From $6 to $312: Are Expensive Fountain Pens Worth It? - Write Stuff, ep. 39

[@fletcherchambers7175]

Every time I write with a Preppy or Plaisir part of me thinks I should have stopped right there and saved myself a small fortune. :P

[@Johan-vk5yd]

Those pens are so good! (Maybe you must have some expensive pens too, to appreciate that fact?)

[@stareenafraser]

The Preppy is perfection 🎉 (imo)

[@fletcherchambers7175]

@@Johan-vk5yd My "nicest" pen would probably be a Pilot E95S... It's delightful and the best writer I have... But the Platinums come really close! )

[@MitchellJBridges]

​@@Johan-vk5yd I hate the preppy. I much prefer the jindao 9016, Jinhao 9056, and Jinhao 82 are much better in my opinion

[@MitchellJBridges]

​@@stareenafraser Nope. Try the Jinhao 9016. It's got a #6 nib which can be replaced with a better nib.

[@loriray3680]

Fountain pen nubie here. Just jumped on your website and fell in love with a $1000.00 pen.

[@Johan-vk5yd]

Love is eternal. The object is transient. I’m an old man who is happy about not having spent a lot of money on pens, while figureing out which pens I’d be truly happy to own.

[@cynthiamiller3236]

My aunt gifted me a fountain pen after she found out I started collecting them. I have pen friends who inherited their first pens too. But a lot of people sell off their inherited pens. How can we make sure the next generation values our pens?

[@teresaharris-travelbybooks5564]

Excellent question.

[@NwinDii]

Let them experience the joy of writing with them. If they can't see it then just hope the person to be handed them next do. We can not control what people do especially if they have no connection to an item. Which at the end of the day is a tool to write with.

[@ruthfeiertag]

Attach stories to them. If the pen was inherited, tie it to the family history. And just hope the next gen tries the pens and gets hooked. I’m dealing with the same issue.

[@manuelsalazar3938]

If you mean your own family, you can't, and probably you shouldn't enforce that. It's like most hobbies, your relatives may not like them and it's natural. Also, why bother? When you die, material things that you leave behind are not important anymore. If you want to ensure someone loves and keeps them just sell or donate them before you die or when you can no longer enjoy them.

[@LethalBubbles]

By using it together. People don't keep heirlooms because they like the item. they keep heirlooms because they are reminders of loved ones. by just springing something they've never seen before on them, they do know to revere it, but it isn't the same kind of love. Thus "eh they'd want me to be happy with the money from selling it" becomes more logicals As sad as that is, it doesn't mean the love isn't there, its just disconnected from history at a particular moment. Many people come to strongly regret selling their heirlooms.

[@LittleDogsHouseholdStaff]

Not rotten flesh! 😂🤣😂🤣 I’ve never laughed so hard. Tom is the best. 😭

[@mixeddrinks8100]

I like how some people just accepted the Noodler's smell and why they won't change the material.

[@wendyholiday2021]

I put a fine flex nib from the Creeper into the opus88 mini, and it writes 😊sublimely. Thank you for the fun video.

[@wendyholiday2021]

Do most fp fans swap nibs? Or do they use the nib in the pen it came in?

[@Johan-vk5yd]

@@wendyholiday2021 Many swap nibs, as part o the exploration component of the hobby. I do it all the time. I you came from using dip pens, you’re probably more prone to do it.

[@wendyholiday2021]

Thank you for your reply. I won't be as cautious to swap nibs.​@@Johan-vk5yd

[@chibicas]

I love the opus 88 demo. It's a little on the heavier side but I love how big the grip is. For me, it makes it easier to to relax my grip and the nib is really smooth making it a relaxing writing experience. Please make a video comparing all the opus 88 pens. Specifically mentioning the dimensions differences including the grip section, I'd love to know the specific differences and your take on them.

[@kathleenschmidt1489]

I love the OPUS 88 mini’s. They don’t get the love others do. Sad.

[@sbornot2b]

Contest question: How to clean out an ink that is leaving a bit of color behind in a demonstrator? For more stubborn 'stains' I've heard alcohol, ammonia, bleach (in dilution). Even well informed people have wildly different opinions. What do you recommend?

[@steventrosiek2623]

Thank you for a wonderful video, as always. Love ❤️ Goldspot!!

