Fountain pens and nibs for beginners and everyday writers

Fountain pens and nibs for school and calligraphy

A fountain pen accompanies many children through their entire school years and is a pleasant writing tool for adults too. In this category you'll find beginner fountain pens, school fountain pens and cartridge pens as well as replacement nibs and calligraphy nibs from brands such as Pelikan, LAMY and Schneider.

What to look for when buying a fountain pen

Beginner fountain pens usually have a contoured grip zone that guides the fingers into a relaxed position. For left-handed children there are models or nibs designed specifically for left-handers, so the nib doesn't catch while writing. Common nib widths are EF (extra fine), F (fine) and M (medium), and some manufacturers offer an A nib for beginners. If you write small, F usually works better, and if your handwriting is larger and bolder, M is usually the better choice.

Calligraphy nibs with a broad, straight tip create thin and thick lines depending on the stroke direction, for decorative lettering, cards and invitations. Replacement nibs let you swap out a bent nib or change the line width, as long as the model has interchangeable nibs.

• Beginner fountain pens with an ergonomic grip zone
• School and cartridge fountain pens, including for left-handers
• Replacement nibs in different line widths
• Calligraphy nibs for decorative lettering

Tip: Many fountain pens use standard international cartridges, while some brands use their own. Note which cartridge system your pen uses when you first buy it, so you get the right ones when you reorder.