To use a fountain pen ink converter, you essentially turn it into a refillable cartridge by filling it with bottled ink and then inserting it into your fountain pen. Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Insert the Converter: Firmly insert the converter into the section of your fountain pen where you would normally place a cartridge. Make sure it's a snug fit.
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Submerge the Nib: Dip the fountain pen nib (the metal writing point) into your bottle of ink, ensuring the entire nib and part of the pen's section are submerged. The ink level needs to be above the converter's intake hole.
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Fill the Converter (Twist-Piston): If your converter has a twist mechanism:
- Twist the piston knob (usually at the end of the converter) all the way down, expelling any air from the converter. This is crucial for a good fill.
- Slowly twist the knob up, drawing ink into the converter. Try to fill it as completely as possible.
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Remove and Expel Air: Remove the pen from the ink bottle. With the nib facing upwards, slowly twist the piston knob down slightly to expel a few drops of ink back into the bottle. This removes any trapped air.
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Clean the Nib: Gently wipe any excess ink from the nib and section of the pen with a soft cloth or paper towel.
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Ready to Write: Your fountain pen is now filled and ready for writing!
Important Considerations:
- Converter Compatibility: Ensure the converter you're using is compatible with your specific fountain pen model. Not all converters fit all pens.
- Ink Quality: Use fountain pen-specific ink to avoid clogging or damaging your pen.
- Cleaning: Regularly clean your fountain pen and converter to maintain optimal performance.
By following these steps, you can effectively use a fountain pen ink converter and enjoy the flexibility of using bottled ink with your fountain pen.
