Top Five Fountain Pen Myths 4K

[@jacobus57]

I've never heard anyone connect worthiness with fountain pen use, but it's so true that many people seem obsessed with "grail" pens that don't perform as well as a TWSBI or a Preppy! Regarding improving handwriting, I have some damage to my dominate hand and fps do help my handwriting, and I have learned this it true of many people with hand damage or arthritis. But as you said, it's not an automatic ticket to Master Penman😉 Thank you for dispelling the "gold is best" or even better myth. It all has to do with the individual job nib and whether or not it is well tuned. And then there's my favorite, titanium, which is a material with a very particular feel. Finally, the myth that foundation pens are "hard" needs to be vanquished! There are so many well behaved, low bar to entry pens that perform well, no one should feel wary of diving in!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much for watching! You make excellent points. Stop by again soon.

[@frankv7068]

I usually prepare myself like I’m doing surgery when inking or cleaning my fountain pens lol, I use disposable gloves and lay it on a rag, from years of experience I am ink spill proof. I had lots of accidents though, including getting my whole backpack spilled with ink damaging everything inside, some shirts and jeans ruined, and my hands smudged. I found bleach cleans ink from hands in seconds and also on most surfaces.

[@HemingwayJones]

Oh wow. I just ruined a shirt. I forgot to put the cap on. Oh boy!

[@thebraxtonater8466]

Fountain pens improved my handwriting a little, it is a pressure thing used to use number 3 pencils and that helped but now all I use is a fountain pen

[@HemingwayJones]

That is great! All the best.

[@user-qi5jw2hg1c]

Your choice of music, Hemmingway, is fantastic. A man of culture I see. In all seriousness, it really is but one of the factors of your videos that make them such a joy to watch. Another great video

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much! That is very kind of you to say. I am humbled.

[@anitapaul7267]

Nice video! One myth: I got talked out of buying my first fountain pen "Oh it's too hard". I didn't listen. I own 2 pens: TWSBI Eco and a Pelikan 200 in pastel green. Seeing my father's handwriting as a young man, brings me joy. Journalling is one of life's joys. Keep videos coming!

[@HemingwayJones]

That’s a good one. I am gearing up for a part 2. Thanks very much for the kind comment.

[@richardsimms251]

Your background music 🎉is lovely

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you! I obsess over my music choices!

[@jwhitehead404]

I'm 16 and have used Fp's for about a year and I've heard so many times from people that all I'm going to do is make a big mess with the ink. I've never had a problem with that and I'm pretty tired of the myth. The biggest mess I've made is on my hands when changing ink.

[@HemingwayJones]

That is Myth #6! I’ve heard that too. If I can think of a few more, I’ll do a part 2! Thank you for the great comment. Stay inspired, My Friend!

[@JDGonzalezjr]

Pretty sure I’ve made my fair share of messes with a ballpoint or rollerball pens too.

[@jessedavidschell6492]

I bought my first fountain pen when I was 12 (I’m 70 now). In those days, even those many people still used FPs, people thought me a bit eccentric for being different. But, I didn’t care. I loved my FP, loved being different and I’m still writing with a fountain pen today (and I’m still eccentric). Good on you for going against the tide and using a FP! I hope you start to write snail mail letters with it; that brings much joy to yourself and others. Happy writing!

[@HemingwayJones]

@@jessedavidschell6492 thank you very much for sharing your story! I celebrate the individuals in this world. Way to go. I Love writing letters. You know that people will hold onto them when they are hand written. Wishing you all the best.

[@jwhitehead404]

@@jessedavidschell6492 Thanks for the kind reply, I love Fp's and I think I'm hooked for life now! I love how deliberate they make my writing and how much meaning and care they convey. I've also been loving sharing my passion with my 89 year old grandfather and its been so cool and meaningful to connect with him through our mutual love of Fp's. Have a great day, and happy writing too!

[@jkrause365]

I am unconvinced of the veracity of the improves your handwriting myth. Writing with a fountain encouraged me to slow down, thus improving my handwriting. I still use the same style I learned while in grade school, which is neither the Palmer Method, nor Spencerian.

[@HemingwayJones]

I imagine you have nice handwriting. Mine is so pedestrian and I try. Palmer at its core.

[@jkrause365]

@@HemingwayJones Thank you. Palmer can be quite legible if executed slowly. I sometime think that sloppy handwriting is more a symptom of too much speed and hurrying through the strokes, than style.

[@HemingwayJones]

@@jkrause365 For me it’s more of an unimaginative aesthetic and the limitations of my hand. Palmer can be a fine framework for embellishment in more capable hands.

[@s.n.11]

Good video! Good edition! Thanks for the time and effort. I enjoyed it, and I don't have many people around to talk about this hobby. Thanks for sharing and helping to dismantle these myths.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much! I appreciate it very much! Stop by again sometime soon.

[@matthewross1756]

I believe fountain pens can improve your hand=writing if 1) you slow down and 2) consider using different cursive styles. The FP does make the movement across the paper easier, but if you don’t hold it correctly and slow down nothing is gained…

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks for the comment!

