How to insert a cartridge into a fountain pen. How to refill a fountain pen

A standard fountain pen consists of a nib (Fig. 1), a barrel (Fig. 4), a protective cap (Fig. 5) and a converter (Fig. 2) or a cartridge (Fig. 3):

Feather Piston Converter

ink cartridge Barrel

protective cap

To date, Parker (Parker) and Waterman (Waterman) fountain pens use a piston converter of torque action as a reservoir for storing and supplying ink, and ink cartridges (cans) of standard and small volume can also serve as an alternative. The piston converter is designed for repeated use and has a larger volume than ink cartridges. Every owner of a fountain pen is familiar with the process of filling it with ink using a piston converter. An entertaining process requires a little time, a supply of ink in a bottle and a comfortable environment. However, circumstances do not always allow you to have a bottle of ink with you, at such times you can use an ink cartridge. The converter quickly and easily changes to a cartridge, besides, the cartridge has a modest size and you can always keep it with you, which is not always possible with a bottle of ink.

Fountain pen refill

Before refilling a fountain pen with a converter, prepare an ink bottle (bottle of ink) and a tissue. First, remove the protective cap and unscrew the barrel from the pen as shown in (fig.6).


Then completely immerse the pen in the ink tank (bottle with ink), while trying to leave the pen base body above the ink surface as shown in (Fig. 7), then rotate the converter piston counterclockwise until it stops - this will help drain the remaining ink and get rid of bubbles to create a vacuum.

In the same position, rotate the piston clockwise until it stops, thereby filling the converter with ink (Fig. 8). After the converter is completely filled, remove the pen from the ink bottle and gently rotate the piston to drain three drops of ink (Fig.8.1); then turn it all the way in the opposite direction - this will allow a small amount of air to be sucked into the tank (air lock Fig.8.2) in order to prevent leakage. Screw the barrel back into place, remove excess ink from the surface of the pen with a tissue, the pen is ready for use.

Replacing the converter with a cartridge

Remove the protective cap and unscrew the barrel, carefully remove the converter by pulling it away from the pen. Insert the cartridge into the same place, with the colored end towards the pen, with a little effort, press your finger until a characteristic click sound (Fig. 9). The cartridge is installed, screw the barrel and the pen is ready. A previously used converter can be rinsed with cool water and stored until the next use.


How to extend the life of a fountain pen

Pen cleaning is the process of washing the pen through the converter while filling it with water (repeat until the water is clear). Then pat dry with a paper towel. Be sure to use room temperature water, in which case distilled or filtered water will do (tap water may contain particles that can clog the pen nozzles). Then pat dry with a paper towel or tissue. Never use warm and hot water, as well as solvents, alcohol-containing solutions - this will 100% harm the quality of the pen. If a cartridge is used in the pen, then it is necessary to disconnect it from the pen, and place the base with the pen in a glass or other container with clean water for 30 or 60 minutes, depending on the contamination of the pen, while the water level should completely cover the pen. After the procedure, blot dry with a paper towel or towel. If necessary, as it gets dirty, the pen can be soaked overnight. We recommend rinsing the pen every two weeks or whenever you change ink colors.

Despite the fact that today ballpoint and gel pens are increasingly used in everyday life, true connoisseurs of writing instruments prefer to work with fountain pens. Parker ink pens are especially popular, as the stationery of this company is an attribute of prestige. To get real pleasure from working with such writing instruments, you need to know not only how to fill a fountain pen with ink, but also how to use it correctly. You will learn about all this from this article.

Types of pen cartridges

Let's dwell on the description of the cartridge so that it is easier for you to pick it up in the stationery store. The cartridge is a plastic cylinder with straight or rounded walls. At the factory, the tank is filled with ink for fountain pens.

Important! Cartridges are also produced with special calligraphy ink, but such capsules are not recommended for use with pen writing instruments.

The main differences between all cartridges (except for color, of course) are:

  1. physical dimensions.
  2. Working flange shape. On the one hand, the capsule has a blind end, and on the other, a flange that is put on the handle feeder needle or simply inserted into the handle. Inside the flange there is a simple device that locks the ink inside the capsule. Constipation is of two types:
    • Thin membrane.
    • A small ball of plastic (sometimes metal). After the ink gets inside the barrel, the ball moves freely inside the capsule and mixes the ink, preventing it from sticking to the walls.

