Fountain Pens for Beginners: Nib Sizes, Ink and How to Choose
Quick answer: start with a steel medium or fine nib pen that takes standard cartridges. A fine nib suits small handwriting and notes; a medium nib writes smoother and bolder. Add a converter later if you want to use bottled ink.
Fountain pens glide across the page with very little pressure, which makes long writing sessions more comfortable. They also make a thoughtful gift for students and anyone who enjoys writing by hand.
Choosing a nib size
| Nib | Line | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Fine (F) | Thin, neat line | Small handwriting, diaries, thin paper |
| Medium (M) | Smooth, slightly bolder line | Letters, journaling, everyday writing |
| Broad (B) | Wide, expressive line | Signatures and cards |
Cartridges or a converter?
Cartridges are clean and simple: push one in and start writing. A converter is a small refillable piston that lets you fill from a bottle of ink, giving you more colours and lower running costs.
Pens to compare
- Pilot V Pen Disposable Fountain Pen, Black Ink, Medium 0.58 mm, Pack of 3 (from £14.70): pre-filled disposable pens, an easy way to try a fountain pen.
- Dryden Designs Medium Nib Fountain Pen, Royal Red, with Converter and 24 Ink Cartridges (from £10.79): medium nib pen with a converter and spare cartridges.
- LAMY safari Umbra Fountain Pen, Fine Polished Steel Nib, Matt Black, with T10 Blue Cartridge (from £23.18): popular steel fine nib pen with a moulded grip.
Tips for smooth writing
- Hold the pen at a gentle angle and let the nib touch the paper lightly; no pressure is needed.
- Use good paper, such as 80gsm or heavier, so ink does not bleed through.
- Cap the pen when you stop writing so the ink does not dry in the nib.
- Rinse the nib in cool water every few weeks or when you change ink colour.
FAQs
Are fountain pens good for left-handed writers?
Yes. A fine nib and quick-drying ink help reduce smudging.
Why does my pen skip?
Usually the ink has dried in the nib. Rinse it in cool water, dry it and refill.
See our range of fountain pens.
Prices shown were correct when this guide was updated on 14 November 2026 and may change. Check the product page for the latest price.