[@markb.9360]

Excellent video! I’m left-handed and I was told for years- beginning in elementary school in the 1950’s that I could not- and should not- use a fountain pen. My third grade teacher went so far as to tell my parents that I was forbidden to write with one in her classroom. Fast forward decades when I “rediscovered” the pens one Christmas when my wife presented me with a Pilot custom 74. It was then that I adjusted my grip… and have been a fountain pen devotee ever since. My handwriting is not pretty, but it is, as you say, all about “the process”. Another myth debunked. Mark

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much! Thanks for telling your story. I have been gathering information for left handed pen users. From what I have been told, and I tried this in my left hand, one needs to write sort of straight up and down and keep your hand entirely out of the writing. Let the weight of the pen drive it. Is this how you do it? Thanks!

[@jackivaltrades]

I really enjoy the way you explain things and tackle topics about fountain pens. If it weren't for fountain pen youtubers like you who make these pens feel more accessible to ANYONE, these myths would have kept me away from them. I can't think of more myths, but I think the biggest "myth" is the size system for nibs 😂 No 2 fines are perfectly the same, nor are 2 broads the same.... even within the same company. I don't think there will ever be a perfect system to moderate exacts, but I laugh everytime I pop a pen and it's drastically different from what I last used.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much for the kind words. I agree so much about how nibs run off They are so varied. I should do a post on that.

[@elitewaffle6989]

Awesome video! I definitely fell for the first myth when I first started, was almost to worried about going into my nearby pen store and looking around. Thankfully your videos helped convince me to take the trip and I’ve loved every minute of it!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks Very Much, My Friend! So glad I could be here for you.

[@mlbarker4962]

Another wonderful video, thank you. I can attest that myth #2 drew me to fountain pens too, but using them has not improved my penmanship as much as I’d hoped. That’s okay; handwriting is so unique to each person and I love the recognition of someone’s handwriting in the cards and notes and postcards I’ve kept over the years. Watching a loved one’s handwriting decline over time is quite moving. Perhaps another myth is that no one uses fountain pens anymore. What a world of fellow enthusiasts there are who share appreciation of all the aesthetic aspects, from the pens themselves, to ink, to paper, and handwriting.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks for the kind and insightful comment. That is a great myth that I missed!

[@SouthShorePaper]

When I went to my first Pen Show a few years ago , I was so intimidated that I just walked around and spoke to no one . The following year when I went back I spoke to a few vendors who were so open and helpful. It's been such a fun experience and journey down the rabbit hole . I love my TWSBI's as much as I love my Esterbrooks and Sailors as they all have different qualities that I appreciate. Thanks for the video !

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much for the comment. It is a fun hobby and the people are very nice and very generous. I am so glad that you had a nice experience. I’m looking forward to the Commonwealth Pen Show here in MA in Sept. All the best!

[@s.n.11]

Your comment encourages me to go to a pen show. I feel like I'll do exactly as you did your first time, but it's good to know you enjoyed it enought to go again. That gives me faith it will be ok even if I feel too awkward to talk to people.😁

[@HemingwayJones]

@@s.n.11 You will be fine. Pen people are very nice people.

[@adrienneyoung898]

Hemingway, I hustled off and ordered a Blue Dew on your recommendation: it came today and it’s a FUN. Pen! THANK YOU! :-)

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much! I am so glad that you are enjoying it. I quite like that pen and its flex nib.

[@John-vi4ys]

Two points made me love this video. Number one you mentioned numbness or tingling in your writing hand and that you just power through it. I too have this, with both fountain pens and playing the guitar, even after carpal tunnel surgery. So don’t let that stop you from enjoying these passions, just do them in shorter sessions, that’s what I do. And second is your statement on writing in print instead of cursive. I am 61 years old and learned cursive all through grade school, but when I was 15 years old I started taking drafting classes in high school where everything was printed in all uppercase. Well, I made that my career and for the last 47 years, I have only written in all uppercase, it drives my wife crazy 🤭. It’s only been the last few years where I have tried to reteach myself cursive, and it hasn’t been easy. What I liked about what you said is, when I became interested in fountain pens, I thought you had to write in cursive but after quite awhile, I cut myself some slack and allowed myself to write in both styles with my pens, and that gave me much more enjoyment. So yes, these are very much myths that we may have believed, but aren’t true. Thanks for the great video!👍

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello and thanks so much! I am glad to know that you are out there. I admire your determination. I am so glad you watched this. Have you tried an architect nib? They are supposed to be good for printing. Thanks for watching.

[@John-vi4ys]

No I haven’t, but I would love to! Every time I’m ready to get a new pen, I always default back to my EF nib choice, and I’m afraid I won’t like the architectural nib and the just have a pen sit in a case unused. I know I’ll be brave enough one day though. Thanks for the suggestion. I happened upon your channel the other night while searching for Mont Blanc videos and I have to tell you; there is just something about your style and vibe that I love. Now while I’m in Vegas at a work conference, I am going back watching all your videos. I think you have the best fountain pen videos and a great channel. Keep it up, I’m now a follower 👍

[@jamesc1647]

Since getting into fountain pens I have been inspired to improve my handwriting. In the past I could hardly write a paragraph with a ballpoint without hand pain. Now with fountain pens and my new cursive, I have gone from hating writing to relishing it in only a few months. Never looking back!

