For "difficult" inks, the best instrument (for me) is a dip pen. Most dip pens can use the Goulet #6 nibs as well as steel nibs of all kinds of styles. For cleaning any pen or pen parts, an ultrasonic cleaner is invaluable.
my preferred pen for shimmering inks is a TWSBI Diamond 580 with a stub nib. That thing is just beautiful with the shimmer, the nib is very juicy and it never clogs even after weeks and it very easy to clean. I think this and the Eco are some of the best pens for the task :)
Seconding this, 580s are amazing. Haven't tried it in the stub yet, but I have two very juicy mediums that work great. I should caveat that I've only used Jacques Herbin shimmer inks so far, which I think are considered to be the most user friendly ones... but yeah, with those, no clogging ever and even though the shimmer clearly settles in the barrel, it also (mostly) resuspends easily. There's just a little stuck to the piston head and the feed that needs special care when cleaning.
Lucky you! My 580 stub clogs every other word with ferris wheel and golden beryl in it. It's a shame, really, since those inks have been sitting there for months now untouched.
As far as a maintenanable pen whose parts can be replaced, I'd like to mention the Noodler's pens, they are cheap, can be fully disassembled without tools and have replacements parts sold online cheaply
Noodler’s pens deserve a mention. I think they’ve done more to encourage pen users to feel comfortable getting hands on with pens than anyone, which makes us confident getting deeper into the hobby. Selling vast arrays of colors for cheap has helped too. They’ve really contributed a lot to the fountain pen hobby.
I own Pilot Metropolitans, Lamy Safaris/Al-Stars, a Pilot VP, and a TWSBI Eco, and the Pilot Metro seems the best type for handling shimmer inks. One thing I only just started doing is shaking up my shimmering ink, then waiting for a few moments so it just starts to settle, and then dip the pen just slightly into the ink and fill it so your pen takes in a little less shimmer. The difference in glitter on the paper isn't too noticeable, and it seems to help pens go longer without clogging. Happy writing, everyone!
Many of us have the “pen case of no return” where we leave pens that have lost their place in a rotation. There is a special joy of uncapping a shelved pen and finding ink that is still flowing in it. My OS Nitrogen is in a Jinhao but I might look to my benched Preppies when I want to play with other temperamental inks!
My Pilot Kakuno Clear with a medium nib does just fine with both shading and shimmer inks. The whole thing comes apart easily for cleaning and is less than $15. I like the Platinum Preppy, but I don't have the attention span for eyedropper conversion anyway. I fill everything with a blunt syringe anyway, so cleaning and reusing an ink cartridge gives me an even easier solution for tricky inks. I could not even being to list all the shimmer and shading inks, including several from Organic Studios, that I've cleaned out of that pen.
I dedicated a white Kaweco Sport to Baystate Blue. I poured ink in the barrel and cap and section and let it soak for a week. It isn't white anymore, so I don't worry about keeping it white anymore.
@@ichirofakename ok well, beauty is in the eye of the beholder and I don't know if anyone else would think my preppy is beautiful lol. This is one that I had tried to remove the preppy labeling on. So the surface was kind of messed up. Maybe that made the BSB stick better? Also, I used many coats. I used the water from cleaning my pens so it was very watered down BSB. I soaked the pen over night. Then I would dry it off... and soak again until I got a good color.
I only use shimmer inks in Noodler's pens. The feeds are deep and wide and never clog. Plus, the flex is a nice little cherry on top of the shimmering, sometimes sheening, goodness. I also have a turquoise Pilot Metropolitan dedicated to R+K Klara SketchInk. They go so well together! As far as cleaning goes: I'm not so good at it. If only my favorite online pen shop had some sort of small, dedicated cleaning brush for fountain pens. Something in a toothbrush like form factor. I think that would really help me out a lot.
I have tried shimmer inks in just about every pen I own--not without some regret, admittedly--and my unexpected fave turned out to be the Opus 88 Omar. Dedicated eyedropper pen that can be fully disassembled for cleaning, ink chamber with huge capacity that can be sealed off to prevent drying out, and their broad and 1.4 stub nibs are fabulous for showing off shimmer (that stub in particular OMG--perfection!). And of course I have to put in a vote to include Benu on the small businesses list. I mean if ever there was a pen MADE for shimmer XD They have easily replaceable nib units and converters, and several of their models are excellent candidates for eyedropper conversion.
