How to Write with a Fountain Pen

[@v33punk]

When I first got into fountain pens a few years ago it actually motivated me to start journaling. Writing became fun for me.

[@krunoslavkovacec1842]

That is a nice story. Nice things can motivate a person. 🖖

[@AdhocHoopla]

Hey, that's actually what happened to me this year. I got a fountain pen for my birthday and since then I have started journalling and writing hand letters to friends and family :)

[@Leo-sd6pw]

I just got one!! Im really excited bc ive kinda lost my passion for writing.

[@CSGraves]

A fountain pen got me back into journalling... in turn, journalling got me into phonemic orthography.

[@mesantiagoda39]

I feel you

[@justinleemiller]

Changing to a fountain pen changed my life. I do a ton of writing. It’s such a pleasure to work with a good pen.

[@turnbasedtoddy7664]

I would like to get one but I don’t see the point in the USA. Work doesn’t use fountain pen paper, recites don’t work, schools don’t use the right paper either. So I can’t think of any occasion where you would actually get to use it besides a personal letter.

[@DinnerForkTongue]

@@turnbasedtoddy7664 If you buy a fine nib, it'll be able to write on most papers.

[@yusufammar9562]

@@turnbasedtoddy7664 don't worry I'm in India and I'm sure the paper we have is much worse, so the way is to use extra fine and fine nibs so it won't bleed or leak on the paper 👍🏽

[@iceberg789]

@@turnbasedtoddy7664 yes, get a fine nib pen, that does not throw too much ink. we wrote a lot in the student life with fp, irrespective of whatever page we got. unless it was too thin.

[@thevalkyriandragon178]

I literally bought a fountain pen just a few hours ago. The timing on this video couldn't have been more strange and perfect. Great video as always!

[@lucasrademaker286]

LOL just bought one yesterday

[@Ematched]

@@lucasrademaker286 awesome! Which one did you get?

[@heribertocastro6652]

What did y'all buy???

[@Ematched]

@@heribertocastro6652 yes, we demand answers!!!

[@heribertocastro6652]

@@happygofishing nice! I've never tried a platinum but I'm sure it's better than the metropolitan. Personally hate that thing XD

[@vieuxacadian9455]

I used to draw with pen and ink . I studied calligraphy as well . The character is timeless and immeasurable . A letter written on fine linen based paper by a fountain pen and sealed by a wax standard is something special . My great great grandparents passed down a letter written in French in 1896 . It is something to see ! The Armorie Famile ( Family Coat of Arms Crest ) that sealed the letter dates back to Pre 1695 France .

[@itsacarolbthing5221]

I LOVED this!

[@paulwinkfield6560]

I learned to write with a fountain pen in 1st grade (1959) first with pencils then switched over. I ruined at least 2 shirts back then! Just got 2 pens recently to better personalized my letters (yep still send cards specially during birthdays & holidays) your video big help! Thanks 🥂

[@wilhelmtaylor9863]

In Germany in the mid 50s we learned to write with a fountain pen (or even a quill) starting at grade 3. All the school desks had inkwells built into them. I'm 73 and have always enjoyed using one of my many Pelikans, esp the 600 "city" series. I learned long ago to modulate pressure on the nib so that is has a very human look and would be next to impossible to forge. I have always admired the beautiful handwriting of the older generations and have borrowed from their styles. We also learned Alt Deutsche Schrift (old German script aka Sütterlin) and that lends itself particularly well to the fountain pen.

[@ingafalkenstein4221]

Sütterlin is so pretty!!!

[@sisterferyn4064]

Thats good, that's why East Germany have better life condition

[@wilhelmtaylor9863]

@@ingafalkenstein4221 → When my mother died I discovered a box full of correspondence between my mother, her six siblings and my grandmother, all in Alt Deutsche Schrift. I still use this script as my own personal code in my diary, but in English! Few would be able to read that. When I started using a fountain pen my mother let me use hers which was housed in a well-worn etui. The pen had a small leak and the other kids would notice that I had a perpetual blue mark on my middle finger. Sind sie zufällig aus Plochingen?

[@sisterferyn4064]

@MrRainbow228 yah, sis

[@peterbruells28]

Kids in Germany still get taught on a fountain pen, but beginners pens seem to have deteriorated in recent decades. And pen and nib quality mean a lot. Unfortunately, the pen our son is allowed to use at home is far too expensive to take to school. Anyway, Sütterlin is a special case. It’s especially well suited for the stiffer steel nibs common around the early 20th century. Modern faux nib are much better, in my opinion, even if they need a different alphabet.

