From Scratch: Making a Homemade Fountain Pen with a Custom Nib

Making a homemade fountain pen is a rewarding project that allows for creativity and personalization. This guide will walk you through the process, from selecting materials to assembling your unique pen. Whether you're using wood, metal, or plastic, you can craft a functional and personalized writing instrument that reflects your style and craftsmanship.

Materials Needed

Barrel Material: Oak, maple, acrylic, or sturdy plastic. Choose a material that is easy to shape and holds ink well. Nib Material: Thin metal like brass or stainless steel. Alternatively, you could use a piece from an old broken pen. Ink Reservoir: Plastic or metal cylinder, or a small glass vial. Cap: Same material as the barrel or a simple design from available materials, if desired. Sealant: Rubber O-rings or sealant to prevent leaks.

Tools Needed

Drill: For creating holes in the barrel and ink reservoir. Files and Sandpaper: For shaping and smoothing the barrel and nib. Knife or Chisel: For carving the barrel or nib. Tweezers: For handling small parts. Ruler and Pencil: For measurements and marking.

Steps to Create the Fountain Pen

1. Create the Barrel

Cut the Material: Choose the length of your barrel, typically 5-6 inches, and cut your material accordingly. Drill the Ink Reservoir Hole: Drill a hole down the center of the barrel to hold the ink reservoir. Ensure it is the right size to fit snugly.

2. Make the Nib

Shape the Metal: Take a piece of metal, cut it into a small rectangle (about 1-2 inches long). Create the Nib Shape: Use files and sandpaper to shape one end into a point. Ensure it is flat and slightly wider than the rest of the nib. Create a Split: Carve a small slit down the center of the nib about 1/3 of the way down. This slit is crucial for proper ink flow. Smooth the Edges: Ensure all edges are smooth to avoid scratching the paper.

3. Assemble the Ink Reservoir

Create the Reservoir: If using a cylinder, make sure it fits snugly inside the barrel. Alternatively, use a small glass vial or tube. Seal the Reservoir: Apply sealant or use O-rings to ensure that ink does not leak out.

4. Assemble the Pen

Insert the Nib: Attach the nib to the end of the barrel using a small piece of tape or glue. Attach the Reservoir: Insert the ink reservoir into the barrel, ensuring it is positioned correctly for ink flow to the nib.

5. Finishing Touches

Cap (Optional): If adding a cap, carve it from the same material and ensure it fits securely. Sand and Finish: Sand the entire pen to smooth out any rough edges. Apply a polish to the wood for aesthetics.

Testing the Fountain Pen

Fill with Ink: Use fountain pen ink or a similar liquid. Fill the reservoir carefully. Test the Nib: Write on paper to see how well the nib delivers ink. Adjust the nib shape or slit for optimal performance.

Tips

Experiment: Try different materials and shapes for the nib and barrel to personalize your pen even further. Patience: Precision and patience are key. Take your time to ensure each part is crafted well.

With these steps, you can create a functional and unique homemade fountain pen that is a testament to your personal touch and craftsmanship. Enjoy the process and the satisfaction of using a pen you handmade yourself!