Important! Many manufacturers of stationery make money not only by selling fountain pens, but also by selling cartridges for them. Therefore, some companies develop writing accessories for their own cartridge standard.

The most common cartridge standards are:

  • International. This name is unofficial, since many manufacturers from Europe, America, China and India produce pens to this standard.

Important! The most popular short capsules are "International", they are most often found in the stationery store.

  • Parker. Cartridges of this standard are available in two types - short and regular. The "Parker" standard is used in Lamy pens, but only in the short version, as the shape of the back of some pens does not allow the use of regular capsules.
  • Sheffer standard. Although many Schaeffer pens can also use International standard (short) cartridges.
  • The American company Cross has its own cartridge standard. The stepped shape of the working flange successfully resists all attempts to use capsules from other manufacturers in Cross handles.
  • The cartridges of the Japanese company Pilot are distinguished by their corporate standard. In addition, the company produces special shortened cartridges for mini-pens of its own production.
  • The Platinum company (Japan) is also distinguished by its standard. In addition, only in the cartridges of this company, metal balls are used, which, when the tank is empty, begin to knock and notify the owner of the need to replace the capsule soon.

Important! In addition to the above, there are at least a couple of types of cartridges from various companies that are designed specifically for their own fountain pens, these are Sailor and Waterman.

How to refill a fountain pen?

There are several different types of ink available in stationery stores, varying in consistency, hue, and quality. To refill a fountain pen with ink, use products labeled “for fountain pens” (“fountain pens”). The filling method depends on the filling mechanism.

Important! When buying a new cartridge for your pen, be sure to use only the ink tank that fits the shape and size of your pen so that replacement is quick and easy.

Method 1

If the handle has a piston filler, then proceed as follows:

  1. Disassemble the body of the pen.
  2. Turn the ink piston inside the case counterclockwise.
  3. Dip the pen completely into the ink bottle.
  4. Turn the clamp all the way in the opposite direction.
  5. Unscrew the clamp slightly (until the first drop appears) to remove air from the container.
  6. Remove the pen from the vial, wipe it with a cloth.
  7. Assemble the handle in reverse order.

Method 2

If the fountain pen has a refill converter, proceed as follows:

  1. Remove the protective cap and free access to the converter.
  2. Dip the pen into the inkwell.
  3. Turn the converter head to the right.
  4. Remove the air from the tank by releasing a couple of drops of ink.
  5. Clean the pen with a paper towel.
  6. Collect the pen.

Important! This instruction will be relevant if you need to refill the Parker pen with ink. And if you didn’t manage to do everything neatly, check out a separate publication on our website, which outlines effective methods to.

Method 3

The replacement cartridge is inserted into the writing accessory very simply:

  1. Remove the top case.
  2. Remove the used cartridge.
  3. Insert a new capsule until it clicks.
  4. Wipe the pen dry.
  5. Twist all the details of the fountain pen.

Important! Such models are also found in the eminent Parker brand.

Rules for using a fountain pen

To prolong the life of your writing accessory, follow these guidelines:

  • Be sure to clean your pen. This procedure is a rinsing of the pen through the converter. The tank must be filled with water and flushed until the water is clear.

Important! Use distilled or filtered water at room temperature to rinse the pen. After rinsing, blot the pen with a paper towel.

  • If the pen uses a cartridge, it must be removed before washing the pen. In this case, place the base of the pen in a glass of clean water for 30-60 minutes (depending on contamination). The water level must necessarily cover the pen. After the washing procedure, blot the pen dry with a paper towel. If necessary, you can soak the pen overnight.

Important! Never use hot water, solvents, or alcohol-based solutions to clean the pen, as this may damage the quality of the pen. Also, do not use tap water, as the metal particles in it can clog the pen nozzles.

  • Flush the pen every two weeks or when you change ink colors.

