Why I like to write with a fountain pen

Perhaps you should too?

My regular trio of fountain pens. Image: Roland Millward

Fountain Pens

I love writing with a fountain pen. Perhaps in this digital age many have never used one. During my childhood it was a compulsory tool at school. Ballpoint pens were frowned upon as they were seen to spoil good handwriting techniques. To some extent, that is true. It’s easier to be sloppy with a ballpoint pen.

One of the drawbacks of a fountain pen is that they require reasonably good paper. Paper that is too absorbent can allow the wet ink to spread and become ‘feathered’ making the letters lose a defined edge. This can be improved or made worse by the width of the nib. Fine nibs put less ink on the paper than medium or broad. For those not acquainted with fountain pens there are many widths available.

The other issue is if the ink ‘bleeds’ through the paper and shows up on the other side. However, as long as you have the right paper all will be well.

In future stories here on Roland’s Notebook I will tell you more about fountain pens such as how to choose one, the way they work, and how to look after them. But now, let me tell you why I like to write with them.

Writing with a fountain pen

There is something special when writing with a fountain pen. The nib glides across the paper and the way it flows gives me much more pleasure than having to press onto the paper with a ballpoint. To some degree there is more thought in forming the letters and this gives rise to improved handwriting.

As the words settle onto the paper there is a slight aroma from the drying ink. Though it’s minimal, it pleases me. (I am easily pleased!) Writing by hand for many reasons has advantages over typing on an electronic device and the connection with a good pen, paper and the movement of hand plays a positive role. Research shows we remember better when we make handwritten notes. Writing with a fountain pen enhances that experience.

The three fountain pens in the photograph are from top to bottom:

• Sheaffer 1960s

• Parker from 1979

• Cross early 2000s

As you can see from those dates, there is longevity from fountain pens. They are all using their original nibs and filling mechanisms. They have never been repaired. Indeed, a fountain pen is a good investment. I use ink from bottles, as I prefer that as a sustainability model, rather then generating lots of empty plastic ink cartridges. Some pens are sold without a converter and it’s usually a small extra cost if you want to avoid using ink cartridges. You will save money by avoiding the use of cartridges.

How do you write?

Do you use a fountain pen? If not, would you like to? Let me know in the comments.

As mentioned above, I will write more about fountain pens in the future, along with other writing implements, notebooks and more. Become a subscriber to follow along!

Thanks for reading Roland’s Notebook!