The best paper to use for a fountain pen is Tomoe River Paper.
Tomoe River Paper (often abbreviated as TRP) is widely regarded as a top choice among fountain pen enthusiasts due to its exceptional qualities. Here's a breakdown of why it's so highly rated and what other options you might consider:
Why Tomoe River Paper is a Favorite
- Fountain Pen Friendly: TRP is specifically designed to handle fountain pen inks without feathering, bleeding, or show-through (ghosting). This allows for crisp, clean lines and showcases the ink's true color and shading properties.
- Thin and Lightweight: Despite its ink-handling capabilities, Tomoe River Paper is remarkably thin and lightweight. This allows notebooks to have a high page count without becoming excessively bulky.
- Smooth Surface: It offers a very smooth writing experience, which is comfortable and enhances the flow of the fountain pen nib.
- Shows Ink Properties Well: Many fountain pen users love how TRP brings out the shading and sheen of different inks.
Alternatives to Tomoe River Paper
While Tomoe River Paper is highly praised, it can be more expensive than other options. Here are some alternative papers that are also fountain pen friendly:
- Rhodia Paper: Rhodia notebooks and pads feature a smooth, coated paper that resists feathering and bleed-through. It's a good all-around choice and generally more readily available than Tomoe River Paper.
- Clairefontaine Paper: Similar to Rhodia, Clairefontaine paper is known for its smoothness and ink-handling abilities. It's a good option for those who prefer a slightly thicker paper than Tomoe River.
- Midori MD Paper: Midori MD paper is another excellent choice. It has a slightly more textured feel than Rhodia or Clairefontaine but still performs very well with fountain pens.
- Oxford Optik Paper: Often found in Oxford notebooks, Optik paper is a good, budget-friendly option that offers decent performance with most fountain pen inks. It may exhibit some show-through with wetter inks.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Paper
When selecting paper for your fountain pen, consider these factors:
- Paper Weight: Heavier paper (measured in gsm - grams per square meter) tends to be more resistant to bleed-through, but it can also be bulkier.
- Paper Coating: Coated papers are often smoother and resist feathering better.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best paper for you is the one you enjoy writing on the most. Experiment with different brands and types to find your favorite.
In summary, Tomoe River Paper is a gold standard for fountain pen users. However, Rhodia, Clairefontaine, Midori MD, and Oxford Optik paper are excellent alternatives. Consider your budget, desired paper weight, and personal writing preferences to find the best option for you.
