How to fill the converter in your scriveiner fountain pen

Many see a fountain pen converter as a technical component, but at Scriveiner, we see it as an invitation to choice.

Unlike disposable cartridges, a converter allows you to decide what ink you write with, and when you change it. It gives you access to a world of colours, properties, and moods: deep archival blacks, expressive blues, subtle greens, or seasonal limited editions. Over time, this freedom becomes part of the pleasure of writing itself.

Converters also encourage better pen care. They make cleaning easier, reduce waste, and allow your fountain pen to evolve alongside your taste. In short, they place you firmly in charge of your writing experience — and that is why converters remain the preferred choice of experienced fountain-pen users.

How to fill the converter

There are two correct ways to fill a fountain pen converter. The best method depends on when you are filling it and why.

filling the converter while it is out of the pen

Method:

Best suited to: pen care routines, thorough cleaning, or fitting a new converter

1. Begin with a clean, empty converter.

2. Gently twist the knob at the back to expel any remaining air or moisture.

3. Dip the metal tip of the converter lightly into the ink bottle.

4. Keeping the tip submerged, rotate the knob to draw ink into the converter.

5. Remove the converter from the bottle and wipe the tip carefully with a soft cloth.

6. Screw the filled converter securely into the pen section.

An expert note:

As the converter is filled outside the pen, the feed will not yet be saturated. Once assembled, allow the pen to rest nib-down for a moment, or turn the converter gently, to introduce ink to the nib before writing.

Time and feel:

This approach is unhurried and deliberate, particularly satisfying during pen care routines.

filling the converter while it is in the pen

Method:

Best suited to: everyday refilling and topping up the ink

1. Unscrew the barrel to reveal the converter.

2. If the converter is empty and clean, rotate the knob to release the air inside.
   – if ink remains, hold the pen nib-up briefly, allowing the ink to settle naturally, then release some air.

3. Immerse the nib in the ink bottle, ensuring the feed and breather hole are fully submerged.

4. Turn the knob to draw ink smoothly into the converter.

5. Lift the pen from the bottle and wipe the nib and section with a soft cloth or a napkin.

6. Screw the barrel back into place.

Why many prefer this method:

Filling the converter while it is attached to the pen draws ink through the feed, immediately preparing the nib and making it the most intuitive option for daily use.

If you need additional guidance, please watch this clip:

about Scriveiner fountain pen converters

Scriveiner fountain pens are supplied with screw-in converters, manufactured by a respected partner in Germany.

We chose this design deliberately. A screw-in converter creates a more secure seal between the converter and the feed, reducing the risk of leaks and improving long-term reliability — especially important for daily writers and travel use.

That said, Scriveiner fountain pens are also compatible with international standard push-in converters, should you prefer that option. This compatibility applies to both the Classic and Pocket Pen collections, despite the smaller size of the latter.

Enjoy your pen!

Filling a fountain pen converter may feel unfamiliar at first, but it quickly becomes second nature. Take your time, work calmly, and enjoy the small ritual — it is part of what makes fountain-pen writing slower, more deliberate, and more rewarding.

Your Scriveiner fountain pen is designed to be forgiving and easy to use. With a little practice, filling the converter becomes not a task, but a quiet moment of preparation before putting thoughts to paper.