If you have never used a fountain pen before, you may be curious about how it differs from the pens you use every day, and what it is like to write with one. This guide offers a clear introduction to fountain pen mechanics, the writing experience, and the small practical details that make the difference between frustration and pleasure.

The aim is not only to explain how a fountain pen works, but to help you understand how to work with it. When used as intended, a fountain pen becomes less of a magic tool for special occasions and more of a writing tool of daily choice, your hand reaches for every time you’re at your desk.

A brief note on perspective

I write for Scriveiner, and beyond my professional work, I have spent several years learning the ways of writing with fountain pens: how they behave, how they respond to different hands and papers, and how small adjustments in technique can change the experience entirely. Much of what follows comes from personal use, informed by long-standing fountain pen traditions and the shared knowledge of the wider writing community.

This guide is written for those at the beginning of that journey. 

How are fountain pens different from ballpoint pens?

Most pens in daily use are ballpoints or rollerballs. These rely on a small rotating ball at the tip to transfer ink to the paper. As the ball rolls, it deposits a controlled amount of ink, producing a consistent line regardless of angle or pressure.

Fountain pens function differently. Instead of a rolling ball, they use a shaped metal nib connected to an internal ink reservoir via a feed system. Ink moves from the reservoir to the nib through fine channels by capillary action: the natural tendency of liquid to travel through narrow spaces. The pen does not “push” ink onto the page; the ink flows gently to the point of contact.

This difference in delivery is central to the fountain pen experience. The pen responds more sensitively to angle, pressure, paper, and ink. In return, it offers a smoother, lighter, and more expressive writing feel.

How is a fountain pen constructed?

A fountain pen consists of two main parts: the body and the writing mechanism.

The body

The body encloses and protects the writing components. It typically comprises:

• The barrel (the rear section of the pen)

• The grip section (the part you hold while writing)

• The cap, which protects the nib and helps prevent the ink from drying when the pen is not in use

In the case of Scriveiner, the body is crafted from metal, though fountain pens may also be made from resin or other materials.

The writing mechanism

This is the functional heart of the pen and consists of:

• The nib – usually stainless steel or gold

• The feed – a precisely engineered plastic or ebonite component beneath the nib

• The ink reservoir – which may take the form of a cartridge, a removable converter, or a built-in filling system, depending on the pen design

On the opposite side of the metal nib, the plastic or ebonite feed system is located - a network of extremely fine channels designed to regulate ink flow while simultaneously allowing air to travel back into the reservoir to equalise pressure

Scriveiner fountain pens are supplied with removable screw-in converters, allowing you to use bottled ink, as well as standard cartridges for convenience. The threaded converter creates a secure seal between the ink reservoir, feed, and grip section, helping to prevent leakage during everyday use.

How does ink travel through a fountain pen?

Once inked, the pen draws ink from the reservoir into the feed. The feed contains a network of extremely fine channels designed to regulate ink flow while simultaneously allowing air to travel back into the reservoir to equalise pressure. This balance of ink and air is what enables consistent writing.

Ink moves through these channels by capillary action. As ink leaves the tip of the nib and meets the paper, more ink is gently drawn forward to replace it. This controlled, continuous flow is what gives fountain pens their characteristic smoothness and fluidity.

The nib itself plays a final, critical role. Its central slit acts as an additional channel for ink flow, while the rounded tipping at the point determines line width and smoothness. Different nib sizes produce different line widths and levels of tactile feedback. For those beginning their fountain pen journey, Fine and Medium nibs offer a balanced, versatile writing experience.

Each element of the fountain pen is engineered for function. These instruments are designed not as ornaments, but as durable writing tools intended for regular use.

How does writing with a fountain pen feel?

Writing instruments are often judged by four qualities:

• Consistency – how evenly the pen lays down ink

• Smoothness – how the nib glides across the page

• Effortlessness – how much pressure is required

• Feedback – the tactile sensation of the paper beneath the nib

Compared to most ballpoint pens, fountain pens require very little pressure. The weight of the pen and the natural flow of ink do much of the work. The result is a lighter, less fatiguing writing experience, particularly over longer sessions.

Feedback varies according to nib size and paper texture. Finer nibs and more textured papers offer more tactile sensation; broader nibs and smoother papers glide more freely. Neither is objectively better; it is largely a matter of personal preference.

Two practical considerations will noticeably improve your experience:

Writing angle

Fountain pens perform best when held at a moderate angle to the paper: approximately 45 degrees. This allows the rounded tipping of the nib to meet the page as intended, producing a smooth, even line.

