Fountain Pen Collecting: How to Start and Build Your Collection

Fountain pen collecting is a hobby that has been around for centuries, and it's not hard to see why. These elegant writing instruments are not only functional but also beautiful works of art. If you're interested in starting your own fountain pen collection, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about how to start and build your collection.

First, let's talk about why you might want to start collecting fountain pens. For some, it's the beauty and craftsmanship of these pens that draws them in. Others are drawn to the history and nostalgia of fountain pens, which were once the standard for everyday writing. Still, others may appreciate the smooth writing experience that fountain pens provide. Whatever your reason for starting a collection, fountain pens are a great way to add a touch of elegance and class to your writing routine.

Now that you know why you might want to start a fountain pen collection, let's talk about how to get started. The first thing you'll need to do is decide what type of fountain pens you want to collect. There are a wide variety of fountain pen styles and materials to choose from, including vintage pens, modern pens, metal pens, resin pens, and more. Each style has its own unique characteristics and appeal, so it's important to choose a style that resonates with you.

Once you've decided on a style, it's time to start looking for pens to add to your collection. There are a few different ways you can go about finding fountain pens to collect, including:

• Online marketplaces: Websites like BD Pens are great places to find fountain pens for sale. You can find a wide variety of pens at different price points, and you can often find pens that are no longer in production.

• Pen shows: Pen shows are events where collectors and manufacturers come together to buy, sell, and trade fountain pens. These events are great places to find unique pens and to meet other collectors.

• Pen stores: If you're looking for a more personal shopping experience, visiting a pen store can be a great option. You can see and handle the pens in person, and the staff can help you find the perfect pen for your collection.

• Local pen clubs: Many cities have local pen clubs which is a great place to connect with other pen collectors, get advice and find out about upcoming pen shows.

Once you've started your collection, it's important to take good care of your fountain pens. Proper maintenance will help ensure that your pens continue to write smoothly and look beautiful for years to come. Some basic care tips to keep in mind include:

• Cleaning the nib: The nib of your fountain pen is the most important part, and it should be cleaned regularly to remove any dried ink or debris.

• Storing your pens properly: Fountain pens should be stored vertically, with the nib pointing up, to prevent ink from flowing into the cap.

• Using the right ink: Not all inks are suitable for fountain pens, so it's important to use inks specifically formulated for fountain pens to avoid clogging or other issues.

Lastly, it's important to remember that fountain pen collecting is a personal journey and there is no right or wrong way to build your collection. It's all about finding the pens that speak to you and make you happy. As you continue to add to your collection, you'll find that each pen has its own story and memories attached to it. Whether you're collecting for the beauty, the craftsmanship, or the nostalgia, fountain pen collecting is a hobby that will bring you joy for years to come.