Fountain pen ink is used by filling your fountain pen's reservoir with the appropriate ink type. This process varies slightly depending on your pen's filling mechanism, but the core principle remains the same: ensure the ink flows smoothly and consistently onto the paper via the nib.
Choosing the Right Ink
- Type: Use fountain pen ink; other inks can damage your pen. The provided video emphasizes using "the right ink."
Filling Your Fountain Pen
The specific method for filling your fountain pen depends on its mechanism:
- Cartridge/Converter: This is a common system. Cartridges are pre-filled ink containers, while converters allow you to fill your pen from a bottle of ink. Simply insert the cartridge or fill the converter.
- Piston Filler: These pens use an internal piston mechanism to draw ink from a bottle. Submerge the nib in the ink and carefully operate the piston to draw the ink in.
- Vacuum Filler: Similar to piston fillers, but using a vacuum to draw the ink. Instructions vary per model.
- Eyedropper: These pens are filled directly by removing the section, filling the barrel with ink, and then carefully replacing the section. This is considered a more advanced method.
Fountain Pen Ink Do's and Don'ts (as mentioned in the reference):
- Do: Use the right ink (fountain pen ink).
- Don'ts: The reference video mentions "don'ts" but doesn't explicitly state them. Inferentially, avoid using incorrect ink types to prevent damage to your pen.
Maintaining Your Pen
Proper pen maintenance is crucial for consistent ink flow and preventing clogs. This includes regular cleaning and proper storage.
