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  • Tips for fountain pen maintenance

    August 27, 2021 3 min read 1 Comment

    Tips for fountain pen maintenance

    The maintenance of a fountain pen may generate some uncertainty. Depending on how you use your fountain pen, and taking into account the passage of time and the periods of greater or lesser use of our pens, the care tips may be different, but of equal importance.

    Sailor KOP Sunset over the ocean

    Sailor KOP Sunset Over The Ocean

    Care tips

    SHORT PERIODS WITHOUT USE

    For short periods - a few days or weeks - fountain pen experts have traditionally recommended storing the loaded pen in a vertical position with the nib upwards. If it were to remain in a horizontal position, the ink would be in continuous contact with the feeder, which could saturate it in a matter of weeks and would cause damage to the cap.

    pelikan souveran

    Pelikan Souverän M1000

    LONG PERIODS WITHOUT USE

    When a period of inactivity of months or years is foreseen, it is necessary to keep the pen unloaded and dry. This way, when you use it, you will not have any problems with ink drying out, nor will you find any additional damage. You will therefore enjoy it as if it were new. In this case you can proceed with a normal wash, the same as when changing the colour of the ink.

    The caps are usually airtight, which makes them effective in keeping the ink flowing in daily use, but for long periods of inactivity they can be detrimental. Water vapour can cause corrosion to the internal metal parts of the cap and the nib.

    It is therefore advisable to leave the pen uncovered with the nib upwards for at least two weeks, so that the water can evaporate completely. When starting the drying process, you can accelerate the removal of water by placing the nib tip on an absorbent surface, such as paper.

    Once dry and empty, the pen can be stored horizontally in a box, for protection.

    estuche montblanc

    Montblanc Sartorial Pen Case

    ADDITIONAL TIPS

    Periodic cleaning of the pen

    Periodic cleaning of the pen is recommended, every 2-3 months. It is also important to clean the pen when changing the ink. From time to time we recommend cleaning your pen. You can see more tips on cleaning your fountain pen in the entry help me clean my fountain pen.

    You will see that it is not complicated at all and by taking a couple of minutes, you will increase the lifespan of your favourite piece.

    Using a case

    A fountain pen is a delicate piece and it is important to carry it in a case, to avoid damage and falls.



    Cleaning silver parts

    Silver is a common material in fountain pens and oxidises very easily, turning from silver to black or purple. Fortunately using a silver cleaner, a product that can be found in any supermarket, will clean this oxidation in seconds, adding years to your piece.

    aurora 100 aniversario

    Aurora 100th Anniversary Limited Edition



    By following these simple tips you will make your favourite piece last longer and will allow your collection to grow.


    Of course, if you require more information or wish to place your order, please do not hesitate to contact us or visit our shop in Madrid, at Núñez de Balboa 90.
    We will be happy to help you

    1 Response

    Celia Watson
    Celia Watson

    May 23, 2020

    Sirs, I own a Ipsiron Quadra B14-Q fountain pen in sterling silver that unfortunately has a broken part. The part that is broken is the bottom barrel that holds the nib and screws onto the main body, sorry but don’t know the technical names. I was wondering if it was possible to purchase a replacement part and if so what would be the cost? The pen used to belong to my late father and is of great sentimental value to me. Here’s hoping you can help me. Yours Celia Watson.

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