A first-pen guide
Start with
how it feels.
The best first pen is one you enjoy picking up. Come with the notebook you use, if you have one.
Four things to try
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Hold it for a minute
Rest the pen in your hand without squeezing. A heavier body is not automatically better. Try it with the cap on the back and with the cap set aside.
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Choose your line
A fine nib makes a narrower line for small writing. A medium nib makes a fuller line. Point sizes vary, so compare marks on your own paper.
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Pick a way to refill
A cartridge is a small prefilled tube you replace. A converter is a reusable reservoir that draws from a bottle. We show you both and check the fit.
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Let the ink do the work
Use a light touch. The nib does not need ballpoint pressure. Cap the pen between uses and ask us to show you a simple water flush.
The bench is part of the shop
We sell pens meant to be written with and look after the ones already on your desk. A cleaning may be enough; a new pen is not the answer to every dry start.
We explain what we can do before taking in a repair. If our workmanship needs attention, bring the pen back so we can look at it together.
A pen should want to write.
Skipping, scratching or leaking? Describe what happens on the page. We will start there.