[@HemingwayJones]

That is wonderful! Great job!

[@jamesc1647]

@@HemingwayJones thank you!

[@johntaylor2054]

Hi. Very nice video. The nib on my 149 is just amazing, the ef Architect performs like nothing else.🤗 Cheers from Australia.

[@HemingwayJones]

That sounds very interesting. I don’t have an architect nib right now. All the best

[@Wolverine3660]

Hemingway, thanks for this wonderful video. I needed reminders about some pitfalls I might fall into. I am going to buy myself 2 Lamy Al-Star pens which have steel nibs to do some pen and ink drawings.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello Wolverine. They sound amazing. You cannot go wrong with Lamy.

[@ichirofakename]

I draw with pens and must point out that often it is useful to move your grip up the barrel an inch or two or three when drawing. For this reason I prefer cylindrical pens.

[@HemingwayJones]

@@ichirofakename Thanks for the perspective. Sounds good. I wish the Lamy had a cylindrical grip ad if I had a 3-D printer, I would make one. All the best.

[@Wolverine3660]

@@ichirofakename - thanks for the good advice.

[@marshalzhukov4571]

One, slightly more nuanced "myth" I've encountered commonly is that fountain pens by nature leak. Most well-tempered pens, even more on the cheap side, *shouldn't* leak. Some will have QC issues and may leak, but that's generally no fault of fountain pens as a concept itself. There are also other variables. Bad ink batch. Or maybe humidity/air pressure of a local area might cause the ink to leak in-cap. Or perhaps the pen has a sealed system to inhibit leaking. It really does depend, but as a general rule, most pens *shouldn't* leak in most circumstances.

[@HemingwayJones]

I agree completely! Well said!

[@lindaanderson9008]

Dear Hemingway, I love your channel! I started journaling a few years ago and I find it has helped me in many ways. Your channel feels like I am visiting a dear friend who shares and understands my hobby!

[@HemingwayJones]

Linda, thank you very much! I appreciate the kind words. This is exactly what I am aiming for. I am so glad we connected and that you enjoy the content. Thank you!

[@stargazer1359]

Great music....great pens....and great hair! 🖋💈🙌

[@HemingwayJones]

The trifecta! Thanks very much! I appreciate it.

[@danielavery625]

I am glad to have found your channel!!! Your introducing me to the world of Harry Potter of the writing world.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you so much, Daniel! You are too kind!

[@richardsimms251]

Very, very well done presentation. Thank you for your efforts. RS. Canada

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much!

[@patrickblindeman5847]

I couldn't have said it better, I totally agree Well done, looking forward to the next episode👏👏👏👍

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much!

[@shadmanhasan6047]

Great information Mr Jones. Really loving your new videos. I got the VAC700R based on your recommendation and I am absolutely loving it.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much! I’m glad you are enjoying them. The Vac 700 is a top shelf pen. Love that one. Glad you like it too.

[@kb9npt]

Thank you for making Fountain Pens 'approachable'

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you! That’s very kind of you to say. All the best.

[@SunshineFL]

I use a $30.00 blue twisbi at work and I luv it.

[@HemingwayJones]

Legendary pen!

[@davidverney253]

Really enjoyed your video, thank you, and I agree with you on the myths you describe, particularly the gold vs. steel debate. I have lots of older Sheaffer's, and the classic inlaid nibs perform equally well whether steel or gold. By the way, like the cricket jumper (perhaps you would call it a sweater)!

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello David! Thank you for the kind comment. “Jumper” or “sweater,” my wife is British so I hear it both ways. I’m glad you like it. I am partial to these in Spring.

[@floridasaltlife]

Really nice episode, I especially like you comments about favored smooth vs feedback models., I am a smooth 100%

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much! I think we share this.

[@maxwells789]

One of the best fountain pens to give a newbie is a Platinum Preppy ($5) or Prefounte ($10-15). Has the great slip n seal cap so it won’t dry out which is one of the biggest sources of frustration for a new user. It will write every single time. I keep an eye-droppered one in my kitchen for quick notes and lists and it holds a 2ml sample of ink easily. If I drop it, I won’t be heart broken that I broke an expensive pen and it requires no maintenance until I run out of ink.

[@HemingwayJones]

Good plan. Thanks and all the best.

[@justinh3741]

Personal point on Myth #3 about handwriting. I actually improved my handwriting with ball point pens before I even knew that fountain pens existed. I knew my handwriting was really bad, so I made a conscious effort to 'change my font' about 20 years ago by actually mimicking the letter shapes of the Times New Roman font on a computer or in printed material. I'm old enough to have learned script prior so I just practiced print and script lettering over and over until it became natural. It's stuck with me ever since. When I finally got into fountain pens, my handwriting didn't improve much but I did start to appreciate better and smoother writing instruments and enjoyed the actual process of writing more. It also improved my art a little bit, learning about line variation and the like.

