Fountain and Calligraphy pens are popular writing instruments. They are both pens, but what is the difference between them?
A fountain pen has a reservoir of ink that is built into the pen. The ink flows from the reservoir to the nib on top of the pen, and then onto the paper when you write. A calligraphy pen has a small inkwell that sits on the nib. The nib is dipped into the well, and then you write.
Read on to learn more about the differences between fountain and calligraphy pens as well as what they’re best used for.
The Difference Between Fountain Pen and Calligraphy Pen
A fountain pen is a type of pen that is used to write with ink. It typically has an internal reservoir, or “fountain,” of ink that provides continuous replenishment of the liquid for use as the writer continues writing.
A calligraphy pen, on the other hand, is a type of pen that can be used in place of a brush and ink when drawing Chinese characters. These pens are made from bamboo, plastic, or metal, and have nibs on one end which are dipped into different colors of water-based paint to create lines with varying thicknesses.
Fountain pens are typically used for writing regular text, while calligraphy pens are used for more decorative writing. Calligraphy pens come in different sizes and shapes, so you can create different types of letters. Fountain pens are straight and can be used for both decorative writings as well as regular text.
Benefits of Fountain Pens
Although calligraphy pens can be used for writing, fountain pens are typically preferred by many people because they come with a variety of benefits.
Some of the main advantages to using a fountain pen include:
- Fountain pens make it easy and fun to write letters since you don’t have to worry about dipping them in ink every few words.
- Fountain pens are often considered more aesthetically pleasing than other types of writing instruments.
- The nibs on fountain pens provide a smooth and easy way to write or draw with lots of detail; they can also be swapped out for different sizes and shapes depending on what you’re using the pen for.
Benefits of Calligraphy Pens
Calligraphy pens have a lot of benefits that make them great for many different types of writing projects. Some advantages to using calligraphy pens include:
- You can create thick and thin lines depending on which part of the nib you’re drawing with. For example, if you press down harder on one side when creating letter strokes, the line will be thicker than if you just use the tip of the nib.
- They come in a variety of sizes and shapes so that you can find the perfect one for your specific writing project.
- Since they’re made from metal or bamboo, calligraphy pens are durable and long-lasting instruments.
Is Fountain Pen Easier to Write With?
Many people find that fountain pens are easier to write with. This is because they have a reservoir of ink, which means you won’t constantly need to stop and refill them as you would with calligraphy pens if you’re using an inkwell on the nib instead of in the pen itself.
They also have a pointed nib, which makes it easy to draw and write with detail. Calligraphy pens do not have pointed nibs, so while they can certainly be used for drawing or writing letters, you will need a separate pen that has a fine point if you want to add lots of details.
Which Pen Is Better For Me?
Both fountain pens and calligraphy pens are great for creating different types of letters, although calligraphy pens may not be used as often since they only come with one type of nib.
Fountain pens are typically preferred by most people because you can use them to write regular text or create detailed drawings depending on the size and shape of your pen’s tip. Calligraphy pens are great for people who want to focus on writing elaborate texts and creating designs, as they come with a variety of nib sizes and shapes for creating different types of letters.
Ultimately, it’s up to you which pen you prefer. Both are great for adding personality and flair to your writing projects.
Can You Dip a Fountain Pen in Ink?
Yes, you can dip a fountain pen in ink, making it a very versatile tool. Fountain pens are typically used with bottled ink or cartridges. However, if used with water-based ink, the pen will be just fine.
Many people test out their fountain pens in the stores by dipping them in ink to see how they write. This is a great way to see how the pen writes and also to test out different colors of ink before making your purchase.
What Kind of Paper Should You Use With a Fountain Pen?
The type of paper you use with a fountain pen can make or break the writing experience, as some types of paper are not meant for fountain pens. The paper should be smooth and absorbent, which is why most people like to use ink blotter paper or Japanese rice paper when writing with their fountain pens.
You can also try out cotton rag papers that are smoother than regular printer paper; these types of papers make it easier for the ink to flow through the pen’s nibs, which can make writing more enjoyable.
What Is A Nib?
A nib is the metal part of a pen that touches your paper and transfers ink to it. You can use different types of nips for drawing or writing, depending on what you’re using the pen for. Both fountain pens and calligraphy pens have nibs. Here are some of the main types of nibs available:
Ballpoint: This type of nib usually has a rounded tip that is used for regular writing
Drawing: A drawing nib has a flat edge that makes creating straight lines and details easier.
Calligraphy: This type of nib can come in different shapes, depending on the angle you hold it at while writing. For example, right-handed people will want to use an oblique pen holder with a calligraphy nib to produce the most aesthetically pleasing results.
Inkwell: An inkwell is a small container that you can use to hold ink so you can refill your pen as needed. You can also purchase pens that come with their own built-in inkwells for added convenience.
Can Calligraphy Be Done With a Normal Pen?
Yes, calligraphy can be done with a normal pen. Calligraphy can even be practiced with markers, paints, and other writing implements. However, if you’re looking to produce the best results, it’s best to use a calligraphy pen with a pointed nib so that you can have more control over the width and shape of your letters.
No matter what writing utensil you use for calligraphy, the basic principles of the art will still apply. By practicing and following some simple guidelines, you’ll be able to create beautiful calligraphy letters in no time.
How Do I Thicken My Fountain Pen for Calligraphy?
If you want to thicken your fountain pen for calligraphy, you can try using a different type of nib. Drawing and calligraphy nibs are thicker than regular writing pens, so they will create thicker lines when used with a fountain pen.
You can also try diluting the ink by adding more water to it until it becomes more translucent and lighter in color. Try testing out different ratios of ink to water until you find the perfect one for your pen’s nibs.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, it’s up to you which pen you prefer. Both are great for adding personality and flair to your writing projects. Take time to research and test out both types of pens, and you’ll find the perfect one for your needs.