A Beginner's Guide to Choosing Complementary Fountain Pens and Inks

Fountain pens are not just writing tools; they are personal items that require a certain amount of care and attention. When choosing your first fountain pen and ink, it is important to consider various factors to ensure a harmonious experience. This guide will offer practical advice for beginners to help you select the best fountain pen and ink that complement each other.

Cost Considerations

Choosing a fountain pen and ink can seem like an overwhelming task, especially as there are numerous brands and styles available. However, it is essential to start with something that fits your budget and allows you to explore the world of fountain pens without breaking the bank.

Relatively Inexpensive Fountain Pens: A good starting point is to choose a relatively inexpensive fountain pen. The Pilot Preppy and Lamy Safari are popular choices and cost around $12 each on Amazon. Both pens are well-regarded for their writing quality and are excellent for learning how to use a fountain pen. The Lamy Safari has a unique grip that encourages a proper pen grip, making it a comfortable choice for beginners.

Ink Converters and Environmental Impact

One important aspect to consider is the ink converter. An ink converter is a tool that enables you to use bottled ink instead of disposable cartridges. This choice not only reduces waste but also aligns with a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to fountain pen ownership.

Fast Drying Inks: A fast-drying ink like the Pelikan 4001 is highly recommended. This ink costs around $10 per bottle and can last up to two years with moderate use. It is unlikely to clog up the fountain pen unless the ink is allowed to dry up inside the pen. If this happens, overnight cleaning is usually sufficient to resolve the issue.

Care and Maintenance

While fountain pens require relatively little care, it is important to maintain them properly to ensure they continue to write well. Here are some tips for proper care and maintenance:

Avoid allowing ink to dry up in the pen: Always ink the fountain pen only when you plan to use it. If you have multiple fountain pens, rotate them to ensure they are regularly used. Nib Care: The nib is the most crucial part of any fountain pen. Handle it with care and avoid lending it out. Accidents can happen, such as damaging the nib through drops or excessive pressure. A disposable ballpoint pen can serve as a handy backup.

For daily use, it might be a good idea to have a dedicated, inexpensive fountain pen that you can carry with you. This pen should be inexpensive enough that losing it won't significantly impact your finances.

Luxury Writer: A Special Fountain Pen

For more advanced users, a luxury fountain pen can be a significant investment. Most avid fountain pen enthusiasts will have a favorite expensive pen. A personal favorite is the Pelikan M800, which is part of a collection over 20 years old. The pen has aged well and still provides immense pleasure to write with, not to mention its sentimental value.

While such a pen is relatively expensive and is often kept in a safe place like the office or home, it can yield great enjoyment and satisfaction. The gold nib, overlaid with Rhodium, is a true work of art that reflects the high standards of quality in fountain pen craftsmanship.

Conclusion: Embrace Better Writing in a World of Disposables

In our rapidly disposable world, fountain pens offer a timeless value that can bring joy and pleasure with every word. Consider sending a handwritten note or letter to someone special. It is a gesture that will be cherished, and the quality of writing with a fine fountain pen will make your message even more meaningful.