[@FoundOnDeeRoad]

Thank you so much for answering my question!!! YOU ARE AWESOME!

[@GoldspotPens]

You are so welcome!

[@DaedalusGage]

Question here, Tom: no matter what I do, when I try to clean out a fountain pen that dried out (no matter how recent the dry out happened), I always seem to have a hefty ink burden left behind! Whether I'm using a bulb to repeatedly blow distilled water through the section/feed/nib or letting the pen sit under lukewarm running water, nothing works. I've always been a bit timid about the ammonia washes because I've heard that "some" pens can be damaged by it (though, for the life of me, I don't know which ones). Similarly, I've been timid of an ultrasonic cleaner because I've heard that "some" pens can be damaged by that (still, I'm afraid to use one because I'm not sure which pens will be damaged). So, my question is this: can I leave *_any_* section and nib in distilled water overnight (to rehydrate the ink on the underside of the nib/fins)? Should they all, by definition, be water tolerant, or will some sections corrode if I leave them to sit in water? And, as a stretch, if I can ask an expanded question: could you speak to the groups of pens that might do well/poorly with ammonia solutions or ultrasonic cleaners? Is it just celluloid pens? (p.s. You're right: the non-ebonite Noodlers smell... nightmarish. Even before you said it, I was looking to see if you would bring the pen near your face. Brave man: I'm afraid to hold the one I bought.)

[@MarshaLove0723]

I hope Tom covers this, but I will throw in my 2 cents... 😊 There may be some pen grips that might not work well with soaking. (I'm thinking of my denim pen...) But most should be fine. I often soak my nib units overnight in a solution of water with a few drops of Dawn dishwashing liquid added. If you don't want to soak the entire grip section, see if the nib unit can be screwed out of the grip, to be soaked separately.

[@gillow5241]

my question is Is that pelikan on the table or just really big, the first time I saw it I thought you had a huge pen, and does that huge Lamy write? Also how exactly does the quality of the feed affect the quality of writing?

[@MisterMothMan123]

Good afternoon my good man I have 2 questions, whats the diferrence in gold qarat in nibs, i heard its softness so would a 14k sf nib be similar to a 18k f my other questions is stupid, would pilot change the name of a pen, for example custom heritage 912 if they increase the price enough to for example, custom heritage 913 or would they just keep it as is?

[@TomThomson_achubbyscotsman]

Love this Tom, huge fan of the Platinum Preppy. There is so much made about pens at $200/£200 still with Steel Nibs when there are also gold nib options for the same or similar price on other pens (thinking Esterbrook Estie v Pilot e95s etc), are steel nibs so far behind the quality of writing esperience in gold nibs, or does it not make as much of a difference as it used to?

[@richv7975]

I am very new to this hobby. Learned quite a bit this morning. Thanks. Rich

[@penman-o1p]

I would like to know some guidelines to what types of inks i can mix without turning my room into a breaking bad reference

[@jackalantyrn]

I adore my platinum preppy wa’s. I have three. Although the third just showed up so I have not used it yet, and I just got my first ever sailor pro gear slim so that’s very exciting!

[@panagiotiskafritsas4271]

I am writing a book (hand written) since 1,5y using 2 TWSBIs, a Styloscope (pelican by Chronoswiss) and 2 Montblancs. No issues with the TWSBIs at all so far using them mainly! Very smooth writing, just a bit lacking of ink sometimes. Writes very straight. The Monblancs give a bit more feedback. Had some issues being sorted out. The best writing is the Styloscope by Chronoswiss (a Pelican derivative). Best feeling, smooth and fluently with great feedback, best ink flow. For hours of writing the Styloscope was the best!

[@chuckkolb1270]

A spot on video with golden information. Very well done. Methinks the Noodler's Creeper hit rock bottom. A courageous review. Bravo. What is the all time most sought after pen in your experience- vintage to modern?

[@sluggger]

I've never understood the obsession with the smell of the Noodler's pens. It's really nothing odious. For those who have never smelled it, it smells similar to the plastics/rubbers/etc used in fishing tackle, and no I don't mean scented baits, just the plastic itself.

[@LethalBubbles]

sometimes the exoensive ones are "worse" for requiring more care. Montblanc's threads can get stuck very easily for example. Gold nibs make a surprisingly big difference, but those come on cheaper pens too sometimes.