[@johnthevoice6270]

I started reusing the fountain pen in my sophomore year in high school. When I learned how to write in 1st grade I learned it by using a fountain pen. I then continued using the fountain pen up until 3rd grade until one day I got so sick of it so I broke the nib as I was writing. And from then on until 10th I have written using a ballpoint pen. The reason why I started then writing again with the fountain pen is because I started to take more interest in classic men style and also because of this channel. And since then, I have appreciated this beautiful writing utensil! Definitely recommend anyone to try writing writing with it! Thanks for this video! 🖋

[@lucafwn]

I've been using fountain pens exclusively at school since grade 8 until post-university. A great writing experience: smoother than a ball pen, more precise, and it didn't leave the page as if it had been ploughed (as my uncle said). I used basic Pelikan pens, with ink cartridges (more practical when you use your pen outdoors for writing a lot: 10 spare cartridges, and off you are for a semester), and I exclusively used Pelikan black (wonderful tone, very clear to read, didn't alter in time, quick drying) on Fabriano notebooks (great paper for writing). EF stainless steel nibs allowed me a small and sharp writing; I had modified a nib, cutting it just under the tip to have a flat nib that I used for calligraphy or for Gothic writing: it was a bit of a kludge, but it worked a charme. Sometimes I also used an Aurora pen with piston system (Pelikan black there, too) and a 18k gold nib, but I wasn't very fond of the flexibility of gold - and the risk of remaining without ink in the middle of a lesson or, God forbid, a test was too much. Now I don't write by hand that much, but from time to time I feel like getting another nice, tooly Pelikan.

[@ubiquitouspanda4466]

Thank you for that very detailed comment!

[@lazar2175]

I know it's an old comment, but you must write very little if 10 cartridges last you a whole semester. I used almost a whole bottle (30ml) of ink in a single semester. Either way, if you can go a whole semester with 10 cartridges, then there is almost 0% chance that you'd run out mid lesson/test. Typical piston fountain pens hold up to 3 times the capacity of a single international cartridge.

[@leosigman7239]

Absolutely wonderful video. I thoroughly enjoyed it! As a Lefty with historically horrid handwriting, I must say I started getting compliments when writing with a fountain pen. And your information about holding and using a fountain apply to "nibless" (ball-point) pens as well. About lending a fountain pen: Most people today don't know how to hold any writing instrument and have no experience with fountain pens. They can destroy the pen beyond recognition in no time. I know of a friendship that was severely damaged when the borrower dropped a Montblanc Meisterstuck 149 on its tip and refused to believe the repair cost! Also, unless the user is used to writing with very little pressure, the nib may be damaged simply by pressing too hard. Cheap ballpoints with poor quality ink need a lot of pressure. Hybrid ink pens use less, Rollerballs and Felt Tip pens need very little, but some users may still press harder than necessary. Don't lend a fountain pen to anyone who isn't used to writing with one!

[@Walter-Montalvo]

Excellent point. I haven’t used fountain pens and have wondered about the delicate nib. After this video and your comment I would be hesitant to ask or accept someone else’s fountain pen. Thanks

[@itsacarolbthing5221]

The story about the Montblanc being dropped literally made me gasp!

[@samcohen2483]

You know what they say about a man with big hands ;) He'll need a bigger fountain pen so he feels comfortable when writing a thank you letter

[@josht3534]

He also wears bigger gloves

[@sushisquad-ne4ku]

They have big feet

[@steventrosiek2623]

Something else may be huge

[@OHOBGA]

Gentleman's Gazette convinced me to start using a fountain pen. To improve my handwriting I kept a journal. Perhaps you might make a video on how to write well. Great channel.

[@gne8637]

Just practice writing in cursive or calligraphy that's what I do and its getting better with time

[@dylanneely91]

Childrens drills work amazingly well. I use college rule and write "double tall" to get a mid-line to write to. (Plus theyre stupidly cheap. Don't buy too fancy, just good enough that it takes the ink nicely. Ignore minor feathering.) Be absolutely obsessive about consistency. You want to note every single overshoot or change in slope. Don't beat yourself up over it just keep it in mind next time. Personally my handwriting used to be so bad that I needed to pick one thing to practice at a time until it was easy enough to keep the next thing in mind without lapsing on the previous. All in all I burned through easily two dozen notebooks before I felt good about my handwriting, another half dozen to feel confident about it. By the time I showed my wife she was completely stunned! I'm actually very proud of going from illegible to myself to something that occasionally gets nice comments from random people. As for what to write; !!! Start with repeated shapes !!! This is a super boring but super(er) fast way to build up the muscles to write consistently. Lines of e's, o's, l's, alternating half and full height slashes. I filled up a notebook with just these mindful consistency drills, definitely overkill but I was retraining myself to write right-handed. Then, in no particular order; I transcribed one of my favorite books, wrote a made-up history for a made-up world, journaled (inconsistently), and just wrote any old thought that popped in my head. Its all about mindful, careful practice.