I have a dedicated converter for my Lamy Al-Star that I like for Noodler's King Philip!!! It's permanently pinkish but I love that ink with a Lamy 1.1 stub!!! Great video/tips, Drew! A lot of these ideas have crossed my mind but you organized this like a cool fountain pen class!! I love it!!!
I do prefer TWSBI Diamond 580 for my sheen and shimmer inks since they just seals so nicely I don't need to worry if I can't use up the fill within certain period of time, which for a piston filling pen, use it up means over a dozen of pages and it's literally impossible for me (EF nib). Plus, the disassemble friendly design is a bliss when using high maintenance inks. Take it apart carefully, toss the parts in an ultrasonic tank, 5 min later everything is good as new. Although I do not recommend take out the nib and feed too frequently since this will wear them out eventually, but it is just somehow satisfying to do so
I love the orbits reference! 😂 I love my TWSBIs for testy inks and it’s so fun to watch the shimmer swish. I also have a dedicated eco for my pink inks and inks that stain pink.
I have been looking at blank faces when I bring up Orbitz for so long. I came here for the topic because I'm trying to navigate my Ferristales inks, but bonus points for someone knowing my favorite lost soda. Delighted to see I'd made a decent decision on medium, broad and stub GOs.
If you don't like how cheap the Preppy looks, there's the slightly nicer, slightly more expensive Platinum Plaisir. It's made of aluminimum, comes in all sorts of swanky colors, and has the same grip section as the Preppy, so the wear parts are easy and cheap to replace.
Noodlers Ahab with Goulet nib. I have around 40 of these from Goulet since the pioneering days of J Herbin anniversary inks. However, I still hate Lamy Turquoise and Organics Studio’s Nitrogen.
I put shimmer inks in my TWSBIs because I can see their pretty swirly sparkles all the time, and the pens can be taken apart if anything gets clogged. I have never yet had an issue with them that has required dismantling a pen.
The Kakuno while pricier than the Preppy but surely is far more hassle free to maintain and suitable for a wider range of ink. For me, a dedicated pen has to be under $20 (yeah I'm cheap).
Could you make a video on viscosity? That‘s the most important and least discussed feature of a fountain pen ink, as it changes the line width and the maintenance requirements a lot.
Super worthwhile instruction! Goulet Pens also carry Jnhaos. The pens of that company are eminently replaceable at a reasonable cost. I have one which is my Platinum Carbon pen. Eventually, I'll have to replace it for one reason or another . . . but, so long as the market is what it is, meh. It'll be fine. I have a J. Herbin shimmer ink that I am going to try in a brand with an "ultra flex" nib with ebonite feed. I hate that pen for how it exposes my weaknesses! But, it might be the pen for the shimmer. Thanks, Drew, for a fine exposition!
I tend to use a great deal of Platinum Carbon black and love using it in the Opus 88 Demonstrators. Lots of slosh space. Great also for the Diamine Christmas inks. And easy to clean.
I liked this topic. I it possible to do a safest ink’s version of this. Like cleaning ease, least corrosive, safest versions of colors?
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I have a Lamy Nexx and a Kaweco Sport, both with broad nibs and shimmering inks from Ferris Wheel Press. The ink in the Lamy is somewhat shimmery, it's more of a glittery pink and gives no issues. The one in the Kaweco is heavy shimmer, it's Jade Sunlit if I remember correctly. It needs more shaking to get all the shimmer out but doesn't give me troubles either. I use these pens relatively often. I use these brands because in the EU they're cheap, easy to find & easy to get converters and nibs if I need them. I love Platinum but fine nibs wouldn't show off the shimmer, and their converters as you said are expensive. Kaweco accepts standard international which is a plus in my book. I love shimmering and glittery inks, and so far no problems.
Great timing, Drew! I was just thinking about changing out my Preppy to a sheen or shimmer ink! Thanks for posting this video! I am so more confident now!
I've been really surprised by which pens like which inks. Sometimes brands don't play well together, I think. And sometimes you get a pen who's a really good sport. I have a conklin with an omniflex nib for whom the entire inkvent calendar is no hassle whatsoever. Sometimes you just gotta give it a shot I think. (That said I wish I hadn't put noodler's ottoman rose in my Aurora... it's haunting it like a ghost.)
