV Nib Adapter, a similar technology has been revived in the modern era. The MV adaptor gives the modern Esterbrook pen a vintage nib feel.

Faber-Castell Ambition OpArt Deep Water Fountain Pen

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The OpArt Deep Water Fountain Pen is part of the brand’s AMBITION range.

A feeling for materials, clarity, and brilliant, bright new colors are the focal points of the AMBITION collection.

The high-gloss metal components of the fountain pens stand in contrast to the barrels made of brushed matte stainless steel and reddish-brown pearwood.

These slender writing instruments offer a great first impression thanks to their sleek design and well-chosen materials. They stand out due to their professional functionalism and unambiguous visual design.

You can expect a beautiful resin barrel with a delicate guilloche pattern. Colors and geometrical lines create the illusion of three dimensions.

At the same time, highly polished, chrome-plated metal is used to create the cap, front, and end pieces.

The best fountain pens with a fine point on the market today! 

As you can see, there are some fantastic fountain pens on the market with a fine nib today. These fountain pens have a great reputation, and they write incredibly well. Plus, they look sleek and stylish too. 

The post Top 5 Fountain Pens with a Fine Point appeared first on fountainpenguide.com.

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Reasons to gift a fountain pen

There are many reasons why you should gift a fountain pen, including:

• They inspire creativity – Fountain pens stimulate and support creative thinking. There are so many ways you can utilize them! Naturally, you can write with them, but you can also make art.
• They can help to lower stress levels – In today’s world, everyone lives at a rapid pace. Taking your time to write can help you relax, make your thoughts and feelings clearer, and solve difficulties more quickly. Give the gift of stress alleviation by putting a fountain pen and journal in the same package for a loved one.
• The recipient can learn or perfect a new skill – Handwriting is a skill you can hone. Even if the recipient mastered cursive as a youngster, it may have been years since they last used it, considering we live in a digital age. With a new fountain pen, the recipient may start writing exercises or simply enjoy mindful writing, which makes them love writing more.
• Fountain pens encourage people to write – You will want to start writing as soon as you pick up a fountain pen! A fountain pen is a thoughtful gift that the recipient will want to use to write with. The novelty of this enhanced writing experience will wow them. And writing opens up a world of opportunities!
• It’s a gift the recipient is unlikely to have – Chances are, unless they are already fountain pen enthusiasts, your friend or relative will not own one. If they do, it’s maybe in the bottom of their desk drawer. In either case, a fountain pen is an impressive and unexpectedly practical gift. 

What are the best fountain pens to gift in 2023?

Here are some great ideas and suggestions if you’re looking for the best fountain pens to gift for 2023:

Dryden Luxury Fountain Pen

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Want to showcase your style without breaking the bank? 

When it comes to providing a fantastic all-around real ink experience, the Dryden Luxury Fountain Pen checks all the right boxes. 

As it costs much less than rival fountain pens, it has become a great seller.

The style is timeless, practical, and has a medium tip, making it ideal as a gift for anyone without a particular preference. 

This fountain pen also has the benefit of an ink converter, allowing you to use it with either cartridges or liquid ink. 

In fact, we believe this one is difficult to surpass at the lower end of the market as a whole.

Cross Century II

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Born as a result of the popularity of the first Cross Century pen, the Century II thickens the profile and adds a striking silver and gold color scheme to produce a modern classic. 

Everything that fans praised the original for is still present and accounted for. 

We love the leak-proof design, which is immune to all sorts of movement while in transit, as well as the longevity of the build and the beautifully smooth writing action.

Pilot Capless

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The magnificent wooden barrel of this Pilot fountain pen, which feels wonderful in your hand and is well-balanced, is its key selling point. 

There are various versions, including one that has a beautiful 18k gold nib that has been Rhodium-plated. It’s better suited to people who have a featherlight touch because of this, although it’s not as scratchy to use as some nibs at this end of the spectrum are.

The fact that it is Japanese-made adds to its unique edge. I think the mechanism that keeps the fountain pen from ever drying out is brilliant. 

The Pilot also comes in a customized gift box with a cartridge refill.

Faber-Castell Pear Wood

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This wooden-cased fountain pen will spice things up a bit if you’re sick of black and gold. The pen’s bulk is made of smooth pear wood with a lovely natural grain and just the right bit of bling thanks to a mirror-finish cap, nib, and collar. I think it feels great to write with!

With its cartridge/converter mechanism, it offers the choice of using simpler current cartridges or an inkwell, and I’m happy to report a smooth writing experience in both situations.

Waterman Fountain Pen

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This is a French-made traditional fountain pen with the iconic cigar form that is so well-liked. 

It also has a wonderfully functional medium tip that, in my opinion, makes it suited for just about everyone. But, for those who want a more delicate outcome, a fine nib option is offered.

I like how Waterman created this model in a variety of options, giving you the ability to go with a fairly traditional black and gold style or one of the more eccentric ones. 

For instance, the Deluxe Blue Obsession is a beautiful choice. Also, a really lovely presentation box is included with the fountain pen.

The best fountain pens to gift in 2023

As you can see, there are some fantastic pens on the market today if you’re looking for a special gift for someone. If you choose one of the fountain pens we’ve mentioned above, you simply cannot go wrong!

The post The 5 Best Fountain Pens to Gift in 2023 appeared first on fountainpenguide.com.

The phrase “iroshizuku” combines the Japanese words “iro” (coloring), which expresses high standards and a variety of colors, and “shizuku” (droplet), which captures the picture of dripping water. 

