Frequently Asked Questions When Choosing Your First Fountain Pen
Why is the Pilot fountain pen recommended or beginners?
For starter fountain pens, the Pilot Metropolitan is touted as one of the top choices for beginners to the fountain pen world.
The pen's durability, consistent ink flow, and affordable price make it appealing for those new to the world of fountain pens. It's easy to write with and is a great pen. You won't regret purchasing a Pilot Metropolitan foiuntain pen.
And with a variety of colors, it has a style for everyone. The dependable performance on Pilot pens ensures a smooth introduction to fountain pens for novices.
What makes the Lamy Safari a top choice for newbie fountain pen users?
The Lamy Safari is our favorite beginner fountain pen. It stands out as a top choice for beginners for several reasons.
First and foremost, the Lamy brand has built a reputation over decades for manufacturing reliable and durable fountain pens, and the Safari is no exception. Not to mention, it's price point is attractive.
The Lamy Safari offers a wide range of nib options, catering to different writing styles and preferences, enhancing its versatility as a starting fountain pen.
Its easy to use design and modern style resonates with many fountain pen users. All of these factors and many more contribute to the Lamy Safari being a favorite "gateway" for newcomers to the world of fountain pens.
Why is Platinum Preppy commonly recommended for beginners?
The Platinum Preppy is also one of the popular recommendation for beginner fountain pen novices due to its perfect blend of affordability and performance.
This is the most affordable pen on our list. The Platinum Preppy can be purchased for a few dollars and is a great introduction to fountain pens if you're unsure if you'd even like the feeling of a fountain pen.
The Preppy offers a reliable writing experience, although it lacks the style, design, and "feel" of a Lamy Safari or Pilot Metropolitan.
What are common mistakes beginners make with fountain pens and how can they be avoided?
There are common pitfalls beginners make with fountain pens, often referred to as mistakes of fountain pen use. For example, you may be tempted to make a purchase only on price or popularity. While the common starter pens are loved for a reason, they may not cater to your unique needs. You must read pen guides and reviews for each pen to decide if it's right for you.
Things like ink capacity, writing angle, nib size and type directly impact the pen's performance and should be analyzed before you make your first purchase. A pen like the Lamy Safari or Pilot Metropolitan are time-tested pens that are well-balanced and should give you an idea of what works best for your personal taste.
As a starter, how can I maintain my fountain pen for long-lasting writing performance?
Regular maintenance is key for maintaining long-lasting high writing performance for your fountain pens. The fountain pen nib can get bent or overused, so you should be careful. It's best to store your fountain pen properly with the cap on, ideally in a pen case. You must also clean your fountain pen regularily (especially when changing inks) to avoid residue build up.
Each fountain pen will have more information on maintenance, but at the end of the day, it's fairly simple once you get the hang of it! We have several guides on cleaning, using, and maintaining fountains in our Fountain Pen University.