If we talk about how to properly use a Parker fountain pen or another model of an “ink pen”, then experts and manufacturers recommend the following:

  • Do not press hard when writing to avoid damaging the pen. A quality pen should glide easily over the paper.
  • It is not recommended to use one year old ink. Use only fresh product. If the ink has not been used for some time, and there is no coating on it, then first stir it and make sure that there are no clots or sediment at the bottom of the bottle, and then apply.
  • Do not allow black ink to dry inside the pen as this may cause permanent damage. The black ink contains gum arabic, which has adhesive properties. If such a filler dries inside the handpiece, the damage will be irreversible.
  • If you don't plan on using your writing accessory for more than a couple of days, rinse your pen to prevent the ink from drying out.
  • Store ink away from sunlight to avoid drying and fading.
  • Do not write on chemically treated paper that has a glossy finish. This paper does not absorb ink.
  • If you are traveling by plane, then do not fill the converter completely, it is better to leave it empty to reduce the risk of ink leakage. Hold the pen vertically while the plane is taking off. If you choose to use a fountain pen while flying, hold the pen upright when opening it and slowly remove the protective cap.

Important! To ensure that your clothes are always neat and you can easily clean them in the most unforeseen situations, use our selection of tools and methods that will help

Despite all the variety of stationery, the fountain pen is still very popular. The Parker Pen Company is one of the well-known companies specializing in the production of such writing instruments. It is she who is the creator of the famous Parker brand. But are the fountain pens of this manufacturer really that good?

A small digression into history

Who would have thought that the first analogues of modern fountain pens appeared around 600 AD. e. However, they acquired a metal case only by 1803. In turn, the first pens with metal nibs appeared closer to the beginning of 1830. However, such stationery had an extremely short lifespan.

Shortly before the modern Parker fountain pen appeared, many manufacturers began to produce nibs made of rhodium, osmium, iridium, and also gold (meaning 14- and 17-card). This approach made it possible to increase the service life of the tips on the handles and marked the beginning of a new mass production.

What are the types of fountain pens?

Around the beginning of the 19th century, the following types of fountain pens could be distinguished:

  • representative, or image (collection accessories);
  • classic (for everyday use);
  • school.

All of them, like the Parker fountain pen, were equipped with the following details:

  • A housing equipped with a special filling mechanism.
  • Dedicated ink tank.
  • Protective cap.
  • A metal pen with a small fork in the middle.

Pen "Parker" (fountain): photos and features

"Parker" are unique handles that have a number of advantages. In particular, it is they who create the most clear and thin lines, which makes your writing smooth and easy. It is much more convenient to hold such a pen, and the writing of letters itself takes place in a fairly fast mode.

From the point of view of aesthetics, the text written with such stationery looks the most accurate and calligraphic. That is why the Parker fountain pen is the favorite tool of employees and office owners, students and school teachers.

Depending on the cost, they prefer to use it as a fashion item, perfectly combined with a leather case, purse and business person's notebook.

What do people say about Parker fountain pens?

Everyone who has ever been lucky enough to hold the Parker company in their hands speaks mostly positively about it. Some like the ease that comes with writing text.

Others pay attention to the streamlined shape and presentable appearance of the accessory, which allows it to be used as a gift. Still others pay attention to the aesthetics of writing and assure that the Parker fountain pen (you will find reviews about it in our article) even influenced their handwriting. He became more calligraphic and accurate. By the way, knowing such unusual features of Parker, in some European schools, teachers use its budget option when teaching children to write in primary grades.

Still others claim that pens sometimes scratch paper. Fifths do not like wasteful ink consumption. According to them, they end at the most inopportune moment.

And, finally, they meet and do not like the presence of ink at the end of the pen (meaning that after using the accessory, ink often remains on its tip, which then dries up). Another thing is that such dissatisfaction may well be caused by improper use of the pen or associated with its inexpensive counterpart. However, in general, reviews, for example, about such a stylish item as the Parker gold fountain pen, are positive.

Where does ink go in a fountain pen?

So that your pen does not let you down at the most crucial moment, take care of its timely refueling. To do this, we recall that pen stationery, as a rule, contains an ink cartridge or a special piston converter. Moreover, the first is not intended for reuse, and the second has a large capacity, and it can be used many times.

However, filling a piston converter takes more time than replacing an old ink cartridge with a new one. The second process is much faster and easier. For the first one, you need a certain environment and a small jar of special ink. We will tell you how to fill in ink for a Parker fountain pen below.

How can I refill a Parker pen with a converter?

To refill a pen equipped with a converter, first prepare your work area. To do this, place a napkin and a jar of ink on a flat surface (preferably a table). This task is best done with ink from the same company as the pen itself.