In contrast to the roller pens, whose performance does not depend on the angle, fountain pens are sensitive to the angle at which you hold them. The golden point is at around 45 degrees.

Pressure

Unlike ballpoints, fountain pens do not benefit from downward force. Excess pressure can make writing feel scratchy and may damage the nib over time. A relaxed grip and a light hand are sufficient. With practice, writing becomes slower, steadier, and more deliberate. This is a change many find so restorative in a fast, digital world.

Can I use a fountain pen on any paper?

In principle, a fountain pen will write on most papers. In practice, the quality of the experience depends greatly on the surface beneath the nib. Fountain pen ink is water-based and more liquid than the oil-based inks used in ballpoint pens. As a result, paper choice influences line clarity, smoothness, and whether ink bleeds or feathers.

For consistently clean, legible writing, it is worth choosing what is often described as fountain pen-friendly paper. This refers not to a specific brand, but to certain physical properties of the paper.

What makes paper suitable for fountain pens

• Surface sizing (treatment)
  Fountain pen-friendly paper is treated to slow ink absorption slightly. This prevents the ink from spreading along the fibres of the paper, a phenomenon known as feathering, and helps maintain crisp letterforms.
  

• Even surface
  The paper does not need to be glossy, but it should feel smooth and uniform. An uneven surface can cause the nib to catch on fibres, producing a scratchy sensation and inconsistent lines.
  

• Weight and density
  Heavier paper generally resists bleed-through and show-through (often referred to as “ghosting”) more effectively. While thickness alone does not determine ink performance, papers in the range of approximately 80–100 gsm tend to offer a comfortable balance for everyday writing.
  
  

It is worth noting that excellent fountain pen papers also exist below this range. In such cases, surface treatment and fibre structure compensate for the lower weight. Paper quality is the result of several interacting properties rather than a single specification.

How can I recognise fountain pen-friendly paper?

Manufacturers of high-quality notebooks and journals often indicate whether a paper is suitable for fountain pens. Terms such as “fountain pen friendly,” “smooth finish,” “ink-safe,” or “satin finish” usually signal that the paper has been surface-sized.

In the fountain pen community, papers from brands such as Midori, Clairefontaine, Rhodia, Maruman, Tomoe River, and others are frequently mentioned for their reliable performance. These papers are valued not for their appearance alone, but for their ability to maintain clean lines and consistent ink flow.

It is also worth noting that colour alone does not determine suitability. Cream or ivory papers can perform just as well as white papers when properly treated. Likewise, whether paper is recycled or made from virgin fibres tells you little about how it will behave with liquid ink; surface treatment and density are far more important.

What paper should I avoid?

Certain papers are more likely to produce disappointing results with fountain pens:

• Standard office copy paper
  Typically designed for ballpoints and printers, this paper is often absorbent and minimally sized. Fountain pen ink may feather, bleed through, or appear uneven.
  

• Highly fibrous or coarse paper
  Rough paper surfaces can interfere with smooth ink flow and accelerate nib wear.
  

• Papers designed for coated or oil-based inks
  Some speciality papers are optimised for ballpoints or technical pens rather than water-based fountain pen inks.

Choosing the right ink

To write with a fountain pen, you must use ink formulated specifically for fountain pens. While many liquids are described as “ink” in everyday language, their chemical composition varies widely.

Fountain pen ink is:

• Water-based

• Low in viscosity, allowing it to flow through fine channels

• Designed to remain liquid within the pen while drying predictably on paper
  

Inks to avoid

• India or calligraphy ink
  Often contains shellac or waterproof binders designed for dip pens or brushes. These inks dry within the feed system and can permanently clog the pen.

• Acrylic ink
  Contains polymer binders that solidify as they dry, rendering the pen unusable.

When purchasing ink, look specifically for bottles or cartridges labelled as fountain pen ink. This alone is sufficient guidance when starting out.

Scriveiner pens are supplied with pre-filled cartridges and a converter, allowing you to use either cartridges for convenience or bottled ink for greater choice and personalisation.

Installing a pre-filled cartridge

Pre-filled cartridges are sealed ink vessels with a small membrane at the neck. To install one:

1. Unscrew the barrel from the grip section.

2. Insert the cartridge firmly into the grip section.

3. Press gently until you feel a soft resistance as the internal seal is pierced.
   

Once installed, allow a short moment for the ink to saturate the feed before writing. If the pen does not write immediately, a few light strokes on paper will usually start the flow.

Using and filling the converter

A converter functions much like a small piston syringe. By turning the knob, you move a piston within the chamber, expelling air and drawing ink into the reservoir.