[@isidoreaerys8745]

Learn Textura. Not only will you know the basic fundamental structures of the letters it’s also super great practice drills for straight even lines.

[@jamal.54_]

i was just watching gentleman’s gazette. the tips are quite helpful and helped me look more classy/ professional. Not even just looks either, my table etiquette has gotten a lot better.

[@johnlone207]

Grew up in the Philippines (70s-80s) and we learned writing using fountain pen, as well as calligraphy in grade school. Writing cursive was a huge part of your grades, we write everything in cursive, our home teacher inspect our note books on Fridays and check our handwriting for its legibility and correct strokes. My wife who also grew in the Philippines, their college has their own signature way of writing cursive, they have to learn it and write as such.

[@stevenwalker3486]

I am a Butler working for VVIP and Royal families. I always carry two pens. One Mont Blanc fountain pen, which if a guest needs a pen, I will give. For my self I use Mont Blanc rollerball, for taking notes. Both pens show elegance and tell my guests, I am professional. Great video 😊

[@TL8311tl]

Bend the knee stevey boy

[@TL8311tl]

Bend the knee stevey boy

[@TL8311tl]

Bend the knee stevey boy

[@carltrotter7622]

Finally. Thank you Mr. Schneider. The first video of yours I watched was your Mont Blanc review about a month after it was released, I’ve stayed here ever since. That video set the tone of quality that has remained up until now. Keep up the good work, I’m here for the long run! Hope you’re having a fun quarantine! -Carl

[@krunoslavkovacec1842]

Binge all videos in lockdown. I do that every year since 2016 hahaha

[@inspireaspire278]

Lovely, nostalgic, reminded of waterman, shearer and Parker. Calligraphic, z and g nibs. Pen holders. Prestigious montblanc. Million thanks for promoting the art of writing.

[@alamore5084]

I am in my 40's and write with fountain pens. Yet still I learned several things I did not know! You have just explained why I failed to get a good writing experience with the cartridge converter. A very dapper sports jacket Sir also.

[@OrionVX]

Fountain pens are great to write much less exhausting, sustainable and stylish! I don’t lend my pens because my holding style is different than usual and it really shapes the nib, after writing a while nibs feels much less scratchy. Because people used to apply pressure to the pens they do the same thing with fountain pens too and It’s not healthy for the nibs. For everyday use, using like a ballpoint pen I like EF nibs because a lot of papers around us don’t do well with ink. TWSBI Eco pens are my go to for daily work pens, looks very good with ink, piston fill and good ink capacity!

[@cliffcox7643]

I prefer fountain pens to ball points, but disagree with them being less exhausting. They require more focus and awareness of nib angle and rotation. I can write much more effortlessly with a ball point, but not as stylishly.

[@alexilic3401]

This guy took the: "Sell me this pen.", way too seriously.

[@itsyopalkowalski9001]

Hahaha I bet he played a role in that film

[@rolandbujeiro42]

Love the reference!

[@javahedz]

I loved this video!! I’m a bit of a pen hoarder, although, I’ve never bought a truly fine writing instrument. I’m 68 years young, and I stand by my statement that the most valuable thing I learned in twelve years of school was that of good, classic cursive writing. That was in fifth grade!! THANK YOU, miss Salter!! This makes me want to find a nice fountain pen again, (I’ve had a few over the years), and revive the nearly lost art of handwritten letters and cards again! I do truly enjoy taking the time to write something out neatly. It’s always noticed and commented on. Thanks again for bringing this topic to the surface! 🙏🏻

[@johnlopez3996]

I am an elementary school teacher and thank you for acknowledging your teacher who taught you cursive handwriting. This is the first time in 27 years that I have not taught cursive handwriting because the schools were closed in March due to the pandemic. I do miss how beautifully quiet it becomes in a classroom when the students are practicing their cursive handwriting when they first start to learn it.

[@FatmaYousuf]

Being a lefty, I've been journaling with fountain pens ever since I was 10 (2008) and no one taught me these basic tips. You get the hang of it pretty quickly yourself; use common sense while writing.

[@aldo_agazzi]

for lefties fountain pens sadly are never the way to go... even if you use "left hand tips" you shoul write in a mirror way like DaVinci, when writing normally from left to right you end up "stabbing" the paper unless you place your hand like Obama

[@FatmaYousuf]

@@aldo_agazzi surprisingly I’m a lefty and I’ve never had problems. Probably because I’ve been practicing ever since I was a kid

[@aldo_agazzi]

@@FatmaYousuf but do you hold your pen as a normal righty or you wrap your entire hand around the pen?

