Fountain Pen Information
Many serious writers regard the Fountain Pen to be the best tool for writing. Fountain pens require less hand pressure when writing than either ballpoint or rollerball pens, providing less hand fatigue and longer, more comfortable writing sessions. The price of a fountain pen depends on the quality of the nib, the beauty of the casing, and the rarity, such as a Limited Edition.
Nibs may be made of stainless steel, which is harder and less flexible than gold, but not as durable. Gold-plated nibs take longer to corrode, but may not be more flexible. Nibs that are 14 ct or 18 ct gold are of higher quality and are more flexible to adapt to the style of the writer. Rigid nibs may be best for the heavy-handed, who may "splay" an open nib with too much pressure. Nibs come in a variety of sizes from extra fine to broad. Oblique nibs are intended for left-handed writers or those who tilt their pen at an angle. Broad calligraphy pens may have several slits in the nib to increase ink flow across the point. "Music nibs" are divided into three "tines" and are well suited for writing musical scores.
After centuries of using quill pens that required constant dipping into ink, the hollow tube in the feather gave birth to the idea of a self-contained reservoir for the ink supply. In the 1950's the disposable ink cartridge was introduced. This was a great improvement for the fountain pen and is still popular today. To use ink cartridges, first make sure that it is the correct cartridge for the brand pen you have. Point the pen away from you while removing the old cartridge. Insert the new one, pushing gently to break the seal. If it doesn’t start flowing immediately, give the cartridge a little squeeze and maybe apply just a little moisture to the nib to provide "wicking".
Converters take the place of ink cartridges and are filled from a bottle of ink. The point of the pen should be immersed in the ink and the knob should be twisted until the piston is all the way down before slowly drawing it up. PenCity offers a wide choice of bottled ink colors.
Fountain pens can be cleaned by flushing with lukewarm water. The nib can be soaked overnight if necessary. Never use any type of cleaning solution. You should clean the pen before you change colors of ink, and periodically if you use the pen regularly. Always fully fill your fountain pen when traveling by air.
Although ball point and roller ball pens have become popular substitutes for fountain pens, the fountain pen remains a classic, with a nostalgic quality. They are now one of the hottest items on the collectibles market. PenCity offers a variety of brands featuring beautiful fountain pens at a good range of prices.
For vintage pen repairs and nib adjustments click here.
