The Jotted Line

Let’s talk about how to erase pen ink using different methods. All of them are quite simple to apply—you just need to be gentle and patient to avoid tearing through the paper. I will cover: Solvent Methods Rubbing Alcohol Acetone Brake Fluid At Home Methods Lemon Juice Baking Soda Scratch Methods X-Acto Knife Sand Eraser Cover Up Methods Liquid Paper Correction Tape Draw Over Before I go into the different techniques, let’s look at some of the precautions to take ahead of the erasing process. Before You Erase When using liquid or paste removers, apply them a little at a time to avoid soaking the paper and warping it. Also, some methods can damage paper, especially if it is thin. Warping, tearing, and discoloration are potential issues to be aware of when working with fragile paper. Always test your method on a spare paper or a small area first before working on the main area you want to remove ink from. This way, you can see whether the paper responds well to the method or not. Keep personal safety in mind as well. Solvents such as acetone and brake fluid require proper ventilation and gloves to avoid health risks. In addition, fresher ink is more likely to be easy to remove than older ink that’s set in. Because of this, the method you use may have varying levels of effectiveness. Sometimes, ink removal methods don’t completely eliminate the ink and may leave traces behind, especially for dark ink. If the document you’re working on is valuable, for example legal papers or sentimental documents, consider seeking the help of a professional conservator. FIND YOUR NEW FAVORITE WRITING PAPER Using Solvents to Remove Ink The solvents I will discuss below need to be handled with care because they cause skin irritation and are flammable. Rubbing Alcohol Also known as isopropyl alcohol, rubbing alcohol is effective at removing ballpoint pen ink for several reasons. First, its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances enables it to break them down easily, including ink. What’s more, rubbing alcohol evaporates quickly, so it doesn’t linger on the surface of the paper. This lowers the risk of over-saturating the paper and causing damage. Unlike other solvents, rubbing alcohol evaporates without leaving a residue. This allows you to achieve a clean finish. Before you start, wear gloves and ensure the room you’re in has proper ventilation. Then dip a cotton swab or a clean cloth into the rubbing alcohol (70% or higher isopropyl alcohol recommended). Dab the area of ink you want to erase until you remove as much as possible. Lastly, use a paper towel to absorb the liquid from the paper then let it air dry. Acetone Safety Warning: Before using acetone, beware that it is a highly flammable liquid so make sure you are away from flames or a source of ignition. Acetone also produces toxic fumes that can cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, and other negative side effects. As such, ensure your workspace has proper ventilation. The best option would be to work outdoors. Also wear gloves to protect your hands from getting dry and inflamed. When you’re ready, follow the below procedure: Begin by dipping a clean cloth or cotton swab into a small amount of acetone. Gently pat the ink you wish to remove. Using a clean, dry cloth, blot the area to remove dissolved ink. Repeat this process if necessary, and use a new swab or a clean part of the cloth each time. Brake Fluid Just as with acetone, you need to be cautious when using brake fluid to erase pen ink since it causes skin irritation and redness. Wearing gloves is a must. To apply, use a swab or clean cloth dipped in the fluid to dab at the ink. Next, blot the area with a dry cloth to absorb the ink and brake fluid. Repeat this process if needed then leave the paper to air dry. TRY A PERSONALIZED BALLPOINT PEN Using At-Home Methods to Remove Pen Ink From Paper If you don’t have any of the previously mentioned solvents, the contents of your kitchen cabinet may come to the rescue. Two of the most common kitchen items that erase pen ink are lemon juice and baking soda. Lemon Juice Lemon juice does more than just adding zest to your pancakes, pastries, and meat dishes. It’s also excellent for removing pen ink from paper. With just a few drops, your pal won’t notice you misspelled their name on that handmade birthday card. However, you need to be cautious because the citric acid in lemon juice can damage paper if applied excessively or left on for too long. To do this safely, use a little juice at a time. Begin by squeezing fresh lemon juice into a bowl (bottled juice works well too). Next, dip a cotton swab on the end of a Q-tip into the juice and use this to gently dab at the area you wish to remove the ink from. Expert Tip: Avoid rubbing, as this can spread out the ink and damage the paper. Using a paper towel, blot the area immediately but gently. You should notice the ink lifting from the paper. If necessary, repeat the process using a new swab or a clean part of the cloth until all the ink is gone. Air drying will get the paper looking good as new in a few minutes. Baking Soda Paste Baking soda removes pen ink through alkalinity and abrasive action. To successfully use this method, follow the steps below. Mix a little baking soda and water in a bowl until it forms a paste. Make sure the consistency is thick enough for you to apply the paste without it being runny. Using light, circular motions, press the paste onto the ink you want to remove. Let the paste sit for a few minutes to allow the baking soda’s alkalinity to break down the ink. Using a clean, damp cloth, dab at the paste to remove it. In case of residual paste, you can rinse the area with a small amount of distilled water then use a clean cloth or swab to dab the area dry. EXPERIENCE THE EASE OF A ROLLERBALL PEN Scratch Methods to Remove Pen Ink It is possible to safely erase ink by scratching it off, as long as you do it gently. X-Acto Knife An X-Acto knife is best used for small corrections rather than extensive ink removal since scraping can damage the paper’s surface. Begin by placing the paper on a flat, sturdy surface to provide a stable working area. Ensure you have good lighting to enable you to see the writing you want to erase. Hold the knife at a shallow angle, almost parallel to the paper and gently scrape the surface. Use light, controlled strokes to avoid damaging the paper. Expert Tip: Taking several light passes instead of trying to remove all the ink in one go reduces the risk of tearing through the paper. If there’s roughness or discoloration on the erased area, use a soft cloth or your fingertips to smooth it out. Sand Ink Eraser A sand eraser is a special eraser created with natural rubber latex and silica grit designed to remove ink. Place a clean sheet of paper or a paper towel underneath the paper you’re working on to provide support to and to catch the debris from the erasing process. Next, gently rub the eraser over the ink using circular motions. Be patient and use as little pressure as possible to avoid tearing the paper. As you erase, periodically brush away eraser crumbs while checking your progress. Be careful not to over erase as this can thin out the paper or create a noticeable spot. Finish by using a soft cloth to smooth out any rough areas. Cover Up Methods to Remove Ink Cover up methods are fantastic for avoiding the messiness and drying time of correction fluids. Some of the most common methods include: Liquid Paper Liquid Paper, also known as white-out or correction fluid, is a white, opaque liquid used to cover up mistakes on a written document. Before starting the process, shake the bottle of Liquid Paper well to ensure the fluid is properly mixed. Next, dip the brush into the correction fluid while ensuring that it’s not overly saturated to avoid buildup. Using smooth, even strokes, gently brush a thin layer of the liquid onto the area you’re correcting until you achieve a uniform coating. If you’re using a correction pen, gently press the tip of the correction pen to start the flow of the fluid. Apply the fluid directly over the ink in a controlled manner using light, even pressure, ensuring you don’t apply it in excess. Allow the first layer to dry completely. This usually takes a few minutes. If the ink is still visible through the first layer of fluid, apply a second thin layer. Repeat as needed until the ink is completely covered. Once the fluid dries fully, you may write over the corrected section if needed. Remember to be gentle so as not to damage the layers of fluid. Troubleshooting Hack: If the surface of the dried liquid paper appears lumpy, it could be that you have applied too much at once. Scrape off the excess using a clean, dry brush then reapply in a thinner layer. LEARN THE BEAUTY OF A FOUNTAIN PEN Correction Tape To begin, place your document on a flat, stable surface. Then position the correction tape dispenser such that the tape is aligned with the area you want to cover. Next, hold the dispenser at an angle to the paper and press it down gently at the start of the target area. Drag the dispenser in a straight line across the ink you want to cover while maintaining gentle pressure. At the end of the target area, lift the dispenser off the paper to cleanly break the tape. If some ink still remains exposed, go over the area again with another strip of tape. Expert Tip: Try to cover the area with a single application to avoid overlapping tape layers, as this can create uneven surfaces. Draw/Write Over Drawing or writing over existing text done in ballpoint pen ink is a simple and creative way to cover up errors, especially if the ink is in a location where you can easily integrate corrections into the original content. Here’s how to draw or write over pen ink effectively. First, assess the area you intend to correct and consider how the new text will contextually fit in with existing content. Using a pencil to lightly sketch over large areas or detailed corrections will give you a guide to follow, and you can easily adjust before committing with ink. Then using a pen with a similar or darker color than the original ink, carefully write over the existing ink to either replace the text or integrate new text that better fits the context. For drawing, create designs that incorporate the ink you’re covering. You can use shapes, lines, or more complex designs depending on the context. Other fun, creative cover up ideas include: Creating borders around the text Drawing doodles and illustrations to complement the text Drawing a text box and writing the corrections within the box to make it seem like an intentional design choice Conclusion Erasing pen ink from paper can be a tricky affair sometimes, but with patience and the right methods, it is possible to do it safely. If you try any of the techniques we have discussed, please let us know in the comments how your experience goes. Be sure to check out our other articles below to learn more about ballpoint pens. Further Reading How to Get a Ballpoint Pen to Start Writing Again How Do Ballpoint Pens Work How Do You Remove Ballpoint Pen Ink Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

For most people, when their disposable pens run out of ink they simply chuck them into a trash can and buy another. Rarely does the thought of recycling old pens cross their minds. But is it possible and practical to recycle pens? Your old writing instruments don’t have to end up with the millions of others in landfills—they can be turned into functional objects through recycling. Why You Should Actually Recycle Pens Preferred because they are cheap and widely available, disposable pens pose their own risk to the environment. The biggest disadvantage of disposable pens is that they are made of plastic, which is a byproduct of petroleum, a non-renewable resource. With millions of plastic pens being made every year, their production contributes to resource depletion. And unfortunately, the type of plastic used for cheap pen bodies (polystyrene) is not easily recyclable, thus adding to the problem of plastic waste. The effort and cost required to recycle polystyrene is quite steep so it is often avoided altogether. With 1.6 billion pens being dumped in landfills every year in the US alone, this worsens the plastic waste problem. Another problem lies in the ink. Some pens use inks with toxic ingredients. Improper disposal of such pens leads to these toxins leaching into soil and water, causing pollution and harm to wildlife. Helpful Tip: How to Remove Ballpoint Ink Stains What Parts of a Pen Can Be Recycled? Not all parts of disposable pens can be easily recycled. The mix of materials and small size of the pens makes the process a bit tricky. This means that all these parts will need to be disassembled in order to recycle them properly. Let’s look at the different parts of disposable pens and their recyclability. Clips, Tips, and Springs If the clip, tip, or spring are made of steel, aluminum, or tin, they are recyclable. Just pry the parts off from the plastic barrel and throw in your local recycling. Generally, these parts are steel or aluminum. The only thing to look out for is the metal ball in the tip. This can be tungsten carbide, which is recyclable, but in a larger size since the ball is so small. Best to separate this from the metal tip if possible. Plastic Barrel As we saw earlier, most cheap disposable pen bodies are made of polystyrene, a plastic that’s difficult to recycle industrially. Some recycling programs accept plastic pens, while others don’t because of the type of plastic used. Cartridges and Refills Ink refills aren’t always recyclable because of the materials used in the ink. But often the cartridges can be. For example, many fountain pen ink cartridges are made of polythene which is recyclable. Check the packaging of your refill. If it has the recycle symbol or says PE, you are good to go. How to Recycle Pens When it comes to recycling pens, there are two ways to go about it. Drop Off Method This involves taking old pens to designated facilities where they’re collected en masse for recycling. Taking Apart the Pieces Individually Users take the pen apart and recycle the individual parts. Let’s look in-depth at how each of these methods work. A Step by Step Guide The Drop Off Method When you drop off pens at a local store or facility that participates in pen recycling programs, the pens are accumulated then shipped off to recycling plants for sorting and processing. BIC’s Terracycle program, for example, provides an avenue for recycling pens, mechanical pencils, highlighters, and other writing instruments. You can drop off old pens at their designated stations, where they are collected and sent to TerraCycle Material Recovery Facilities. Or! Staples also has a recycling program that includes a rewards program for your recycled goods. Just take the items to Staples, and turn them into the Customer Service Desk. After the pens are recycled, they are sold to manufacturing companies who turn them into products such as watering cans, storage containers, outdoor furniture, floor tiles, and more. Such programs take the pressure of getting used pens to recycling centers off consumers and increase the efficiency of recycling processes. The Take Apart Method Another option is taking apart the pen to recycle individual pieces. As mentioned above, this will require some work to separate the pieces and determine what can be recycled and what cannot. Repurposing Your Old Pens From making household objects like pen holders to creating art pieces, there’s no shortage of uses for