[@HemingwayJones]

Very good point. I’d love to see your printing. That sounds amazing.

[@reidthered]

Myth 2 resonated with me. I've tried many, but the ones I keep buying are the zebra v301 and the pilot varsity. Great video. Keep up the good work 👍

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much! I appreciate the kind words.

[@KrimsonWing]

My journey with the fountain pen is pretty similar to most in that I started because I thought it would make my handwriting better. Naturally it didn't but it also made me make a conscious effort to improve it. I never really made an effort to learn cursive as a kid so it was surprise to see that I was writing cursive consistently better than printing once I picked up on it. Now it's my preferred method. Now I'm hooked on trying all sorts of fountain pens and I've really gone off the deep end in the last couple of months. I went from 4 Jinhao pens that I bought a few years back to amassing 20 recently. It's been a joy and has gotten me into journaling again. I just can't go a day without putting pen to paper these days.

[@HemingwayJones]

That is a wonderful story. I love hearing about your journey. I’m glad that you’re journaling too. I think that it’s really good for people to get their thoughts down on paper. When I was young they still taught cursive in school. I hated learning it but now I’m glad that I did. Thanks so much. All the best!

[@pinkpandamiranda]

What pen did you use for myth number three?? I love the softness/flexibility of that nib!

[@HemingwayJones]

Hi, are you asking about that Icy Blue one? That is the Bluedew Flex Pen. I love that pen. I only wish I could do it justice. If you watch my flex nib video, I speak about it much more. Thanks!

[@johnmulhall5625]

I just started with the fountain pens; I love it. I can’t wait to see more of these

[@johnmulhall5625]

Also, nice job with the Bladerunner soliloquy

[@johnmulhall5625]

Secondly when I took up fountain pens, I started writing in Sütterlin, and it drives my partner crazy

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you for catching that! I put little things into my videos and I am always happy when someone catches one.

[@HemingwayJones]

Awesome! So glad that you like Fountain Pens.

[@jess53nz]

I have a bad arm too! Fountain pens mean i dont have to use death grip like i normally do and makes such a difference. I tried cursive and hated it. Love printing and the shading is so amazing when you do! What's the lovely blue ink you use when writing tomorrow please?

[@HemingwayJones]

Which blue? It's probably J Herbin Sapphire.

[@jess53nz]

@@HemingwayJones thanks!

[@josephlow1102]

Appreciate you use "process" for FP writing - totally agree with your presentation - it is always the nib regardless

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks very much!

[@johnlopez3996]

Thanks for writing in cursive the last couple of lines from Roy Batty's dialogue from Blade Runner.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you for noticing!

[@mollyb9757]

Thank you, Mr. Jones, for a great video. I Love my fountain pens. Every one of them.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much!

[@annamay6351]

I really enjoy your videos. You are very soothing to listen too and I appreciate the points you make in your videos. One possible correction, my favorite pen so far in my journey, is the Waterman Carene. I have tried every Japanese pen (including Nakayas') and am still searching. The Waterman Carene is an 18K nib not a 14 K that you stated. French law requires any pen made with a gold nib be at least 18K. I could be incorrect, but that is my understanding. The other pen I have been looking at is the Montblanc 146 with their calligraphy nib. I live in small town Alaska and would have to spend 2 K plus to fly down to Seattle to try one out in person. What can you tell me about that nib since you seem to be familiar with Montblanc. I do have a small vintage Waterman #2 flex nib but I doubt that is anywhere close to the experience of a modern Montblanc. Thank you again for your videos.

[@HemingwayJones]

No, you are definitely correct about that. I get a little embarrassed when something slips by me. I do strive to get everything right. I wish I could edit it, but it will just have to hang out there. Thanks though. As for the MB Calligraphy nib, I have only tried it at a pen show for a few minutes. It was wonderful, but I am a terrible flex writer. I tried it on a 149, but I imagine it is very similar. I would take a chance on it. They are tough to find here.

[@luisguillermoperezmejia7907]

Buenas noches. Quedo suscrito.. Excelente revisión. Cordial saludo desde Medellín, Colombia.

[@HemingwayJones]

Gracias!

[@richardzak2140]

Hello HJ. I enjoyed this video. Another potential myth that I have heard, and I must admit I am part of it, is, never lend your fountain pen to another person for the pen nib has a memory of your personal touch. Besides, there are folks out there that might not be aware of how to use a fountain pen and might press too hard. In any case, fact or fiction, I never lend my pens. Shame on me for not sharing.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks My Friend. It is difficult to lend a pen, unless that person knows how to write with them. It’s the damage that could result and as you say, not the wear to the nib. There really aren’t any issues with that. Great call, My Friend!

[@michaelcohen1575]

Very good assessment. Snobbery is creeping into this beautiful fountain pen community. On a related topic, you should consider doing a "stream of consciousness" video. It's akin to journalling.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much. That’s a great suggestion.

[@cannibalisticwolf3319]

The cursive thing is kinda crazy, but I write in cursive 90% of the time anyway, simply because it's easier for me.

[@HemingwayJones]

Nice! I write in it almost exclusively. I just enjoy it and print feels slower for me.