I leave shinnering inks in my pens for months without use. Still write perfectly fine. Even after 6 months. Guess depends on the pen and how well it seals. That jinhao one made like the montblanc is great with high maintenance inks
Very timely video for an issue that appears to have arrested the general fountain pen public for years. There is absolutely no need to fear pigmented, bulletproof, iron gall, or even india (last one with caveats) ink for your pen if you understand basic chemistry and have a pen you can fully disassemble for proper full cleaning each and every time you refill, which for me is on the order of every three or four days. For utility fountain pens that see regular use in the work place that must be archival, water proof, and use regular paper they cannot be beaten!
When you use a Platinum Preppy, I convert the cartridge which comes with the pen. After I've used up the cartridge, of course, because one shouldn't waste ink. When it's time to clean the feed, twisting and pulling gently gets the preppy feed off and you clean away -- gently, of course. Even cheaper than the Preppy are those disposable fountain pens. Once the ink is used up, you can twist and pull the feed and clean and reuse. I've found that if you have a good disposable which feeds nicely, you can keep it in ink practically forever.
I picked up a bunch of high maintenance ink and a clear preppy yesterday because of the Ink sample sale. I didn't need ink but... hey, when is a better time to try these inks than during a sale, right?
What a feel good video, you've named many of my everyday pens. I agree with the commenter recommending Jinhao, I have a couple of X450s that write well for the price and are just broad enough for some shimmer.
Thanks for another great video, Drew! When I saw the title of this video, I pretty much knew where you were heading... I keep a Platinum Preppy (converted to eyedropper) inked with Noodler's Bay State Blue. The pen is horribly stained, but I could always soak it in a mild bleach solution to restore the pen (to its original clarity)... but why bother?
I've dedicated my Pilot Custom 823 to the Sailor Seiboku pigmented ink for the 4th year now. I keep a simple water flush between every 1 to 2 fill and 1 disassemble clean every 6 to 9 months. So far no problem at all and it remains as my fav combo for daily use. Still trying to find a pen in my collection to dedicated it to the Sailor Kiwaguro. Tried the Lamy 2000 for a while, but still not a fan of the nib feel. At this point I might end up getting another 823 for the Kiwaguro🤔
Thanks Drew! I now spend again money on a fountain pen! 😅 Got a TWSBi 580 nickel. Just for shimmer and sheening inks! Organic Studio nitrogen, love the ink, pens don’t like it. This twsbi got the flow with its stub 1,5mm, and it writes great! thanks!
Due to regulatory reasons I need to use permanent inks if I want to use a fountain pen. This is why I use pigmented inks in my work fountain pens. When choosing the fountain pens that I use for this purpose I had to important categories that my fountain pens need to fullfill: nib-feed-replacements needed to be available and cleaning needed to be easy. Finally I chose a TWSBI 580. Easy to clean by unscrewing the nib-section. I clean the nib section with a ball syringe and the piston with a syringe and a blunt cannula. My second fountain pen for work is a Pilot capless aka vanishing point. Same cleaning procedure due to its cartridge/converter construction.
I recently discovered that my dip nib holder (I think it's an Herbin, but they should be standard sized) also fits #6 and TWSBI ECO nibs - and the writing feel of a tipped steel nib is a bit nicer than that of a glass pen, plus you get a little more variety in nib sizes.
Sold! I’m going to get three dedicated pens, one for each type. Then I’m going to pick a green ink in one of those categories and use that pen exclusively in a current journal. Thanks!
I missed you at the Baltimore show; didn’t want to run over to you just to say ‘hi’. So, ‘hi’! I’m glad to have found your content, it has proven to be informative and entertaining. I’m catching up on the pencasts.