old pens. For those numerous disposable pens you have lying around your home or office, you can take inspiration from Costas Schuler, popularly known as Pen Guy Art. He covered his Mercedes in over 10,000 discarded pens from all over the world. For smaller everyday items, try turning your pens into a pen holder. Using glue, stick several pens (with their caps on) onto a plastic cup. You’ll have a unique stationery holder and an organized desk in no time. Sustainable Pen Options You might not be able to recycle pens on your own, but there are still options to help you introduce sustainability into your writing. These include: Reusable pens Biodegradable pens Pens made with recycled materials By switching to eco-friendly pens, you’ll help to reduce plastic waste generation, minimize the strain on non-renewable resources, and support sustainable product innovation. The Joys of a Reusable Pen Beyond functionality, reusable pens bring delight to users in several ways: Cost-Effectiveness Aesthetic Appeal Sentimental Value Environmental Impact Sense of Community Reusable pens are pens that allow the ink to be replaced inside the pen with a new refill. Find Your Personalized Reusable Pen Biodegradable Pens to Reduce Waste Biodegradable pens are made of materials that are designed to break down in the environment naturally over time through biological processes. The main components of biodegradable pens are: Biodegradable inks: These inks are easily broken down by microorganisms in the environment. Biodegradable plastics: These are materials that are similar to regular plastic but made of ingredients from renewable biomass, such as cornstarch, vegetable oils, straw, and recycled food waste. Compostable parts: Some reusable pens are labeled as compostable, meaning they turn into compost as they break down into organic matter. Types of Biodegradable Pens There are several kinds of biodegradable pens in the market, including: Wheat straw pens Wheat straw is a material made by combining lignin from wheat stems with sugar. This straw is fully biodegradable, and can also be melted into a pulp to create new products. It is safe for home composting, so once your pen runs out of ink you can bury it in your kitchen garden or back yard. TRY A WOOD PEN Bamboo pens Made of bamboo, a rapidly renewable resource, these pens are a great alternative to conventional plastic ones. Cornstarch pens Cornstarch is a type of bioplastic called Polylactic acid (PLA) made from corn kernels. Under the right conditions, cornstarch can be composted and returned to the soil to enrich it with nutrients. Recycled paper pens Recycled paper materials used to make eco-friendly pens include cardboard and paper pulp. These pens decompose naturally and can also be turned into compost. Plantable pens These pens contain seeds surrounded by starch at the tail end of the barrel. When your pen runs out of ink, stick it into a pot of soil and water it as you would a plant. After a few days, you’ll see a sprout emerging from the soil after the starch dissolves. Herbs, wildflowers, and veggies like tomatoes are some of the plants you can grow from such pens. Interested in plantable pens? Brands such as Purple & Pure, Bold Box, and Plencils stock a variety of these unique writing instruments. Pens Made with Recycled Materials Making pens out of recycled materials reduces the demand for new resources in manufacturing, and helps to divert waste from landfills. The main materials that can be recycled to make pens are paper, plastic, and metal. Paper: Cardboard, newspapers and paper pulp are used to make the barrels and packaging. Plastic: Manufacturers use post-consumer or post-industrial plastic like bottles and containers to make pen components. BIC’s ReVolution pens, for example, are made of 73% recycled plastic. Metal: Scrap or reclaimed metal is used to make pen clips or tips. Pens made with recycled materials help to support a circular economy by incorporating sustainable practices in the production process and close the loop on the use of materials. Conclusion The world of pens is evolving to embrace sustainability through eco-friendly options like reusable and biodegradable pens. These solutions help consumers to reduce their carbon footprint and minimize plastic waste. Although recycling disposable pens is an important part of reducing plastic waste, it is not without its challenges. Unsuitable plastics, the complexity of separating pen parts, and the scarcity of pen recycling infrastructure limit the effectiveness of recycling, making the process difficult for companies to execute. These same challenges, however, leave room for innovation in the field. Institutions and individuals can partner with recycling facilities in take-back programs for disposable pens. Also, manufacturers continue to explore new sustainable materials for pens. All these efforts combined are helping to create a more eco-friendly writing landscape. Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Without ballpoint pens and the ballpoint refills that keep them running, life would look quite a bit different. I have discussed how ballpoint pens work and how ballpoint pens are made, but now I want to delve into the process of how ballpoint pens get the oil based ink that revolutionized the history of the ballpoint pen. I will be talking about: What Are the Main Components of Ballpoint Ink How Does Ballpoint Pen Ink Work How Is Ballpoint Ink Made Let’s jump right in. What is Ballpoint Ink Made of? Ballpoint pen ink is composed of different substances which give it distinct characteristics. These include dyes, pigments, solvents, resins, and other additives. FIND YOUR PERFECT BALLPOINT PEN What Are the Main Components of Ballpoint Ink? There are three main components to ballpoint ink: Dyes or Pigments - a color Solvents - a liquid vehicle for the color Resin - a binder to make the color stick to paper These three substances make up most of the ink with additional additives that tailor ink to a proprietary company or add desired features to the ink. I’ll go more into additives later, but for now let’s start with what makes up most ballpoint pen ink. Dyes and Pigments There are two different methods of achieving ink color in ballpoint pens: dyes and pigments. Dyes are substances that dissolve in the solvent, which is a liquid, to provide color to ink. This means the dye actually binds with the liquid vehicle. Ink that uses dye soaks into the fibers of paper and provides a uniform appearance. Manufacturers use dyes where they need the inks to be bright and clear. Pigments are made up of bits of colored minerals, stones, or metals that are insoluble (they cannot be absorbed into the liquid solvent). They are suspended in the ink rather than being dissolved. Pigments cannot soak into the fiber of paper since they are not a liquid so they sit on the surface of the paper instead of being absorbed. Pigments result in more solid, intense ink color and are often a component of black ballpoint pen ink that needs to be bold and permanent. Dyes offer a wider range of hues as compared to pigments, making them suitable for making ink color vivid. But pigments tend to be lightfast unlike dyes. They resist fading when exposed to light. For applications such as archival documents, this property of pigments comes in handy. Solvents Solvents are the medium in which the dyes are dissolved or pigments suspended. Manufacturers use either: Plant-based substances like rosin, linseed, or rosewood oils (dry by absorption and oxidation) Solvent-based ingredients like kerosene (dry by evaporation) These solvents are faint blue-black liquids that don’t affect the color of dyes and pigments, but they do affect the viscosity of ballpoint pen inks (how quickly or slowly the ink flows). Solvents vary in viscosity, and those with lower viscosity make the ink flow through the pen easily, resulting in smoother writing. In contrast, solvents with high viscosity cause the ink to be thicker and give bold lines while writing or drawing. Generally, oil based ink like the ink inside ballpoint pens is always more viscous than water based ink like that found in fountain and rollerball pens. Solvents also affect drying time, which is how long it takes for ink to set and dry on paper. Ballpoint pen ink dries quickly because they use solvents with faster evaporation or absorption rates so the ink dries almost instantly upon being applied. This is important to prevent smudges when the user’s hand moves over what they have written. Helpful Tip: Got a stain? Check out my How to Remove Ballpoint Ink Stains article. Resins Resins add adhesive quality to oil based ink, acting as binding agents between the ink and paper. They anchor the ink to fibers in the paper, preventing smudges and thus creating clean, precise strokes. Resins account for about 15-45% of ballpoint pen ink and are synthetically produced. These substances contribute to the durability of inks. Resins form a protective film over the ink once it dries, shielding it from abrasion, moisture, chemical exposure and other external factors. This coating enhances the ink’s resistance to fading and damage over time and makes oil based inks more resistant to handling and friction. What’s more, resins bind the dyes and pigments within the ink, preventing them from separating. This ensures the ink remains homogeneous, thus flowing more uniformly and producing consistent color. Common types of resins used in ballpoint pen ink include: Phenolic resins: created by the reaction of phenol with formaldehyde Ketonic resins: derived from ketones and formaldehyde Alkyd resins: polyester-based resins modified with fatty acids Acrylic resins: made from derivatives of acrylic acid or methacrylic acid Polyurethane resins: formed by reacting polyols with isocyanates Resins are typically used in a blend, with each contributing particular characteristics to the ink, such as adhesion, flexibility, and durability. The combination of different resins helps achieve the optimal ink performance and the levels are proprietary to manufacturers’ ballpoint refills. Find Your Refill: The Best Ballpoint Pen Refills Additives Ballpoint pen ink also contains special additives that bring specific properties to the solution and enhance the ink’s performance. These additives include: Surfactants- reduce surface tension of the ink so that it flows more smoothly Stabilizers- maintain the ink’s chemical integrity by preventing changes in pH level Antioxidants- prevent the breakdown of ink by oxygen which causes changes in color and temperature UV absorbers- protect ink from harmful effects of UV radiation like fading and discoloration Thickeners- adjust the ink’s viscosity so that it’s neither too thin nor too thick Drying agents- help the ink dry quickly while writing Anti-settling agents- prevent solid particles from sinking to the bottom of the ink reservoir The combination of these additives enables ballpoint pen ink to perform well under various conditions and enhances the user’s writing experience. How Does Ballpoint Ink Work? When ballpoint pen ink gets into contact with paper, several things happen. The rotating metal ball picks up ink from the reservoir and deposits it on the paper. The ink spreads thinly and evenly as the ball rotates. The solvents evaporate or oxidize due to exposure to air. As they evaporate, they leave behind the pigments, dyes, resins and other ink components. The substances that remain get absorbed into the paper fibers and adhere to the surface. This creates permanent strokes that are resistant to smudging and smearing. As the components get absorbed, they also form a solid film which protects the ink from fading from exposure to light. The resins continue to harden, providing more durability to the ink. How is Ballpoint Ink Made? To create the ink, manufacturers add raw ingredients to a mixing vat. Batch mixers usually add the ingredients at specific times determined by automatic controls. These computerized mixers also inject the correct pigments or dyes to create the needed color of the specific ink being made. Each manufacturer has a proprietary recipe and creates ballpoint refills to replace ink inside ballpoint pens. Conclusion Ballpoint pen ink is a special blend of ingredients, each purposefully chosen to provide a crucial role in delivering a smooth and reliable writing experience. Dyes, pigments, resins, solvents and other additives create the colors, viscosity, and chemical stability of ink. Now you understand the science behind what makes writing with ballpoint pen ink effortless. What is your favorite quality about ballpoint pens and the oil based ink that makes them run? Leave a comment below! And to learn more about Ballpoint Pens and Pen Ink, check out these articles: The Ultimate Guide to Pen Refills What is a Ballpoint Pen What are the Best Ballpoint Pen Brands Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Ballpoints. You have seen them, you have used them, you may have even chewed on the back of one till you got ink all over your face. But what exactly is this household item and how does it work? I am going to tell you all about the ballpoint pen, including: The origin and evolution of ballpoint pens How ballpoint pens are made The working mechanism of ballpoint pens Popular brands of ballpoint pens Here’s everything you need to know about the pen that you’ll find in every office, classroom, and home. Definition and Basic Components As the name suggests, ballpoint pens use a small ball at the end of an ink cartridge to transfer ink from the cartridge to a writing surface. Ballpoint pens consist of the following parts: Rotating ball-and-socket mechanism Ink cartridge/reservoir Body Cap Click-action ballpoint pens also have: Thrust device/cam body Spring The Mechanism The rotating ball is usually made of steel, brass, or most often tungsten carbide. Brass, which is a zinc-copper alloy, is used to make the point that holds the ball. The corrosion resistance, strength, aesthetic and easy workability of these metals make them ideal materials. Fun Fact: The ball isn’t completely smooth. Instead, it has over 50,000 polished surfaces and tiny indents. A series of channels running all over the sphere connect these indents, allowing the ink to be present both on the surface and interior of the ball for a continuous flow of ink. The Ink Cartridge Made of plastic, steel, or aluminum, the ink cartridge contains the ball-and-socket as well as the reserve of ballpoint ink. The cartridge is generally interchangeable. The Body and Cap Whether you have a capped ballpoint or a click-action pen, the body and cap will vary greatly by design, material, and weight. Basically, if you want it as a ballpoint pen chances are you can find it as a ballpoint pen. How Do Ballpoint Pens Work? Ballpoint pens use the same mechanism as a roller bearing or a roll-on tube. A ball rotates in a socket keeps the ball firmly in place, yet leaves enough room for it to move around when you write. As the ball turns, gravity and friction pull an oil-based ink down the reservoir onto the paper. When the ball is not in motion, the edges seal against the socket, preventing the ink from being exposed to air and drying out. It is the oil-based ink that is pivotal to the functionality of the ballpoint and makes it the most popular writing instrument. In order for the ink to move around the ball without clogging or drying out, the ink must be viscous and oily. This makes it slow to evaporate in the cartridge (which means ballpoint pens can last a long time unused), but quick drying to porous surfaces like paper (the