[@Bahbahlatje]

I was an exchange student in Belgium in the 70's where I learned to write with a fountain pen and have ever since. I do note taking often as part of my job and I find a fountain pen far superior for writing in this regard. The FP tends to be larger, so my hand isn't wrapped around a thin ballpoint pen and therefore is less likely to cramp. The ink flows from the pen, so I don't need to press against the paper to get the ink to flow so again, I am putting less pressure on my hand when writing quickly and for extended periods. I have less hand fatigue and less hand cramping. I have given FPs as gifts to my children, friends, colleagues and grandchildren. It's a timeless gift. One thing about having that special pen is if it goes missing, you don't reach for the next one, you go and find the missing pen. I tend to have go to pens that I use often. My current pens are Montegrappa Elmo and Platinum Nice. I like to have a beautiful pen so most of my pens are purple, pink, red, green. I also have a traveling ink pot I keep with me to refill my pens. At one point, I decided to improve my penmanship so I bought some penmanship books and started to practice and instead of doodling, I practice forming letters and improving my cursive writing. It gives me joy to write beautifully and my FP and ability to choose pretty inks adds to the joie d'ecrire. It's never too late to improve your writing. I decided to create a nicer signature so I searched for nice signatures that I adapted for myself and have added a little flourish to my signature, hat tip to John Hancock.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you for the wonderful and interesting comment. That is a great point about not losing nice pens. It is so true that you keep an eye on it and track it down. Lovely to hear from you.

[@SUSSDUE]

Thank you for the video, it is always fun to find new YT videos about fountain pens! But I cannot agree with your view about the Pilot 823 being in the "feedback" cathegory. It is one of the smoothest nibs I have ever used, compare it to a Sailor nib and you will ceratinly fell the difference between silky smooth and feedback. Brilliant you show how an inexpensive pen can be just as lovely to write w as a hugely expensive one. I have a Visconti Homo Sapiens I curse over every time I write with and it was one of my more expensive pens, and one of my best ones is a charity shop find for 2 dollars with a generic 1950ies steel nib that writes like a dream. And I also agree that Twisbis are great. I can also say that the cheaper Pelikan, the 205, is a great writing experience and I can also recommend the Diplomat Magnum. Great writing experience and not expensive ( in the fountain pen world that is, not if you are only used to buy Bics;-) ).

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello Charlotta! Thank you for taking issue with me and doing so so politely! I learn so much from people with different views. I do have both the Sailor and the Pilot. To give your a bit more context my benchmark is the MB 149, which is like troweling a wave of ink over a sheet of polished silver. It’s just so great that we experience things differently. I’ll have top try the 205. I have a 600M. Wish you all the best and thanks so much for the excellent comment.

[@SUSSDUE]

@@HemingwayJones Thank you so much for your answer! I sadly haven´t yet bought a MontBlanc 149 ( actually I haven´t even tried one as the price tag is so steep , at least here in Sweden, I know I would not be able to afford one and if I tried it and loved it that would be so sad ;-) ) I do have a vintage MontBlanc but that has a rather special double broad nib so not really comparable to the Pilot 823. Actually it was almost a MontBlanc situation when I bought the 823. Here in Sweden we have only a few proper pen shops where you can try pens before you buy, otherwise one has to turn to web shops. I had heard and read so much praise for the 823 but could not find it anywhere here in Sweden or indeed in Europe and to order from the USA cost far too much for me in shipping and custom fees, and what then if I didn´t like it? One day in January I went to Stockholm and walked into one of the pen shops just to buy another bottle of Diamine Ancient Copper ( my favorite) and had nothing else in mind. And there on display was the coveted 823! I was so surprised as it had not been in the shops website. Against my better judgement ( or rather my wallet´s) I decided to try it ,quietly hoping it would turn out to be rather " meh, I can pass this pen".... oh dear, it was fantastic! And this being after Christmas when funds are lower than usual. Well, what can a pen addict do? There was really only one solution to the problem: to sit down and transfer all my small savings into my debit card and then proudly walk away with the 823 in my possession! Some rather thin months followed but I was very happy with my choice;-))! So perhaps this will happen to me again next time I walk into that shop and find a MB 149, who knows;-). Honestly I have far too many pens as I like both new ones and vintage ones. My most treasured pen is a Danish pen, a Penol Ambassador that has a nib that cannot be a nib, it is a living flexible paintbrush disguised in the shape of a 14 k gold nib from 1943. Even though I love my Pelikans ( the 205 and my 400), the Leonardos, the Platinums and the Pilot 823, I have to say no modern pen really comes close to the pleasure the hand feels when holding a vintage pen with a soft flex nib. But I warn you ,if you still are only into modern pens, going down the rabbit hole of vintage pens is very, very addictive;-)! I am so pleased to have found your channel, there can never be too many fountain pen channels and each one adds something new! So I am eagerly looking forward to browse all your videos. Thank you so very much for a fantastic content!

