Welcome, dear reader, to the beginning of a most enchanting affair.
Fountain pens are not merely writing instruments—they are rituals in miniature, heirlooms in the making, and a rather elegant rebellion against the hurried scrawl of disposable pens. If you’ve ever admired fountain pens from afar but wondered where on earth to begin, you are precisely where you should be.
This guide is your graceful introduction to the essentials: fountain pen parts, nib sizes, and paper—the triumvirate that turns curiosity into confident, collectible joy.
Anatomy of a Fountain Pen: The Essential Parts
A fountain pen may look delightfully ornate, but its workings are charmingly straightforward. Once you know the parts, the mystery disappears—and the magic remains.
The Nib
The nib is the pen’s voice. Crafted from steel or gold, it glides across paper and determines how your ink flows, feels, and expresses itself. Every nib has a personality, and choosing one is rather like choosing a writing companion.
The Feed
Nestled beneath the nib, the feed regulates ink flow. It ensures your pen writes smoothly without flooding or skipping—quietly doing its job like a well-trained butler.
The Grip Section
This is where your fingers rest, shaping your writing posture and comfort. A well-designed grip makes long journaling sessions feel effortless.
The Barrel & Cap
The barrel holds the ink reservoir, while the cap protects the nib from drying out. In Ferris Wheel Press designs, these parts also happen to be rather beautiful to admire on your desk.
The Filling System
Most modern fountain pens use either cartridges or converters. Converters allow you to fill directly from bottled ink—an immensely satisfying ritual we highly recommend.
Explore our fountain pen collection:
Fountain Pens Collection
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Nib Sizes Explained: Finding Your Perfect Match
Nib size determines how bold or delicate your writing appears. There is no “correct” choice—only the one that delights you most.
Extra Fine (EF)
- Crisp, precise lines
- Ideal for small handwriting, planners, and detailed notes
- Excellent for lower-quality paper
Fine (F)
- A balanced, versatile choice
- Works well for everyday writing and journaling
- A favourite for beginners
Medium (M)
- Slightly broader and more expressive
- Shows off shading inks beautifully
- Ideal for journaling and letter writing
Broad (B)
- Bold, luxurious strokes
- Best for expressive writing and showcasing ink properties
- Pairs beautifully with high-quality paper
If you are unsure where to start, Fine or Medium nibs are universally charming choices.
Meet beginner-friendly options like the Carousel Fountain Pen:
Carousel Fountain Pens
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Paper Matters More Than You Think
Paper is the unsung hero of the fountain pen experience. The right paper transforms writing from functional to indulgent.
What to Look for in Fountain-Pen-Friendly Paper
- Smooth surface to prevent feathering
- Heavier weight to reduce bleedthrough
- Consistent coating for clean ink performance
Why Ordinary Paper Can Disappoint
Standard office paper absorbs ink too quickly, causing lines to feather or bleed. Fountain pen paper allows ink to sit gracefully on the surface—revealing shading, colour depth, and character.
Putting It All Together: Your First Writing Ritual
To begin with confidence, we recommend a simple, elegant setup:
- One beginner-friendly fountain pen
- A Fine or Medium nib
- A converter or cartridge
- Fountain-pen-friendly paper
- One or two well-behaved inks
This combination removes intimidation and replaces it with delight.
Explore curated starter sets:
Write Your Own Fairy Tale Gift Sets
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A Gentle Word to the Curious Collector
Do not rush. Fountain pens reward patience and curiosity. Each part, nib size, and paper choice is an invitation to experiment, refine, and enjoy the process.
Your handwriting will change. Your preferences will evolve. And one day, quite suddenly, you will realise you’ve built not just a writing setup—but a ritual you cherish.
And that, truly, is where the story begins.