Fountain Pen FAQs

Welcome to the FAQ page for fountain pens! Whether you're new to using fountain pens or a seasoned user, this page is designed to provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your writing experience. From the basics of how a fountain pen works to troubleshooting common issues, this page is your go-to source for all things fountain pens. If you have questions about the different types of nibs, the best way to fill your pen, or how to maintain and clean it, you'll find the answers here. We hope that this page helps you get the most out of your fountain pen, and that it inspires you to explore the world of calligraphy and beautiful handwriting.

For fountain pen care and instructions, click here.

Why is my fountain pen not writing?

1. Ink is low: Check the ink levels in the pen and refill if necessary.
2. Clogged nib: Sometimes the nib can become clogged with dried ink, preventing the flow of ink. Clean the nib with water and dry it with a soft cloth.
3. Air bubble in the ink: An air bubble in the ink can also cause the pen to stop writing. Gently tap the pen to remove the air bubble.
4. Damaged nib: If the nib is damaged, it may not be able to produce a proper flow of ink. Check the nib for any bends or cracks and replace if necessary.
5. Improper ink-pen combination: Some inks are not compatible with certain fountain pens. Try using a different ink or pen to see if it resolves the issue.
6. Dried ink in the feed: Dried ink can clog the feed, preventing the flow of ink to the nib. Clean the feed with water and dry it with a soft cloth.

If none of these solutions solve the issue, it may be necessary to take the pen to a professional for repair.

Why is my fountain pen skipping?

A fountain pen can skip for several reasons:

1. Poor quality paper: Some papers are not smooth enough, which can cause the nib to skip. Try using a higher quality paper or a different paper type.
2. Dirty or clogged nib: A dirty or clogged nib can cause skipping. Clean the nib with water and dry it with a soft cloth.
3. Incorrect angle: Hold the pen at the correct angle to ensure a smooth flow of ink.
4. Dry nib: If the nib is dry, it can cause skipping. Try warming the nib with your breath or dipping it in water before writing.
5. Low ink level: If the ink level is low, the pen may skip. Refill the pen with more ink.
6. Inconsistent ink flow: An inconsistent ink flow can cause skipping. Make sure the ink flow is steady and consistent by cleaning the feed and nib.
7. Hard pressure: Applying too much pressure while writing can cause skipping. Use a lighter touch to avoid skipping.

Why is my fountain pen leaking?

1. Overfilled ink: Overfilling the pen with ink can cause it to leak. Make sure to fill the pen with the appropriate amount of ink.
2. Damaged ink cartridges or converters: If the ink cartridges or converters are damaged, they can leak ink. Replace the cartridges or converters if necessary.
3. Incorrect storage: Storing the pen with the nib facing downwards can cause ink to leak out. Store the pen with the nib facing upwards to prevent leaking.
4. Poorly made pen: Some fountain pens are not well made and can leak as a result. Consider purchasing a higher quality pen.
5. Nib problems: A damaged or bent nib can cause the pen to leak. Check the nib for any damages and replace if necessary.
6. Ink incompatibility: Some inks are not compatible with certain fountain pens and can cause them to leak. Use a different ink or pen to see if it resolves the issue.
7. Environmental factors: Changes in temperature or air pressure can cause the pen to leak. Try to keep the pen in a consistent environment to prevent leaking.

Why is my fountain pen blotting?

1. Overfilled ink: Overfilling the pen with ink can cause the ink to overflow and blot. Make sure to fill the pen with the appropriate amount of ink.
2. Poor quality paper: Some papers are not absorbent enough and can cause the ink to blot. Try using a higher quality paper or a different paper type.
3. Damp paper: Writing on damp paper can cause the ink to blot. Wait for the paper to dry before writing.
4. Incorrect angle: Holding the pen at an incorrect angle can cause the ink to blot. Hold the pen at the correct angle to ensure a clean line.
5. Hard pressure: Applying too much pressure while writing can cause the ink to blot. Use a lighter touch to avoid blotting.
6. Inconsistent ink flow: An inconsistent ink flow can cause the pen to blot. Make sure the ink flow is steady and consistent by cleaning the feed and nib.
7. Dirty or clogged nib: A dirty or clogged nib can cause the ink to blot. Clean the nib with water and dry it with a soft cloth.

Why is my fountain pen producing a scratchy line?

1. Rough paper: Writing on rough or low-quality paper can cause the nib to produce a scratchy line. Try using a higher quality paper or a different paper type.
2. Dirty or clogged nib: A dirty or clogged nib can cause the pen to produce a scratchy line. Clean the nib with water and dry it with a soft cloth.
3. Hard pressure: Applying too much pressure while writing can cause the pen to produce a scratchy line. Use a lighter touch to avoid a scratchy line.
4. Bent nib: A bent nib can cause the pen to produce a scratchy line. Check the nib for any damages and replace if necessary.
5. Ink incompatibility: Some inks are not compatible with certain fountain pens and can cause them to produce a scratchy line. Use a different ink or pen to see if it resolves the issue.
6. Dry nib: If the nib is dry, it can produce a scratchy line. Try warming the nib with your breath or dipping it in water before writing.
7. Inconsistent ink flow: An inconsistent ink flow can cause the pen to produce a scratchy line. Make sure the ink flow is steady and consistent by cleaning the feed and nib.

How do I remove ink stains from my clothes or paper?

Ink stains can be a frustrating and unsightly problem, but with the right approach, they can often be removed. Whether you've spilled ink on your clothes or have a smudge on a precious piece of paper, there are several methods you can try to remove the stain. Here are some tips for removing ink stains from different surfaces:

1. Clothes: Blot the stain with a clean cloth to remove as much of the ink as possible. Next, try using rubbing alcohol or hairspray to dissolve the stain. Let the alcohol or hairspray sit on the stain for a few minutes, then wash the clothing in cold water.
2. Paper: For a smudge or stain on paper, try using a white eraser or a gum eraser to gently rub the stain away. If the stain is stubborn, try soaking the paper in milk for 30 minutes, then rinse with water and dry.
3. Upholstery: For ink stains on upholstery, try using a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar. Dab the solution onto the stain and let it sit for several minutes, then blot the stain with a clean cloth. Repeat until the stain is removed.

By using these tips, you can remove ink stains from a variety of surfaces and restore your belongings to their original condition.