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Each ink’s name is drawn from a specific feature of the Japanese environment, such as shrubs, natural occurrences, or landscapes, all of which contribute to the richness of each color. 

Because of this, the rich and understated color approach of Japan is now accessible to all fountain pen users via this amazing Pilot Iroshizuku range. So, let’s take a more in-depth look below. 

There are 24 inks in the Pilot Iroshizuku range

The 24 colors in this range are as follows:

1. Tsukushi – Brown 
2. Yu-yake – Sunset
3. Ajisai – Periwinkle
4. Kosumosu – Pink
5. Yama-guri – Wild Chestnut
6. Ama-iro – Sky Blue
7. Yama-budo – Bordeaux 
8. Tsutsuji – Azelea
9. Tsuyu-kusa – Deep Blue 
10. Asa-gao – Navy Blue
11. Tsuki-yo – Deep Teal
12. Fuyu-gaki – Deep orange
13. Chiku-rin – Bamboo Forest
14. Take-sumi – Gray Black
15. Syo-ro – Pine Tree Dew
16. Fuyu-syogun – Bluish Dark Gray
17. Kon-peki – Cerulean 
18. Shin-ryoku – Deep Green 
19. Ina-ho – Light Brown
20. Shin-kai – Blue Gray
21. Murasaki-shikibu – Deep Lavendar
22. Momiji – Vermillion 
23. Ku-jaku – Deep Turquoise
24. Kiri-same – Misty Dark Gray 

What’s the packaging like?

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You’ll find that 50ml glass vials are commonly used. These are sizable decorative bottles that look excellent on a desk, thanks to their oblong shape. Because of this, they also make wonderful presents.

Also, commonly seen are 15ml glass vials. This bottle, referred to by Pilot as the “Mini,” is offered both individually and as part of color combinations. 

Furthermore, three bottles containing 15ml of Kon-peki, Tsuki-yo, and Take-sumi are included in the most popular set, which serves as the majority of people’s introduction to this ink. The average price of this package is $15.

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Overall impression of Pilot Iroshizuku inks

Iroshizuku inks are well-known for being inexpensive, beautifully colored, practical, and incredibly simple to use. 

These inks are dependable and user-friendly! Because they are deemed luxury inks, they function exceptionally well in almost all fountain pens and have subtle color tones.

The Iroshizuku colors include a variety of more exotic oranges, pinks, and greens, in addition to a reasonably common charcoal black and a range of blues. 

The series’ most popular inks include black, blue, and purple inks like Murasaki-shikibu and Yama-budo. 

Light brown and bamboo green are two examples of the medium tones that the series is meant to highlight, but they are less useful and not as liked than things like charcoal black (Take-sumi) or blue-black (Shin-kai).

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Your common Pilot Iroshizuku ink questions answered

• Are these inks water-resistant? – They are water-resistant, but they’re not sold as waterproof. 
• Are these inks prone to clogging? – Not from my experience!
• Is it hard to get the ink off your hands? – It’ll take a good few washes, that’s for sure. 
• What about stains on the pen? – This isn’t something to worry about. It’s very easy to clean your pen if the ink does get onto it.
• Does the ink dry the nib out? – This isn’t something I’ve experienced. 
• Do Pilot Iroshizuku inks suit beginners? – They would fall somewhere in the middle between beginners and expert fountain pen users. 
• What’s the lubrication like? – Incredibly smooth!
• How about the flow with these inks? – The flow is very good and rather wet. 

Pilot Iroshizuku inks are a joy, and come in a stunning range of colors

So there you have it: our view on the range of Pilot Iroshizuku inks on the market today. If you’re thinking about purchasing these inks for the first time, I’m sure you won’t regret it. Not only are they enjoyable to use but they come in the most beautiful range of colors. 

The post What to Expect from Pilot Iroshizuku inks appeared first on fountainpenguide.com.

But does it write well? Is this pen worth purchasing? Read on to discover our thoughts. 

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An overview of the Asvine V169 Vacuum Filling fountain pen

Let’s start by telling you a little bit more about this pen and what to expect:

A perfect gift

Not only is the Asvine V169 Vacuum Filling fountain pen a great gift for yourself, but it’s a lovely present for someone else. It features a stunning design, and it has an affordable price tag too. 

Large ink capacity

Once the pen is filled, it is suitable for prolonged use, saving you precious time.

Easy filling

To fill the pen with ink, just unscrew the end cap, pull it up, and then push it down. Unscrew the piston knob a few twists to allow ink to flow from the barrel to the nib if you want to use the pen for longer.

Excellent construction

The body has been built using precious translucent acrylic, while the skeletal net is constructed from brass with a chrome finish. Each pen has been manually put together and examined by Asvine’s skilled craftsman to ensure impeccable quality.

A stunning design

The V169 offers a superior writing experience and has a trendy, wonderfully-crafted water drop skeleton. Whether the cap is posted or unposted, it is an incredibly well-balanced writing instrument.

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What makes this pen different from the crowd?

Skeleton pens are not new on the scene. For over 80 years now, we’ve seen a number of businesses create them. 

Then, there are artisans who make overlays, like the late Henry Simpole. Even Laban produces a demonstrator with metal lattice work today. 

But, Asvine has chosen its own design, colored transparent resins, and…..a vacuum filler double reservoir system. 

First impressions of the Asvine V169 Vacuum Filling fountain pen

Generic plastic packaging with a brand-named cardboard box surrounded the pen when it came. Nothing too exciting, right?

My first thoughts were a bit conflicting! The skeletal work feels smooth and does not appear to have any harsh edges. The overlay’s holes have not been curved or otherwise softened. 