[@SAM-ko5bj]

What are the best mid level pens for someone with experience who wants to move up but isn’t ready for an expensive one. Based on the beginner pens that are our favorite I’d like to move up a level but don’t want to experiment at a higher price range.

[@ProofByConundrum]

I really enjoyed that! Could you recommend pens for planners? I've been using broad and stub pens because I enjoy the flair, but now that I have a planner with a small grid, something finer for appointments might be good. What writes reliably small and still smooth? Maybe at different price points, and with a touch of style for carrying with me? It's pleasing to carry my schedule with me and enjoy looking at an elegant planner and co-ordinating pen.

[@bovnycccoperalover3579]

Fine and EF pens. Japanese pens are usually more fine than European/American fountain pens. I love my Falcon , of course the Falcon nib isn't liked by everyone.

[@NameLikeNobodyElse]

When you buy an expensive pen, I'm starting to see instructions that you should dip test it to see that it's working properly before moving forward with your new pen. Could you give more information about this, and maybe a few pointers when dealing with new, expensive pen purchases online?

[@cynthiaalvarado8610]

Love that shirt, Tom! That is a great design. Corvid knight with a nib lance!

[@deborahpercell321]

Great deep-dive into demonstrators! Thank you for the clear descriptions. What are your favorite pens to eye-dropper and why? 🧐 😊

[@iskandardarmali626]

If money is not an issue, I would be more than happy to purchase an expensive pen. However if we see the pen as just a writing instrument, I would be embarrassed to say I am writing with an expensive limited edition pen when you Sir can write with a Preppy and produce such beautiful writing. 😂

[@npreynolds]

Thanks for the entry opportunity! What is your opinion of upgrading a mid-range, well-engineered pen by adding gold nibs?

[@angelomicciulla]

Honest question: do you find that the larger size of the nib also makes the line variation wider? Like all fine nibs- a no. 5 size nice write thinner than a no.6, 8 or 10 size nib. Even though they are all fine, they are totally different.

[@mamahnita]

I would love to see you draw again or dedicate a channel just for your drawings.

[@MrMountie11]

I always see people talking about cleaning and maintaining their pens but I'm not sure what I should actually be doing and how often. What's actually required to keep pens clean and working well? Also are there ways to fill pens that aren't as messy as trying to get ink directly from some of the bottles?

[@houghwhite411]

Get syringe to fill your pen. Clean every ink change or every fill. Get bulb syringe to clean your pen Personally I clean every time the pen don't behave well or when changing ink

[@sunnycharacter]

❤ Pretty Opus! My question is… if I’m shopping for a fountain pen for a gift for a newbie, is it recommended to also consider getting an ink that is compatible both visually and functionally as well as good paper to encourage the recipient? I’d hate to frustrate them!

[@mjwalicki3495]

What is a good ink to use on standard lightweight office paper? Should I look for something that dries quickly or non-feathering? Color and archival is not an issue. Thank you for all the wonderful informative videos!

[@fotiniwalton]

What would be your top 5 or ten “hacks” to good pen ownership. For instance you mentioned converting to an eye drop reservoirs. How do you do that? Thanks!

[@PenMaiden56]

Great info Thanks Tom. My question is why do some reviewers show us reverse writing? Why would someone want to write upside down? Does it damage the nib in any way? 13:59

[@harrylew]

Good episode! OK, here's my question for your contest. I have a lot of medium-priced fountain pens with steel Yowo nibs. In fact, I have so many that I've lost my motivation to buy new pens. Reason is just having a new finish doesn't motivate me all that much. Are there any pens with steel nibs in this segment that offer a truly different writing experience?

[@williamcatalano1762]

The smell the Noodler's pens have reminds me of stink bait or cheese bait that you would use to catch catfish.

[@judyjacobs5827]

Exactly! Nathan's company makes products named for a technique for catching catfish, called "noodling". The art on many of his inks shows catfish, too. Nice catch, Mr. Catalano!

[@HomerIncognito]

Tiny bit of silicone grease on Opus 88s completely deals with the squeaking

[@christianoneil7655]

While fountain pens are consistent and luxurious to use, I wonder if you have any experience with dip pens? I like the flexibility they add to what kinds of ink you can use as well as the large variety of nibs you can swap between to drastically adjust your writing style.