Next, remove the protective cap of your stationery and carefully unscrew the barrel from the feather base. Then unscrew the ink cap and set it aside (on a tissue). Then dip the pen into the vial. At the same time, leave only the upper part of the pen on the surface.

In the next step, get rid of the remaining ink in the tank. This can be done by turning the converter piston counterclockwise (movement should be made until it stops). Perform this simple action before three drops of ink fall into the jar.

Without changing the position of the handle, continue to rotate the converter, but in the opposite direction. In this way, you will be able to fill the tank with a new batch of ink. When everything is done, carefully remove the pen from the jar and rotate the converter (as described above). This will get rid of a small amount of air trapped in the ink bottle.

After that, return the barrel to its place, and also eliminate excess ink with a napkin. Now you know how to refill a Parker fountain pen containing a converter.

How to refill a Parker cartridge cartridge?

To replace a used cartridge with a new one, first remove the protective cap. Then carefully remove the empty container and replace it with a full one. And apply a little force: press on the tank with your fingers until you hear a characteristic loud click. And only after your cartridge is fully installed, you can slowly spin the barrel. The pen is ready to use.

How to clean the nib in the Parker pen?

If you suddenly decide to clean the pen in the pen with the converter, then first you should slightly open the converter, and then bring it to a pre-prepared container of water at room temperature and rinse it. Moreover, it is worth performing this procedure until the water in the converter becomes completely transparent. At the end of this step, blot the pen and the pen itself with a tissue.

If your pen contains a cartridge, it is recommended to remove it before washing the pen. Then put the pen and pen body into a container of clean water. Rinse and dry with a tissue.

Who would have thought that the first analogues of modern fountain pens appeared around 600 AD. e. However, they acquired a metal case only by 1803. In turn, the first pens with metal nibs appeared closer to the beginning of 1830. However, such stationery had an extremely short lifespan.

Shortly before the modern Parker fountain pen appeared, many manufacturers began to produce nibs made of rhodium, osmium, iridium, and also gold (meaning 14- and 17-card). This approach made it possible to increase the service life of the tips on the handles and marked the beginning of a new mass production.

How to refill an ink pen

Many people enjoy the ritual of refilling glass vial pens with richly colored PARKER ink. That's why all PARKER fountain pens can be refilled with bubble ink. To use the ink in the bubbles, you need to insert a filler (a filling mechanism, also called a converter) into the pen.

To refill the pen using the rotary filler (exclusive version)

(fig. 1) Unscrew the sleeve. Rotate the plunger down to force air out of the ink tank and create a vacuum.

(Fig. 2) Dip the pen into the vial so that it is completely submerged to avoid air entering the refill (never dip the refill into the ink, only the pen); screw the piston back in until it stops.

(Fig. 3) Remove the pen from the vial; release three drops of ink by turning the plunger. Screw the piston back in until it stops. This will suck a small amount of air into the reservoir to prevent leakage.

(Fig. 4) Clean the pen

Move the piston by pushing the lever on the side.

(Fig. 1) Dip the pen into the vial so that it is completely submerged to avoid air entering the refill (never dip the refill into the ink, only the pen); to create a vacuum, press the lever down; push the lever up to suck ink. Remove the pen from the vial.

(Fig. 2) Release three drops of ink. Raise the lever all the way up.

(Fig. 3) Clean the pen.

Note: There is a loose piece of metal in the ink tank. This piece is not superfluous, it is a very important component of the filling system.

Fountain pen refill systems

PARKER Fountain Pens are the most flexible in use as they feature a reversible refill system for either bubble ink or PARKER ink pod. PARKER writing ink pods are designed to provide the smoothest writing experience. Loaded with rich, vibrant colors that are safe in any fountain pen, PARKER ink pods are color-coded and designed to work in the finest fountain pens.

PARKER QUINK ink capsules come with an extra ink supply, or reserve tank. When the capsule is almost empty, simply click on the end of the capsule and the reserve ink will be released. The amount of ink in the reserve bottle is enough to write approximately one page of a normal letter (this may vary depending on pen width and handwriting size).

Each ink pod provides a line length of approximately 800 m. PARKER ink pods work well with all PARKER fountain pens. PARKER fountain pens should only be used with PARKER capsules, as inferior quality ink may damage the pen. PARKER ink contains solvents that clean the pen as it is used and minimize clogging and corrosion.