The transparent acrylic looks and feels brittle, but the filler knob and cap are not cheap, nor are they flimsy. 

The cap has a pleasing heaviness to it and unscrews in less than a turn. 

Asvine, which is the only branding, is imprinted on the band by the clip’s opening. 

If you have a high enough level of OCD, and you attempt to align the nib with the clip, you may find it irritating because you can easily see the nib at an angle, as there only seems to be one thread for it. This is a drawback of transparent caps. 

The pen’s vacuum system

The vacuum system in the Asvine V169 Vacuum Filling fountain pen operates effectively in terms of flushing out and filling thanks to the visible double reservoir. 

I have not observed any seepage in either direction, and the seal at the bottom of the rod does a decent job. 

Both the rod and the knob at the back, which are made of plastic with a metal overlay, have a robust feel. 

The plunger can be smoothly moved back and forth. While the frontal reservoir has the advantage of allowing you to write for a while without having to unscrew the back, it still only holds a small amount of ink, and with the valve open, the ink flow is slightly excessive, as is the case with the majority of stopper-restricted fountain pens (both eye droppers and vac fillers).

While it’s not crazy excessive, you could find your paper being over-saturated due to the feathering.

What’s the pen like to handle?

The pen has good weight and balance when in your hand. 

The area can feel slick, especially if your fingers are a little greasy, but the pinched shape makes it easier to grasp the pen securely. 

Although the capping threads are made of metal, they are wide and smooth, making the bottom of the skeletal frame more apparent. 

This may be a problem for some, although other pens like the Laban Skeleton, which are similar to this, would also have this problem.

Further details about the pen’s clip

The T-bar style clip is effective at keeping the pen from slipping out of a jacket pocket, but it may also be pushed sideways, which can occasionally lead to problems. 

Sometimes, the nib can slip across the metal, and fall into one of the frame gaps.

You should be aware of this because it can’t be good for the clip in the long run. 

With regards to the opposite direction, the nearest hole is not in a position to produce the same issue, thankfully. 

A good, albeit not top-of-the-range, fountain pen

The Asvine V169 Vacuum Filling fountain pen is certainly not the most luxe and impressive pen on the market, but for the price point, you can definitely do a lot worse!

It’s a nice writer when you hit the sweet spot, although it can be too wet. Plus, it holds plenty of ink without any real evaporation happening. 

So, if you like this style and you’re looking for an affordable pen, this is a great option to consider. 

The post Asvine V169 Vacuum Filling Fountain Pen Review appeared first on fountainpenguide.com.

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Do you find that your fountain pen is scratchy? Perhaps the ink flow is slow or inconsistent? These issues can happen if you’ve not cleaned your fountain pen for a while. 

The trouble is that many people don’t realize you’re supposed to clean a fountain pen! 

Don’t worry, though; we’ll take you through everything you need to know in this post, including how often you need to clean a fountain pen. 

How often should you clean a fountain pen?

Ultimately, it comes down to the type of pen you have and/or the condition it’s in. Here’s a general guide we like to follow:

• Between refills – When changing ink, although a quick flush is advised
• Once a quarter – Any pen that is inked up, irrespective of type, ink, or use
• Once a month – The majority of pens if you want to ensure they write smooth
• Once a week – Pens that dry out often, vintage pens, and thick inks

The majority of fountain pen lovers appear to clean their pens somewhere between once a week and once a month. 

In between ink refills, I flush as well. Although it is advised, you don’t have to do this if you use the same ink. It is beneficial, though, as it will facilitate ink flow while guarding against ink contamination.

Some good rules of thumb to follow when caring for your fountain pen

• Clean your fountain pen often if you use inks that have special properties, such as glitter
• Clean your fountain pen more regularly if you experience issues like a dry start or skipping 
• Clean your fountain pen between refills, particularly if you’re changing inks
• The majority of pen enthusiasts will clean their pens a minimum of once per month 
• If you don’t experience any issues at all, you should still clean your pen at least every quarter

What will happen if you don’t clean your pen?

If you don’t clean a fountain pen, two things can happen:

• There will be build-up on the nib
• The feed will clog

These two things will still materialize even if you simply use your fountain pen in a medical lab or a similar setting. 

Your feed becomes clogged with a variety of things. You name it – ink pigment buildup, paper fragments, dust, metal shavings – it all gets in there. 

Keeping the feed clean, moist, and flowing is the best defence against those things. Such build-up will be present in both the grip region and the nib. 

All of this will result in a string of terrible incidents:

• Bacteria will grow and form mold and slime inside your ink 
• Your ink bottles will become contaminated, which causes the ink to go bad
• You will have an unpleasant writing experience
• Your nib will feel scratchy
• Your pen won’t start immediately – only after priming
• Your pen will begin skipping 

Some pens require less cleaning than others

Depending on how well the pen works, some pens may need less cleaning. You can preserve the ink in a pen for many years without cleaning it if it doesn’t dry out and isn’t used frequently.

The Slide and Seal mechanism of Platinum has been mentioned by several people in this regard (which is used on their more expensive 3776 Century model). You can expect it to keep your nib and feed moist for several years.

Whether you use your fountain pens all of the time or not, pens that dry out rapidly need to be cleaned periodically. 

And, you should regularly clean the pens that you use a lot. During writing, pens gather dirt and other debris; if this debris is allowed to accumulate inside the feed, issues will eventually arise.