I wonder if anyone out there will scream in agony because my Baystate Blue pen is an Aurora that cost me well over $500. The pen is a beautiful blue (came that way) and the nib matches now (did not come that way). 😃
Excellent advice. I can't speak to all pens or all inks, there are too many, but the ink I had the most trouble cleaning was ESSRI. Which was my fault because it says to clean and flush more regularly than I did - combined with, I suspect, slightly alkaline water - it appeared to clean better with a mild acid (I used a water solution of ascorbic acid) potentially ruling out alkaline pen flushes. I could be wrong. The rest of the troublesome inks seem to depend on the capping of the pen. The TWSBI seems especially well suited because for a cheap-ish pen it has a great cap. I've used all but ESSRI (inc carbon pigments) in a TWSBI with little or no problem cleaning. Similarly the Platinum slip and seal caps seem complimentary to their pigment inks. I ended up going ultrasonic and sacrificing a converter during my ESSRI ink months (a pleonasm and it was during a lockdown), it was a reasonable, cheap, Waterman pen but not a screw cap. Aside from my lackadaisical maintenance I blame the pen's cap. If some manufacturer could have the permanence and durability of a carbon ink with the colour and shading of Diamine Oxblood I'd be there for it (although Graf von Faber Castell garnet red is a cm away on a colour chart minus the striking permanence). So, basically, 'a pen with a proven good cap & maintenance' plus, in my case, listen to ESSRI's actual advice (other ink manufacturers may apply).
Drew: I am one of those people who like to use a pen, in the color of ink that is in it. Can you guys do a segment on which affordable pens have the widest color choices? I am waiting for Buttered Popcorn to be restocked. I would love a Yellow pen that is dedicated to it. Already have the Green Liliput with Spearment ink. (your fault).
@@LolcowAdmirer I knew about the Safaris. Just thought I would like a metal body pen.
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@@bbrachman Lamy AL are metal body and have different colours in the cap. Another option, though pricier, would be Kaweco Bronze. But only 2 colours if I remember correctly. Admittedly it's easier to have colour options on acrylic/plastic than on metal.
Platinum do some good ones in yellow. There's the Preppy highlighter with a yellow feed, the Plasir has the metal body in yellow (Bali Citron). As the nib units are interchangeable between the two models, a fully yellow pen is doable. Cult Pens in the UK has both in stock at time of writing. Or there's the Procyon in citron yellow - again CPUK has them in stock. If those are a little too low-end for you, Sailor has several yellow pens available in their various lines, from $30 for a Compass 1911, up to the Sunflower Urushi King of Pens at $1,450. Goulet has them. There's also the Visconti Van Gogh Sunflowers to consider, if you're more euro-pen inclined. Very yellow, very nice writers, and $276 from Goulet. As a final thought, the Monteverde Tool Pen comes in yellow. Perhaps not the greatest looking pen in the world, but the built in spirit-level, screwdriver & stylus may come in useful..? Hope that helps... G
Thanks for this really helpful vid! Ive recently got into Wearingeul Glistening in a big way and just bought a couple of Broad TWSBIs to show them off and not ruin my finer, pricier pens.
I received today a box full of ink samples and I immediately realised I don't have enough pens or converters for all of them 😅 But they're glorious regardless.
Personally i find that the wing sung/yongsheng 3008 is a great pen to dedicate to this cause. 4/$15 on Amazon, and can easily swap nibs for Lamy Z 50 nibs.
Drew, every time I watch you on video I think of all the times you say that your wife is so good on stage but you are not because of stage fright. But why are you so darn good with your expressions on video: be it verbally, gestures or your face. It's perfect!
I'd love to see bloopers at the end of these videos. I **know** you guys have some. It would encourage people to watch all the way to the last second too because bloopers are far too much fun to miss.
Sounds to me like the best option is just to use a dipping pen. Personally I can only imagine using such inks at home at my desk for some funky lettering or other small things.
I was actually shocked how not scary Organics Studio Walden Pond was once I actually gave it a try. I bought a Lamy Safari I didn’t mind getting ruined but so far after a week of writing there has been no issues, with the pen or with the ink smearing. Well, apart from some dye near the nib from my fill which I can not for the life of my clean off. Oh well.
This is so timely for this fountain pen novice; I loaded up my new TWISBI VAC700R with this cool-looking ink that turned out to be a sheening ink. I just recently figured this out, and now am less worried. Now to find an old tooth brush…
Actually, if you are also wearing glasses I personally recommend an ultrasonic cleaning tank for glasses or small jewelries. It can be versatile and makes the cleaning process much less troublesome. Also please do be cautious if you take the nib and feed of Vac-700R off the section, after you place them back, close the cap SLOWLY to check if the nib hits the inner cap, it is easy to place the nib too far outside and the cap will twist your nib sometimes even break it instantly. If it hits, just push the nib and feed into the section a bit harder so it settles in.
