Fountain pens are exquisite writing instruments that are renowned for their elegant design, smooth writing experience, and their ability to bring a touch of luxury to any handwritten note or signature. But, as with any high-quality tool, proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure their longevity and performance.
One of the most important aspects of maintaining a fountain pen is knowing how to store it correctly. In this blog post, we will explore the various steps to properly store a fountain pen.
Step 1: Clean Your Fountain Pen
Before you store your fountain pen, it's important to make sure it's clean. Ink residue can cause clogging or damage to the pen's delicate nib and feed system over time, leading to ink flow problems or even permanent damage.
To avoid this, clean your fountain pen with lukewarm water and a mild detergent. Use a bulb syringe or converter to flush out any ink that may have accumulated inside the pen's feed system, and gently dry the pen with a soft cloth.
Step 2: Choose the Right Storage Location
Choosing the right storage location is crucial to keep your fountain pen safe and protected from dust, moisture, heat, and sunlight. Ideally, you should store your fountain pen in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from direct sunlight or any source of heat or humidity.
A desk drawer or a pen case is an excellent choice for storing your fountain pen, as it provides a protective environment for your pen while keeping it easily accessible.
Step 3: Store Your Fountain Pen Horizontally
Storing your fountain pen horizontally is the best way to prevent ink from settling or drying out inside the pen's feed system, especially if you're storing the pen for an extended period.
This position ensures that the ink remains evenly distributed, keeping the nib lubricated and ready to use. If you're storing your fountain pen in a pen case, make sure to keep it horizontally as well, as this will prevent the pen from rolling around and potentially damaging the nib.
Step 4: Use a Protective Sleeve or Cap
Using a protective sleeve or cap is essential to protect your fountain pen from scratches or other forms of damage. When storing your fountain pen, make sure to cap it securely to prevent any dust, debris, or accidental spills from getting inside the pen.
If your fountain pen does not come with a cap, consider investing in a protective sleeve or a pen case with a dedicated slot for your pen.
Step 5: Use a Pen Stand
Using a pen stand is an excellent way to display and store your fountain pen, especially if you own multiple pens. A pen stand not only keeps your fountain pen safe and protected but also adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your desk or workspace. Make sure to choose a pen stand that fits your pen's size and shape and that provides proper support for the pen.
Properly storing your fountain pen is crucial to ensure its longevity and performance. By following these simple steps, you can keep your fountain pen safe and protected from damage while ensuring that it's always ready to use.
Remember to clean your fountain pen before storing it, choose the right storage location, store it horizontally, use a protective sleeve or cap, and use a pen stand to display and store your pen properly. With proper care and maintenance, your fountain pen will provide you with years of joy and satisfaction.