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How to clean your fountain pen

Here are the 12 steps you need to follow when cleaning a fountain pen:

1. Start by removing the converter or cartridge from the inside of your pen.
2. Use cold tap water to flush through the gripping and nib section of the pen. Don’t utilize any solvents when cleaning your pen, as this can cause permanent damage to the nib. 
3. If your pen has an in-built converter, it’s a good idea to flush the nib by drawing cold water up via the nib and forcing the water out. 
4. After you have done the above steps, blow air through the nib gently to clear all liquid away.
5. Use a paper towel or soft cloth to dry the nib and gripping section.
6. If you think the steps provided above have not been successful, you can repeat them, or you can simply move on to the next steps. 
7. If you feel there is more dried ink in your nib, which is clogging while you write, we advise carefully removing the nib part of your pen and putting it into a glass of clean water. You should leave it to soak overnight. 
8. At the bottom of a glass, place a sheet of kitchen roll, where the nib should rest. Let the water fully cover the nib.
9. The next morning, use tepid water to gently rinse the nib. Repeat this process until the water runs clear. 
10. As before, blow into the nib gently to get rid of the excess water. 
11. You should then use a paper towel or soft cloth to dry the gripping and nib section.
12. You’re now ready to place a new ink converter or ink cartridge into the front end. 

When you should clean your fountain pen more regularly 

There are some pens you should clean every one or two weeks. Examples include:

• Pens you don’t use regularly 
• Demonstrator fountain pens that you want to look clean
• Thick inks with lots of pigments or other particles, such as glitter
• Vintage pens

Issues can be avoided by cleaning your fountain pen. Maintaining cleanliness in your nib, feed, and ink reservoir can stop any build-up and guarantee that you won’t need to pull out the heavy guns later.

This is crucial for pens that could be more delicate, such as vintage pens. 

Keep clean the elements you don’t want to hose down at a later date. 

The issue with build-up is that while it’s fairly simple to remove at first, it becomes progressively more challenging to do so.

You will, therefore, need to use a stronger solution, such as an ammonia solution. In most circumstances, this will be okay. However, you couldn’t use this with the likes of vintage pens, which could partially dissolve if you’re unfortunate.

If you can easily clean your fountain pen with just water once a month, why wait until you have to take that chance?

Pens that you don’t use frequently have a tendency to dry out faster. Over time, the buildup will become more challenging to remove if you repeatedly let the pen dry up. 

Keep your fountain pen clean to enjoy the best possible writing experience 

So there you have it: everything you need to know about how often to clean a fountain pen. To ensure your pen lasts for as long as possible and delivers an amazing writing experience, you need to clean it on a regular basis. Follow the advice we’ve provided above and you can’t go too wrong! 

The post How Often Should You Clean a Fountain Pen? appeared first on fountainpenguide.com.

If you’re an experienced soul when it comes to the world of stationary, you’ll be familiar with the company. After all, Caran d’Ache ‘s writing instruments are renowned around the world for their prestige excellence. 

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The Ecridor range, in particular, has long been an unmistakable emblem of the brand’s expertise. The collection is evolving all of the time, presenting master engravers with a sleek hexagonal body from which they can create new guillochage designs. 

Not only does the Caran d’Ache Ecridor “Retro” fountain pen deliver luxury, but it ticks many boxes on the comfort front too. So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at this pen in more detail. 

What is the Caran d’Ache Ecridor “Retro” fountain pen?

The Caran d’Ache Ecridor “Retro” fountain pen is a sturdy pen with a palladium-plated metal body, which is incredibly well-built. 

It comes in two colors:

• Gold 
• Silver 

The silver pen is the most common of the two. 

The subtle minimalist patterning of the hexagonal body is the genius of this writer. And, you have a broad range of those patterns to select from. 

First impressions 

The pen is presented in a beautiful, elegant, and simple cardboard box, which has a somewhat contemporary yet retro feel. In the center of the box, the “Caran d’Ache Genève” gleams in silver. 

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Inside, there is a black clamp box, which holds the pen and the rest of the contents, which include:

• A booklet that includes a use and care guide, some brand information, and warranty details
• A standard international converter
• The Caran d’Ache “Idyllic Blue” ink

There are not a lot of all-silver pens out there, so this one certainly makes a big impression. It has a minimalist design but it still makes a statement and feels different. 

The snap cap, which simply pops off, is as hexagonal as the body of the pen is, ensuring that the overall shape is seamless. 

Is the Caran d’Ache Ecridor “Retro” Fountain Pen manufacturing perfection?

When reviewing this pen from a technical point of view, it is an example of manufacturing perfection. The nib never fries out. Plus, the cap snaps into place, fitting very securely. You don’t need to fret about it coming off at any point. 

What’s the nib like?

The Caran d’Ache Ecridor “Retro” fountain pen comes with a choice of three different nib sizes:

• B (broad)
• M (medium)
• F (fine) 

The nib is made from rhodium-plated steel. It is a rigid and wonderful writer. A little pressure allows for some line variation, springiness, and bounce while maintaining a concise and crisp line of Swiss precision tooling. 

The grip is worth elaborating on

One thing that you do need to be aware of is the Ecridor’s grip section. It is very thin and made from metal. 

The glossy metal used means that it is a magnet for fingerprints. However, it can also get rather slippery, which can be a bit annoying when trying to write. 

The best way to describe the diameter of the grip section is that it’s very much like a regular school pen. This may or may not be an issue; it all depends on the size of your hands and your comfort level. Some people prefer a thicker grip section, whereas others are happy with this thin style. 

