How to get the best out of a fountain pen

1. Don’t let anyone else use it

This wisdom goes back a long way for me. Not sure where it originates but I always cringe if anyone tries to use a fountain pen of mine. I always carry a biro for anyone who needs a pen. I don't use biros myself. The premise of not lending a fountain pen is that it can ruin the nib. 

2. Good paper

I like smooth good quality paper. It's bliss seeing the ink laid down on the page.

3. Use quality ink

My favourite is J Herbin although these are more expensive now. I like Diamine. I shop for ink at cultpens.com. 

4. Pen cases

I keep my pens in pen cases so that I can carry them with me without damaging them. 

5. Flush

If I've not used a pen for a while, I'll flush it through with lukewarm water to give it a good clean.

6. Break it in

Sometimes a new pen takes a while to bed in. The nib will adjust to your writing.