oil binds to the fibers of the paper almost instantaneously.) The composition of the ink: 25-40% dye or pigment mixture dispersed in a combination of fatty acids and oil ensures that the ink doesn’t sit on the surface of the paper for long before drying. Fatty acids, softeners, polymeric resins, and other additional components are included to improve the flow, consistency, and drying properties of the ink. For example, fatty acids lubricate the ball for smooth movement during writing. Manufacturers also include different additives to stabilize the mixture. As a result, the ink is thick enough to not leak out of the reservoir, while simultaneously being thin enough for gravity to pull it towards the tip. Fun Fact: On average, a ballpoint pen can write 45,000 words before running dry. The video below demonstrates how a ballpoint pen works: How the Click-Action Works How does the soothing sound and addictive snap of the click mechanism work? Let’s take a look. When you press the button on the cap, the spring-loaded ink cartridge rotates, extends, and locks into place, pushing the ballpoint tip outside the pen body. Pushing the button again rotates the cartridge in the opposite direction, retracting the tip. Twist-action pens use a similar mechanism activated by twisting the cap. Engineer Guy has a wonderful video that explains the workings of a retractable ballpoint pen in detail: History of Ballpoint Pens The history of ballpoint pens is a long and interesting one that starts long before the man known as the inventor of the ballpoint first filled his prototype with ink, but ultimately that man, László Biro, had an inspiration one day as he watched newspapers being printed. You see, the trouble with the ballpoint pen wasn’t the ballpoint mechanism. That had been invented years prior by a man named John Loud. The problem was the ink used in the mechanism. The ink dried out too quickly, clogging the pen, and smudged like crazy. He noticed that newspaper ink dried fast and didn't smudge. Working with his brother György, a chemist, he developed a thick, sticky, oil-based ink with a fast drying time. The brothers exhibited their pen at the Budapest International Fair in 1931 and filed for a patent seven years later on June 15, 1938. The road to manufacturing the world's most popular pen was filled with twists and bumps, but ultimately Marcel Bich bought the ballpoint patent from László Biro and brought the first BIC Cristal pen to market in 1950. Being the pioneer affordable ballpoint pen, and coupled with ink that neither leaked nor clogged, the BIC Cristal took off globally. It is now the most recognizable and most widely sold ballpoint pen in the world. In 1954, Parker released the world’s first click ballpoint pen: the Jotter. It captured the world’s attention by the button activated mechanism inside a steel cap. This meant the pen came as one unit as opposed to other ballpoints with a detachable cap. In addition, its nylon body design had an edge over its competitors that were made of plastic. Considered by customers as a design icon, the Jotter has sold over ¾ of a billion units since its launch. Fun Fact: The Jotter took a team of 66 to design. Manufacturing Process The manufacture of ballpoint pens consists of a few basic steps with slight differences between brands. I am going to take you through them in summary. Creating the Ink 💧 First, the ink is made by mixing raw materials in large batches. Heating and cooling at various points in the process helps the ingredients mix thoroughly. Forming the Plastic Components 🔥 Polypropylene pellets or powder parts are melted and formed through extrusion or injection molding to make the plastic parts. Making the Metal Components 🛡️ Apart from the rotating ball, other metal parts of a ballpoint pen include the spring, the tip holding the ball and in some cases, the pen body. Small brass, aluminum, or stainless steel discs are heated until malleable and die cast molded to form different pieces of the pen. Filling the Ink Reservoir 💉 When it comes to filling the cartridge, there are two methods. Alternative 1 The tip and plastic reservoir are joined followed by injection of ink through the tip. Alternative 2 After the plastic barrel is filled with ink, it’s joined to the metal tip. The barrel is placed in a centrifuge which spins it, moving ink to the tip. Assembly of the Pen Parts 🛠️ After all the components are complete, it’s time to put them together. Assembly methods vary depending on whether the ballpoint pen is capped, click-action, or twist-action. Ballpoint Pen Sizes There are three broad categories of ballpoint pen sizes varying by the diameter of the tip: Fine Medium Broad Fine ballpoint pens have tips that are 0.8 mm thick or less. They’re most suitable for small, precise writing, for example, signing checks or filling in tiny details in drawings. If you’d like to see artists using these pens to take sketching to the next level, check out Goldspot’s article for some exceptional ballpoint pen art examples. Pens whose tips measure between 0.9 and 1.2 mm thick are medium. Such ballpoint pens are flexible to suit different needs, making them popular for communal areas such as schools, receptions and waiting rooms. Less common than the fine and medium types, ballpoint pens featuring tips 1.3 mm or thicker fall in the broad category. They work best for signatures or artwork where vast areas need to be shaded since they produce significantly thick lines. Broad ballpoints are also great for calligraphy, allowing the artist to use less time to achieve their desired line weight while writing. Types of Ballpoint Pens Ballpoint pens fall into three major categories based on their functioning mechanism: Capped ballpoint pens Click-action/retractable ballpoint pens Twist action ballpoint pens Among these categories, there are different types of ballpoint pens: Low-viscosity ballpoint pens If you’re looking for a merger between a regular ballpoint and a rollerball, you’ll find it in a low-viscosity ballpoint pen. These pens use inks with low viscosity, reducing the drag of the ball as it moves across the paper. One good example is the Pilot Acroball. Pressurized ballpoint pens While regular ballpoint pens face challenges when writing on non-horizontal surfaces or in extreme temperatures, pressurized pens contain mechanisms that overcome these problems. The Tombow AirPress, for instance, pressurizes the ink refill every time you click the pen. This enables it to write upside down, on wet paper, and even under water. Eco-friendly ballpoint pens In response to the growing global plastic waste problem, some manufacturers have developed ballpoint pens made of recycled plastic, such as the Uni Power Tank. Metal refillable ballpoints are another fantastic option for those who prefer reusable pens. Popular Brands and Models of Ballpoint Pens Let’s talk about which brands to know for ballpoints. For a real dive, check out my guide to the Best Ballpoint Brands. Parker Parker has made a name for themselves with their sophisticated pen designs. The fun, expressive aesthetic of their pens allow you to show off your unique taste. What’s more, when you buy a Parker ballpoint pen, you’re assured that it will last due to the quality materials used. Parker’s most popular ballpoint pen is, of course, the Jotter. Fondly referred to as the James Bond pen, the Jotter provides a pleasant writing experience thanks to its smooth gel Quink. So popular is this pen that it has appeared in numerous movies and TV shows. If you’ve watched Shawshank Redemption, Apollo 13, or The Office while only focused on the plot, go back and see whether you can spot the Jotter making an appearance. BIC Most people have their first experience of writing with a ballpoint pen by using a BIC. They are affordable, reliable, and widely available in various retail outlets, making them an easy go-to choice for daily use. The Cristal is BIC’s best known product, found in classrooms, offices, and lecture halls all over the world. This pen stands out for: Having long lasting ink Being comfortable in the hand Producing crisp lines Being durable Having a translucent barrel that allows you to keep track of the ink level Chances are, if you’ve used ballpoint pens at some point in your life, the Cristal has been one of the pens. The affordability of this pen makes it an excellent choice for students because they’re frequently taking notes. Given that you can get a pack of 24 for under $7, the convenience of the Cristal is hard to beat. Such a budget friendly ballpoint pen is also ideal for people who tend to misplace theirs easily since replacing them costs next to nothing. Waterman The Waterman brand carries a long-standing legacy in pen manufacturing since 1883. Known for merging classic designs with modern innovation, their pens embody heritage and sophistication. With every purchase of a Waterman pen, you get a taste of Parisian elegance, reflecting the city’s rich appreciation for the written word. The sleek aesthetic of these writing instruments truly mirrors the fine taste of their owners. The Waterman Expert features an assertive silhouette bound to make an impression in professional settings. What’s more, its cigar shaped barrel gives you a comfortable feel in your hand. Finger fatigue when writing becomes a thing of the past when you switch to the Waterman Expert. Beyond looks, this pen’s performance is exceptional. It provides a smooth, consistent, and long-lasting ink flow for an enjoyable writing experience. Dayspring Pens At Dayspring Pens, we’re all about helping people bring joy to their loved ones through personalized pens and after years of working with, selling, and engraving pens, we have started to use that knowledge to make pens like the Monroe. Click-action, luxuriously finished, and filled with some of the best ink refills out there, the Monroe was not just made to look nice in a box or make a recipient say “oh that’s nice!” with the engraving. The Monroe was made to write. This pen is also refillable, so you or your loved one will enjoy many years of use. Simply choose the message you want engraved at the time of placing your order and leave the rest to us. “My friend loves it. She was especially happy with the engraving. A great personalized gift. Very happy with the whole experience.” Helen C. The following table compares different models of ballpoint pens from popular brands: Brand Popular Models Notable Features Average Price Parker Jotter Sleek lacquer body, refillable $14-$26 BIC Cristal Plastic body, disposable $0.29-$0.7 Waterman Expert Elegant lacquer body, refillable $85-$172 Dayspring Pens Monroe Lacquer finish with gold accents, refillable $25.99-$35.99 Conclusion Ballpoint pens are fascinating products of engineering, having evolved from rudimentary designs of the past to globally impact how people communicate. They are affordable and easily available, yet these same qualities make them overlooked by many people. These writing tools might not be as elegant as their fountain pen counterparts, but are nonetheless important. Despite digital advancements, ballpoint pens remain relevant for the satisfaction they provide of putting pen to paper. Beyond jotting down notes and to-do lists, these pens help us express our creativity and keep tangible records of ideas to implement later. Interested in further exploring the world of ballpoint pens? Be sure to check out my other related articles: How to Get a Ballpoint Pen to Start Writing Again How Do You Remove Ballpoint Pen Ink What Are The Best Ballpoint Pen Brands Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Whether your experience with fountain pens has been watching the pen in your dad’s hand smoothly gliding over paper as he signed documents, using fountain pens to take notes in grade school, or you are considering adding them to your writing tools, fountain pens can seem a little daunting, especially with numerous types and brands available today. In this article, I will answer what is a fountain pen and explore everything you need or want to know about them, from their history to the manufacturing process, how to care for these pens, and more. Let’s begin by looking at the basic parts of a fountain pen. 1. Definition and Basics of a Fountain Pen Fountain Pen Definition: A fountain pen is a writing instrument that contains an internal ink reservoir that directs water-based ink to a metal writing point called a nib. Why does the word ‘fountain’ appear in the name? There’s actually an interesting reason behind that. Historically, in order to write, a pen would have to be repeatedly dipped into a pot of ink to coat the nib and transfer ink to a paper. Fountain pens contain a compartment inside designed to accommodate a miniature inkwell. Thanks to the self-supplying source of ink from an internal reservoir, they became known as fountain pens because the ink would continue to flow like a fountain. Let’s explore the different parts of these pens that make meticulous writing possible. First, you have the barrel, which is the outer housing of the pen. It protects the ink reservoir, provides support to the entire structure, and covers the filling mechanism. The cap accompanies the barrel and keeps the water-based ink from drying out, which clogs the pen and makes it unusable. The cap also protects the nib from denting or breaking. Next, the nib is where the pen meets the paper. Nibs come in various styles, shapes, sizes, and materials such as stainless steel, gold, and iridium. The ink reservoir holds ink which is moved to the nib by a part called the feed. Located behind the nib, the feed is usually made of plastic or ebonite. It contains a channel that delivers ink from the reservoir to the nib. At this point, there is a great deal of variety to how each of these pieces are created or put together. I will get into the varieties a little later on, but in the meantime it is good to know that high-end fountain pens are made of premium materials such as quality resins, celluloid, and ebonite. They’re handcrafted, adhering to superior workmanship standards regarding functionality and aesthetics, and are often personalized with custom engraving. So what makes the ink inside a fountain pen so special it needs a uniquely designed pen? What is Fountain Pen Ink? Fountain pen ink is water-based ink created specifically for use with fountain pens. Most fountain pen inks are made of a combination of water and dye plus other ingredients such as: Biocides - Prevent mold growth Surfactants - Reduce the surface tension of the ink thus improving ink flow Humectants - Prevent the ink from drying out pH modifiers - Reduce the ink's corrosiveness Since fountain pens operate on the principle of capillary action, this ink is almost exclusively dye-based and contains no solid pigment particles unlike pigment-based inks. This avoids the issue of clogged internal pen parts. Now that you have a better understanding of the inner workings of your trusty writing companion, what are the origins of the fountain pen? The History of the Fountain Pen Before fountain pens, people used ‘dip pens’, called so because you had to periodically dip the pen in ink while writing. Both the ink and pens used have evolved greatly over time. From Roman times until the 19th century, most writing instruments were quills, made from bird feathers. Actually, the word ‘pen’ comes from a Latin word penna, which means feather. The first fountain pens were referred to as ‘reservoir pens’. The writing points were made of quills, silver, or steel, all of which either wore quickly or were corroded by the