Scriveiner fountain pens are supplied with threaded converters, which screw securely into the grip section and provide a reliable seal.

Installing the converter

• Screw the converter gently into the grip section.

• Do not overtighten; firm contact is sufficient to ensure a proper seal.

Filling the converter

There are two common methods:

1. Filling the converter outside the pen
This method is useful when cleaning or changing inks.

• Ensure the converter is empty and dry.

• Submerge the metal tip of the converter into the ink bottle.

• Turn the knob to draw ink into the chamber.

• Wipe away any excess ink before reinstalling the converter into the pen.

2. Filling the converter while attached to the pen
This method is convenient for refilling with the same ink.

• Submerge the nib fully into the ink bottle.

• Turn the converter knob to draw ink through the nib and feed.

• Remove the pen from the bottle and gently wipe the nib clean.

In both cases, avoid drawing ink back from the converter into the bottle, as this may introduce contaminants. If you wish to test a new ink, fill only a small amount to minimise waste and reduce the need for thorough cleaning.

Fountain Pen Maintenance Made Simple

A well-made fountain pen is a practical writing instrument, not a delicate ornament. When used regularly and maintained with basic care, it will remain reliable for many years. Maintenance is not complex; it is simply a matter of keeping the ink path clean and the exterior in good condition.

There are two areas to consider:

• The writing mechanism (nib, feed, and converter)

• The pen body

Caring for the nib, feed, and converter

Because fountain pen ink is water-based, routine cleaning requires little more than clean water and time. The purpose of cleaning is to remove dried ink residue, which can restrict ink flow and affect writing performance.

Routine cleaning (between inks or after extended use)

1. Unscrew the barrel and remove the converter or cartridge. The grip section (which holds the nib and feed) is the only part that needs to be cleaned now.

2. Rinse the nib and feed under gently running lukewarm water. At first, the water may run dark with residual ink. Continue until it runs clear.

3. Clean the converter separately by drawing clean water in and out several times. This flushes ink residue from the chamber and piston mechanism.

4. Allow the components to air-dry fully, or gently blot excess moisture with a soft, lint-free cloth. Ensure the pen is dry before reassembling and refilling.

Deeper cleaning (after long periods of disuse or dried ink)

If a pen has been left unused and ink has dried in the feed, a short soak is sufficient:

• Place the grip section (with nib and feed) in a glass of lukewarm water for several minutes.

• After soaking, rinse under running water until clean.

• Repeat if necessary, allowing the pen to soak longer if ink residue persists.

This method is safe for routine maintenance and restores normal ink flow in most cases.

Cleaning practices to avoid

Certain methods are unnecessary for everyday care and may damage finishes or components over time:

• Harsh solvents or strong detergents. These can degrade internal seals and affect surface finishes. Clean water or very mild soap is sufficient.

• Boiling or very hot water. Excessive heat can warp plastic components and damage internal tolerances.

• Ultrasonic cleaners. While sometimes used by specialists, ultrasonic cleaning is rarely necessary for routine maintenance and may damage plated nib finishes or loosen delicate components if used improperly.

In most cases, patience and warm water are all that is required.

Caring for the pen body

The exterior of a fountain pen benefits from occasional, simple care:

• Wipe the body with a soft, dry cloth to remove fingerprints and moisture.

• If needed, use a lightly dampened cloth, followed by drying with a clean, soft cloth.

• Avoid abrasive materials or polishes not intended for metal or lacquered finishes.

When not in use, store the pen capped to protect the nib and slow ink evaporation. For extended periods of storage, it is advisable to empty and clean the pen beforehand.

A final note for those just beginning

If you are approaching fountain pens as something unfamiliar or even slightly intimidating, it is worth remembering that there is nothing particularly demanding about them. You do not need special skill, refined handwriting, or a collector’s mindset to begin. A fountain pen is simply another way to put ink on paper. The difference is that it invites you to slow down just enough to notice the act of writing again.

For some, that slowing down becomes a small, practical form of grounding. The pen asks for a lighter hand, a steadier movement, a little more attention to the moment. There is no expectation of ceremony in this, only the possibility of turning an everyday habit into something more intentional. A few lines in a notebook. A list written with care. A page filled without hurry.

If you are exploring fountain pens out of curiosity, or as part of a broader wish to be more present in your daily routines, you are already approaching them in the right way. There is nothing to “master” at the beginning. The familiarity comes naturally, through ordinary use. Over time, the pen becomes unremarkable in the best sense: a quiet, reliable tool that supports your thoughts as they take shape on the page.

Whatever you are looking for, we hope you will find your pen. If it happens to be a Scriveiner pen, we will have done our part.