There’s something timeless about putting pen to paper—but when that pen is a fountain pen, writing becomes a whole new experience. In our previous guide, we covered the basics of fountain pens. This week, we'll walk you through the essentials of using a fountain pen, from understanding how they work to offering helpful tips on writing and care.

Why Use a Fountain Pen?

People turn to fountain pens for all kinds of reasons like comfort, style, and even health. For some, it’s the ease of writing without pressing down hard, a major relief for anyone with hand pain or conditions. Others love the wide range of ink colors or the way different nibs change the look and feel of their writing.

Here are a few benefits that stand out:

• Reduced Hand Strain: Fountain pens glide across paper with little to no pressure. This makes writing more comfortable, especially for long sessions.

• Customizable Writing Experience: Choose from different nib sizes, ink types, and barrel styles to suit your taste.

• Eco-Friendly: Unlike disposable pens, many fountain pens are refillable and last for years.

• Beautiful Results: The smooth ink flow and bold strokes add character to handwriting, making even a grocery list look a little classier.

Getting Started with Your Fountain Pen

Using a fountain pen might seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually pretty straightforward.

Step 1: Understanding Fountain Pen Filling Systems

Fountain pens come in a few different filling systems, and understanding how each one works will help you choose the right setup for your writing needs. Each system includes the same basic parts: a pen body, nib, and feed, but the way you load the ink changes your overall experience.

Cartridge System

Cartridge-style pens use small, disposable tubes pre-filled with ink. Fountain Pens like Kaweco Classic Sport Fountain Pen come with one standard international cartridge so you can start writing right away. What’s even better is this system is compatible with bottled inks that are sold separately if you choose to refill later. 

They're travel-friendly and eliminate the hassle of using bottled ink. However, the limited ink color options and the potential waste from disposable cartridges (unless you refill them) are something to keep in mind. It’s a small trade-off for the simplicity they offer.

Tip: Save your used cartridges! With a blunt syringe and a bottle of your favorite ink, you can refill them multiple times. It’s more sustainable, but it can be fiddly when you’re in a rush.

Converter System

Converter pens use a refillable internal chamber that pulls ink from a bottle through the nib using a twist or piston mechanism. Inside, you’ll find the same nib and feed, but instead of a cartridge, a converter connects to the grip section and acts like a mini piston. 

Our Wood & Brass Fountain Pen from the Intention Pen Set | December 2024 has this system allowing you to pair it with any bottled ink. If you enjoy journaling, planning, or art, this system lets you customize your writing experience to match your mood or style with many ink options available in the market. Just keep in mind that it takes more time and care to refill a converter pen, and they do need to be cleaned more often, especially if you change colors frequently.

Tip: Converter pens offer color freedom, but you'll need bottled ink and a little workspace to refill cleanly. If you're in a rush or traveling, consider having a backup pen ready.

Hybrid (Cartridge + Converter) System

Some pens are designed to work with both cartridges and converters, giving you the flexibility to switch based on your needs. They feature a universal grip section that accepts either a cartridge or a converter, and the rest like the nib, feed, barrel, and cap remains the same.

The Scriveiner EDC Fountain Pen has the same system and includes both a cartridge and a converter in the packaging, giving you the freedom to write right out of the box—or explore bottled ink whenever you're ready. It’s a great option for beginners who want to start simple but plan to explore more advanced features later. They’re also perfect for switching between everyday use and creative expression. 

The added flexibility can be slightly more expensive, and keeping track of both ink types might be a bit more work for new users. So start with the cartridge to get familiar, then switch to the converter when you're ready to try new inks. Just remember: converters don’t come pre-filled; you’ll need bottled ink and a bit of patience.

Step 2: Getting Your Fountain Pen Ready

No matter which ink system you're using, these steps will help you prep your pen, feed the ink, and settle it for a smooth writing experience. 

1. Prepping the Pen for Refilling Ink

First, ensure the nib is securely attached to the body of the pen. If you're using a converter, make sure it's tightly screwed into place so no ink can leak. When inserting a cartridge, push it in until you hear a small click, which means it’s fully seated and ready to go. If you're working with a converter, twist or push the plunger all the way down before dipping the nib into ink.

2. Feeding the Ink

Once the pen is properly set up, you can begin feeding ink. For cartridge pens, it’s usually a simple matter of letting the ink flow as you write—just start gently scribbling on a scrap piece of paper to get the ink moving. If you’re using a converter, dip the nib into the ink bottle and twist the piston to draw up ink. Watch for ink to fill the converter, and make sure it’s fully submerged to avoid air pockets.

