7 Beginner Fountain Pen Mistakes to Avoid

Using fountain pens sounds like no rocket science. But some of us still end up with stained hands, broken nibs, and whatnot. Well, using fountain pens is not actually that easy.

If you are a beginner, there sure are some things you need to take good care of. Some factors like using the right pressure, choosing the right ink, etc. make a lot of impact on your writing experience. 

So, before you go ahead and invest in an attractive-looking cool fountain pen, read this blog. It’ll make sure that your money is not wasted and that you do not make any mistakes with the fountain pen.

To begin with…

1. Not Using a Fountain Pen

Some people might be hesitant to use their fountain pens because they fear they'll damage the pen, make mistakes, or simply because they're used to ballpoint pens. However, not using your fountain pen defeats the purpose of owning one.

Fountain pens offer a unique writing experience that can't be matched by other types of pens. To overcome this mistake, embrace the fountain pen and start using it regularly. You can begin writing small notes and then continue to write longer ones. 

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2. Applying Too Much Pressure on the Nib 

This is an important part of correctly using a fountain pen. Fountain pen nibs are designed to write smoothly with minimal pressure. When you apply too much pressure on the nib, it may damage the nib and interrupt the flow.

To avoid this mistake, practice a light touch. Hold the pen with a relaxed grip and let the weight of the pen itself create the necessary pressure for writing. It will help you write smoothly and more effortlessly.

3. Not Cleaning the Pen

Fountain pens require regular maintenance to ensure they perform optimally. Neglecting to clean your pen can lead to ink clogs, inconsistent flow, and even permanent damage over time. Follow a cleaning routine.

If you're switching ink colors, thoroughly clean the pen before refilling. If you're not using the pen for an extended period, empty the ink and clean the pen as well. This simple maintenance will prolong the life of your pen and provide a better writing experience.

4. Using the Wrong Ink

Fountain pen ink is specially formulated to work with the intricate mechanisms of fountain pens. Using the wrong type of ink can cause various problems, including clogging, smudging, and even damaging the pen over time. Make sure to use the ink that is made for the pen you are using. 

These inks have the right consistency and properties that make them flow smoothly on the nib. Remember not to use other kinds of inks like calligraphy inks or pigmented inks. These can clog your nib and it may stop working.

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5. Keeping the Pen Downward While Travelling

Storing a fountain pen with the nib facing downward can lead to a problem. This can cause the ink to flow out of the nib and into the cap, resulting in leaks and ink stains.

Always keep your fountain pen in an upright position, and store it in a pen case or a pouch that holds the pen securely. It's still a good practice to store them upright even when your pen has sealing properties.

6. Dropping the Fountain Pen on Nib

Fountain pen nibs are sensitive and are prone to damage, especially from incidents like dropping the pen on its nib. A pen cannot work with a damaged nib and it may require costly repairs or replacements. Handle your fountain pen with care.

If you accidentally drop your pen, check the nib for any visible damage before using it again. If you notice any issues, it's recommended to replace the nib. 

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7. Using Wrong Paper

If you are using expensive fountain pens but bad-quality paper, it’ll end up ruining the write-up. A cheap quality paper can tend to spread the ink that makes everything unreadable. The words can look like overwritten rather than neatly written. So, remember to choose a good quality paper. 

Summing Up

Fountain pens are exceptional writing tools if you use them right. They provide a smooth writing experience. But with the slightest of mistakes, your writing experience can go wrong. You need to avoid the mistakes we mentioned here to write wonderfully with these pens.