How to Clean a Nib

Clean pen nibs to keep them working well.

Nibs are the metal, pointed part of fountain pens, and they allow you to control the look of your line as it is drawn on the paper. Nibs become stained with ink as you use them, and cleaning them is an important part of looking after your fountain pen. While there are commercial pen cleaners that you can use, you can also easily clean your pen nib with soap and water.

Things You'll Need

• Soft rag
• Cup
• Mild liquid soap
• Soft toothbrush

Instructions

1. Remove the nib from the pen.

2. Wipe off any excess ink with a soft rag.

3. Fill a cup with water and add a squirt of mild liquid soap.

4. Dip a soft toothbrush into the soapy solution.

5. Scrub the nib lightly with the soapy toothbrush until the ink is gone.

6. Rinse the ink nib in clean water.

7. Dry the nib with a soft cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• If the ink is dried to the nib, scrape it off with a utility knife or a scalpel.

• Add a splash of ammonia to the soapy water if you are working with a waterproof ink.

• Do not soak nibs for long periods in water, as they can rust.

References

• The Calligraphy Pen: Care and Feeding of the Calligraphy Pen
• Nibs: Pen Nib Care