Capture the true magic and art of handwriting

We hope that this review has given you a much better understanding of the Caran d’Ache mechanical pencil. If you’re looking for a sleek, comfortable, and stylish pen, which truly captures the essence of handwriting, you’ll struggle to find better than this. It’s a true luxury fountain pen for a connoisseur! 

The post Is the Caran d’Ache Ecridor “Retro” Fountain Pen worth it? appeared first on fountainpenguide.com.

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To make your decision, you need to understand the difference between a cheap and an expensive fountain pen. This will help you know what the extra money is getting you so you can determine whether it’s worth it. 

In this post, we’ll break a fountain pen down into four critical components to determine how they impact cost and quality:

1. The filling mechanism 
2. The body
3. The feed
4. The nib 

So, let’s get right to it…

The difference between a cheap and an expensive fountain pen: The filling mechanism 

There are a number of different ways to get ink into a pen, a lot of which come down to personal taste and preference. 

Cheap fountain pens nearly always employ cartridges to minimize the number of moving parts. Switching the ink color in your pen is not always straightforward because cheap ink cartridges tend to have poor ink flow and can leak. In fact, even pricey cartridges might be challenging to replace unless they’re completely empty.

Cartridges are incredibly convenient, but this convenience comes at a cost in terms of money and the environment. This is because cartridges generate a substantial quantity of waste, and even those that you can recycle still utilize energy in the recycling process.

Plus, they can be pricey, particularly if your pen only accepts proprietary cartridges rather than conventional types. Furthermore, you cannot even refill some inexpensive fountain pens on the market, so when the ink runs out, you’re forced to discard the entire pen.

To put it to you another way… eventually, all the money you’ll waste on “throwaway pens” could be better utilized by purchasing a higher-priced pen with a reliable refilling mechanism.

As we’ve already discussed, you can still use cartridges with premium fountain pens for their convenience. They are still expensive but less prone to leakages or negatively impacting ink flow.

Other systems

As a result, you’ll also see devices that draw ink into the reservoir through the nib. 

Today, the most typical piston mechanism is one that twists or pulls. Yet levers were more prevalent in the early 20th century. 

Moreover, some pens have convertible systems, which enable them to accept cartridges or draw ink. Many enthusiasts love systems like these because they can flush the ink from the pen to change colors, which makes cleaning the pen simpler.

Overall, the filling technique is of utmost importance for your levels of convenience. The process will typically be more straightforward if you invest in a more expensive system. Plus, you’ll also avoid the unpleasant cleanup that comes with using low-quality, leaky pens.

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The difference between a cheap and an expensive fountain pen: The body

A pen’s body is a container that houses all the parts that enable the pen to work. 

Naturally, the body significantly impacts the pen’s appeal and aesthetics but also affects its balance and weight, determining how well the pen writes.

Materials used

Due to its ease of manufacture and low cost of production, plastic is the material of choice in most of the cheaper fountain pens. Although some inexpensive fountain pens can also be made of metal or wood, these are typically of inferior quality to keep prices low.

High-quality resin, and valuable metals like gold or silver, or fine woods, are used to make expensive fountain pens. 

Luxurious wood and precious metals surely don’t need much explanation. But because of how you make resin, it is more visually appealing and far more durable.

Many users prefer resin to metal or wood. Its mildly sticky texture makes it easier to hold. Of course, this is a personal choice. Still, you can be confident that the materials used to make expensive fountain pens will be of a higher caliber overall, no matter what they are. 

Style

Style-wise, cheap fountain pens are typically plain and uninteresting since there’s not much room in the price point for designers to be employed.

On the flip side, it’s not uncommon for garish and overly cluttered designs that draw attention away from the subpar materials used.

Manufacturers are more likely to put more attention into their designs when selling products at a higher price point, resulting in bodies and caps that are works of beauty. Particularly if the body has fancy metal or diamond embellishments. These fountain pens are often collectible and can make ideal gifts.

Lightweight

A cheap fountain pen will almost always be very light, regardless of the materials, to further reduce expenses. 

As a result, holding the pen will typically feel unnatural, and writing will be imbalanced. 

With a light pen, you won’t grasp it properly, making it painful for your hand as you continue to misapply pressure.

How much is too much?

One thing to remember is that expensive fountain pens can rapidly end up being very expensive! Consequently, if a pen is so costly to the point that you don’t feel comfortable using it or carrying it around, there’s no point in buying it. Therefore, make sure to weigh any bling against how useful it will be to use your fountain pen on a daily basis.

The difference between a cheap and an expensive fountain pen: The feed

A feed connects the ink reservoir with the nib. When the nib comes into touch with paper, ink can flow freely through it, yet ink cannot fall out when the pen is not in use. 

It accomplishes this by using a convoluted network of narrow channels. 

Air from the outside of the pen can flow upward along the feed as ink flows onto the paper, bringing ink down from the ink storage. 

Plastic feeders are nearly always found in cheap fountain pens since they are easier and less expensive for manufacturers to create.

If the plastic feed fits properly into the pen, it can work effectively. Yet, improperly installed plastic feeds can have terrible results. When writing, ink can trickle, overflow, or even pour out when the pen isn’t in use.

Defects in airflow can also cause the opposite issue, i.e., preventing ink from ejecting even when you want it to. 

However, as indicated, these problems are typically the result of manufacturing flaws rather than the characteristics of plastic as a feed material. Plastic feeders are consequently becoming more prevalent in middle-tier and even some higher-tier fountain pens.