(Fig. 1) Remove the cap from the pen;

(fig. 2) Unscrew the sleeve from the top of the housing; remove the empty capsule or filler;

(Fig. 3) Insert a new capsule wide end first;

(fig. 4) Push the capsule with your hand, firmly but gently, until you feel it pierce (usually a click is heard). Screw the sleeve back.

Pen cleaning is the process of washing the pen through the converter while filling it with water (repeat until the water is clear). Then pat dry with a paper towel. Be sure to use room temperature water, in which case distilled or filtered water will do (tap water may contain particles that can clog the pen nozzles).

If a cartridge is used in the pen, then it is necessary to disconnect it from the pen, and place the base with the pen in a glass or other container with clean water for 30 or 60 minutes, depending on the pollution of the pen, while the water level should completely cover the pen. After the procedure, blot dry with a paper towel or towel.

Using a fountain pen Do not press down when writing - this can damage the pen, a good fountain pen should slide easily over the paper. Use fresh ink. Do not use year-old ink. If you use old ink, you must clarify that there is no coating on the surface of the ink.

Then stir the ink to make sure there are no clots or sediment at the bottom of the vial. Black ink contains gum arabic, which has adhesive properties, allowing the black ink to dry inside the pen can cause permanent damage. If you don't plan to use the fountain pen for more than a couple of days, use the pen wash procedure before the ink dries.

Keep ink away from direct sunlight to avoid fading and drying Avoid using chemically treated paper that has a glossy finish because it does not absorb ink. When traveling by plane, it is recommended to fill the converter completely or leave it empty to reduce the risk of leakage.

Always hold the pen vertically during takeoff. When opening a fountain pen in flight, it is advisable to hold the pen in an upright position and slowly remove the protective cap. If you do not plan to use the pen for an extended period of time, you should wash and clean it before storing it.

These pens come in two types: with a cartridge and with a converter. In the first case, everything is as simple as possible. It is necessary to unscrew the handle, remove the empty cartridge, put a new one in and press until a characteristic click, which will mean that the feeder has entered the cartridge.

To refill a pen equipped with a converter, first prepare your work area. To do this, place a napkin and a jar of ink on a flat surface (preferably a table). This task is best done with ink from the same company as the pen itself.

Next, remove the protective cap of your stationery and carefully unscrew the barrel from the feather base. Then unscrew the ink cap and set it aside (on a tissue). Then dip the pen into the vial. At the same time, leave only the upper part of the pen on the surface.

In the next step, get rid of the remaining ink in the tank. This can be done by turning the converter piston counterclockwise (movement should be made until it stops). Perform this simple action before three drops of ink fall into the jar.

Without changing the position of the handle, continue to rotate the converter, but in the opposite direction. In this way, you will be able to fill the tank with a new batch of ink. When everything is done, carefully remove the pen from the jar and rotate the converter (as described above). This will get rid of a small amount of air trapped in the ink bottle.

After that, return the barrel to its place, and also eliminate excess ink with a napkin. Now you know how to refill a Parker fountain pen containing a converter.

To replace a used cartridge with a new one, first remove the protective cap. Then carefully remove the empty container and replace it with a full one. And apply a little force: press on the tank with your fingers until you hear a characteristic loud click. And only after your cartridge is fully installed, you can slowly spin the barrel. The pen is ready to use.

What are the types of fountain pens?

Around the beginning of the 19th century, the following types of fountain pens could be distinguished:

  • representative, or image (collection accessories);
  • classic (for everyday use);
  • school.

All of them, like the Parker fountain pen, were equipped with the following details:

  • A housing equipped with a special filling mechanism.
  • Dedicated ink tank.
  • Protective cap.
  • A metal pen with a small fork in the middle.

How to clean the nib in the Parker pen?

Do not press on the ink pen. It should slide easily across the sheet. Do not use a pen on glossy paper. This paper does not absorb ink.

Always use fresh ink. One year after manufacture, the ink is already considered old.

If you suddenly decide to clean the pen in the pen with the converter, then first you should slightly open the converter, and then bring it to a pre-prepared container of water at room temperature and rinse it. Moreover, it is worth performing this procedure until the water in the converter becomes completely transparent. At the end of this step, blot the pen and the pen itself with a tissue.