[@FatmaYousuf]

@@aldo_agazzi I have a tripod grip

[@mindthebutterfly2445]

Also a lefty, turn the paper sideways to get that 45 degree angle he talks about, you then aren't putting your hand in the ink.

[@michaelwosniak36]

An awesome video! I am writing with a fountain pen since I was six years old. And I take one with me where ever I go. That‘s why I am missing one advice: Always empty your fountain pen before travelling on an airplane. Because of the difference in pressure, which occurs while flight travelling, the ink will pour out.

[@Max_VDV]

Or store it with the nib up!

[@AFCAWorldBodybuildingArchive]

Feels like pens are like magic wands in Harry Potter. Highly individual and creating a strong bond with their owner 🙏

[@TheCuriousFinch]

Couldn't have said it better! I agree

[@bulletstothebeat1768]

Can u guys stop joking around the pens are in harry potter are dip pens And why did you come here to joke around do you need help with your fountain pens or you dont have one???

[@AFCAWorldBodybuildingArchive]

@@bulletstothebeat1768 you missed this one, my friend. I didnt compare fountain pens to the pens in the movie but to the wands.

[@TheCuriousFinch]

@@bulletstothebeat1768 You missed the joke.

[@hemamalar3093]

@@bulletstothebeat1768 sure but if harry was writngly advanced it would be a pilot metropoliton

[@DhritishmanHandique-ic3fc]

This video never gets old I just like the style of this video I have been seeing this video for 3 years still it is relevant

[@dancinswords]

Thank you for laying all this out. It really makes me feel excited about getting into this. It would also be really easy for this sort of thing to seem haughty, but you have a very approachable and pleasant vibe. The outfit rundown at the end is a gem of an idea

[@pat412pear]

Ink choices, including shading, sheening and shimmering characteristics also lend a great amount of flair without changing your normal writing style for relatively little cost. When you first start out, you should vary your inks instead of buying multiple pens/nibs after you find the style of pen you want. You can even by 2-3 ml samples of inks from many retailers very cheaply so you can find your signature pen & ink combo from many differing variables. My personal combo is a 1920’s Montblanc 121 with a 14k fine, vintage flex nib with KWZ Hawaii Blue ink for everyday use. You should only use a ‘bulletproof’ ink to sign checks and legal documents because they are considered forgery-proof, I suggest the Noodler’s Bulletproof Black ink.

[@Walter-Montalvo]

Thanks for sharing your favorites

[@lightningblender]

I can recommend Platinum‘s Carbon Black. It’s impossible to remove and dries incredibly fast and is stunningly black. I think this one‘s perfect for left handed people as it dries in about a second and on EF nibs even faster.

[@markbanash921]

I love the fact that you use a Pilot 823 as that is my go-to pen for writing in my technical and scientific notebooks. As a scientist I have to write a great deal and the 823 removes a lot of the arduous nature of doing so. I also appreciate that you show the Lamy Safari which I know is a very popular starter pen and is often extremely reasonably priced. However my preferred one is the Pilot Metropolitan as it is comparably priced and yet has in my opinion a smoother nib. It also comes with a squeeze bulb refill mechanism so that trying different inks is as easy as switching a bottle of same. I dislike cartridge refills as they tend to mess. I actually keep a small stock of the Metropolitans in my office and often hand them out to clients as small gifts. They themselves often become hooked on using a fountain pen after that, which is why I refer to the Metropolitan as a gateway pen.

[@thesoundvault508]

Growing up with a love for graffiti, I definitely need to find classes on calligraphyand fountain pens. The concept of letter design has always been absolutely fascinating to me for some reason, ever since I was a very young child. Edit: I know what a nib is from graffiti :)

[@yayoiiwaizumi1948]

the joy fountain pens bring me is immeasurable.

[@danielsan6119]

I was just gifted a fountain pen, I've been wanting one for a long time but didn't know where to start. Now that I've started, there's no turning back. Writing is such a joy. And now I want to know everything about them 🙂

[@Felix-zz2bz]

I can proudly say that I have a fountain pen since first the day of school, and I am happy I upgraded to a Mont Blanc pain. Thank you Raphael for that amazing video!

[@shahabuddinkhan9014]

Man I really like your method of explaining things, to me you are a true gentleman

[@timoteomeccanicatecnologia]

I just bought a Jinhao fountain pen. What a nice surprise to write my first words with it! It has a fine nib, I believe made of steel (of course, nothing fancy from a AliExpress), Pilot blue ink. Now I'll practice my calligraphy and save money for better pens! Thanks for all the tips!

[@_reverse-psycho_855]

I have a pair of fountain pens and I absolutely love them. Much smoother writing, the ability to choose your ink, and just to be different from the crowd.