@@davidsilva8695 Unless you really know how to do it, I would strictly advice against ultrasonic cleaning of glasses. I destroyed expensive lenses once by doing so.
@@Volkmannx Oh, sorry to hear about that. The use of ultrasonic cleaner is safe for items without air cavity in it. Since the small vacuum bubbles are formed at the surface between the water and your item to clean it, air cavity will induce troubles related to heat and pressure imbalance, sometimes leakage. Also, items with internal cracks or fragile to vibration are not suitable for ultrasonic cleaning. For modern eye glasses and metal pen nibs, they are in the safe category. As for pen barrels on the other hand, it depends. Just make sure it is made of materials not sensitive to water such as ebonite and acrylic. Most celluloid are not fond of soaking in water.
Excellent info Drew. What do you think about pulling out nib and feeds on Lamy Safari and similar Lamy pens? I do pull out the nib and feeds on TWSBI and am careful about the fins like you mentioned. I'm thinking the Lamy cleaning I don't need to be as careful. Keep up the great technical tips!
LAMY feeds are far more resilient than TWSBI feeds, but the re-installation can be challenging and risky to some. So I suppose you could say they've both got a quirk! - Drew
@@Gouletpens I yanked out the feed on A Safari. Hard time putting it back in. But I feel I could do it again. I gently used a rubber grip and pliars. 😅
The only higher maintenance ink I use regularly is Diamine Polar Glow, so I have a dedicated Kaweco Iridescent Pearl for it. I clogged a pen with Herbin's Emerald, so I dip that when I come to use it every once in a while.
Have just emptied the plain black ink out of ny TWSBI ECO (broad nib), and refilled it with the Diamine "Happy Holidays" ink, which claims to be both shimmer and sheen (and also got ink all over my fingers, because of course I did!)
Two notes on high end brands: Montblanc is a pain in the ass, as you cannot open them, you have to send them in for a full clean. Graf von Faber-Castell in the other end are easy to clean and have a floating spring in their tanks that stirs up the ink when moving the pen.
Lately, I often find I prefer my less expensive fountain pens with higher maintenance inks opposed to higher quality writing fountain pens with standard inks.
KWZ super sheen. Now that is a super wet juicy thick ink and very difficult to fully clean. Use it with a pen that is fully disassemblable like the TWSBIs
Do you think pigmented ink concentrate over time if they sit in your pen for a while? That is, does the concentration of pigment increase as the ink dries out some, thus clogging more or being more difficult to clean? ALSO, what about iron gall inks? Also "high maintenance"? FYI: ALL Organic Studios inks NEVER DRY. Their reputation is well deserved....
Thanks for this! I have married my TWSBI ALR 580 to Jacques Herbin Vert d'Atlantide and it is working out very nicely so far. (Since you didn't say it in the video -- it's in other Goulet videos -- I will here, for anyone else foolish enough to completely disassemble their TWSBI: LITHIUM grease on the inside, not the included silicone grease!)
This video really helped me clear my doubts. Now I can't wait for my first TWSBI which is Eco in stub nib and my first shimmering ink which is Emeraude de Chivor to arrive!
I hate to be off topic.....but I was wondering where you got those neat lil shelves behind you in this video, only cause they have the perfect asthetic I am needing for a tiny wall in my "office" corner.
I notice that none of the suggested pens are high value, much less high cost and easily replaced. As a former Baystate Blue user, I can assure you should only use it on throwaway pens. I lost a Graf and several Visconti pens with it. Dip pens only.
You: "Use a cheap pen, a cleanable pen, or a pen with replaceable parts." Me: "Right, so I'll use a Benu for my Diamine Firefly. That's what you meant, right?"
Well, Benu DOES have easily replaceable parts so why not play with the fun inks? The New Year's special edition has a shimmer ink made for it from Colorverse so I guess Benu thinks their pens can handle shimmer.
I’ve been working up the courage to get Carbon Black on one of my “nicer” pens since my Preppy’s cap broke, but maybe I’ll just…buy another Preppy…. 🫣 great video as always, Drew!! love your enthusiasm!
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I would add Jinhao pens to the list. They are well made and affordable.
I'm about to try a shimmer ink in an x159. Will either be amazing or a total disaster XD
Not to mention replacement nibs and feeds are very easy to find.
That's my method, too--I have a stable of them and they always clean out well, even though I don't worry about them.
