What is a Fountain Pen? A Beginner’s Guide to Timeless Writing

Introduction

The first time I picked up a fountain pen, I was surprised at how different it felt. The ink didn’t just scratch onto the paper — it flowed. Writing suddenly felt smoother, more relaxed, almost like the pen was doing the work for me.

If you’ve ever been curious about why people still use them, or wondered if they’re worth trying, let me walk you through it.

So, What Is a Fountain Pen?

At its heart, a fountain pen is a pen with a metal tip (called a nib) and a little tank for ink. Instead of pressing hard like you do with a ballpoint, the ink just comes out naturally, making writing a lot less tiring. It almost feels like the pen is gliding across the page.

How Does It Work?

It’s pretty simple:

• The ink sits inside the pen — either in a cartridge, a refillable converter, or a piston system.

• The feed (that tiny piece under the nib) controls how much ink comes out.

• You don’t need to push hard — just guide the pen, and it writes smoothly.

That’s why people often describe fountain pens as “effortless” to use.

The Main Parts (Without the Jargon)

Here’s how I think of it:

• Nib – the tip that touches the paper. It can be sharp and precise or wide and bold, depending on what you like.

• Feed – the unsung hero that keeps the ink flowing just right.

• Reservoir – the ink container (cartridge, converter, or piston).

• Cap & Barrel – the outside of the pen, which protects the nib and shows off your style. For example, our Joule Collection shows how elegant design and craftsmanship can shine through the details

Fountain Pens vs. Other Pens

• Fountain pens: smooth, refillable, and customizable.

• Ballpoints: tough and last forever, but you need to press harder.

• Rollerballs: write smoothly like fountain pens, but you throw them out when they’re empty.

Why I Still Reach for a Fountain Pen

Even in a world of phones and laptops, fountain pens have their charm. For me, it’s about slowing down. Writing with one feels more intentional. Plus:

• The writing itself is smoother.

• You can play with different inks and nibs.

• They’re kinder to the environment than throwaway pens.

• And honestly, they just make writing feel a bit more special. That’s why I love designs like our Carousel Collection, which turn everyday writing into something joyful.

Thinking About Getting One?

If you’re picking your first fountain pen, here are a few tips I wish I knew when I started:

• Nib size: Fine is neat and precise, medium works for everyday writing, broad is bold and expressive.

• Ink system: Cartridges are the easiest. Converters give you more freedom to experiment with colours.

• Budget: You don’t have to spend a fortune. Good starter pens can be under $50, and higher-end pens can last for years.

FAQ

Are they tricky to use? Not at all — they’re surprisingly beginner-friendly.
Do they leak? Only if you treat them badly. Take care of them and you’ll be fine.
Can I use any ink? Stick with inks made for fountain pens. Trust me, it saves headaches.
Best starter pen? A medium nib with a cartridge/converter system is a safe bet.

Final Thoughts

So here’s my take: a fountain pen isn’t just a tool — it’s a little daily luxury. It makes even the most ordinary notes or signatures feel more sophisticated.

If you’ve been thinking about trying one, I’d say go for it. Explore something like the Bijou Collection if you want something elegant, or the Carousel Collection if you’re after something more playful.

You might be surprised at how quickly it becomes your favourite pen.