How to Write With a Fountain Pen

In 1884 the fountain pen was invented by Lewis Waterman. It was designed after the feather quill pen. Waterman found a way to use the concept of the feather quill without having to constantly "re-ink" the pen. Here are some tips on how to write with a fountain pen.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fountain Pen

1. Assume the position. The proper way to hold a fountain pen is to form a triangle with your index finger, middle finger and your thumb. Place the fountain pen in that grip.

2. Make sure the pen is in the proper position. The nib, which is the tip of the pen should be pointed in the upright position. The feed, which is the base of the nib should be down. Holding the pen "upside down" so that the tip is in the air, will naturally place the pen in the correct position.

3. Place the cap on the pen. Believe it or not, the balance of the fountain pen is partially dependant on placement of the cap on the back of the pen while you write. The clip of the pen should align with the nib and face out from your grip of the pen.

4. Write with your fountain pen! You are now ready to place pen to paper. Write until the ink begins to become thin. If it becomes thick, tip the nib up, wait a moment, and then replace it on the paper. If it becomes thin and dry, you might be ready for a new ink cartridge.

Tips & Warnings

• Fountain pens come in a wide variety. Some brands, such as Parker and Lamy use full-sized ink cartridges. These are cartridges that fill the entire barrel of the pen. Most other fountain pen brands including Mont Blanc and Delta, use smaller cartridges called mini-cartridges. Check your brand name to see how to properly refill your pen.
• Do not use "India Ink!" Fountain pen ink is a water based ink. Indian Ink is lacquer based and will seize the pen by clogging it.
• Don't place the pen in your pocket. While high priced fountain pens should not leak, don't take the chance. Because ink is always wet at the nib (the tip), fountain pens have been known to leak. Make sure it is carried in a case, placed upright in your pocket, or left on your desk!

[newttyy]

on 7/14/2008 You might want to get your story straight ... the world's first inventor of the fountain pen was Petrache Poenaru - "http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petrache_Poenaru".

[asamsky]

on 7/26/2007 Excellent article! The only thing I could think to add is: don't press hard! If you're used to writing with a ball point or rollerball pen, you may press much harder than you have to. The fountain pen should really glide on a cushion of ink over the paper, not dig into the surface like a ball point.