New to Fountain Pens?

Each of our pens is handcrafted in small batches, with a focus on overall aesthetic design, balance, and quality. No two are exactly alike. They’re made to be used daily, comfortably, and for years to come. Every pen is fitted with a pre-tuned nib by Kirk Speer to ensure an optimal writing experience right out of the box, and each includes a Schmidt converter so you’re ready to explore bottled inks immediately. A little care goes a long way, and learning to use a converter opens up a much wider world of inks.

Fountain pens are simple, reliable tools once you understand a few basics.

Anatomy of a 3-Piece Fountain Pen

Our fountain pens are built from three main parts:

  1. Cap – Protects the nib when not in use and helps prevent the ink from drying out.
  2. Barrel – The main body of the pen. This is where the converter or cartridge is housed.
  3. Section (Grip + Nib unit) – The part you hold while writing. This includes the nib and feed, which control ink flow onto the paper.

Understanding these parts helps make filling, cleaning, and general care much easier.

Basic Fountain Pen Care

1. Use fountain pen ink only
This matters more than anything else. India ink, calligraphy ink, or anything labeled "waterproof" or "pigment" (unless specifically fountain pen-safe) can clog or damage your pen.

2. Keep it capped
When not in use, keep your pen capped to prevent the nib from drying out.

3. Clean it occasionally
If you change ink colors or notice inconsistent flow, flush the pen with cool water:

  • Remove the converter or cartridge
  • Run clean water through the section (the grip area with the nib)
  • Repeat until the water runs clear
  • Let it dry before refilling

A quick clean every few fills keeps things working smoothly.

4. Store it sensibly
Store your pen horizontally or with the nib pointing up. Avoid leaving it in hot environments like a car, and do not store pens in direct sunlight, which can damage materials and ink over time.

What Is a Schmidt K5 Converter?

The Schmidt K5 is a piston-style converter that fits many standard international fountain pens. It replaces disposable cartridges and allows you to draw ink directly from a bottle.

How to Fill a Schmidt K5 Converter

Filling is straightforward once you’ve done it once or twice.

Step 1: Prepare the converter
Twist the piston knob clockwise until the piston is fully lowered (this pushes out any air inside).

Step 2: Insert into the pen
Firmly seat the converter into the back of the grip section until it clicks or feels secure.

Step 3: Submerge the nib
Dip the nib and part of the grip section into your ink bottle. The breather hole (small hole in the nib) should be fully submerged.

Step 4: Draw ink
Slowly twist the piston knob counterclockwise to pull ink up into the converter. You’ll see the reservoir fill.

Step 5: Expel and refill (optional but recommended)
For a more complete fill:

  • Push the ink back out into the bottle
  • Draw it up again

This helps remove trapped air and maximizes capacity.

Step 6: Remove and clean
Lift the pen out of the ink and gently wipe the nib and section with a soft cloth or paper towel.

Step 7: Prime the feed (if needed)
If the pen doesn’t start writing right away, twist the piston slightly to push a tiny drop of ink into the feed.

A Few Practical Tips

  • Fill over a paper towel. Ink has a way of getting where you don’t expect it
  • Don’t over-tighten or force the converter
  • If flow seems weak, a simple cleaning usually fixes it
  • Different inks behave differently. Part of the fun is experimenting!
  • Floral body fountain pen models are not designed to be eye-droppered. The inks may seep into the dried florals inside the barrel and cause damage or discoloration.

With just a little practice, filling and maintaining a fountain pen becomes second nature. The reward is a writing experience that’s smoother, more expressive, and far more personal than a disposable pen.