fountain pen ink and had to be constantly replaced. And as a greater difficulty, the reservoir pens constantly clogged or dumped all the ink out of the pen in an uncontrolled rush. The first major breakthrough in fountain pens came in May of 1809. Frederick Fölsch filed the first patent in England for a fountain pen that allowed ink to flow through the pen. This was followed by Joseph Bramah's feed patent of September 1809 and an avalanche of innovations ensued culminating in the work of Lewis Edson Waterman Lewis Edson Waterman is credited with developing a three-channel ink feed fountain pen in 1884 which ensured a smooth flow of ink when writing. His version is considered the basis of the modern fountain pen, since the design hasn't changed much today. Next, let’s take a look at how fountain pens work. How Fountain Pens Work Fountain pens function under the principles of gravity (the force that draws things downward to the earth), capillary action (the process of liquid being drawn through a narrow space because of cohesion aka liquid liking to stick together), and air flow. Stay with me, I’ll keep the explanation simple. It’s basically ink out, air in. Ink moves from an internal reservoir through the feed to the nib, the part that’s in contact with the paper. Ink is pulled downwards by gravity due to its own weight. Then capillary action draws the liquid through the narrow tube connecting the reservoir to the nib point. Fact: The principle of capillary action is how water rises inside a plant from the roots to the leaves or how water is drawn up a paper towel when just a corner is dipped in the liquid. Once the ink touches the paper (adhesion), cohesion continues to pull the liquid along the channel and writing occurs. But airflow is critical to the process. As ink leaves the reservoir, air enters the pen at the same time through the slit in the nib. This air moves in the opposite direction, gradually filling up the reservoir and preventing a vacuum from being created inside the pen. So, how is this science applied to actually building fountain pens? How Are Fountain Pens Made Let’s see what steps lead to the manufacturing of fountain pens. i) Design and Material Choice It all starts with the design phase, where the shape, size, and style of the pen are determined. Manufacturers then select materials such as precious metals (gold, silver), stainless steel, celluloid, or resin for the pen barrel and cap. ii) Nib Production Next, the nib is shaped using precision machinery. Fountain pen nibs are typically made from materials such as stainless steel, gold, or other alloys. After cutting, the nib is ground to create the writing point. The intensity of the grind determines the style of the nib: fine, medium, broad, or italic. Details such as the breather hole, slit, and tipping material are also added at this stage. iii) Feed Production The feed is composed of channels and fins that control the flow of ink. This part of the fountain pen is usually made out of either plastic or ebonite (hard natural rubber). Since ebonite needs the shaping tools to be constantly sharp, ebonite feeds are individually hand cut and finished. As a result, they are expensive and susceptible to quality control problems. Plastic, on the other hand, is easy to cut using laser machines and works well with injection molding. This mass production not only keeps the cost of plastic feeds down but also ensures quality control. iv) Cap and Barrel Production This step involves using different methods to form the cap and barrel of the pen. For plastic pens, manufacturers use injection molding while metal pens are made through machining. It’s at this phase that special additional processes including engraving, polishing, or applying decorative finishes are done to high-end pens. v) Filling Mechanism Installation Here, different filling mechanisms are installed into the barrel depending on the style of fountain pen. For instance, for cartridge/converter fountain pens, this phase is where the converter or cartridge holder gets fixed into the barrel. vi) Assembly At this point all parts of the pen are brought together. Everything is done carefully to ensure the parts align and fit as required. vii) Testing Rigorous quality control checks which include inspecting the nib for defects, checking the ink flow, and ensuring all parts fit together well are done on each fountain pen. While there are some differences in the manufacturing process depending on the brand, price range, and level of craftsmanship of fountain pens, it generally follows the steps I’ve discussed. Types of Fountain Pens Below are the different kinds of fountain pens that bring joy to users all over the world. Cartridge/converter pens: Use disposable ink cartridges or a refillable ink converter Piston filling pens: Contain an integrated piston mechanism that draws ink directly from a bottle into an internal reservoir Eyedropper pens: Users fill the barrel directly with ink using an eyedropper or syringe Button filling pens: Come with a button at the end of the barrel that compresses an internal sac to draw in ink Vacuum filling pens: Operating a knob, a vacuum is created within the barrel, drawing ink into the reservoir Aerometric pens: Squeezing a sac inside a metal or plastic casing expels air, causing air pressure to fill the sac with ink The following table compares the main features of these pens to help you see the difference between them: Fountain Pen Type Filling Mechanism Ink Capacity Maintenance Cartridge/converter Cartridges or converter Moderate Easy to Clean Piston Filling Piston mechanism High Moderate cleaning Eyedropper Barrel as reservoir High Requires careful filling Vacuum filling Vacuum mechanism High Moderate cleaning Button filling Button compresses sac Moderate Moderate cleaning Aerometric Sac and air pressure Moderate Moderate cleaning Benefits of Using a Fountain Pen When it comes to writing, your pen of choice matters a lot. I believe that fountain pens are a cut above the rest—here’s what makes them a great choice for fountain pen collectors and users. Liquid Ink Ergonomic Use Variety of Point Sizes Aesthetic Appeal Longevity Environmental Friendliness Liquid Ink Fountain pens’ water-based ink means a smoother writing experience that leaves a more vivid liquid writing line. Ergonomic Use Fountain pens require less pressure to write compared to ballpoint or rollerball pens. This makes them comfortable to use since they reduce hand fatigue while writing. Variety of Nib Choices Fountain pens come with different nib options, such as fine, medium, broad, or specialty like flex or italic. This allows you to choose a nib that adapts to your handwriting and preference for line thickness. Aesthetic Appeal It’s hard to rival the sense of elegance that fountain pens embody. The aesthetic appeal and craftsmanship of these pens tailor them to individual tastes and styles. From modernist simplicity to old world detailing to demonstrators and custom nibs, each fountain pen offers the versatility of choice, while maintaining the expressive, tactile finishes only a liquid-ink nib based pen affords. Longevity There are very few examples of disposable fountain pens. Fountain pens are built to last as they are refillable and the parts are often interchangeable. That pen that your grandma has been using since she’s been using it before you were born? It’s not just her being super careful—the instrument was designed to stand the test of time. Such pens are cherished for generations, being passed down as heirlooms and nurturing the tradition of artful writing. Environmental Friendliness Most fountain pens are refillable, thus producing less plastic waste compared to their disposable counterparts. For those seeking a more sustainable writing experience, fountain pens provide the perfect solution. The personal satisfaction, practical advantages, and aesthetic appeal that fountain pens carry all enhance the act of writing, elevating it from a mere task to a delightful experience in ways that no other instrument does. How to Choose the Right Fountain Pen Let’s say you are browsing through an online shop searching for custom fountain pens to gift your employees after successfully completing the latest project. While all the options look fantastic, how do you decide which ones to pick? I’ve got a few tips to make the process easier. Nib Size and Type Various nib sizes (fine, medium, broad) suit different handwriting styles. For people with a small, precise handwriting, a fine nib may be preferable, while broader nibs provide bolder lines ideal for large handwriting. If the recipient of the fountain pen gift is interested in calligraphy, specialty nibs, such as italic or flex nibs, come in handy to provide them with a more adaptive writing experience. Ink Flow With fountain pen nibs, you get different rates of ink flow depending on their construction. Nibs are classified into: Wet nibs Dry nibs Wet nibs (like a broad point nib) lay down more ink, offering smoother writing but longer drying times. On the other side, dry nibs (such as extrafine points) release less ink and produce lighter, finer writing lines, allowing for faster drying time. Ink Compatibility Are you looking to experiment with different ink colors and brands? Then a pen that’s compatible with a wide range of inks is best. The flexibility such a pen offers allows you to work with various inks without worrying whether they match with your fountain pen. Expert Tip: Calligraphy inks SHOULD NOT be used in a fountain pen. Calligraphy inks are caustic to the internal mechanisms of a fountain pen and will corrode the pen over time. If you are looking to do calligraphy with fountain pens, make sure you research the right inks and pens for the job. Price Range In the realm of fountain pens, there are options to match every budget. You’ll find pens that go for less than $10 to those with price tags in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. And although higher-quality pens usually cost more, you get your money’s worth with longevity, elegance, and a pleasant writing experience. Material and Aesthetics Fountain pen materials have a bearing on the durability of the pens. Stainless steel and chrome pens, for example, are more sturdy compared to their plastic counterparts. In addition, materials affect the aesthetic appeal of fountain pens. Those made of precious metals such as gold exude elegance and timeless style—the same can’t always be said about plastic fountain pens. Brand and Reputation When it comes to brands, not all are created equal. It’s important to consider fountain pens produced by brands known for their quality craftsmanship and customer service. This way, you’ll have peace of mind that you’re getting a top quality product that’s worth its price tag. Also, reputable brands often have a wide range of models to choose from. So whatever your taste, you’ll find something that fits your needs. Maintenance and Care Just as with any piece of equipment, fountain pens require proper care and maintenance to work at their best. Let’s look at a few tips for keeping your pens in great shape so you can enjoy them for years to come. Tips for Using Your Fountain Pen Always make sure that the nib is properly aligned with the feed. Otherwise, you’re likely to experience problems with ink flow, resulting in scratchy writing. Unlike other types of pens, fountain pens use their own weight to execute the writing. This means you don’t need to press the nib hard onto the paper. Avoid using excessive pressure, as this can damage the nib and affect the flow of ink. Try using high-quality paper whenever possible. Abrasive paper poses the risk of damaging the nib and can react poorly to the water-based ink making feathering and bleeding more common. Don’t forget to pair good paper with top-notch fountain pen ink, since poor quality ink can cause clogs in the feed and nib. In addition, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when refilling your pen. This will help you avoid spills or overfilling. When your pen isn’t in use, store it in an upright position (nib pointing up). This helps with preventing ink from settling in the nib and feed, which can lead to hard starts. In addition, ensure the cap is on firmly to prevent the nib from drying out or becoming damaged. Equally important is to clean your fountain pen regularly. The best way is to flush the pen with lukewarm water until it runs clear. Cleaning the pen prevents the buildup of ink residue that can clog the nib and feed. Troubleshooting Your Fountain Pen If you notice your pen skipping or has trouble starting, this could indicate that air bubbles are blocking the nib’s ink channel. To resolve this, tap the nib gently on a piece of paper and the ink flow will be restored. In case this doesn’t work, the ink in the nib has most likely dried up. Wetting the nib with tap or distilled water will reactivate the dry ink and resolve any hard starts. If your pen runs dry again soon after applying the above fixes, flood the feed with ink. This will force ink from the reservoir to the nib. For cartridge/converter pens, open the pen and turn the knob on the converter or squeeze the cartridge. If the fountain pen is a piston fill type or another type, work the filling mechanism to push the ink out through the feed. If the leak is on the grip section, check the inside of the cap and wipe it with another paper towel. If ink fully saturates the towel, this indicates that the nib is leaking. Wipe the nib dry and store your fountain pen with the nib facing upwards and you likely won’t face this problem again. However, if your pen still leaks after this, then the nib might be damaged and needs to be replaced. A loose connection means the seal is compromised, so try to tighten the connection. If this doesn't work, it’s time to shop for a new cartridge or converter. Does your pen happen to be a non-cartridge/converter fountain pen and has a barrel leak? Then you need to seek professional service. Since you’re not dealing with replaceable parts, it’s best to reach out to the brand's warranty service repair department to fix the barrel or filling mechanism. Frequently Asked Questions Are fountain pens suitable for everyday use, or are they reserved for special occasions? Although fountain pens are associated with elegance, they aren’t limited to special occasions. Your fountain pen will work just as well for everyday tasks such as note-taking, journaling, and paperwork, so go ahead and use it as often as you like. Can I use a fountain pen for calligraphy? Absolutely. Calligraphy nibs have broader and more flexible nibs compared to regular fountain pen nibs enabling you to achieve varying line widths as you write. Some fountain pens are designed for calligraphy and come with interchangeable nibs to accommodate different writing styles. Remember to avoid using calligraphy and india inks with your fountain pen, as these tend to be corrosive and can clog the pen’s internal mechanisms. Conclusion Fountain pens are sophisticated writing instruments with a rich history, all the way from the carved reeds of ancient Egypt. Modern versions are highly refined tools, with a wide variety to match different preferences. With all the flair they exude, fountain pens continue to be the right choice for those who appreciate the art of writing. Plus, if you own a fountain pen, it speaks to your prestigious taste—so give yourself a pat on the back for being pretty cool. What do you love most about owning or using fountain pens? I’m curious to hear your thoughts in the comments section below. Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