Proper ink flow is a must when buying a more expensive pen

No matter the material, feeds for expensive fountain pens should be guaranteed to maintain proper ink flow. The best pens, however, will have Ebonite feeds, containing vulcanized rubber that has been hardened and is semi-porous for a better writing experience. 

These minuscule air bubbles assist in balancing the flow of air and ink as they go through the feed, respectively. This enables more reliable ink propulsion and a more comfortable writing experience.

Ebonite can be molded and shaped easily, allowing a tighter fit inside the pen’s body. A tight seal can enhance ink transmission and decrease the likelihood of leaks or overflow.

So, when it comes to feeds, construction takes precedence over the material. Most writers can get by with a well-made plastic feed, but an Ebonite feed offers a definite step up in quality and will enhance your writing experience. So, a low-quality fountain pen may not only lack an Ebonite feed but also contain a poorly-fitted plastic feed that causes even your best writing to become sloppy.

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The difference between a cheap and an expensive fountain pen: The nib

Finally, an essential component of any fountain pen is the nib. The nib transfers ink onto the paper through the capillary action process, which involves the interaction of surface tension and adhesion.

Of course, you’ll want to consider the aesthetic element of the nib. However, how flexible the nib is will impact your ability to produce lines of different widths.

Moreover, nibs affect how evenly and cleanly the ink is applied to the paper.

What impact does price have on this crucial functionality, then? 

We’ll start by talking about cheap nibs, which are often constructed of stainless steel. Manufacturers prefer stainless steel because it is affordable. However, the interval between nib changes is a factor when evaluating nibs, especially with stainless steel nibs. Their durability can be problematic.

Steel nibs are incredibly rigid and, in some situations, don’t flex at all due to this. And as we’ve already established, flexibility permits you to write with different line widths.

Writing becomes increasingly frustrating due to the increased risk of spills and skipping and the need to press harder on the paper. And, isn’t writing supposed to be fun? The last thing you want to do is defeat the purpose. We’re not saying you need to break the bank, but getting the balance right is vital, so you don’t waste money on a fountain pen you hate using. 

Inexpensive nibs are also more likely to gum up if not cleaned. Of course, all fountain pens, regardless of price, must be cleaned occasionally. Failing to do so is a typical novice fountain pen blunder.

Corrosion is an additional factor to take into account. Previously, the operation of stainless steel nibs was seriously jeopardized by chemical scarring caused by corrosive inks. Ink flow, uniformity, and stroke clarity would all suffer. 

Although contemporary stainless steel is more corrosion-resistant, it corrodes quicker than the materials used to make expensive nibs.

What to expect from more expensive nibs

On the flip side, some of the more expensive nibs are typically made of gold or titanium. Gold is preferred since it is corrosion-resistant. It’s flexible enough to allow for variable line width and springy enough to return the nib to its neutral position between strokes. 

As a result of this softness, writing will be much more enjoyable because you won’t need to press down as firmly on the paper, and the ink will flow out nicely and naturally.

The nib ultimately has the most significant influence on the writing process, and more expensive nibs increase writing comfort, consistency, and convenience by using higher-quality components and construction. 

How much should you spend on a fountain pen?

Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of the difference between a cheap and an expensive fountain pen. 

Of course, all fountain pens are different, so you should always take the time to read the specifications and reviews that have been left by others. 

By understanding what you’re actually spending your money on, what you want from a fountain pen, and your financial situation, you should be able to determine how much to spend on this type of product. 

The post What’s the Difference Between a Cheap and an Expensive Fountain Pen? appeared first on fountainpenguide.com.

It has deep black premium resin and luxe accents that are gold-coated, a white star insignia atop, and a handcrafted gold nib. With a carefully designed piston-filling system, it is widely considered the ideal travel companion. 

But is it the right pen for you? Read on for our honest review.

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Background info on the Meisterstück Gold-Coated LeGrand Fountain Pen 

The renowned Meisterstück LeGrand fountain pen by Montblanc was created in Hamburg in 1924 and is a great representation of the brand’s outstanding craftsmanship and commitment to perfection.

This exquisite writing instrument is finished with a handcrafted 18 ct gold nib and features precious black resin with luxe gold-toned accents. The famous white star Montblanc insignia tops the design. 

You can make a statement in the boardroom and write with confidence when using the Meisterstück LeGrand. It is also available in ballpoint and rollerball forms.

Montblanc pens have long been a symbol of status

Much like purchasing a Rolex, a lot of people love the Montblanc pen range because of the prestigious white star logo. This brand of pen is very much seen as a bit of a status symbol. 

If you want to let others know that you mean serious business, a Montblanc pen would be the go-to option. 

Of course, this sort of thing always comes down to personal preference. Are you the type of person who likes fancy cars and designer brands? Or, are you the sort of person who couldn’t care less about those things? 

The Meisterstück Gold-Coated LeGrand Fountain Pen is not just about image; it provides a comfortable writing experience

This fountain pen’s exquisite hand-crafted Au585 14K gold nib and rhodium-coated inlay allow it to write smoothly across the page. After Montblanc’s master craftspeople rigorously test every nib, they will then distinctively stamp them, assuring you of the highest levels of quality! 

When you receive your pen, it’ll probably come with a medium nib. Nevertheless, if you visit the Montblanc website, you may see that a nib exchange is offered within six weeks of the original purchase. Eight possibilities are available: 

1. BB
2. OM
3. OB
4. EF
5. F
6. M
7. B
8. OBB

If your handwriting isn’t notably small or large, a medium nib is a good one to have. It is simple and enjoyable to use. Yet, it won’t improve the appeal or expressiveness of your handwriting. 

