Fountain Pens vs Other Pens

 What's the Difference?

In the fast-paced digital age, where keyboards and touchscreens dominate, the charm of putting pen to paper has been preserved. The fountain pen stands out among the myriad options as a symbol of elegance, nostalgia, and a unique writing experience. But is using a fountain pen much different from using other pens? 

The Essence of Elegance

One cannot deny the allure of a fountain pen. Crafted with precision, these pens are often considered a status symbol and a fashion accessory. The sleek design, fine materials, and often customizable options make them stand out in a sea of mass-produced, single-use alternatives. While other pens serve their utilitarian purpose, fountain pens elevate the act of writing into a refined experience.

Writing with Flow

The most noticeable difference between a fountain pen and its ballpoint or rollerball counterparts is the smoothness of writing. Fountain pens use liquid ink, allowing a consistent flow that glides effortlessly across the paper. This results in a more comfortable writing experience, reducing hand fatigue and allowing for extended periods of writing without strain.

Contrast this with the often scratchy and inconsistent writing experience of ballpoint pens, which require more pressure to produce clear lines. This is because ballpoint pens typically use oil-based inks, which are thicker and require more pressure. Fountain pen inks are liquid and are not as thick, which makes the ink flow with less pressure. This results in the fountain pen effortlessly adapting to the writer's hand movements, creating a seamless connection between the pen and paper.

Personalization and Expression

Fountain pens offer a level of personalization rarely found in disposable pens. From the nib size and material to the ink colour and the overall design, users can tailor their fountain pen to reflect their personalities and preferences. This customization adds a personal touch to writing, turning it into a form of self-expression.

While other pens may be limited in colour options and cannot modify writing characteristics, fountain pen enthusiasts can experiment with a wide array of inks, nibs, and designs. This versatility adds a layer of creativity to the writing process, turning it into a unique and enjoyable ritual. As you use a fountain pen, the nib gradually adapts to your writing style, making writing with one even more comfortable for the user. 

Left-handed writers often find fountain pens easier to work with as there are left-handed fountain pen nibs available for some fountain pens. While the liquid ink is often thought to make writing more messy for lefties, most fountain pen ink dries quicker than the ink found in mass-produced ballpoint pens. Lefties also typically instinctively know how to write with a fountain pen to avoid smudging their work. 

Maintenance and Longevity

Critics argue that fountain pens require more maintenance compared to their disposable counterparts. They may need occasional cleaning and refilling, but many enthusiasts view this as a small price to pay for fountain pens' longevity and environmental sustainability.

Unlike disposable pens that contribute to the growing problem of plastic waste, quality fountain pens are designed to last a lifetime; with proper care, these pens become cherished heirlooms passed down from generation to generation.

A jar of fountain pen ink often lasts a long time; on average, a 50ml bottle of ink holds roughly 50 refills, depending on nib size and writing style. Most fountain pen writers use the same bottle for years, even with frequent use. 

Using a fountain pen differs from using other pens. It's not just a writing instrument; it's a statement, an extension of one's personality, and a reminder of the timeless art of writing. While disposable pens' convenience is undeniable, fountain pens' elegance, smooth writing experience, and personalization options create a distinct and rewarding journey for those who appreciate the finer things in life. So, the next time you pick up a pen, consider its difference – not just on paper but in how it enhances your connection to the written word.

Shop for all your pens at Blesket Canada

We offer a large selection of fountain pens, rollerball pens, and ballpoint pens from some of the best brands in the world. With free shipping on orders of $49.99 in Ontario and Quebec and $99.00 in all other provinces,