A fountain pen costs little to start with, lasts for decades and makes ordinary writing feel deliberate. Choosing one comes down to the nib, the filling system and the paper.
The nib decides how it feels
Nibs come in widths, usually marked EF (extra fine), F (fine), M (medium) and B (broad). Fine nibs suit small handwriting and everyday notes. Medium nibs give a smoother, wetter line and show off the ink. Makers' widths vary, so a fine nib from one brand may write wider than another's. If you can, try the pen on paper before you buy.
Three ways to fill a pen
- Cartridge: the simplest. Snap in a pre-filled cartridge and write.
- Converter: a small refillable chamber that lets you use bottled ink.
- Piston or built-in filler: holds more ink and is part of the pen itself.
For a first pen, a cartridge-and-converter model is the most flexible. You can start easily and move to bottled ink when you want colour.
Weight, balance and size
Hold it as you would to write. A pen that feels slightly large in a shop usually feels right after a week. A very heavy pen tires the hand during a long meeting. Cap on or off, it should sit comfortably in your fingers.
Ink and paper
Use ink made for fountain pens only. Other inks, such as drawing or calligraphy inks, can clog the feed. Smooth, good-quality paper stops the ink from spreading and showing through the page. A cheap notebook is the most common reason a good pen disappoints.
Looking after it
- Write with it regularly, because a pen left unused will dry out.
- Rinse it with clean water every few weeks and before changing ink colours.
- Cap it when you are not writing, and store it flat or nib up.
- Keep it away from heat and direct sun.
A pen as a gift
A pen is a quiet, personal gift for a promotion, a new role or a closed deal. Add a small bottle of ink and a note. Engraving is a nice touch, but it makes the pen harder to return, so be sure first.
Choose a pen that is comfortable, reliable and yours. The best signature in the room is rarely the most expensive one.
