The world of fountain pens and stationery is a delightful rabbit hole filled with beautiful nibs, shimmering inks, and luxurious papers. But for beginners and even some more experienced enthusiasts, navigating this wonderland can be overwhelming. Fear not, fellow pen lover! This guide will equip you with the knowledge to make informed choices on your fountain pen and stationery shopping adventures.
The Basics
Before you go ahead and add pens and stationery items to your cart, there are a few things you should consider.
Know Your Needs
Are you a lefty? Do you prefer a thin or thick line? Answering these questions will help you choose a pen that complements your writing style. Nib size (extra fine, fine, medium, etc.) plays a big role in line width, so research different options.
Try Before You Buy
Whenever possible, visit a physical store and test-drive some pens. Hold them, write with them, and see if they feel comfortable.
Start Simple
There's no need to splurge on your first pen. Many excellent beginner-friendly options offer smooth writing and great value. Popular brands include LAMY, Pilot, and TWSBI.
Stationery Staples
There are a few fountain pen and stationery staples you should keep an eye out for when shopping. Here are some of them:
Fountain Pen Friendly Paper. Not all paper is created equal. Choose high-quality fountain pen paper that prevents bleed-through and feathering. Rhodia, Clairefontaine, and Leuchtturm are popular options.
Inks Galore. Fountain pen inks come in a dazzling array of colors and properties. Start with basic blue or black, then explore shimmering inks, water-resistant inks, or even multi-colored inks!
The Extras. A pen case protects your precious pen, while a converter allows you to use bottled inks instead of cartridges. Consider a blotter to absorb excess ink and keep your writing clean.
Beyond the Basics
Other than the basics, which we have outlined above, there are other things you can do to gain more knowledge and experience before you go shopping.
• Explore Different Brands - As you develop your preferences, remember to explore other brands and exclusive inks. Remember, fountain pen shopping is a journey, not a destination!
• Make it Personal - Fountain pens are more than just writing instruments; they're an extension of yourself. Choose a pen that reflects your personality and style.
• Take Advantage of Sales - Sales are a prime opportunity to snag that coveted brand or finally try a new nib type. From deeply discounted ink bottles to markdowns on luxurious limited editions, sales can elevate your writing experience without denting your wallet. We have the Star Spangled Pen Party sale taking place throughout July, so make the most of it!
• Explore Bundles - Sets and bundles often combine a pen with essential accessories, saving you money and introducing you to new stationery items. Starter bundles might include a converter for bottled ink, while more advanced sets could offer a selection of inks or a luxurious pen case. Exploring bundles is a fantastic way to experiment with different nib sizes, ink colors, and filling mechanisms, all while getting a great deal.
The Bottom Line
With these tips, you're well on your way to enjoying the delightful world of fountain pens and stationery. Happy shopping and happy writing!
Written by EndlessPens Blogger Ramona Kabigting