[@LydiaKrow]

I'm a woman who really enjoys your videos, and I have to say the advice at 2:32 is so true! I also appreciate the tips about pens in this video. :)

[@SamhainBe]

What a pleasure is a good fountain pen. I have a 40-year old Waterman that I bought new and it still serves me well. Remember - Quality Paper!

[@WakandaBabe]

I decided to send handwritten year-end notes to a bunch of friends, so I decided to try a fountain pen. I got one that was not expensive with cartridges. It's a Cross brand, which I believe is a decent brand for a beginner. I love the way writing looks with a fountain pen. Your video is very helpful. As I master the technique I intend to gradually get more expensive pens. Thank you.

[@James_Tharp]

I was recently gifted a Wordsworth & Black “Erudite Set), and it‘s fantastic as a first pen. It comes with a nice bottle of ink, 5 different nibs, a piston, a body and cap, and 6 ink cartridges(blue and black, 3 each), and it‘s fantastic.

[@dejakju]

I loved fountain pens since i was a young boy in school... and using them still three decades later means something to me. I use them just for everything, ranging from taking quick notes, writing letters, calligraphy. And my favourite colour is called turmalin i do wear Timberland shoes! You've got also style Mr. Gazette! Greetings from Germany.

[@Madelyn-e1e]

TYSM!!! I had no idea how to even start to use a fountain pen but this helped me a lot. Thank you 🙏

[@Erakius323]

Came to this channel for the advice on fountain pens. Stayed for the style. My wardrobe is a mismatch of random clothing items I have picked up over the years. In your 20’s that might fly. But your 30’s? Style, much more important. I need to learn to build a wardrobe of styled outfits, not random clothing. Your channel is a great guide for this. You have my thanks.

[@FYProduction]

My dad taught me at a young age, that posting the cap is essential to protect the nib, in case that the fountain pen rolls off the desk. Also, the weight of the cap will protect it as the cap will hit the floor instead of the nib.

[@cliffcox7643]

Some pens do not feel balanced posted. The old way to never lose a cap is to hold it in between the fingers of the left hand, 4th and 5th digits. So as you write, and your other hand is holding the paper down, the cap is there, and the first three fingers are still available to grasp things..

[@viseyuwu1210]

Same ive broke a jinhao 250 nib it was bent so i went and bought a lammy safari and dor some years now i bough 2 parker vecror and 2 jinhao 159

[@elijahhall8889]

What does posting the cap mean.

[@lacrosse4111]

@@cliffcox7643 I just bought my first fountain pen (Cross Calais was on sale for a beginner) and will use your trick to never lose a cap. Thank you.

[@alexanderstark9142]

Fountain pens was what got me into menswear and I am extremely grateful. I started 10 years ago with a cross fountain pen and from that point I saved all my spare money to buy a Mont Blanc

[@ewfisher89]

I picked up my first fountain pen a couple of weeks ago, a Hong Dian Black Forest with a fine nib. I absolutely LOVE that pen. It writes so well even on regular paper.

[@davidrose5chicago]

I bought that as well i just don’t feel it very smooth maybe because it’s a fine nib

[@garyggarner7738]

Wonderful Video! I’ve collected pens since I learned to write! Yes, ballpoints and rollerballs are great. My first Fountain pens were Sheaffer and Parker. Then I Received Waterman and Montblanc as gifts. A friend custom made a fountain pen for me and I enjoy them all! I’m ambidextrous, however, I’m right dominant, and have been told my handwriting was beautiful. My twin brother had horrible hand writing. Your video was very informative and I Thank You for your expertise and being so thorough!

[@LedZeppelin13k7]

Hey left handed person here taught to write with my right hand. I never knew the reason why until watching this video. I just thought my grandmother had something against me being left handed. I now can write with both.

[@bulletstothebeat1768]

A fountain pen is not just for writing its what you bring and love and pass through generations

[@cocoapop365]

Your handwriting style reminds me of the handwriting of Charles Dickens. There was an exhibit here in NYC celebrating his work with copious writings from his works and numerous letters to friends and family. Catch it if you can. It is worth the price of admission. Thanks for the insight on the Montblanc 149 in one of your other videos. It's a pen I have always wanted. As you asked, "was it worth it?" My answer is most definitely!

[@StefanKukula]

Had one made for me; lots of craft shows have people who will make to order with your own choice of nibs and fittings, and a variety of barrel choices. Mine is from an interesting looking varnished wood. Cheap compared to a brand, and unique, but I bought mine with cheap fittings, although a really good quality nib. One of my most complimented items, yet dirt cheap. Worth checking out once they start holding them again.