3. Settling the Ink

Give the ink a minute to settle into the nib and feed. This step usually takes around 30 seconds to a minute. Hold the pen nib-down for a few seconds to let the ink evenly flow. If you're testing on paper, give it a scratch and slowly glide the nib to see if the ink flows smoothly without skipping or blotting. If it does, you're good to go!

Tip: If ink doesn’t flow after setup, gently squeeze the cartridge / converter or give the pen a gentle shake to start capillary action.

This should set your fountain pen up perfectly to begin writing! Just remember, getting the ink into the nib and ensuring it’s flowing properly can take a little time and patience, but once it's set, you’ll be ready to enjoy smooth, effortless writing.

Step 3: Writing Tips for a Smooth Experience

Before you start writing, take a moment to check your pen. Is the ink flowing smoothly? Is the nib clean and free of dried ink? These quick checks take only seconds but can make a big difference in your writing experience.

Get comfortable: Writing with a fountain pen should feel relaxed. Hold the pen gently between your fingers at a natural slant, like you would a chopstick or paintbrush. There's no need for a tight grip. Use a light hand with finer nibs for clean, delicate lines. For broader strokes, a medium or broad nib works well. Just avoid pressing too hard or writing too fast as it can cause ink pooling or skipping.

Feeling cramped? Try adjusting your grip slightly farther back from the nib to ease tension in your hand. You can also “post” the cap on the back of the pen for added balance, but make sure it’s aligned properly, as a misaligned cap can throw off your writing rhythm.

Dry time matters: Most inks dry in about 10 to 30 seconds, depending on the paper and ink flow. If you're left-handed or jotting quick notes, consider using quick-drying ink to help prevent smudging.

Proper Storage: Store your pen horizontally in a soft-lined case or drawer to prevent ink from pooling. Always make sure the cap is on tightly to avoid the ink drying out and clogging the nib.

Paper makes a difference: If your ink feathers or bleeds through, your paper might be too absorbent. Look for paper made specifically for fountain pens as it helps your lines stay sharp and brings out the full character of your ink.

 

Step 4: Care and Maintenance

A well-maintained fountain pen will reward you with years of smooth writing. Here’s how to keep yours in top shape.

1. If your pen starts skipping or the ink flow feels off, it’s time for a quick clean. Start by removing the ink cartridge or converter to prevent leaks. Soak the nib in a cup of clean water (nib-down) or flush the nib with water. Avoid hot water or soap, as they can damage delicate nibs and feeds. Stick to room-temperature or slightly lukewarm water for the best results.
   
   Do this every 4 to 8 weeks, or sooner if you switch ink colors. This helps prevent dried ink from clogging the nib and ensures smooth ink flow.

2. If you notice ink clumping, rinse the nib with water. This can prevent the ink from drying inside, keeping the nib clean and ready for use.
   

3. For a deeper clean, use a bulb syringe to flush the nib and feed. Fill the syringe with water, press it snugly against the nib unit, and gently squeeze to force water through. This method helps clear stubborn ink residue or tiny debris that regular rinsing might miss.

Let the parts dry naturally overnight (no heat!). If you’re in a hurry, gently dab with a lint-free cloth or cotton swab with light pressure to avoid stray fibers catching in the pen’s delicate parts. 

 

Explore Nibs and Inks

The nib and the ink are what give a fountain pen its character. Nibs come in different sizes that change how your writing looks—some are fine and precise, while others are broader and more expressive. Most are made from steel, which is sturdy and consistent, though gold nibs offer a softer, slightly springier feel. It all depends on what feels best in your hand and fits your writing style.

Inks add even more personality. Some are rich and classic, like deep black or navy, while others lean bright, moody, or shimmering. There are fade-resistant inks for keeping your journals safe over time, and waterproof ones perfect for sketching or layering with watercolors. Finding your favorite combo might take a little experimenting, but that’s part of the charm. 

The Joy is in the Details

Writing with a fountain pen is a quiet act of intention—an invitation to slow down, notice the details, and stay present with your thoughts. Find the pen that fits your style, the ink that suits your mood, the paper that ties it all together. Let it become part of a routine that’s just for you—whether it’s for reflection, creativity, or the simple joy of writing.

Explore our shop to find the right tools for your personal writing journey. Each piece has been thoughtfully chosen to help elevate your experience. So take a look, and see what inspires you! Whether you're just getting started or rediscovering the magic of pen and paper, there’s something here to bring your words to life.

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