[@HemingwayJones]

@@SUSSDUE Thank you so much for the Lovely Comment! It’s great to get a perspective from another part of the world. The 149 is so very expensive. I do see them used here and there, but that may not be an option where you are, unless there is a generous return policy. I’m wondering if there are any pen shows near you? That is a nice way to get hands on with a lot of pens.

[@stephanie1400]

Hemingway I have devoured all your content the past few weeks. Because of you, I am the very proud owner of a Lamy Safari, Kaweco Sport and my favorite, a Twsbi 700 in Iris! What should I get next Hemingway? Thank you so much for making these videos and tik toks. You are a cool dude!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much! I am so glad that you are enjoying the programs! I strive to make them interesting. You have three solid pens there. You could stop! None of us do though. If you like the TWSBI 700R Iris, as I do, someday go for the Pilot Custom 823. It is sublime, but also $280. Maybe now a Lamy Studio? Another lovely pen. Thanks for checking in with me!

[@LovBoat]

Excellent video! Thank you. It’s a great hobby. It allows us to collect beautiful objects while promoting self reflection through journaling. Expensive at times, money disappears from my bank account… like tears in the rain 😉

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you Sean and thanks for picking up on one of my Easter Eggs! I put a lot out there and no one comments. It made me so happy you caught it. Stay inspired, My Friend.

[@LovBoat]

@@HemingwayJones I was very excited to see you writing that quote. BR is an absolute masterpiece!

[@HemingwayJones]

@@LovBoat Love that you caught it.

[@TheDarivan]

Great video, just ideal for my Sons. 🙂👍

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@TheDarivan]

My pleasure.

[@davidanderson3425]

Hello Hemingway. All very interesting myths. Like you, I don't judge other peoples' handwriting. I see many examples watching pen reviews on KZbin. My own writing is not great and I realise the only way to improve is by more practice - not by purchasing an expensive fountain pen. As you said, expensive pens will not miraculously transform a persons handwriting. However, certain nibs do enhance the style you already have. The 'I am not worthy' myth is quite a good one. At the beginning of the hobby I would never have dreamt of owning something like a Montblanc. Yet, when I did get one I didn't like it much and returned it. A kind of variation on the 'never meet your heroes' idea. It often ends in disappointment. Myth number 2 is also untrue. Expensive pens simply aren't always better than inexpensive pens. A lot of them are of course but it certainly isn't a rule. It is also true that many people say you must get a pen with a gold nib. That gold nibs are always superior to steel. But, if I were put on a blindfold and write with a selection of pens with gold and steel nibs I'm sure I'd struggle to identify which was which purely by how the nib felt. Often, myths are repeated so many times that they almost become facts. If I were to suggest a sixth myth it would be that fountain pen writing is out of date and old-fashioned. In the eyes of the less well-informed the fountain pen is like something from a bygone era. Like listening to 78 rpm records on a wind-up gramophone. Yet the truth of the matter is more and more new pen manufacturers are springing up every year and there are new pen models being released constantly. The range of inks available to us has never been greater. And paper is sold in a huge variety of formats.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello, My Friend! It is always a pleasure. Great perspective, as always. Thanks for the idea for part 2. I think I am about ready to film one. Great ideas. All the best.

[@stephenchung]

Regarding to myth #3.. in singapore, during the early 70s we were required to use FP. It suppose to make you write “correctly “.!

[@HemingwayJones]

Interesting! Like the grip on the Lamy Safari.

[@curatedavalon]

Lovely video!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks!

[@TheReKinn]

Better is absolutely relative. I have 2 gold nib pens and 2 steel nib pens inked up at the moment and love each of them for the purpose they fill. HOWEVER, I will say that I tend to get much better QC out of the gold nib pens I buy. Out of the box they're a bit more reliable, where I've had to do some adjustments to a good number of my steel nibs.

[@HemingwayJones]

That is a very good point. Thanks for that. Also, I find that you can do more interesting things with gold, in regards to softness and artistry. There is definitely room for both. All the best.

[@TheReKinn]

@@HemingwayJones Cheers, sir! I hope your week is going well!

[@HemingwayJones]

@@TheReKinn So far, so good! I hope you are too.

[@sathishrao7926]

Do Carenes have 14K variants too ? I thought they came with only 18K nibs.. In any case, disappointed to know that such a gorgeous pen doesn’t have a spectacular nib..

[@HemingwayJones]

No, I messed that one up. Embarrassing. So sorry. I hate making mistakes. I try to catch any errors in post, but this got by me. Great catch.

[@sathishrao7926]

@@HemingwayJones No problem.. It happens !

[@alfonsomanjarres9727]

Hola Hemingway. Quick coment, as a kid I always got very good grades, I got elected class "Presiden" last elementary school year. My flaw... my handwriting 😔. Now at 54 years old and after only 3 years using FP's they all admire my handwriting. In my case, it really helped. Greetings from Canada 🇨🇦

[@HemingwayJones]

That is wonderful to hear! Great story. We are the same age. It has helped me a little, but only because I focus on it more. I need a lot of work.

[@stephenland9361]

I got a free Platinum Preppy when I purchased a bottle of ink. That was my first fountain pen. I now have at least fifty of the things and that Preppy is still one of my favourites.