[@pattiallen3757]

I want to try several different inks. I am brand new to the fountain pen and have 4 already. What is the best way to have several different inks without having a separate pen for each. Do I just get several converters and keep them full, or will they leak or dry out when not in the pen? Thank you.

[@noriborealis]

Can you explain the different types of flex nibs? I'm looking to buy my first flex-nib pen, but I'd like more information before making my decision.

[@BusinessFishyGames]

Hey there, I have a question. What paper do you use for fountain pens?

[@Thorned_Rose]

Try Rhodia, Clairefontaine, Apica, Leuchtturm, or Midori. They're generally the most commonly found fountain pen friendly papers. Just get whatever fits in your budget or buy the cheapest of each and try each one out to see what you like the most. TBF, even cheap note paper can still work (my everyday jotter is just some rando spiral bound notebook I got at a dollar shop lol). Generally if the paper feels thicker and smooth to the touch, it's likely just fine for fountain pens :)

[@BusinessFishyGames]

@@Thorned_Rose Thanks so much for the information! I appreciate your help!

[@PenMaiden56]

Great info Thanks Tom. My question is why do some reviewers show us reverse writing? Why would someone want to write upside down? Does it damage the nib in any way?

[@thestationeryjunkie]

Can you tell us more about dip pens and how they vary with regular fountain pens?

[@marielacko3055]

Very good video, very informative. What is the best way to clean out a fountain pen thoroughly without taking the nib out?

[@ffotograffydd]

Noodlers pens are more trouble than they’re worth. And even if you get them working well that smell is pretty disgusting. I’d definitely recommend the Platinum Preppy or the TWSBI Go as a good beginner pen/pen to dedicate to troublesome ink.

[@sealine8717]

If I like to use gel pens with a 0.4 or 0.5mm tip size, what fountain pen brands and nib sizes would come close to it?

[@houghwhite411]

It's medium, but line width also takes paper quality into factor. The better the paper the truer the line size will be

[@Samjs916]

It depends on the paper/ink. cheap paper tends to absorb ink quickly, leaving a thicker line. There are inks that are resistant to "feathering" that try and combat that, but they take longer to dry. All other factors considered, for most companies outside Japan, I'd say that's a or fine nib. Japanese nib would be closer to medium as their scale is shifted a bit. You might even see some Japanese nibs marked or fine medium which is usually close to 0.5

[@jadec2180]

Moisture got behind the piston in my Pelikan M200, how can I disassemble the piston end to remove the moisture?

[@AdriAnna1934]

Love my preppy pens as much as my fancier pens. Are nibs interchangeable between brands? How can you tell if they are?

[@dawnholder8819]

Great information in this video. Question: Have you discovered any steel nibs that have nice pencil-like feedback similar to Sailor gold nibs? I have one that comes close - my Waterman Expert with a fine steel nib. Thanks!

[@mickiebudny7731]

Are there any new brands that are up and coming that would be good for a newbie or budget shopper? Thanks for all your great info!

[@ZiaLinkZen]

Tom, this is an old issue that I cannot seem to resolve: how to remove the inner sleeve of a pen cap. I've tried your 3 yr old method of rubber bands on... thin metal "tool" no luck. Tried an even older Tokoyo pen shop video of cutting a small piece of rubber and attaching with two-sided tape to a chop stick (well, slight variation of that) NO LUCK. Given so many pen caps have inner liners, PLEASE tell me there is an updated method / tool that doesn't require scrounging around for such odd items. I tried on Jinhao 82s and an older Pilot Prera (clear cap) before such an attempt on a Sailor PGS or future nicer pen. H E L P! (Hoping for solution and maybe fun Opus 88!) Write on and thanks for all your GREAT videos 🖋

[@Vic_Lx]

Hi Tom, an interesting video about Demostrators and the difference in prices. Mine is a 2 part question related with the nib and the griding of the tipping material, - Can a quality Steel nib rival a Gold nib (maybe a 'Shoot Out' - Steel Nib vs. Gold Nib -)? - And how much does the quality of the grinding influence the writing experience?

[@diegoboss2784]

Question, can i use 2 different color in ONE fountain pen? like use a blue cartridge then when it ends i put a black one or viceversa..?