[@Timoteo4]

I just grabbed a Montblanc Meisterstuck Classique, and am eyeballing a Starwalker. I've been writing with them since high school. I love them because I've always enjoyed penmanship.

[@flowersandcds4864]

I regularly write letters to a friend of mine. I do have his socials, but I find a special connection and a beauty to handwritten letters. I got myself a fountain pen about a year ago. And I love them. I personally have two. One that's a newer one. Similar style to a ball point but is still a fountain pen. And another that's older that's more a traditional style that you would think of similar to classic styles of fountain pens. Again, gotta love them.

[@g4okt]

I gave my Mont Blanc to my Daughter, along with a bottle of burgundy ink. I found the nib to be too wide. I now use a Parker Vector $10 fountain pen, it is superb!

[@peterwexler5737]

Liked. Subscribed. My two suggestions for fountain pens: NEVER lend non-disposable pens out to those who don't know how to use one. Second, to restart a dry pen, just put the nib under a little bit of running water.

[@angelartamesia2]

I must have lived in the 16th century. I'm such an old soul. I've always liked writing in a diary and now that I'm a teen, I've started a sewing hobby, admiring antique things, and my most recent acquisition will soon be the most prized tool of writing- behold the fountain pen, I ordered the Pilot Metropolitan medium nib pen. I also find that I speak with older people better and I really admire their knowledge.

[@Bob32328]

I’m a lefty and I love writing with a fine nib because it doesn’t realest as much ink which means it dries faster!! Love ur vids

[@markjondavies]

You are my kindred spirit for sure, love the fashion at the end, i was wondering what you were wearing, cheers mate ❤

[@jerseyreddevil3139]

I like the Pilot brand "post" nib. A unique nib for fine writing (especially printing) or drawing. It is a nice addition to your pens for a little variety.

[@mindthebutterfly2445]

Hello Gentleman's Gazette. I am not a gentleman. I loved this video, and your handwriting video. Thank you very much for making them! :D

[@bananaskin7527]

I think a fountain pen user should have more than one, and more than one ink. I think of writing by hand as more of an expression than a keyboard. Like bespoke writing. Stay healthy.

[@Crush0819]

Thank you sir I’ve always known about fountain pens or over the weekend I was gifted one. So today my journey starts

[@Porkian-xl2411k]

Just got myself a little kaweco sport. It’s small, light, perfect, and pocketable. Wonderful even though I have some large hands.

[@josefkreisz8456]

That gold-blue paper looks amazing! Sir, may I ask you from which brand it is?

[@Friendlyhero]

You will definitely start loving writing after you own your first fountain pen, it's really an amazing feeling and each pen creates a different bond with you and they share different stories of your life and they are passed on generation by generations

[@paulwinstanley4595]

Was given a parker duofold centennial other week, love writing with it,

[@Diego.E.D]

God I´m old generation, I writing with fountain pen since my childhood, and still write wiht a Montblanc LeGrand.

[@carrywu]

149 is my dream pen!

[@Chilam.]

@@carrywu it's great, a little on the bigger size

[@raindancer6111]

Many, many moons ago when I was in primary school in the UK. We were taught to write using non reservoir pens (dip pens) using the inkwells that fitted into our desks. This started at about age six once everyone was doing basic writing with a pencil.

[@TheWendable]

Rain Dancer I remember the single desks had a round hole drilled out and a groove to store your ink well and stop pens rolling away. We never saw ink or pens and were only allowed pencil at our Scottish primary, I wish we were taught a wee bit of calligraphy...and first aid...and healthy eating..and..oh I appear to have gone off on one! Do you still use, like your fountain pen?

[@raindancer6111]

@@TheWendable My main gripe learning to write with a pen was that we were issued with very wide nibs. Great if you are writing a manuscript but I have a very spidery scrawl. Not quite copperplate but I like a very fine nib. I use a fountain pen occasionally but I have trouble finding one that I am comfortable with and can afford. My school taught us to write a text book calligraphic style and I really disliked it. (drops voice to whisper) I even use a fine point biro rather than the standard medium. 😀

[@TheWendable]

@@raindancer6111 oooh thats interesting. I always go for cheap pens a 'fine point' biro I’ve never looked for. Thank you

[@victorialobato3652]

Fountain Pens are a must when you start school in Germany. They are very durable, I used my first from first grade up until ninth grade! It only had to be replaced because I simply outgrew it, hence I still have it and it works perfectly! Today in my early twenties I own a couple and would never choose a ballpoint over a fountain pen.

[@АлекАлистарх]

I live in Europe and growing up in school we were taught to write with fountain pens (and blue ink) and even if my colleagues in high school don't use them anymore ,I really enjoy the feel of the fountain pen so I just never went for a ball point pen

[@acasualcactus5878]

Does anybody else go super vintage and type everything on a Typewriter, then sign it with an antique fountain pen?