[@HemingwayJones]

I should get one for the channel.

[@mango2654]

When I was a child my dad bought me a FP to improve my handwriting. To be honest, back then FPs were not as good as they are now or maybe because the pen was a cheap one, i didn't like it. But after a long time i started using a FP again from Parker(as everyone said that's a brand I should go for in India), and it's really good. Although i make mess every time i fill the ink (I know it's stupid lol), so I'm thinking to move to cartridges.

[@HemingwayJones]

Hello! Sometimes it’s tough to fill from a bottle. For me as well. You have to really clean all around the nib, feed, and grip. One little drop of ink can go a long way toward ruining your day! Thanks for the great comment.

[@GeorgeENorkus]

1: Worthy of a Fountain Pen. Is that some type of a joke? As for using what you can afford, I have a small amount of funds to purchase FP's with but have been attempting to expand while finding that correct for me. The less expensive pens are about the only way I look around. 2: Expensive pens are better. This is subjective for many but as I continue my quest for my "ultimate" pen, several pens less than $10.00 seem to be reasonable. I'm finding that pens that run in the mid-price range are more to my liking just because of the quality feel. In this catagory I favor Conklin, Nalwhal, and Waterman. I'm not sure but think they are all steel nibs. Maybe not the Waterman. 3: FP's improving handwriting. My friend is beginning with FP's and put it well. He told me that "FP's really make you slow down and think about what you write." 4: FP's making you write cursive? I really thing that depends on whatever nib you use, not the forcing to do so. 5: Gold being superior to steel. Maybe it might be considered to be that way but that sort-of gets answered in your Myth #2. In general gold nibs might feel better but I feel that is mainly because the expensive nibs have been properly hand tuned. An example to contradict gold being better would be by using a $10.00 Jinhao pen with a smooth Bobby nib on it.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks for the comment. Great perspective.

[@primefactors888]

You are making a good community on KZbin ,. How do I prove this? Well 10% first 1000 views leave a comments asking doubt , and appreciating the author of the video

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much! Very kind of you to say.

[@Scouzeboy]

Greetings from Australia. I enjoyed your video. Thanks for posting. Question: I've noticed a few times in your videos that you are sitting in your armchair writing in your journal. How do you do that? It doesn't look comfortable. I actually tried it and my writing was all over the place. I could not do it 😀 I suppose perfect Practice makes perfect.

[@HemingwayJones]

Greetings and Hello! Thanks for the kind comment. I appreciate it. Your question made me laugh out loud, literally. I don’t know how I do it, but I do it all the time. This is pretty much how I journal. I didn’t realize it was unusual. Thanks!

[@Scouzeboy]

@@HemingwayJones What initiated this thought was my Everyday Journal is bespoke made A4, hardback, with 250 pages of fp bullet proof paper. I had ten of these encyclopaedic volumes made up so it was very difficult for me to attempt to do this. But I shall try again with a smaller volume. Suggestion: you may wish to address this in a future video. How do we write. Is there a perfect position for writing with a fountain pen? We all have different approaches to this. Mine might be the stuffy formal, academic approach? But this is something which is very personal and diverse.

[@HemingwayJones]

@@Scouzeboy Thanks so much. All very good ideas and part of what keeps us inspired.

[@gunsmokeandghouls]

Excellent topic and presentation. A myth I heard when I first started my journey into fountain pens is that the nib would somehow adapt to your writing style and you shouldn't let another person use it because doing so would ruin it.

[@HemingwayJones]

That is so true! I had forgotten about that one. Brilliant! Thanks for sharing.

[@yunthug]

I wouldn’t let anyone use mine to begin with with the fear that they might drop/damage it. Also too “expensive” to be lent out. They can borrow my bic pen :)

[@Kimbopolo]

New subscriber. You get me.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much! I am very happy to have you here.

[@greenerick]

Fountain pens are cheap compared to other types of pens .But they last a lifetime especially if looked after Great video

[@HemingwayJones]

Here here. And sustainable which is nice as well.

[@jellybeanjilly6873]

Great video! The only criticism I have has nothing to do with the content of the video, but I found the music to be too loud to focus on what was being said, you were being drowned out a little bit.

[@HemingwayJones]

Thanks so much for the kind feedback. I appreciate it very much. Sometimes the music is a bit off. I continually strive to get this right. But sometimes it just posts differently than how it was recorded. Soon I’ll figure it all out. I am working on it. Thanks very much! All the best.

[@ServeLearnTeach]

It’s fascinating to observe our divergent reactions. I find the background music soothing in a just right way.

[@laurensjaarsma766]

1: Worthy of a Fountain Pen: never heard that one, seems i moved up in the world 2: Expensive pens are better: For me; yes. Not in the way that they are better writing, in my expierence when youre above a certain level then a good pen is a good pen. But: The expierence for myself is better, i enjoy my high end pens way more than a cheaper one, but as said: its personal expierence, gives a joy in writing. 3: FP's improving handwriting. Nope, have the same (bad) handwriting, when you want to have a nice handwriting you have to write slowly, thats why i allways go for the smooth writers as they are more able to go fast (maybe better to say: you will be able to write fast for a longer time). 4: FP's making you write cursive? No, all in the way you put youre hand on the paper, do not think you can change that as its a habit to do so for many years, for me: i write allways cursive and to correct that for some degree i have my paper in an angle. 5: Gold being superior to steel: Fact for most gold nibs, there better made, often tuned. There will allways be some steel nibs which are excellent but as a whole: gold is better but that does not mean steel is inferior but just somewhat less good.