[@Manonthemoon-u6z]

Could you summarize pros and cons of every filling mechanism, im looking into a pelikan m200 but want to know if paying extra compared to the p200 is worth it

[@sancurpen]

I had a question, on your site what are the special editions that are available at all times ? like the 2023 se i see them all the time when i go on your site. Are there anymore like it?

[@GoldspotPens]

You can find all our exclusive, special edition releases that are currently available here - goldspot.com/collections/goldspot-exclusives Most likely, if it's a special edition from last year or the year before, and you don't see it on the website, it probably has sold out and we're unable to obtain more.

[@vishalachari2281]

Great video. Just wondering which wins Lamy 2000 or Pilot Custom 823 if there was actually any match held between these 2 powerhouse pens?????

[@bootsmama1027]

One major difference between the two is that the Lamy 2000 is a piston filler and the Pilot 823 is a vac filler. Vac fillers tend to be harder to clean out.

[@delusional4ever]

As a collector of fountain pens I have found that I have reached a point where I have more pens then I can keep track of. I normally only use one or two at a time while the rest sit stored in their boxes waiting for me to find them again. I'm debating on ways to better organize my hoard so that I'm not neglecting them. What are some of the better methods of storing and tracking fountain pen collections?

[@tjs8433]

Great video! I'm just getting into fountain pens and have been struggling with the slipperiness and small sized grip of my pilot metropolitan. Could you recommend some budget pens with more ergonomical/grippier grips? Thanks!

[@GoldspotPens]

Give the Faber-Castell Grip a try - it's all in the name! The Grip's grip is very "grippy!" And, they usually cost $30 and under. Check out the F-C Grip here - goldspot.com/collections/faber-castell-grip

[@michaelsshort]

So, I have purchased a couple of entry level pens ... what do you suggest as I step up my collection after the Lamy Safari and the Pilot Metropolitan? I'm ready to step up to something around $100 +/- ... do you have a favorite or two in that range? thanks for the feedback!

[@penguin1780]

Hi Tom, I was wondering how to clean and care for maki-e pens- can you help me out?

[@badmen68]

Yes! Both worth it !

[@davidgray9816]

Thanks Tom that was great information. I’m learning about fountain pens and was wondering what is a good book to reference said pens ?

[@volker.kreutzer852]

Excellent review. Just one point: The gold price alone however does not justify a 250$ price hike. The gold in a nib is worth about 15-25$ only.

[@alexandrapirvu7945]

Hello, Tom! I'm curious about the resins and different plastic types and what is the difference between the transparent plastic and the coloured one? In case of Lamy Safari/Vista, Sailor, Pelikan and TWSBI. Maybe this coule explain why TWSBI seem to crack more often than other piston fillers. Thank you!

[@andreacastora5129]

I’m relatively new to fountain pens, and only ever had a converter pen, I am debating getting the new esterbrook button fill version but I’m nervous to take the plunge because I wouldn’t know how to clean it properly. How do you clean button fill pens and ensure that it really is clean before it gets reinked?

[@DLFfitness1]

How do you decide which brands, and models to carry?

[@robinpennell1594]

I purchased a mid range Sailor and found the nib experience irritatingly scratchy! Not in tearing paper but in the annoying sound of a number 3 lead on notebook paper. Are the gold nibs as loud as the mid range ones? Can I smooth the nib without voiding any warrantee? Or should I avoid Sailor completely due to my extremely sensitive eardrums?

[@mezthirtyone]

Hi Tom. This video just blew me away. Sorry for the long comment, but I have a couple questions. I've used P.Parallel's for years, but hate how flimsy the barrel is. The side inevitably cracks on the barrel threading without much pressure or if overtightened even slightly. I've longed to find a compatible barrel, but never had any luck. I'm so happy you mentioned they fit an Opus88. I'm definitely going to invest in a couple when I can now, but while funds are tight my questions are first if you know of any other compatible brands that will fit the parallel nib unit? Also, if you have tried the HighAce Neos, do you think the nib feel is worth it over a less expensive Parallel, or the slightly higher priced Kaweco & Lamy stubs? Thank you, love the channel!