[@krunoslavkovacec1842]

My late grandgrandfather used to do that in his kitchen when he was a president of a local bowling club. Oh I think I have it somewhere. It is very cool and vintagey to use.

[@villegas24]

Whish I had the space to get into type writers

[@meneerpindakaas1213]

I do write most of my notes on the typewriter. The only problem is that I find it impossible to correct any mistakes without making it look messy. It is for that reason that I never write any official documents or letters that need signing on the typewriter. So how do you correct your mistakes on the typewriter? Or are you just really careful not to make any?

[@Ematched]

I've been dying to get a typewriter for years, but I've always hesitated.

[@phillipmoodie9071]

@Cunard Line. Not only do I have a dual font Varityper, vintage non-electric model, with the ribbon that lead to the creation of the IBM Selectric and Executive model typewriter ribbon, but it is the same model Varityper that Addressograph Multigraph supplied to the Queen Mary, along with a Multilith 1250 Offset Printer, so that the ship could publish a daily newspaper. In the late 1960s, I sold an electric version of the Varityper to the Protocol Office, of the Office of the Premier of Victoria, for the creation and production of invitations, not only in an enormous range of type fonts, but in every language in use anywhere there is a newspaper. There were no IBM PC'S in those days. Phil.

[@edrianbobbycalabio1]

I have the Wordsworth & Bläck fountain pen. Love it 🖤

[@corneliu-mihaimagureanu6626]

I love the fact that I was born and grew up with the dip pen and fountain pen (even if I was born in 2004)

[@no-cs3fx]

I recall seeing an ink blotter at a thrift store a while ago. At the time I didn’t know what it was but now I’m tempted to go out and buy it when I can.

[@mkaurn]

When I started school in 1989 in then Czechoslovakia, we had to have a fountain pen. Once we were familiar with all the letters of the alphabet, we had a homework every week, a paragraph of a couple of sentences, and had to be copied into the so called 'neat writing exercise book'. It was extremely difficult back then as a 6 year old. But I have learnt appreciating it, especially since living in English speaking countries, where one finds that most people can't even do basic joining up of letters.

[@maureentuohy9423]

I went to a privet Catholic School and we must definitely learned the Palmer Method of cursive writing with a fountain pen. I had many an inky uniform pocket to prove it. 😊

[@Slaptothefuture]

I can't be the only one who is desperately searching the entire internet to find out WHAT IS THE PAPER HE IS WRITING ON? The design is beautiful. Gods of Internet, help?

[@wulfila99]

One thing I've noticed which I can draw a lot better with a fountain pen than with a ballpoint are student society insignia (Verbindungszirkel), so when it comes to signing congratulation, condolence or "thank you" cards for elder members of my student society, I use my fountain pen exlusively for that, even if everyone else at the table has signed with the same ballpoint pen. And if I'm the one writing the card, I pass my pen around alongside it, which has led to a few rather funny reactions (along the lines of "mate, you've got to be kidding me, right?") in the past.

[@MichaelOssen]

Thank you! Currently writing with the Montblanc JFK. I have a medium nib, but want to go a little finer, the thickness is making it hard for me to do cards and everyday writing.

[@alexanderstark9142]

I have the exact same pen and I find that the medium nib writes smoother but if you prefer finer I believe Mont Blanc has a bib exchange program.

[@phillipmoodie9071]

@Michael Olsen. In the past, when fountain pens were in common use and sold by many jewellery stores, the jewelers would not only replace a nib, if it did not suit your writing style, but they would hand modify any nib to slightly modify its characteristics. I am sure that some specialist retailers would still have access to skilled jewelers, experienced in working with gold and iridium pen nibs. It's not a D.I.Y. task, as I learnt the hard way. But it's not expensive. Phil.

[@MichaelOssen]

Alexander Stark I’m planning to inquire at my local store, when they re-open.

[@MichaelOssen]

Phillip Moodie thank you Phil! Yes I am planning to go to Montblanc for an exchange once they re-open!

[@xstensl8823]

my father was a DR. and would always write his prescriptions using a fountain pen. very old school

[@neilloveminecraft]

I almost exclusively write with Gold Nib Fountain Pen rn. If you never use one you will never understand how relaxing it is to effortlessly glide along the paper without any force

[@senseored]

I wish I could write with a fountain pen as a lefty. But because I’m left handed, my teachers completely failed in teaching me how to hold a pen correctly (as in i lean it towards me instead of away from me) so all I do is smudge it. But on the plus side, writing with a normal ball point I still have a very distinct and (at least if you ask me) beautiful handwriting style.