[@HemingwayJones]

All great points! Thanks for the interesting and well stated comment. All the best!

[@valeriegriffith5409]

That you can only be a collector if your collection is varied and colorful. I realized that with the exceptions of some of the Benu and Narwhal nautilus voyager shanghai, pens that remind me of oceans and space, I really prefer Black fountain pens. I'm have this love affair with and desire to buy a couple of pilot custom heritage 742, a couple of Sailor large 9111. I like big pens in my hands. I thought Conklin Durgraphs were the answer. If I could just get a basic Black pen from them I would be happy. I have some pens I want to get rid of that have never been inked: Pelican M 215 the Rhombus design, and Blue Durgraph that looks like a sky with fluffy clouds, and a Pilot Lucina. All these were bought 10 years ago. Could you check with other collectors if they would be interested. The pilot has a gold nib EF. Pelican has Rhodian (sp?) gold EF. Durgraphs steel.

[@HemingwayJones]

That is so true. We all pick up these pens we have high hopes for and discover that we never really use. All part of collecting. It sounds like you have a very lovely collection.

[@valeriegriffith5409]

@@HemingwayJones it was a beginners collection. If I knew then what I know now, I probably would have gotten the Japanese pens with F nibs. I didn't realize that the reason EF are so fine, is because they are being used for Asian countries that use symbols and not cursive.

[@HemingwayJones]

@@valeriegriffith5409 It’s true how much fiber those Japanese nibs are. I personally love the Pilot Custom 823. That nib is sublime. Personally, I love all collections. I love that people care enough to assemble the things they love.

[@valeriegriffith5409]

@@HemingwayJones which nib did you get? F FA MF M B

[@HemingwayJones]

@@valeriegriffith5409 I got the medium and it feels like a fine. It is a great nib.

[@snakemystic]

nice

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you!

[@maxgainz8406]

I would not buy a modern pen in the 50-150 range (unless you adore the design ofc.) Steel nibs at a premium price My handwriting is 100 times better with my fountain pen. The flex makes you train your writing in a fun way

[@HemingwayJones]

Where is that cut off for you? Around $100? I often debate this. Some extraordinary gold to be had at $130. Pilot E95S for instance.

[@gilgameshlfx7006]

A myth that being circulating around here, which is quite dumb if you had a lick of knowledge in history:- "Fountain pen is only for signing documents" Which is stupid because fountain pen was around far longer than ballpen.

[@HemingwayJones]

That is a great contribution. Thank you very much! So many myths!

[@ritwijmishra-writer6278]

Mr Jones, I am certain you must have always had remarks on your composed erudition. I too have always found it an elixir opinions ought to pass on to each other in a culpablised euphoric apocalypse. I knew beforehand what confirmation biases you would dispel in this video, but it was still prescient that there would be novelty to be had, and I was even surprised to find my own one selection bias (Myth#5) eroded. Do keep the videos append maturity into us younger ones!

[@HemingwayJones]

Thank you very much, My Friend! I am so glad you enjoy them and thank you for the kind words on my presentation. I am always trying to improve.

[@Wolverine3660]

Mishra-ji, nice comment on Hemingway's video.. Thank you.

[@ichirofakename]

1. My contrarian opinion: I'm not crazy about KZbin pen reviewers with atrocious handwriting. Dampens their cred. 2. My contrarian opinion: My Sailor 21k nib is superior to every steel nib I have (~70). 3. Bad Myth: Baystate Blue is too dangerous to use. 4. Myth: flex nibs are better to spice up your handwriting than stubs.

[@HemingwayJones]

That is contrarian, My Friend. I disagree on almost every one of those, except the Baystate Blue. That stuff can repaint your interior.

[@ichirofakename]

@@HemingwayJones Today I dyed my boring Kaweco Frosted Coconut (white) Sport to blue by filling the barrel and cap directly with BSB. Doesn't look great, but at least I don't have to worry about staining it anymore.

[@HemingwayJones]

@@ichirofakename That sounds about right. That stuff is problematic.

[@technoraptor7778]

Yeah..fountain pens just have a nice different feel to them to write with than a typical ball point..or gel pen...fountain pens are more of an experience than other pens..and for that I love them. I've always taken care of my pens no matter what kind they are..growing up people always saw me as a pen person...like oh "her and her pens"...or they know I always have pens on me. But its a much more refined love for writing utensils and art supplies..and fountain pens are a big part of it...I love drawing with them and doing nature studies.

[@HemingwayJones]

That sounds wonderful! Your drawings sound lovely. I get drawn in by any interesting stationery and writing paper. Anything French or Japanese, or when I am in Italy I am buying up journals and correspondence cards. So fun!