Indeed, the pen provides a smooth, consistent writing experience with a nice flow, but the writing itself may not be distinguishable from some of the more affordable models on the market. 

Nonetheless, there is a slight tooth to the Montblanc nib – not quite a roughness, but a certain feedback – so that you can feel the paper. It is not an exceptionally smooth pen. But its tooth allows it to function on very glossy material.

Also, the Montblanc nib is rather stiff despite the fact that gold nibs are typically thought of as being softer than steel nibs. 

By exerting pressure during your down strokes, you can generate some line width fluctuation. It is unquestionably not a flexible nib. Even though I’m sure I could push it much harder, I usually write without exerting too much pressure and appreciate the effortlessness this nib provides.

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What’s the pen’s nib made of? 

This pen features a size 5 bi-color nib that is plated with rhodium and made of 14k gold. The feed is made of plastic. 

DIY nib and feed removal are not advised, in my opinion. This is because, according to Montblanc, each nib involves around 30 different manual operations.

Filling your fountain pen

This type of Montblanc Meisterstück pen accepts standard international cartridges or a cartridge converter, unlike the larger 146 and 149 models. 

It comes with a sleek Montblanc converter with a brass-looking metal collar and an ink reservoir made of smokey grey plastic. There is a rotating knob made of black plastic, but it is not knurled to help with your grip. 

It says “Use Montblanc Ink Only” along the side. This is because Montblanc precisely creates their ink to guarantee that the flow keeps pace with your thoughts, as claimed in the brand’s promotional materials.

Luxury is the name of the game with the Meisterstück Gold-Coated LeGrand Fountain Pen

So there you have it: everything you need to know about the Meisterstück Gold-Coated LeGrand Fountain Pen. 

There is no denying that this is the pen for those who take great pride in their writing and want to have somewhat of a status symbol! With the luxury gold touches and the rigorous testing this pen has gone through, you know you won’t be disappointed if you purchase this writing tool. 

The post Is the Meisterstück Gold-Coated LeGrand Fountain Pen the pen for you? appeared first on fountainpenguide.com.

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However, selecting a gift is not always easy. It can be hard to find something that’s within your budget yet will also be useful. You want to try and look for something that your employees probably wouldn’t buy themselves, so it has a luxury element to it. At the same time, you need to consider brand exposure and what sort of items work well for your business image. 

Ultimately, there’s one corporate gift that ticks all of the boxes: a fountain pen. Read on to discover the different benefits associated with gifting your employees a fountain pen.

Did you know that writing is good for your team’s health?

Without a doubt, writing is beneficial to our health. Giving someone a pen enables them to express their sentiments through writing. If a worker is experiencing stress, they should write it all down in a notebook and get some relaxation.

After a difficult day at work, you may find that your employees find solace in writing in a journal or doing some calligraphy in their notebooks. 

A fountain pen offers smudge-free writing and eases tension. Writing on a regular basis can certainly help your mental health, which is incredibly important.

Enable your employees to unleash their creativity 

Giving someone a fountain pen as a present encourages creativity. 

You feel a sense of pride when the pen’s nib releases the smooth ink, and you create beautiful calligraphy. 

Plus, you never know; if one of your employees has a skill for calligraphy writing, they can start doing so for your branded materials. 

When experimenting with fountain pens, the individual must focus on document presentation and create something that appeals to their clients. 

Plus, fountain pens work well for making sketches and expressing your creativity on paper.

All of these bode well in terms of getting your workforce to tap into their creative side. 

Everyone still needs a pen

People are continuously exposed to innovations today. And, the majority adopt new technologies on a regular basis. 

Nonetheless, everyone utilizes pens as their standard piece of stationery while writing anything. 

The application of a pen will never become obsolete because it serves the same purpose. 

Because everyone will use a pen, presenting one as a gift is a great idea.

Nobody will discard it or find themselves never needing a pen. People will utilize a pen, whether or not it is personalized. 

Every time someone uses the pen they were given by your company, they will think about your gesture. The same goes if you gift pens to special clients too. 

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Customized pens can be used strategically to promote your business 

Gifting an affordable yet branded fountain pen is an ideal method for promoting a brand.

A business might purchase fountain pens in bulk to provide them to everyone inside and outside of the company.

When someone looks at a personalized pen, they will learn about your business. 

Some may even argue that it’s better to provide a pen as a present rather than a business card. 

The recipient will be happy that he or she received a gift, and you can also use that person to spread the word about your company.

It’s long been considered a corporate tradition 

Many businesses have a custom of presenting pens as gifts to their employees and customers. The pen is regarded as a classic present and is highly popular in many businesses. 

There are so many fountain pens for sale. They can differ considerably in price and style, meaning they can be perfect for both high-end brands and startups with limited budgets.

These kinds of corporate gifts promote solid relationships among personnel, clients, and customers. 

You’ll be able to find a design that’s perfect for your business 

As touched upon in the previous section, you can choose any design from the wide range of options if you want to offer a pen as a corporate gift to someone. 

Pens are produced by many manufacturers in opulent designs. You may think about giving one of them as a gift to your customers or team.

Discounts are available if you buy pens in a large quantity. This is the most effective method in terms of saving money when buying corporate fountain pens. 

Also, you can even employ a designer to produce unique pens specifically for your business.

As they’re lightweight, they’re easy to carry around

Giving an employee a small, exquisite pen instead of a larger present makes a lot of sense. 

Size doesn’t matter when purchasing a corporate gift. Say you spend money on a premium fountain pen that has an upscale appearance. No one will ever forget a gift like this!