[@tleek]

Fountain pens are great for the soul. I have collected pens for about 7 years or so, and just recently picked up my first vintage pen. A Sheaffer balance from the 30s. It makes me wish I took the leap into the vintage pen world a long time ago. So much character and history, and a wonderful writing experience.

[@190E_2.6]

Me too. Been collecting for 3 years now. Bought a 1960’s Parker Duofold a few months ago. What a wonderful pen. Writes more smoothly than even the Mont Blanc!

[@conneaness]

This was very helpful and informative . Thank you 😎

[@daveys]

I went to school in the UK and I had to learn cursive writing with a cartridge fountain pen. Unfortunately I’m left handed, so it was a terrible experience with ink all over the place (hands, clothes, desk, the wall) and smudged writing! I recently got a Lamy Safari with a LH nib for sketching and it’s worlds apart. Much better than I had with my school experience and I’m actually enjoying using it.

[@alicetran8455]

I plan on getting a affordable fountain pen maybe soon! I’ve been really intrigued by the writing from fountain pens (I forgot the word for that) . I’m using a black ink liner pen to get used to using and practicing my penmanship before I get an actual fountain pen. I’ve been told that it takes certain angles and certain pressure to use a fountain pen by my sister. I hope I can get a fountain pen as soon as I’m able to!

[@mebpratt859]

Thank you for describing you clothes. I did not know the name of the fabric pattern of your jacket. I had two women’s suits made of that fabric pattern but different colors. One was my Mother’s and the other my Grandmother’s, pre 1950’s. Both were cream with dark aqua blue, one had yellow as the third color the other pumpkin.

[@knightingalesaid]

This is a very informative video. I use FP daily. To me the real beauty of FP is when some one writes legible with it so that anyone can read the letters. Writing styles can be a beautiful art. Thanks so much.

[@teunke-gw3xw]

My favorite Fountain pen is the Parker Frontier

[@louanarose]

I am so glad that you used Mont Blanc fountain pens. ❤️

[@brucekolinski5401]

Great instructional video. Thank you so much, Sir,

[@moonj24]

Thank you for putting together such a wonderfully detailed video. My favorite pen is the relatively cheap Pilot Metropolitan Fine, around $16. If I may offer a comment, at 0:43, it sounds like you use the word “purvey” in a context in which “convey” might be better suited. Thanks again for your videos. I’d previously seen the one you did on rings.

[@aceshigh5157]

I hold pens/pencils wrong. I've always held them wrong... but the fountain pen makes holding it "the right" way, comfortable for me. i wasn't expecting that...

[@0MGWTF1337]

im just here learning how to write in my new pen for my next DnD game for my players. Helped a bunch thanks !

[@nefwaenre]

When i was a kid, i got my Grandpa's Mont Blac fountain pen, and shortly after, my dad gave me two fountain pen from Pierre Cardin. Since then, i've had a fascination with them and because i write in cursive, i used it all the time all through out my school life. But, now i switched to ball pen as i now sketch a lot as opposed to "write".

[@HenryGonzalez]

My sixth grade teacher, Mrs.Tower introduced me to fountain pens in 1979 even at that time they were seen as somewhat of an anachronism. Throughout the rest of my life I think I have had at least one fountain pen.

[@ellove370]

Raphael you look splendid in this look!

[@amyloubyers]

Dear Sven... hopefully you can forgive me... being a woman viewing your "Gentleman's Gazette" fountain pen tutorial. I'm very new to using fountain pens... I don't remember whether or not I've ever seen fountain pens in stores when I was younger (I'm a "pen freak")...if I had I most likely avoided them because I thought they were too hard to use. Well, for the time being I'm using disposable fountain pens with both fine and medium nibs. I'm really fascinated and enjoying my beginner experience of writing with fountain pens. I really like your accent. Sincerely Amy Lou Byers 🙂

[@gentlemansgazette]

Everyone is welcome here, glad you enjoyed it!

[@dewdrop6447]

My dad yelled at me for getting ink on my fingers while trying out a fountain pen for the first time and now I’m here

[@emmanuelpatras1477]

Greetings from Bareilly UP India...amazing pen..

[@zperusko]

For the first time in my life, I got a fountain pen when I went to the second grade of elementary school and since then I have been writing exclusively with it (for 44 years). So far I have spent 4 pieces.

[@prepperjonpnw6482]

What does that mean? “I have spent 4 pieces”?

[@krunoslavkovacec1842]

Leave it to the gents from GG to make a guide about anything cool, classic and gentlemanly. Awesome!

[@liana3886]

This is so very mindblowing to me - I’m from the Czech Republic and we learn how to write with those in elementary school, bollpens are prohibited. We also only learn how to write in cursive....