The ballpoint pen is the most common writing instrument in the world, but how in the world does it actually work? In this article, I am going to go in-depth into how ballpoint pens work and the ink that makes them special. Additionally, I'll answer questions about cleaning and keeping your ballpoint pens. What is a ballpoint pen? A ballpoint pen is a pen that works by distributing oil-based ink onto a metal ball at the tip of the pen that rotates to dispense the ink onto a writing surface. A ballpoint pen is also called ball pen, biro, and dot pen.  Learn More: Who Invented the Ballpoint Pen Anatomy of a Ballpoint Pen Manufacturers make ballpoint pen refills with an ink reservoir, a ball or brass, steel, or tungsten carbide, and the housing that holds the ball.  The ballpoint pen consists of a ballpoint refill and a barrel. The ballpoint refill is a cylinder that holds the ink, a small rotating ball, and the housing for the ball. A barrel is a casing that holds the refill and allows the user to grip the pen.  Moreover, barrels may include clips that can attach a ballpoint to a shirt front or a notebook. If the pen is a click-action or twist-action, it will include a spring and a thrust device that will engage and retract the ballpoint. As such, the ballpoint pen works, when all these individual parts work together.  Shop Now: Best Ballpoint Pen Brands From Dayspring Pens How does the ball stay in the pen? The ball stays in a ballpoint pen because it rests in a socket, a metal hollow the tiny ball sits inside. The socket fits tightly around the small rotating ball with two openings, one that opens into the ink cartridge and one that faces the writing tip of the pen. The socket holds the ball tightly enough to not fall out of the pen or push back into the reservoir, but loosely enough to allow it to spin freely. It is essentially a single ball bearing mechanism as is demonstrated in this video.     How does ink come out of a ballpoint pen? The ink comes out of a ballpoint on the surface of the ball. As the ball turns against paper, ink spreads over the surface of the ball touching the ink reservoir and rolls with the ball out to the exposed writing tip. It then attaches to the paper which is a more porous surface and is absorbed by the paper. Essentially, the ball acts as a carrier as the pen moves and cycles ink out of the ballpoint tip. What is ballpoint ink made of Ballpoint ink is made of a mixture of 25-40% dye or pigment suspended in a combination of oil and fatty acids. Interestingly, common oils used in ballpoint pens include benzyl alcohol or phenoxyethanol that cause the ink to dry almost instantly on contact with air. Fatty acids such as oleic acid act as lubricants that keep the pens from clogging and allow the ball to spin continuously without tension. Additionally, manufacturers often mix in additives to achieve special effects such as enhancing color vibrancy, helping the ink absorb quickly into the paper, making the ink waterproof, archival, and more fluid. These additives make ballpoint inks proprietary to the brand and chemist formulating them. What keeps ink in a pen? The rolling mechanism of the ballpoint pen acts as a continuous cap that prevents the ink from oozing out of the pen. Since there is no air gap between the ball and socket at the tip, the ink stays in the cartridge until the ball rotates to disperse ink on paper. What's so special about ballpoint ink? Special ballpoint ink is thicker and dries quickly because it uses oil instead of water. Traditionally, people made inks like Dark India Ink by combining a dye or pigment with water. They either dipped the pen into the ink, writing like a reed or pen, or filled the chamber inside the pen with ink, dispersing it through a nib like fountain. Ballpoint ink is a viscous ink which means it is somewhere between a solid and a liquid. It is a thicker ink and very sticky. This allows the ink to stick to the brass, steel, or tungsten carbide ball as well as the paper. Because it is oil based ink instead of water-based, it is less susceptible to drying out when exposed to air which will cause water-based inks to stop writing. The more viscous an ink is, the faster it will dry, but the trade off is that it requires more pressure to write. This is because the thickness of the ink slows down the rotation of the ball and requires extra physical force to move the ballpoint tip around. Brief History of Ballpoint Ink It is actually the ink of the ballpoint pen that made it an innovative feat. Decades ago, inventors created the concept of the ballpoint rolling mechanism, but liquid ink always flowed too freely around the mechanism, causing the pen to leak or dry out and clog. A journalist named Laszlo Biro, along with his brother György, adapted newspaper ink (an oil-paste printing ink) into a workable ink that made the ball pen possible. What is the difference between a ballpoint pen and a rollerball pen? The difference between a ballpoint pen and a rollerball pen is the type of ink inside the pen - ballpoint pens contain oil-based paste ink; rollerball pens contain water-based gel ink. This means that ballpoints dry quickly, can write on different surfaces, and require a good amount of pressure to make the ballpoint pen ink work. Sometimes, ballpoints flow unevenly due to the paste ink. Rollerball pens on the other hand have a more vibrant colored, liquid ink refills that require much less pressure to write and have a smooth ink flow.   The gel means that time is needed after writing to let the ink dry into the paper. The ink can smear or create feathering in low cost paper. Rollerballs have the mechanism of a ballpoint, but write more like fountain pens. All gel pens are rollerballs.  Related Reading: Differences Between Rollerball and Ballpoint Pens What is gel ink made of? Gel ink is a thick, opaque ink made by suspending pigment in a water-based gel. Water and biopolymers like xanthan gum make up the gel, and their higher viscosity allows it to suspend more pigment. Basically, more pigment means a more vibrant color. It also allows for additives like metallic sheens, fluorescents, and glitter that are not possible in ballpoint pen ink. The table below sums up the differences between some popular ballpoint pen brands: Brand Notable Features Popular Models Bic  Affordable, reliable Cristal, Glide Parker Sleek design, smooth writing Jotter, Sonnet Dayspring Pens Free custom engraving, gift sets Alexandria, Monroe Waterman Elegance, smooth writing experience Hemisphere, Expert Cross Premium materials, durable Classic Century, Calais     Troubleshooting a ballpoint pen All pens have their strengths and weaknesses, even the trusty ballpoint. Now, let's talk a little bit about the problems that can occur with ballpoint pens and what can be fixed. Problems with Ballpoint Pens The drawbacks to ballpoint pens include: Firm pressure needed to make a writing line Ink flow can be inconsistent or skip, especially in faster drying ballpoints Ink can clot or clog around the metal ball Why Ballpoint pens stop working? The first question to ask yourself if you cannot make your ballpoint pen work is if it is out of ink. Once you have established that you have ink in your ink cartridge, you will want to try and get the ink moving through the metal ball. Even though the rolling ball mechanism serves as a cap, creating a closure between the ink and air, the ink can still dry out around the ball if you leave it open an unused for many hours or days. How to Get a Ballpoint Pen to Start Working In this section, I will show you how to get a pen to write again when it's stopped working. There are three methods you can use: Scribble Method Take a piece of scrap paper and scribble on the paper with the pen. Continue to scribble until the ink begins to flow. Rubbing Alcohol Method Alternatively, you can try dipping the tip of the pen in rubbing alcohol for a few seconds and scribble on a paper. Alcohol should dissolve the oil in the ink and dislodge any clog that is preventing the pen from writing. The Lighter Method Limiting the point of contact only to the metal tip, hold the flame of a lighter to the nib of the pen for a few seconds and try writing. Continue applying heat, testing occasionally to make sure the tip isn't too hot and testing on a writing surface. Heat will ultimately melt the clot. Why do ballpoint pens leak? Ballpoint pens leak when there is a hole in the ink reservoir such as a puncture, if the metal ball is too loose in the socket, or because of a change in pressure like flying at high altitudes. Since ink is a liquid, it will constantly seek equilibrium. However, if there is some way the ink can flow out of the pen's reservoir, it will try to flow out. Because ballpoint ink is a thicker ink, it is less susceptible to leaking than a water-based, more fluid ink, but it can still leak all the same. Can ballpoint pens dry out? Ballpoint pens can dry out if exposed to air for too long. They do take much longer to dry out than fountain pens or rollerballs whose water-based inks dry quickly in the nib and tip when exposed to air. It will take hours or sometimes days, but uncapped or un-retracted ballpoint pens will dry out. How to store a ballpoint pen Ballpoint pens should be stored with the point down. The viscous thick ink requires gravity to write. Therefore, storing it with the point down will ensure that your ballpoint is ready to write with minimal effort. However, if the pen has a cap or retracts, always make sure to retract the pen or replace the cap to prevent the pen from drying out. How to clean ballpoint pens To clean a ballpoint pen, take paper towel and a cup of hot water. Start by moistening the paper towel and wiping it along the writing tip and any areas where ink is clotted. Holding the barrel, dip the point into the hot water for persistent clots and wipe firmly with the paper towel. Do not soak the tip in the water. Rubbing alcohol can also be used to clean the pen. Simply apply rubbing alcohol to a cotton swab or paper towel and rub along the pen. How long do ballpoint pens work? A ballpoint pen can write on average 50,000 words or roughly 100 pages. The number of days a ballpoint pen works depends on the user and their usage. Can a ballpoint pen be erased? Technically yes, ballpoint pens can be erased. Some ballpoints have been specially formulated with ink that can be erased with a special eraser. These include the Paper Mate Eraser Mate Ballpoint Pen. To erase a standard ballpoint: Apply a small amount of acetone (nail polish remover) to a cotton swab. Gently rub the ink until it is removed from the writing surface. Does ballpoint ink stain? Yes, ballpoint ink will stain fabric. How to Remove Ballpoint Ink Stain Any solvent will remove a ballpoint ink stain. First, test the colorfastness of your fabric before applying a solvent. This ensures you do not damage the dye of the cloth. Next, apply a solvent like rubbing alcohol, hand sanitizer, or hairspray to the stain. Do this by placing a paper towel or rag underneath the stain and flushing it with the solvent. Apply liquid detergent to the stain and wash with the hottest water the fabric will allow. Before drying, check to see if the stain has been removed. If not, continue the process until the stain is no longer visible. Can a ballpoint pen freeze? Yes, a standard ballpoint pen will freeze. Some manufacturers have used special technology to make ball pens that will work in extreme conditions such as the Fisher Space Pen. These pens are capable of working in outer space, underwater, in extreme heat and cold, etc. Can a ballpoint pen be refilled? Some ballpoint pens can be refilled. Cheaper single use ballpoints such as the Bic Cristal cannot be reused. Instead, they should be recycled when they run out of ink. Any luxury ballpoint or pen priced above $12 will most likely be refillable. Simply unscrew the barrel from the tip and remove the ink cartridge. Replace with a refill that corresponds to the size and your pen will be ready to write again. Conclusion Ballpoint pens work by a combination of their specialized oil-based ink and a small rotating metal ball. The latter cycles the ink from the reservoir onto the writing surface. I hope this article has helped you understand how this amazing invention works. I also hope I've answered any of your questions about this household staple. Is there a question you have that I have not answered? If so, leave a comment below, and I will be happy to answer it. Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Whether you are new to fountain pens or have used them for years, an important question to ask is how should a fountain pen be stored correctly. It is a small question, yes. But a vital one to making sure you have a ready to use fountain pen in good condition. In this article, I'll discuss the simple task of storing fountain pens, explain the correct way to do it, highlight the importance of doing it right, and provide guidelines for proper storage. Without further ado... How To Store Fountain Pens Properly There are three situations for storing a fountain pen. Storing while using intermittently Storing for a few days Storing for long periods While Using Intermittently By this I mean the moments between writing. Say you are taking notes at your desk or jotting thoughts down through the workday. If you are actively using your pen throughout the day, you should store the fountain with the cap on, horizontally on a flat surface. Recap your fountain pen when you are not actively using it. Generally, Fountain pen ink is water-based and dries out in the nib quickly. If you aren't writing with it, put the cap back on the pen. This ensures the pen remains wet, with fresh ink when you need to write again.    When the cap is left off and the nib is unused, the ink can partially dry in minutes. This means you will have to take a few seconds each use to get the ink flowing again. If you leave the nib off for an hour or more, dried ink might not only cover the nib, but also the fins and sections. If this occurs, you'll need to cover the entire nib housing before using the pen again. Related Reading: Best fountain pen ink Always store your fountain pen in the horizontal position on a desk or table. Keeping the fountain pen on a flat surface ensures that ink stays wet and fluid in the nib, the section, and the fins of the pen. This means you can pick the pen up and write at any moment.     If the pen is stored nib point up while you are using it on and off, the liquid ink has to travel back down the fins. In other words, you will have to wait a few seconds to restart the flow of ink. And as a rule: Never store a fountain pen nib pointing down. It is an office habit to store our pens in a pen cup with the point down. This comes from storing ballpoints, and honestly, that is exactly how you should store your ballpoint pen. (Point down for a ballpoint ensures the slow moving oil-based ink is drawn down by gravity so the pen is ready to write immediately.) Unfortunately, storing a fountain pen vertically with the nib pointing down is a sure fire way to end up with a cap full of ink and a gunky nib of half-dried ink. Fountain pens work partially because gravity draws the liquid-ink out of the reservoir to the paper. If a fountain pen is stored point down, the ink will slowly drain out of the reservoir. It's a bummer. I have made this mistake. Further Reading: How Do Fountain Pens Work Store it Overnight or For a Few Days If you only use your fountain pen on occasion or once every few days, it is very simple and easy to store. Just place the pen in your pen cup vertically with the nib pointing upwards.     