If your pen contains a cartridge, it is recommended to remove it before washing the pen. Then put the pen and pen body into a container of clean water. Rinse and dry with a tissue.

Pen "Parker" (fountain): photos and features

"Parker" are unique pens that have a number of advantages. In particular, it is they who create the most clear and thin lines, which makes your writing smooth and easy. It is much more convenient to hold such a pen, and the writing of letters itself takes place in a fairly fast mode.

From the point of view of aesthetics, the text written with such stationery looks the most accurate and calligraphic. That is why the Parker fountain pen is the favorite tool of employees and office owners, students and school teachers.

Depending on the cost, they prefer to use it as a fashion item, perfectly combined with a leather case, purse and business person's notebook.

What do people say about Parker fountain pens?

Everyone who has ever been lucky enough to hold a Parker fountain pen in their hands speaks mostly positively about it. Some like the ease that comes with writing text.

Others pay attention to the streamlined shape and presentable appearance of the accessory, which allows it to be used as a gift. Still others pay attention to the aesthetics of writing and assure that the Parker fountain pen (you will find reviews about it in our article) even influenced their handwriting.

Still others claim that pens sometimes scratch paper. Fifths do not like wasteful ink consumption. According to them, they end at the most inopportune moment.

And, finally, there are those who are dissatisfied, who are not satisfied with the presence of ink at the end of the pen (meaning that after using the accessory, ink often remains on its tip, which then dries up). Another thing is that such dissatisfaction may well be caused by improper use of the pen or associated with its inexpensive counterpart. However, in general, reviews, for example, about such a stylish item as the Parker gold fountain pen, are positive.

Where does ink go in a fountain pen?

So that your pen does not let you down at the most crucial moment, take care of its timely refueling. To do this, we recall that pen stationery, as a rule, contains an ink cartridge or a special piston converter. Moreover, the first is not intended for reuse, and the second has a large capacity, and it can be used many times.

However, filling a piston converter takes more time than replacing an old ink cartridge with a new one. The second process is much faster and easier. For the first one, you need a certain environment and a small jar of special ink. We will tell you how to fill in ink for a Parker fountain pen below.

Despite the fact that ballpoint and gel pens have long been replaced by fountain pens, many people prefer ink. And the ink pen of the world-famous Parker company is not only a stationery, but also an attribute of prestige. To enjoy using it, you need to know how to fill the pen with ink and nib.

How to refill a fountain pen

In stationery stores, there are usually several types of ink, which differ in shades, consistency and quality. For refilling ink pens, ink with the inscription "fountain pens", that is, "for fountain pens", is suitable. The method of filling the pen with ink depends on the filling mechanism.

piston filler

  1. Disassemble the handle body.
  2. Inside the housing is an ink piston with a clamp at the end, which must be rotated counterclockwise.
  3. Having immersed the pen in ink, scroll the clamp all the way in the opposite direction.
  4. To remove air from the container, the clamp must be slightly unscrewed until the first drop appears.
  5. Wipe the pen with a cloth and assemble the pen.

Converter

  1. Release access to the converter.
  2. Having lowered the pen into the ink, turn the converter head to the right.
  3. Remove air from the container, clean the nib and screw on the body.

Replacement cartridge

  1. Remove the upper case.
  2. Replace the used cartridge with a new one.
  3. Open the safety valve, bleed the air until ink appears.
  4. Wipe dry the nib and twist the case.

How to refill a parker pen

The Parker pen is not only a writing instrument, but also a stylish accessory for a business person. To prolong the life of this expensive item, you only need to refill it with branded ink, since Parker ink capsules contain cleaning solvents. In addition, Parker ink meets a number of other requirements:

  • retain saturated color for a long time;
  • instantly absorbed into the writing material;
  • have a high wetting ability, without spreading over the paper;
  • correspond in density to the design of the handle.

Parker pens have a refill system with ink capsules. To replace the capsule, remove the cap and unscrew the sleeve located on top of the body. After removing the empty capsule, a new one is inserted in its place with the wide side down. To pierce the capsule, you need to slightly push it and screw the sleeve.

Parker QUINK capsules are equipped with a reserve tank. To release an additional portion of ink, just click on the end of the capsule.