Term · Nibs and how they write

Nib

A nib is the writing element of the fountain pen. The base of the nib is called the shank, which slides up into the section of the pen. The widest part of the nib is called the shoulders. The little hole between the shoulders is called the air or breather hole. This allows air to flow up into the reservoir to replace the ink flowing out. Working your way to the tip are usually two tines. The slit between the tines is what creates the capillary action by which the ink flows down to the paper. At the very tip of a gold nib is usually the tipping, a bit of iridium used to help protect the writing tip and surface of the point.

Explained by Nathaniel Cerf, who restores the pens sold here. Spot something wrong? Tell him.

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Pens in the case that mention it

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From Drippy Musings

May 19, 2023 · How Do I Start Collecting Pens?

A Nib by Any Other Number…Is Still Confusing

Even for experienced professionals, it is really difficult to gauge a nib by its number. We get calls and e-mail with some regularity asking for a nib of a certain number. The trouble is, we often aren’t sure what the customer really wants. If the nib brand isn’t specified it can be a really challenging…

July 30, 2014 · Notes from the Work Bench

Fix Scratchy Nibs

WARNING: The following repair advice can easily mess up your favorite nib if you aren’t careful and experienced. You think you’ve found the perfect pen at a show, estate sale or antique store. The color is good. The filling system still works. And then you try to write with it. Although the nib looks good,…

December 30, 2019 · Notes from the Work Bench

How Do I Replace a Lamy Nib?

(There is risk in doing any repair. We will not be held liable for what happens to your pen if you break it while trying the following advice.) Changing a nib on a Lamy Safari or AL-Star is easy. All you need is the pen, tape and a replacement nib. Lamy Safari and AL-Star pens…