Since you are not immediately using the pen, allowing the ink to drain into the ink reservoir keeps the ink wet and ready to flow back down the pen when it is time to write. It may take a few seconds to start writing. However, you will prevent any leaking ink or ink pooling in the fins and on the nib. Storing the fountain pen horizontally for days in a row will not drain the pen like storing it point down, but it can cause ink to stay in the fins and nib and dry there. Best case: it will get kind of gunky and will need to be wiped down with a paper towel. Worst case: it dries hard and you have to clean the whole pen. Store a Fountain Pen For Long Periods If you know you will not be using your fountain pen for a few weeks or more, the best thing to do is empty out your fountain pen and give it a cleaning before putting it away. All you will need to do is drain out the ink reservoir and purge the fountain pen with clean water. Let it dry completely. When you are ready to start using the fountain pen again, grab your ink bottle and refill the ink reservoir. The table below sums up how to store your fountain pens for different durations: Storage Duration Recommended Actions Potential Problems Short-Term (1-2 weeks) Cap securely, store horizontally Minimal risk of drying or clogging Medium-Term (1-3 months) Use airtight storage, check ink levels Risk of nib drying and ink evaporation Long-Term (3+ months) Clean thoroughly, store with desiccant Potential for ink clogging and corrosion   How to Store a Fountain Pen with a Cartridge Up to this point, I have only talked about fountain pens that contain a refillable converter, but storing a cartridge pen follows pretty much the same rules. If you are storing between intermittent use or for a few days, you will follow the same rules as a converter fountain pen - flat on the desk capped between writing and point up in a cup at the end of the day. The only real difference is if you are putting your fountain pen away for a little while. In this case, you will need to remove the ink cartridge which can be messy if the cartridge still has ink in it. I recommend doing this over a sink with a paper towel handy. Just pull the cartridge off from the pen and discard. Mind any dripping ink or spurts. Then rinse the entire nib housing with cool running water. Do this until the water running through the housing turns clear. Soak the nib housing in water for 30 minutes if the ink has dried on it. Rinse and repeat as necessary. When you are ready to use it again, just insert a new fountain pen cartridge and write.  Shop Now: Pen Ink Refills From Dayspring Pens   Extra Tips Direct sunlight is not your friend. No matter how you are using your pen, store it out of direct sunlight. (The why: sunlight the pen heats and damages the plastic of the barrel and the pigment in the pen. It also heats up the ink and can cause it to dry faster in the pen.) Store in a cool, dry place. Empty your pen before traveling. When flying, either empty the pen of ink completely or make sure it is completely full. A half full ink reservoir or ink cartridges leaks due to pressure changes. It's a science thing... Storing Fountain Pen Ink There is nothing too complicated about storing fountain pen ink. Seal it in its original bottle, tightly. Then store it in a cool, dark place like a drawer or cabinet. Storing in a Fountain Pen Case For many fountain pen owners or those with a fountain pen collection, a fountain pen case is a must. Some opt for display cases with a glass panel to show off the fountain pen collection. Unless you are an avid collector or own a particularly remarkable antique pen, a display case is not necessary. A storage box for a desk can be a great option. There are some beautifully crafted wooden storage boxes that serve both as a pen and ink holder, but also as a statement piece for a writing desk. These storage boxes often include an insert for an inkwell, slots for one or more pens, and compartments for fountain pen parts like extra nibs or ink cartridges. The most popular pen storage is a leather fountain pen case since it can be used for at home storage and as travel bag pen storage. Most pen cases on the market are leather pen cases. You can find anything from single pen slips, which are basically a pocket or bag protector, or leather fountain pen cases that hold 40 pens and supplies for maintaining the pen. For moderate fountain pen owners, a leather fountain pen case is a great in between storage method that contains everything in one place, ready to go. Conclusion So the big take-away for storing fountain pens is to either keep your fountain pen horizontal on a flat surface if you are using the pen on and off through the day or to store the fountain pen vertically with the nib pointed up if you will not be using the pen for a few days. Storing your fountain pen correctly can be the difference between keeping a fountain pen working perfectly for years or having a nuisance of a pen that constantly has to be cleaned and corrodes quickly. What is your favorite method for storing fountain pens? Leave a comment below! And for more tips on using and maintain fountain pens, check out some of my other articles. The History of the Fountain Pen The Ultimate Guide to Different Pen Styles What Are the Best Brands of Ballpoint Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Take just one look at a fountain pen and you will wonder about how this oddly shaped writing instrument works. Compared to the common ballpoint pen, the fountain pen looks like something out of an antique store and even those who have been using them for years might not really know how these pens actually get the ink onto the paper. However, in this article, we are going to tackle it all. How fountain pens work, what makes up a fountain pen, and just what you need to know to get the most out of writing with a fountain pen. Let's start with the big question. How does a fountain pen work? Fountain pens work by using gravity and capillary action to draw liquid ink from a reservoir inside the pen down through a feeder to the metal writing point of the pen called a nib. It sounds relatively simple that gravity essentially pulls ink out of the pen, but the history of the working of the fountain pen has been a long one of trial and error. For a thousand years people attempted and failed to make a functional fountain pen. It wasn't until the end of the 19th century that the modern fountain pen came to be a usable pen for constant, daily writing. Each part of the fountain pen took years of development and ingenuity to make a complex, well designed writing tool. So what exactly is a fountain pen? What is a fountain pen? A fountain pen is any pen that holds ink in a reservoir and writes with a metal nib. It is the combination of the two elements that makes a fountain pen. A ballpoint, for instance, holds ink inside a reservoir (the ink refill), but it lacks the metal nib. On the other hand, most calligraphy pens have a metal nib but are technically dip pens, like old fashion quill pens, since they require the user to constantly dip the pen in an ink bottle to write. The Anatomy of a Fountain Pen The nib, the feeder, the section, the ink reservoir, the body, and the cap make up the anatomy of a fountain pen. However, all these parts of the fountain pen must work together to ensure smooth writing. The Nib The fountain pen's nib is the metal point where the ink meets the paper. The nib is a single piece of metal that tapers down to a point. At the center of the point is a slit to the middle of the body to create two flexible tines with a small hole (called a breather hole) where the slit ends.     TRY A PILOT NIB TODAY   The slit acts as a channel for ink to run down to a reinforced tip and also give the fountain pen an adaptive element. Fountain pens release more ink on downstrokes when you apply more pressure, causing a tell-tale change in the thickness of the writing line. This is because the slits move and flex with the pressure or position of writing. The Feeder The feeder or feed of the fountain pen is a plastic (or ebonite/celluloid in vintage pens) component that attaches the nib to the ink supply.     The fountain pen feed serves a twofold purpose. Firstly, it controls the flow of the ink by giving the ink a place to move along. Second, it allows air to simultaneously flow back up into the ink reservoir for a continuous flow of ink. We will go more in depth into why this matters when we talk about how ink flows through fountain pens. The Section The section of the fountain pen holds the nib to the feeder and then attaches those to pieces to the ink reservoir. It can also be called the grip since the outer shell of the section is where the fingers will hold the pen. Sections contain the threads that twist the barrel and the entire nib housing together. The Ink Reservoir The ink reservoir holds the fountain pen ink. You can use a single-use ink cartridge as the reservoir and change it when the ink runs out. On the other hand, you can use an ink convertor which lets you refill ink reservoirs with bottled ink. There are many different types of ink converters, and you will find a list of the different kinds further on in the article. The Body The body of the pen, also called the pen barrel, houses the ink reservoir. The Cap The cap covers the writing point of the fountain pen and often has a clip. How does the ink flow through a fountain pen? Ink flows through a fountain pen through a combination of gravity and capillary action. Gravity draws the ink out of the reservoir to the writing nib and capillary action controls the flow so ink does not flood out of the pen. What does that actually mean? Let's take a closer look at those two processes and how they affect fountain pens. Gravity Every pen from the ballpoint pen to the fountain pen works because of gravity. However, there are exceptions for specialized ballpoints made to write upside down.) Whatever direction the pen is held, the ink will flow. So easily enough by putting the nib of the pen point down ink will begin to flow out of the pen.     And the predecessor to the fountain pen, the reservoir pen, was based entirely on gravity. But there was a major drawback with a gravity fed liquid ink pen: the inconsistency. Gravity pulled the ink out of the pen until there was no ink. Pens would constantly leak or ink would flood out because there was no way to keep the excess ink inside the pen. There was no way to control the flow of ink out of the pen. Pen technology suffered for hundreds of years until the discovery of capillary action. Capillary Action The process of capillary action draws liquid into a narrow space through cohesion to the liquid and adhesion to a solid, with little to no impact from the force of gravity. Think about sticking a straw in a drink. Within the straw a certain amount of liquid moves above the water line in your glass. This is capillary action. Liquid molecules like to stay together and this is called cohesion. But liquid molecules also stick to solids through a process called adhesion. In a narrow space, liquid will adhere to the walls of the solid, drawing more liquid molecules with it through cohesion. So what does this mean for the working of the fountain pen? A piece of plastic with a slit down the center, a flat surface on one side, and thin fins on the other makes up the fountain ped feed. These fins act as channels by which the liquid can adhere and hold excess liquid.     How capillary action and gravity work together On one hand gravity causes the ink to fill the feed, while on the other, capillary action draws the ink into these channels, adhering the ink to the fins and cohering the liquid to itself. Then once the tip of the pen touches a writing surface, capillary action begins again, drawing the liquid out of the channels through cohesion as the liquid adheres to the paper. So, gravity causes the pen to "leak" and capillary action controls the leak in order to write. Airflow and the modern fountain pen There is one last element to modern fountain pens that is pivotal to a good working pen, and it has to do with airflow. As much as gravity and capillary action make fountain pens work, air flow is also critical to releasing the liquid ink from the reservoir steadily, When a chamber such as an ink cartridge is filled with liquid and a small hole is punctured into the cartridge...nothing will happen. This is because air will act like a seal against the hole. Air needs a place to go. However, in order for liquid to properly flow and the fountain pen to work, the air around the liquid must be able to flow. As a result, you see small air holes in your reusable water bottles. Without a way to let air in to fill the space created by liquid leaving a chamber, the space in the chamber will become pressurized.     What is remarkable about the modern fountain pen feeder is that the fins that create capillary action, also allow air to flow back up into the reservoir creating a steady, constant liquid flow. The internal filling mechanism of a fountain pen Now let's talk a little bit about the reservoirs that hold the ink. As I mentioned in the Ink Reservoir section of the Anatomy of the Fountain Pen, there are two major types of ink reservoir by which the modern fountain pen operates: the disposable cartridge and the refillable converter. Disposable cartridges are single use plastic tubes of the proprietary sizing for a fountain pen brand. When the cartridge runs out of ink, the entire tube is replaced. Refillable converters will also be proprietary to the brand of fountain pen, but offer far more versatility both in the type of ink used and in the type of self-filling mechanism. For converters, the entire nib is submerged into an ink bottle, the mechanism is engaged, and the reservoir is filled with ink.  Shop Now: Fountain Pen Ink Refills Piston Converter A piston converter is the most common of the ink converters. It works by drawing the ink into the reservoir as the knob is twisted to move the piston up or down and bring ink into the housing. EXPERIENCE A PISTON CONVERTER Squeeze Converter A squeeze converter (much like a bladder/ink sac converter) is the simplest of the converters. Squeeze the sac to expel air and release to draw the ink into the reservoir. USE A SQUEEZE CONVERTER Push Button Converter The push button converter is the least common of the three converters. After inserting the nib into the bottled ink, push the button until the ink is drawn in.  Related Reading: Types of Fountain Pens   So what is so special about fountain pen ink? What is fountain pen ink made of? Fountain pen ink is composed of dyes, water, and additives that tailor the ink for desired traits. Fountain pen ink is incredibly customizable in the fact that you can find many different kinds of fountain pen ink from along the color spectrum, any variety of thickness, sheens, sparkles, archive quality, water-proof, etc. It is the water-based (or liquid-based) ink that sets the fountain pens apart from ballpoint pens or gel pens which use oil or gel bases. The upside of fountain pen ink is that it is incredibly smooth offering wet lines and a fluid writing experience. The downside is that it is susceptible to drying out if the pen is left uncapped. What is so special about fountain pens? Fountain pens are special because they have a unique writing experience and a smooth writing line that cannot be found in any other writing device. Not only is there an exceptional amount of freedom in choosing the type of ink, fountain pens offer the ability to alter a writing line with different nibs or even just by changing the pressure or position of a pen.  "I love fountain pens. I have a collection and I use every single one." -Jacqueline Winspear Types of fountain pen nibs Partly due to the flexibility of the metal and partly due to how much ink a writer would like put down onto the page, there are quite a few different kinds of nibs to choose from. Pointed Nib Pointed nibs come to a sharp point and are incredibly flexible. They are the most adaptive to handwriting and the most affected by writing pressure. More pressure on the writing point causes the pen's tines to separate more and release more ink for a thicker line. Pointed nibs are often used for technical drawing or sketching when precision is vital. Broad/Italic Nib Broad nibs are characterized by a more rigid metal and a flat writing edge. Instead of applying various pressures while writing, the broad nib is dependent on the angle of writing. A stroke will be thinner or thicker by the angle of the pen to the page. Broad nibs are most commonly used in calligraphy or italicized writing. Stub/Conventional Nib Conventional nibs are the most common nibs and what you will probably see on most modern fountain pens. I put conventional and stub together because both have rounded edges. A blend between the pointed nib and the broad nib, the stub nib narrows to a point, but is tipped with a rounded point. The size of the rounded point will determine the fineness of the writing and distinguishes between a conventional and a stub with point size varying from extra fine 0.5mm (conventional) to 1.9mm (stub) on average. These nibs tend to have a medium flexibility and are most common for everyday writing. In the table below, I've highlighted the differences between various styles of fountain pen nibs: Nib Style Characteristics  Common Sizes Round Nib Standard, versatile Fine, medium, broad Italic Nib Cursive writing, calligraphy 1.1mm, 1.5mm, 2.0mm Flex Nib Line variation with pressure Extra-fine to broad What is the difference between a fountain pen and a ballpoint pen? There are two major differences between a fountain and a ballpoint pen: The writing mechanism The type of ink used in the pen. Fountain pens have a metal nib writing point where gravity feeds ink from the reservoir through the feeder down to the nib tip of the pen. Ballpoint pens use a ball and socket mechanism that coats the ball at the tip of the pen in ink as it spins to create a writing line. Ballpoint ink also differs significantly as it has an oil-based composition with high viscosity, and it dries almost instantly when you write(the ink binds to the paper's surface). Fountain pen ink is water-based allowing for a smoother, flowing writing line that has low viscosity. The ink requires a few seconds of drying time as it needs to soak into the fibers of the paper. Ballpoint pens and fountain pens both serve very different writing purposes. Ballpoints are best on low quality paper and writing in a variety of circumstances. Fountain pens are ideal for dedicated writing, drawing, or signing documents. How do you use a fountain pen for beginners? As a beginner start with an affordable, easy-to-use fountain pen, always writing with the pen at a 45ish degree angle. Fountain Pens for Beginners The ideal beginner fountain pen is comfortable, simple to use, and is cheap. My personal favorite for getting a feel for using a fountain pen is the Pilot Metropolitan Fountain Pen. For under $20, you get a pen that is highly used and coveted by new users and collectors alike. EXPERIENCE A METROPOLITAN Honorable mention to the TWSBI Eco, my daily user. Easily, the next step up if you enjoy the Metropolitan and want to try a different brand of fountain pen. It's also great if you have a second pen to fill with a different kind of ink. How to Write with a Fountain Pen To write with a fountain pen, remember to keep it at a 45ish degree angle. Nibs are not built to withstand the direct downward pressure used on a ballpoint or rollerball pen. Best case scenario you will bend your nib; worst case it will snap. The angle allows the tines to flex properly and gives your fountain pen the tell-tale variations in line width. Additionally, it allows for a proper flow of ink. Tips for using fountain pens Do not apply a lot of pressure. Fountain pens don't require pressure to write and too much will bend your nib Paper matters. The higher the quality of paper, the more function you will get out of your fountain pens Find the sweet spot. Make sure you are not writing on a single one of the two tines. You want your fountain pen to be at an angle with both tines touching the paper   Connect your writing: cursive writing exists to diminish the amount of pick up and put down a pen requires. With liquid ink, connected writing will result in less pooling (a lot of ink in one spot). Clean your fountain pen between ink refills: fountain pen ink will dry out over time. It is always good to rinse the feed/nib housing between refills. Store up: How you store your pen matters. If you aren't going to use it for a while, store it with the point up. If you are using it steadily through the day, store it flat. Never store it point down; gravity will eventually drain the ink into your cap. Always cap your pen: fountain pens have liquid ink and will dry out. When not in use, put the cap on so your pen is ready to write when you need it next. Conclusion Fountain pens aren't the simplest of pens, but they can be the most satisfying and creative to use. Harnessing gravity, air flow, and capillary action, the liquid ink fountain pen offers a completely unique writing experience, customizable to you. What is your favorite thing about how fountain pens work? Leave a comment below! Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

We've all stained something with ballpoint pen ink. Therefore, in this article, I'll discuss different types of stains, and how you can get ink out of your clothes. Different ballpoint ink stains that will be discussed include:  Upholstery Carpet Wall Clothing Leather Wood Old Stains Things to Remember Why is Ballpoint Ink Difficult to Remove from Clothes? Ballpoint ink is difficult to remove because of the mixture of pigments and dyes along with the chemical components that suspend the dyes. The entire process of how a ballpoint pen works is staining a writing surface with ink. The pro of the compound of solvents, water, and dyes that make up ink is that it stains paper so well. However, the con is that it stains other surfaces just as well. Removing Ballpoint Pen Ink from Upholstery I am a firm believer in the incredible power of dish soap and vinegar to remove ink from clothes and other surfaces. Therefore, I always recommend starting there and escalating to a heavier duty stain remover as needed. It is always important to remove pen ink from the affected area as quickly as possible. Stains that have set in are not impossible to get out, but they are much more difficult. Using a spoon, scrape off any excess ink, working from the outside in to remove clumps of wet or dry excess ink. Combine 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, one tablespoon of liquid dish detergent (like Dawn), and two cups of warm water. Dab gently the stain with a clean cloth and the solution, alternating with a clean dry cloth until the stain is gone. (Special note: Do not rub the stain. This will spread the stain or work it deeper into the upholstery.) Dab area with clean water and a dry cloth to remove excess liquid. Avoid sitting on the surface until it can dry completely. If the stain persists, try repeating the steps with Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) or nail polish remover, but always test the solution on a hidden part of the upholstery to make sure it does not damage your fabric. If none of these methods work or the stained area is large, you may need to contact professional cleaners. How to Remove Ink Stains from Carpet Carpet can be tricky and there are a myriad of different methods out there to remove ink stains from carpet. I am, however, going to just list a few options to try.  Pro tip: If the stain is still wet, sprinkle cornstarch on it. Cornstarch will absorb the staining ink that is still wet. Then just vacuum it up when it dries and proceed with your stain removing method.   Hair spray Method Make sure to get a cheap hair spray with alcohol as an ingredient (a lacquer hairspray) and have a clean cloth on hand. Spray stained area liberally with hair spray. Blot spot with clean cloth, rotating the cloth with every blot or so to prevent the stain from spreading. Repeat steps 1-2 until stain is gone. Next, you can do one of two things. Wait for the hair spray to dry and vacuum the spot or apply clean water to the spot to rinse it. Carpet Stain Remover Method This method involve using a household carpet stain remover. Apply Carpet Stain Remover (like Resolve) and blot with a clean cloth, rotating the cloth to prevent spreading. Continue until cloth comes up clean (without removing any ink). Now, apply rubbing alcohol to the stain (you should always test rubbing alcohol on a hidden section of the carpet to ensure the carpet is colorfast and the isopropyl alcohol will not remove the carpet dye.) Blot with clean cloth, repeating process if the stain remains. Rinse with clean water and pat dry. Shaving Cream Method Spray shaving cream onto the stain, blotting with a clean, wet sponge and wiping away any excess foam with clean cloth. Repeat until the ballpoint stain is removed. Blot area with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of liquid dish detergent and 1 cup of water. Rinse area with clean water and blot dry. Other Methods You can always try WD40, nail polish remover, hand sanitizer, or rubbing alcohol on your stain following the same steps as the hairspray method.  Related Topic: How Do Ballpoint Pens Work How Can You Remove Ink from a Wall My go-to for any wall stains is to always start with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Dampen the Magic Eraser and scrub the spot on the wall following the label directions. Other options are trying a little soap and water, rubbing alcohol, or toothpaste. Toothpaste Method Apply a small amount of white, non-gel toothpaste to the ink mark. Let it sit for 10 minutes. Gently wipe excess toothpaste with a damp cloth and dab the stain until clean. Repeat the method if stain persists. How To Get Ink Out Of Clothes The most tried and true method I have found is the rubbing alcohol method. Place a paper towel underneath the pen ink stain and flush the stain with rubbing alcohol. Depending on the size of the stain either dab it with a rubbing alcohol soaked cotton swab, a cotton ball, or soak the whole stain in rubbing alcohol for 15 minutes. Sponge or blot the stain until no more ink lifts up from the clothes. Rinse with cool water and apply your prewash stain treater of choice. Launder your clothing item in the hottest water the garment will allow and air dry or check before you putting in the dryer to make sure the stain is gone. As a last resort, it never hurts to take your clothes to a dry cleaner and see if they have any recommendations or if they can do stain removal. Sometimes...its best to leave it to the fabric professionals.     How To Remove Ink From Leather Soak a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol and gently rub the stain until it is gone. You can also try some classic soap and water. It really is that easy sometimes. How to Remove Ballpoint Ink from Wood For fresh ballpoint wood stains: Combine a half teaspoon of liquid dish soap with 5 tbsp of hot water. Scrub For dried on ballpoint wood stains: Combine one part (1 tbsp) of baking soda to one part (1 tbsp) of water. This will make a thick paste. Spread the paste over the spot, scrubbing in with a soft bristled brush (an old toothbrush works) and let it sit till the baking soda is dry. Wipe off baking soda with a wet cloth. If the ink stain still remains, blot rubbing alcohol and let that sit for 5 minutes. Finally, blot the stain with paper towels and clean water and repeat the process until the ink stain is completely removed.  Discover More: Who Invented the Ballpoint Pen?: A Brief History How to Remove an Old Ink Stain from Clothes For set-in or old ink stains, there is a chance the stain will not be able to be removed, but it is always worth a try! I would personally start with whatever method it listed for your stained surface. However, if that does not seem to be working, here are some alternatives to try. Commercial Stain Removers For this method, try any of these options and just follow the package directions. Orange Wonder GooGone OxiClean Simple Green a dry cleaning solvent Homemade Stain Removers Cornstarch and milk is an old method that still does wonders. Mix equal parts cornstarch and milk until you have a thick paste to smear over the stain. Let it dry and wipe or vacuum away. Does vinegar remove ink stains from clothes? This question is asked enough I wanted to go ahead and answer it. Vinegar will help the process of pen ink removal, but generally not on its own. A great pretreatment method is to rinse the area with white vinegar, and rub a paste of vinegar and cornstarch over the spot. Afterwards, let the mixture dry and wash as usual with your laundry detergent. Do not dry! If the stain remains go through the Stain Removal Processes listed above for whatever the stained surface is. In the table below I've summarized how to remove ballpoint ink from various surfaces. Ink Stain Location Cleaning Agents Cleaning Method  Upholstery White vinegar, liquid dish detergent, water Dabbing Carpet Hair spray, shaving cream, carpet stain remover, shaving cream Blotting Wall Magic Eraser scrubber sponge, toothpaste, soapy water Wiping Clothes Rubbing alcohol Dabbing/soaking Leather Rubbing alcohol, soapy water Rubbing Wood Liquid dish detergent, baking soda Scrubbing   Important things to Remember When Treating an Ink Stain Here are a couple tips I have come across that are good to know. Not all hairsprays are made alike. It is the alcohol in the hairspray that is key. New or more expensive brands tend to have little to no alcohol (which is why the are probably better for your hair...). Go for the cheapest brand you can find and check the ingredients list for high alcohol content...or else the hairspray method may be a bust. Do not dry your piece of clothing in a dryer until you know the stain is gone. A heated drying cycle will set the stain...I learned this the hard way with forgetfulness and baby clothes. Ballpoint ink is oil-based, so it is important to use a method that works to either dissolve the oil in the ink or lift it up out of the surface. Never. Scrub. Always dab or blot. Once the ink starts lifting from the surface, scrubbing will only spread the newly removed ink into unstained areas. Isopropyl alcohol also known as rubbing alcohol reigns supreme for ballpoint ink stains. People swear by hair spray, nail polish remover, hand sanitizer and alcohol is the big common denominator between all these. Rubbing alcohol dissolves the oil of pen ink in stained fabric or an ink stained area. Now You Know How to Remove Ink from Your Clothes That's it for my list of different things that get ballpoint pen ink stains and how to remove ink stains from clothes and other surfaces. What is your go-to ink stain removal method? Leave a comment below! And check out our other helpful pen articles: Learn How to Clean a Fountain Pen How to Get a Ballpoint Pen to Start Writing Again How to Choose the Right Fountain Pen Ink Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Learning how to clean a fountain pen is essential for anyone who appreciates the elegance and precision of this writing tool.  