Whether you're looking for your first fountain pen or have been using them for years, you might not know the truth behind these common misconceptions. Learn the truth about fountain pens and dispel some of the most widespread myths by reading this article.
The First Fountain Pen Was Created by Waterman
The fountain pen may have been designed over 130 years ago, yet it still serves a vital purpose in modern society. You may enhance your handwriting and have more fun when you write using a fountain pen.
Lewis Edson Waterman, an American insurance broker, was the inventor of the Waterman fountain pen. In February of 1884, he was granted a patent for his innovative fountain pen feeder. So he went and invented and patented the current ink cartridge. In addition, he developed a way to bottle and store grape juice for five years and guaranteed its quality.
In New York, Lewis Waterman was an insurance broker. He made his living selling insurance, but after a pen broke, he had the idea to create a better pen.
It was at his brother's workshop that Waterman first tried his hand at tinkering with fountain pens. A lack of ink flow regulation was what he saw. He tried out a number of different metals and tubes in his quest to perfect the point. The finest metal for a bendable tip, he decided, was gold. He produced no less than eight distinct pen models.
Fountain Pens Are Just Fancy Drip Pens
The basic function of a fountain pen is to allow the user to maintain a controlled leak. The capillary mechanism of a fountain pen prevents ink from leaking out, making it ideal for use as a controlled leak.
The ink is transferred from the reservoir to the nib through a capillary mechanism. The nib maintains ink flow, which stimulates the pen's capillary system. Nib creep describes the dripping ink that occurs when the nib is damaged.
Cleaning your capillary system after each usage is the best method to keep it functioning properly. This involves clearing the ink flow route of old, dried ink by immersing the nib and feeder in cold water.
The nib of the fountain pen receives ink by capillary action from the reservoir. This is the most vital component of every fountain pen. The ink is pushed down the nib using a capillary mechanism.
Nibs for Fountain Pens
Varied fountain pens have varied nibs that may be used for different writing styles. Artists and draftspeople also utilize specialty nibs. Sketching and technical drawing both benefit from the usage of pointed pens. For calligraphy, there are oblique nibs, which are flat fountain pen points.
One of the most noticeable characteristics of a pen is its nib. Brands have different shapes. Some nibs are constructed from noble metals, which do not oxidize. Nib tips are often composed of gold or stainless steel, however iridium is also used. In 1803, the platinum group metals were discovered, and among them was iridium. The exceptional hardness of this metal keeps the point free from corrosion and wear.
Repairing a Fountain Pen
Regular care is required for your fountain pen, whether it takes cartridges or a converter. Cleaning a fountain pen's various moving components may necessitate taking the pen apart. This is often a difficult procedure. However, you must learn the proper techniques for cleaning your fountain pen.
To begin, remove the cartridge from the pen. This may need considerable force; nevertheless, a soft cloth should be used to prevent scratching the pen.
In addition, you'll have to remove the pen's converter. The converter serves as the ink supply. The converter may be used with any standard ink refill bottle. There is a metal ring around the converter that secures it.
Common Misunderstandings About Fountain Pens
There are a lot of misunderstandings regarding fountain pens that might put off newcomers. Fortunately, the common misunderstandings raised here will be dispelled.
The belief that fountain pens will leak is a common urban legend. They do leak if you don't take proper care of them. Keep your fountain pen upright, especially on an aircraft, to avoid this problem. Unless you press down on the nib, your pen won't leak like a ballpoint.
The idea that fountain pens are difficult to maintain is another urban legend. They might be simple to clean, however water soaking is required. If the nib on your fountain pen doesn't move, this is very crucial. A leaking nib is a sure sign that you haven't cleaned it.