[@Srinivasan.Answers]

Can you give your insight into Micro fiber Cellulose Acetate pens! Thanks in advance

[@nope8535]

Oh that's funny. My first pen and ink was a Preppy with Baystate Blue. Noodler's pens also I say smell like used cooking oil, I rather enjoy it. The trick is a quick vinegar rinse to damp down the smell. What would you say is the best new to the hobby fountain pen, ink, and paper combinations to get someone started?

[@judyjacobs5827]

Very informative discussion, Tom. Thanks. You often mention eye-droppering pens by adding silicone grease and/or a flexible ring to pens that are c/c fillers. But lots of my pens have a breather hole in the barrel, or the clip is attached in a way that allows leaks, or there's an end cap of some kind that doesn't keep the ink in and the rest of the world out. Is there a way to amend this so these pens can get the lion's share of ink, too? And what's the deal with penmakers failing or neglecting to provide a converter with the pens? For a few cents' worth of engineering and plastic, they could make buyers so much happier, without our having to order overpriced and sometimes proprietary ink holding gizmos just so we can write. Not friendly and not smart, imho.

[@ethanringe4213]

Was looking at buying a Noodler Creeper last week, but all the reviews mentioned the smell. I thought that was really odd for a pen, but I guess they weren't lying.

[@darren.66]

As somebody new to the fountain pen world, I've some videos about storage and carrying cases of pens, but have not seen any clear information around types of materials that may damage or stain a pen. My questions: are there certain materials that I should avoid storing pens in or certain materials for pens that react different. For instance, will the oils in leather damage or discolor a pen or does it depend on the material the pen is made of? Thanks for the gret information in the videos!

[@skviviangeauxz]

First off thank you for making great informative videos, my question is: what advice would you give someone shopping for a next level or grail pen? For example, do certain pens at those levels have a really good steel nibs or should you consider gold nibs only?

[@waylon_willie]

What are some true archival fountain pen inks y'all carry? Also, are there concerns with these inks in my higher end fountain pens? I've seen Baystate Blue listed as archival quality, yet it does not have lightfast qualities. De Atramentis looks like a very bland blue, I'm hoping there are better options? Thanks for the great and informative content, as always, Tom!

[@Samjs916]

I've had good luck with the noodler's bulletproof inks. I have Esenin and the El Lawrence. Neither have given me issues, but I can imagine they'd be difficult to clean in the case of drying out. They also don't really bleed or show through, even on some cheaper papers.

[@waylon_willie]

​@Samjs916 hey, thanks for the info! I just noticed this. I'll check em out.

[@timmyharris731]

Love the videos. Your answers are always so helpful. I was wondering a couple things. First, are gold nibs actually worth it? And where can I easily find someone to tune a nib if I am not happy with how it writes? Thank you!

[@estherchan4923]

As a newbie, I see a lot of videos about great beginner pens, but not so much beyond that. What should someone be considering before looking to begin in investing in more (say $75+ in range)?

[@Govindan999]

We have pens available called Cello Fountain or Classmate smoothie similar ink mechanism and similar looking Nib for 50Rupees which is less than a dollar,also we get two cartridge with it for free.

[@ruthfeiertag]

That prototype Opus looks wonderful. What’s the process for bringing collaborations and exclusives into being? Does Goldspot contact the pen makers or is it the other way around? Who comes up with the concepts for the design? How do you choose? Also: will you be offering any new Hallowe’en pens and inks? Thanks, Tom! That was a thoughtful and useful video.

[@loukios]

Could you explain all the different Lamy nibs you offer? What are the differences?

[@yobanyhernandez125]

I love the Lamy vista. I know “bouncy” and line variation are traits people look for. But the way I use my pens for work and personal writing I love that the Lamy nibs are like writing with a steel nail. The ease of services and nib replacements is the reason why I have 9 lamys (safaris , lx and Al stars total) I want to spend money on a more expensive pen 😅 but so far all the recommendations I’ve gotten I didn’t end up liking much. Maybe you guys have a recommendation for me ? ☺️

[@manuelsalazar3938]

No, I don't look for those 😂 For me if you want line variation you can use a stub nib or simply try proper calligraphy tools. To be honest, most people that want flex nibs in a fountain pen probably don't have the slightest idea on how to use them, they just want them because it's trendy. Regarding Lamy, I love their nib form factor but also consider Lamy nibs as trash, they're so inconsistent and bad quality that every time I get a Lamy the nib just goes to the storage never to be used again, I prefer Chinese nibs, for me they tend to be way more consistent. I can get an almost needle-point chinese nib that Lamy would never be able to provide, and there are many variants too. Given what you say, instead of a more expensive pen you should explore more of affordable pens to find something you'd like in a more expensive pen, try those Naginata style nibs from China, long-blade variations, etc, Try brands like PenBBS, Hongdian, Moonman/Majhon and so on.