Dirt and dry ink can really ruin your enjoyment of a fountain pen. The first sign that you need to clean your pen is when it skips the strokes while you write. If the pen isn’t running out of ink, then cleaning is necessary. You should clean it often, especially if you didn’t use it for some time. To tell the truth, to clean it will take some effort on your part. Still, when you bear in mind that a fountain pen lasts longer with proper maintenance, then it’s well worth your time. And the process is even enjoyable: it's fun to just tinker and go through all the little parts that make your pen the unique writing experience that it is. Cleaning a fountain pen can be kind of like making coffee in the morning. You go through a number of steps (steps which become second nature after a while), and there's a satisfying feeling at every stage. The most satisfying stage, of course, is when you can just sit down and enjoy the finished product.  And don't be scared: the maintenance of your favorite pen is really simple. Here's a quick step-by-step lesson in pen maintenance: Basic Steps for All Kinds of Fountain Pens There are many different and brands and designs of fountain pens on the market. But the cleaning process for the inside of the pen is basically the same for all of them: Disassemble the pen.  Remove the ink cartridge or empty the converter. Flush the barrel through with room temperature water until it starts running clear. Soak the nib in clean water and leave until the water has become saturated with ink.  Repeat with clean water until the water remains clear and move all parts onto a cloth or paper towel. Let the nib and all other parts dry completely before reassembling the pen. Ideally, you should repeat this process once a week or before using your pen after being out of use.  Related Reading: Types of Fountain Pens Equipment for Cleaning Prepare everything you will need to use for cleaning before starting the process. You’ll need: Paper Towels: They are very handy since they don’t leave any fibers. These towels can soak the excess water very fast. Still, take care to not scratch the nib, as the paper may have a rough surface. Cotton Swabs: Cotton swabs may be useful if you want to clean the barrel. It can easily remove the ink buildup inside of the pen. Before putting the swab into the barrel, soak it in tepid water. Syringe: A syringe is very convenient to use when you need to flush the water through the hard-to-reach parts of the pen. Syringes literally inject water into the pen parts. They are available to buy in any drug store. Bowls: They are needed for soaking the parts of the pen. The most helpful ones are shallow, wide-mouthed (glasses may be useful for this purpose as well). Disassembling a Fountain Pen   Before starting the process of cleaning a fountain pen you need to disassemble it completely: Remove the cap of the pen. Unscrew the pen to separate the nib section from the barrel. If a pen has an ink cartridge, remove it (tip: use a pair of tweezers if you can’t grasp it). Disassemble the nib section. Now, your fountain pen is ready for cleaning. Cleaning of a Cartridge/Converter Fountain Pen The most common fountain pen for everyday use either has a cartridge or a converter placed in the barrel. So, the pen cleaning process may vary depending on the ink reservoir.  If the Pen Has an Ink Cartridge Remove the cartridge from the nib. If it isn’t empty, then put it aside into an upright position. You can put a tape on the top of it to prevent spilling the ink or drying it out. If the ink cartridge is empty, you may replace it with the new one when reassembling the pen. If the Pen Has a Converter A converter is a reusable reservoir. It can be refilled with the bottled ink, so don’t throw it away if it’s empty. You should flush tepid water through the converter to clean it using a syringe or tap. Repeat the process until the water becomes completely clear. Image courtesy Sometimes ink can remain in the converter. In that case, soak it into the bowl with tepid water. Leaving it in the water for at least an hour will thoroughly clean your cartridge converter. After rinsing the converter, leave it on a paper towel turned downwards, and let it air dry. Sometimes, a cotton swab will help you to dry the last bits of moisture before reassembly. Image courtesy Although cleaning the converter and the barrel is a very important part of the process, this is not the end. There is one more important part to the cleaning of a fountain pen.  Shop Now: Luxury Custom Fountain Pens   Cleaning the Nib A nib is the most delicate part of a fountain pen. The ink runs through it onto the paper. So it should be cleaned thoroughly: Image courtesy Run cold water through the nib. Place the nib under the tap or you use a syringe in order to wash it out. If you put the nib under the tap, let it run lightly. Don’t use warm or hot water. distilled water works best. Alcohol may damage the nib, so don't be tempted to use that as a cleaning agent.  Once you’ve rinsed out the nib, put it in a shallow bowl with room temperature water and leave it for 10 minutes. Image courtesy If the nib has some ink remaining after this process, take a syringe and remove it by gently squeezing water through the section. You should repeat this until ink stops coming through with the water. After cleaning the nib, leave it in an upside-down position for at least 20 minutes to dry. Troubleshooting Occasionally there may be further issues with your fountain pen. In that case, it may require a more thorough cleaning. You can make cleaning solutions at home: Try mixing a teaspoon of vinegar or ammonia into a cup of water. Place the nib in the cup and soak it overnight. Dry the nib. Put it on a paper towel in an upright position. Caution: Don't use ammonia if the pen or nib has parts that are made of copper, brass, or aluminum. How to Store a Fountain Pen When you finish cleaning the pen, you should store it properly. Place it in a pen holder or cup vertically. If you have freshly refilled it with ink and leave it lying down, the ink will dry. If you want to store your pen for longer than a week, we recommend that you remove the ink from it and let it dry fully. Place the pen in a case for safe storage. The process described above is applicable to all fountain pens. Still, the frequency of cleaning depends on the pen itself.  Further Reading: How To Store a Fountain Pen Properly   It's not a problem to leave them closed with the nib pointed upwards. Cleaning your fountain pen may be possible even if a cartridge or converter is not completely empty. Just make sure that you follow all the steps above. The following table summarizes common fountain pen problems and how to solve them with various cleaning methods. Issue Solution  Ink residue in feed Soak in pen flush solution and clean with a brush Stubborn stains on barrel Wipe with a cloth dampened with water or mild soap Nib clogging Use a bulb syringe to flush with distilled water Rust on metal parts Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush and rust remover   Need refills? We at Dayspring Pens know how frustrating it can be to have your pen let you down at the worst possible moment. Like us, you've probably tried using a pen to write down something important, only to realize that it’s run out of ink. It's frustrating, to say the least, but it's also an easy problem to avoid. Check out our online store with our affordable fountain pen ink refills. Get your backup refills today and ensure you don't run out of ink in that all-important moment. Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.

  To choose the right fountain pen ink you need to decide whether format, flow, or color composition matters more to you. First, I will point out the differences between bottled ink and cartridges to help you choose which is best for your needs.  Next, I will talk about what make fountain pen ink flow and how to determine if you want a fast-flowing or slow-flowing ink. Last, I will cover the varieties of ink compositions that make up the color of fountain pen ink. Let's jump right in!   Bottled Inks vs Cartridges: Which One Is Best for My Fountain Pen? There are a ton of pros and cons to both bottled ink or ink cartridges, and ultimately, there is no wrong answer as long as you have the right converter/cartridge in your pen.  But! Preference matters quite a lot in deciding when one will make your experience with your fountain pen better.  And there are so key questions you should ask yourself when deciding: How hands on do I want my fountain pen experience to be? Do I mind ink stains on my fingers? Is convenience and speed of refill important when I'm writing? How much variety do I want in my ink selection? What kind of writing am I doing? So, I am going to break down the strengths and weakness of bottled ink and ink cartridges so you can determine which one will be better for you. Bottled Inks Bottled ink is available in almost any color, sheen, dry-time, scent, shimmer...you name it. It offers a multitude of waterproof and water-resistant choices.  Bottled ink can be more cost-effective since you get more ink and therefore a longer writing time with a bottle than individual cartridges.  Also, bottled ink has less waste since the converter (or even the barrel of the pen) are refilled. There is nothing to dispose of, unlike the cartridge which requires the entire plastic housing to be discarded and replaced when the ink runs out. The downside is that bottled ink users take more time to refill their pen. The ink replacement process can be messy, especially if you’ve not mastered the refilling technique to the style of ink converter that you have. If you’re looking to personalize your writing without limiting your choice of colors, bottled ink is an ideal choice. And why wouldn’t you want to give your writing a heightened sense of purpose and meaning with a personalized pen? Pros Cons Bottled ink offers a wide variety of colors Refilling your pen with ink bottles is more complicated Has many waterproof choices The initial cost is higher Versatility - Bottled ink can be used with most fountain pens Less convenient to travel with an ink bottle Reduces cost long term Ink Cartridges Ink cartridges are built for convenience, being safer to carry when traveling. Moreover, they allow for an easy, mess-free installation and replacement process. Most modern fountain pens are cartridge pens, meaning they take either ink cartridges or ink converters. Each one of these pens usually arrives with 1-2 ink cartridges for you to install and start using your pen right away. One thing that must be taken into account is the size of your ink cartridge. Pens often have proprietary cartridges so before you install, make sure you have the right cartridge.   Bonus: Download our free Ultimate Fountain Pen Refill Guide to have the comprehensive list of fountain pen brands and their correct ink cartridge sizing.   Your color options are limited to the ink cartridge your pen brand offers. These are usually proprietary cartridges, including: Waterman ink refill cartridges Cross ink refill cartridges  Pilot ink refill cartridges Platinum ink refill cartridges Cartridges hold less bottled ink as they are smaller in size.  And that means they are costly in the long run. Pros Cons Quicker and easier to replace Limited color options The initial cost is lower compared to bottled ink Might be more expensive in the long run compared to bottled ink More convenient to travel with Few waterproof choices Doesn’t require additional parts   Choosing the Right Fountain Pen Ink: Your Ink Flow Experience As you may have noticed, bottled ink works well with most pens. The question is, how do you make sure the ink you choose really suits your needs? Here’s what to consider: Paper Quality You probably already know that the paper you use can affect your writing performance. Your ink and style would have no place to shine if there was no paper and finding the best paper for fountain pens is critical.      If you’re writing on ordinary paper, then consider Waterman brand ink refills. These are dryer, flowing inks that work well with personalized journal sets. Dry-Time/Ink Flow Flow, in this case, refers to how well the ink flows through a pen. Whether you decide to choose bottled ink or ink carriage, wetter inks vs. dryer inks will have a major impact on your writing. Wet inks flow quicker through the pen and often dry faster since they soak into the paper more rapidly. Dry inks are thicker. This means you have less chances of bleeding/feathering. They will have slower dry-times since they are more viscous and sit on top of the paper more than soak into it. Calligraphy Tip If you’re using bottled ink and the consistency seems too thin, don’t stress. Try adding a small quantity of gum arabic to thicken your bottled ink. Waterproofness Waterproofness refers to the ability of the ink to be affected or unaffected by water. Most fountain pen inks are far from permanent, meaning water could be your worst enemy when it comes to writing. The solution is to equip yourself with waterproof and water-resistant inks. Waterproofness How your writing will be affected by water Waterproof ink Your writing is virtually unaffected. Allow the paper to dry off and you’re good to go. Highly water-resistant ink You won’t lose what you wrote, though the ink is more likely to smudge slightly. Moderately water-resistant ink Part of your writing won’t survive. You might be able to reconstruct the rest from what’s left, though. Low water-resistant ink You’ll lose a large portion of your writing. Zero water-resistant ink Nothing will survive. You won’t even trace what you wrote. Ink Composition Ink manufacturers use water and colorants to make their products. Consider the unique characteristics of the colorants used when shopping for ink. The options available to you include: Scented Inks These include inks with added scents, like rose, jasmine, and chocolate. They give you a more inspiring writing experience. Dye-based Inks  These are low-maintenance inks and available in the most vibrant colors. They are by far the most common inks for pens. Shimmer Inks They offer beautiful color options and are infused with glitter and sparkle. Shimmer inks are best used with pens with a broad nib. Pigment-based Inks They often develop a ‘flat’ or ‘chalky’ finish upon drying. You can expect fewer color options, but improved permanence compared to dye-based inks. “Bulletproof” Inks Ink manufacturers add a special formula to dye-based inks to make ‘bulletproof’ inks. They are dye-based inks but with the permanence of pigment-based inks. Get The Perfect Ink for Your Fountain Pen Today! With endless ink options to choose from, narrowing it down to the perfect one for your pen can be practically impossible. However, choosing the right ink for your special writing tool doesn’t have to be a stressful process. It can be fun. Think of it as an opportunity to explore. Dayspring Pens are here to help you find personalized fountain pens with ink that suits your writing needs. We offer Cross, Parker, and Waterman brand fountain pen cartridges, bottled ink, and converters along with universal cartridges for easy refilling. Now you have the right information. What fountain pen ink will you choose next? Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.