The ease and portability of carrying a pen wherever you go is one of its best features. 

You can carry a large number of pens with you to distribute to your personnel. 

Also, they will always carry the present with them. 

This makes it a lot easier to sell your brand and attract people’s attention because your branded pens won’t get left behind.

Increase your brand exposure 

Giving a personalized fountain pen as a gift is a terrific marketing tactic. Today, many brands favor this approach. It’s a great way of making the recipient feel special while getting the word out about your business.  

Giving someone a high-end pen with your company’s personalized branding on it makes an excellent first impression.

Employees, clients, and consumers will never forget what you gave them. Although pricey, a good fountain pen seems like the ideal present. 

You can’t go wrong with a fountain pen when purchasing a corporate gift

As you can see, there are many reasons why a fountain pen makes the perfect employee gift. Not only is this the type of gift that’s perfect in terms of brand exposure, but it’s useful and will make your employees feel appreciated. What more could you want?

The post Why Fountain Pens are the Ultimate Corporate Gift appeared first on fountainpenguide.com.

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Don’t worry; you’re not alone! Using a fountain pen does take a little bit of getting used to. To help, we’ll take a look at some of the mistakes you need to avoid when using a fountain pen. 

Choosing the cheapest ink you can find 

When you first start out, you may believe that all ink is created equal and that the cheapest option will work just as well. But that’s not the case! 

Always use specially-designed fountain pen ink for your fountain pen. Why? They basically have a unique chemical makeup that works well for fountain pens. 

Your fountain pen will become clogged if you use something that is too thick and dries too rapidly. This will demand continuous cleaning. 

The great thing about fountain pen ink is that it comes in hundreds of different colors. It’s a terrific way of expressing your personality through your ink.

It’s likely that the ink on the inside of your fountain pen will dry if you don’t use it frequently. If this happens, the pen won’t start when you need it to write. 

If that is you, I advise looking for an ink that is intended to dry more slowly so you won’t have to clean your pen as often. Plus, it will be more dependable when you do use it.

Pressing down on the nib too hard

You can press holes into your paper if you’re too firm, whether you use a standard ballpoint pen or a rollerball. 

With a fountain pen, you may increase the pressure, and the wider your pen stroke will become. That can look pretty great for a signature or if you want to write in a calligraphy style. 

However, as the nibs are split down the middle to allow ink to reach the paper, you need to be a little more careful while using them. If you press too firmly, you risk breaking or damaging the nib, which would require replacement.

Also, if you push too hard, the paper will become scratched, your hand will become fatigued, and it will be difficult on both the paper and the pen. 

I believe a softer touch is preferable in general. It helps to have a pen that is just a little bit heavier but not too heavy if you want to write long letters because then you can write without having to press down extremely hard.

Using unsuitable paper

More ink is applied to the paper as a result of the nib and the ink feed. Considering that normal paper is typically thin and occasionally weak, you may experience bleeding when using a fountain pen. 

Basically, the ink simply bleeds into the paper, creating a very smudged line that doesn’t look as lovely as it would if you used the same fountain pen on thicker paper that would better absorb the ink.

Instead, choose somewhat thicker cardstock or fountain pen paper, which is barely more expensive but produced specifically for ink from fountain pens. 

If you don’t care about the type of paper you use, I advise getting an extra fine or fine nib. They leave less ink on the paper and look good on any type of paper. 

Having said that, sending someone a handwritten message on heavier cardstock or even cotton paper makes them feel extra special. 

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Using acetone or rubbing alcohol to clean your fountain pen

Rubbing alcohol can damage the plastic in your pens, so it’s better to avoid using it even though you may believe it will make your pen sparkle and shine or help you get rid of some ink residue. 

Some people have decided to clean their plastic pens by leaving them in rubbing alcohol for an entire night, which has meant some pens have been damaged, and others have totally melted. 

Try some pen flush first if the ink stain is really difficult to remove. If that doesn’t work, some bleach that has been heavily diluted ought to do the job. 

Leave the rubbing alcohol where it belongs—in the medicine cabinet!

Not cleaning your fountain pen at all

Not only is using rubbing alcohol a mistake, but we’ve seen a lot of people make the error of failing to clean their fountain pens altogether. 

Even though it might seem like a hassle, cleaning your pen is definitely worthwhile. You will be able to eradicate hard starts, ensure you don’t encounter any skipping problems, and avoid a variety of other pen complaints by using a little water or a pen flush. 

This is especially crucial if you frequently change your ink, as you could unintentionally create a mixture of unfavorable chemicals in your pen. 

There are many ways to make this task less taxing, including the use of a bulb syringe.

Airplane ink explosions 

Think carefully about how to prevent your fountain pen from leaking ink all over your luggage if you intend to bring it on a plane. 

A fountain pen can behave strangely due to fluctuations in cabin pressure! 

The pressure inside your pen is higher than the pressure outside of it as you take off because the cabin pressure decreases. Your pen releases air through the nib as the pressure equalizes. If the ink is in the way, it also lets it out, resulting in a leaky pen.

The easiest strategy to prevent ink explosions while on an aircraft is to thoroughly empty and clean your pen before flying. Another option is to keep it as fully filled with ink as you can. 

The likelihood of an ink chamber leakage decreases with the amount of air present.

Avoid these mistakes when using a fountain pen to ensure the best results 

So there you have it: some of the main mistakes you need to avoid when using your fountain pen. If you can avoid the errors we have mentioned above, you’ll give yourself the best chance of writing beautifully and ensuring your pens work effectively for years to come. 

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