How to Care for a Fountain Pen

A fountain pen is more than a writing instrument — it's a companion for life. Whether you've just received your first handcrafted fountain pen or you've been collecting for years, proper care ensures your pen writes beautifully for decades to come. Here's everything you need to know.

1. Flush Your Pen Regularly

Ink can dry and clog the nib and feed if left sitting for too long. We recommend flushing your fountain pen with cool, clean water every four to six weeks — or whenever you're changing ink colours. Simply draw water through the filling mechanism and expel it until it runs clear. Never use hot water, as it can damage seals and materials.

2. Use Quality Fountain Pen Ink

Not all inks are created equal. Always use ink specifically formulated for fountain pens. Avoid India ink, acrylic ink, or calligraphy inks — these contain particles or binders that will clog your pen's delicate feed channels. A quality fountain pen ink flows smoothly and cleans up easily.

3. Store Your Pen Properly

When not in use, store your fountain pen horizontally or nib-up. Storing nib-down for extended periods can cause ink to pool at the tip and dry out. Keep your pen away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, which can cause materials — especially natural woods and resins — to expand, contract, or fade over time.

4. Handle the Nib with Care

The nib is the heart of your fountain pen. Avoid pressing down hard when writing — a fountain pen is designed to glide across the page with minimal pressure. If your nib feels scratchy, don't force it. A gentle cleaning is often all it takes to restore a smooth writing experience. If the issue persists, contact the maker for guidance.

5. Cap It When Not Writing

Always cap your fountain pen when you set it down, even briefly. Leaving the nib exposed allows ink to evaporate and dry at the tip, which can cause hard starts or skipping. A properly capped pen stays ready to write at a moment's notice.

6. Clean Before Long-Term Storage

If you're putting a pen away for more than a few weeks, flush it thoroughly and store it empty. Dried ink is much harder to remove than fresh ink, and leaving ink in a pen for months can permanently stain or damage internal components.

A Note on Handcrafted Pens

Our pens at The Artisan Pensmith are handcrafted in Canada from hand-selected, high-quality materials — including exotic woods, acrylics, and resins. These materials are chosen for their beauty and durability, but they do benefit from a little extra attention. Avoid submerging the barrel in water during cleaning, and dry the exterior gently with a soft cloth after handling.

With the right care, your handcrafted fountain pen will reward you with a lifetime of exceptional writing. If you have any questions about caring for your specific pen, we're always happy to help.