[@AlejandroPato-Fuego]

I hear that color verse is going to come out with an ink calendar this holiday. How will their product compare to the diamine ink calendar?

[@GoldspotPens]

We shall see! It's the first time we get to experience a "Colorvent" Calendar. It is significantly more expensive than Diamine's, but will it be worth it? When we get both to them, we'll let you know.

[@JohnMulcaire]

Sometimes, when writing my fountain pen skips, is this how i am writing? How do I fix this?

[@Johan-vk5yd]

I have a bunch of Noodler’s pens in vegetal resin. Only one of them smelled bad, and I had to get rid of it. The others had an almond like scent, like the household soap ftom my childhood. That scent was barely discernable after a gew years. I was lucky, obviously.

[@bgrif7]

Tom, I’m a big fan and have learned a lot from your videos. My question is “What exactly is meant by Nib size?” I see #6 size nibs in descriptions and sometimes #5 size nibs, but couldn’t say what makes them different. Also I don’t know how to talk about them because looking into nib size often results in finding info about width(Fine, Medium, etc.) Help! Thanks!

[@frenchiemom3440]

Great video! I hear so many good things about the Preppy. I apologize if this has been answered in the past. What nibs are interchangeable with a Benu Talisman or Euphoria?

[@kimberlycook5860]

As a newbie fountain pen collector, this video was really helpful. I love my TWSBI diamonds 580. It writes the best of all I own but wasn’t the most expensive I’ve bought. How can I learn which inks write best in my fountain pens? I waste so much ink struggling with this.

[@sp0ttyf0ureyes]

Awesome video! What pen or ink brands do you find that’s underrated (either personally or in the goldspot store?) What do you find cool about them?

[@ash16lily23]

With gift-giving season coming up fast, what are some good "all in one" sets or options (pen/ink/converter/cartridge/instructions/etc.) for an adult who has expressed genuine interest in fountain pens, but would definitely be considered a newbie. (And, as a lawyer, they have "fancy" tastes.) Not looking to spend a fortune, but would like it to be something they could show off. :) Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

[@ahalfkorean]

As a watch collector with many, many watches, I will sometimes wear the same watch for an entire week. The hope is that I'll either re-appreciate or re-connect with the watch (and much simpler times). If you had to start the same exercise with fountain pens, which would you choose?

[@felaine17]

Hi. What qualifies someone as a collector. I have beginner and mid range fountain pens close to 50 pens. Does that make me a collector? Or do I have to own vintage and high end fountain pens to make me a collector?

[@jorgeknightwalker8872]

Is it possible for a left to learn how to properly use a flex nib?

[@mumalogue]

Thank you for putting the price of gold in perspective! Why is there so much variation between brands (eg. 18k Vanishing Point vs. 14k Sailor vs. 21k Sailor)?

[@volker.kreutzer852]

21k is basically a gimmick. It doesn’t write any better. It is the result of the “gold carat war” between pen manufacturers to out-do each other selling an illusion of superiority. The illusion being sold is that a 18k nib must be better than a 14k nib, hence a 21k nib must be better than a 18k nib. Neither is true. The sweet spot between durability and softness for gold fountain pen nibs is 14k. Pen manufacturers knew this in the 1950’s already.

[@hollieshuler8024]

I continue to hear pen people refer to problematic inks. What are some of those inks and should I avoid them? I am new to fountain pens and don’t want to cause myself grief with my new small pen collection. Thank-you.

[@ryemars]

How do you find out about new/upcoming fountain pen brands?

[@user-gl5ld9vm7i]

I'm - me! And you're -- you! 😊

[@Reyairia]

How does one go about converting a pen to an eyedropper?

[@followyourbrush]

My question is what do you think is the average price that hobbyist pay for a pen. I asked Pen Boy Roy as well, but am interested if you have stats to look at for average prices.

[@severianofurth]

What are the best fountain pens for drawing?