Now Goulet sells flex nibs, the x750 with a fine flex is my dedicated pen.
I second that!
For "difficult" inks, the best instrument (for me) is a dip pen. Most dip pens can use the Goulet #6 nibs as well as steel nibs of all kinds of styles.
For cleaning any pen or pen parts, an ultrasonic cleaner is invaluable.
my preferred pen for shimmering inks is a TWSBI Diamond 580 with a stub nib. That thing is just beautiful with the shimmer, the nib is very juicy and it never clogs even after weeks and it very easy to clean. I think this and the Eco are some of the best pens for the task :)
Seconding this, 580s are amazing. Haven't tried it in the stub yet, but I have two very juicy mediums that work great. I should caveat that I've only used Jacques Herbin shimmer inks so far, which I think are considered to be the most user friendly ones... but yeah, with those, no clogging ever and even though the shimmer clearly settles in the barrel, it also (mostly) resuspends easily. There's just a little stuck to the piston head and the feed that needs special care when cleaning.
Do you eyedropper it or use a converter or cartridge?
@@NCcrumpet it's a piston filler
@@NCcrumpet they are both piston filler pens
Lucky you! My 580 stub clogs every other word with ferris wheel and golden beryl in it. It's a shame, really, since those inks have been sitting there for months now untouched.
As far as a maintenanable pen whose parts can be replaced, I'd like to mention the Noodler's pens, they are cheap, can be fully disassembled without tools and have replacements parts sold online cheaply
I came down to see if anyone would say this, so thanks, I was wondering that.
Noodler’s pens deserve a mention. I think they’ve done more to encourage pen users to feel comfortable getting hands on with pens than anyone, which makes us confident getting deeper into the hobby. Selling vast arrays of colors for cheap has helped too. They’ve really contributed a lot to the fountain pen hobby.
I own Pilot Metropolitans, Lamy Safaris/Al-Stars, a Pilot VP, and a TWSBI Eco, and the Pilot Metro seems the best type for handling shimmer inks. One thing I only just started doing is shaking up my shimmering ink, then waiting for a few moments so it just starts to settle, and then dip the pen just slightly into the ink and fill it so your pen takes in a little less shimmer. The difference in glitter on the paper isn't too noticeable, and it seems to help pens go longer without clogging. Happy writing, everyone!
Many of us have the “pen case of no return” where we leave pens that have lost their place in a rotation. There is a special joy of uncapping a shelved pen and finding ink that is still flowing in it. My OS Nitrogen is in a Jinhao but I might look to my benched Preppies when I want to play with other temperamental inks!
My Pilot Kakuno Clear with a medium nib does just fine with both shading and shimmer inks. The whole thing comes apart easily for cleaning and is less than $15. I like the Platinum Preppy, but I don't have the attention span for eyedropper conversion anyway. I fill everything with a blunt syringe anyway, so cleaning and reusing an ink cartridge gives me an even easier solution for tricky inks. I could not even being to list all the shimmer and shading inks, including several from Organic Studios, that I've cleaned out of that pen.
I dedicated a white Kaweco Sport to Baystate Blue. I poured ink in the barrel and cap and section and let it soak for a week. It isn't white anymore, so I don't worry about keeping it white anymore.
I did something similar. I soaked my preppy barrel and cap in my bsb water and it dyed beautifully!!
@@sunnymoondog Well you did better, as my Sport is not exactly beaautiful.
@@ichirofakename ok well, beauty is in the eye of the beholder and I don't know if anyone else would think my preppy is beautiful lol. This is one that I had tried to remove the preppy labeling on. So the surface was kind of messed up. Maybe that made the BSB stick better? Also, I used many coats. I used the water from cleaning my pens so it was very watered down BSB. I soaked the pen over night. Then I would dry it off... and soak again until I got a good color.
I only use shimmer inks in Noodler's pens. The feeds are deep and wide and never clog. Plus, the flex is a nice little cherry on top of the shimmering, sometimes sheening, goodness.
I also have a turquoise Pilot Metropolitan dedicated to R+K Klara SketchInk. They go so well together!
As far as cleaning goes: I'm not so good at it. If only my favorite online pen shop had some sort of small, dedicated cleaning brush for fountain pens. Something in a toothbrush like form factor. I think that would really help me out a lot.
I have tried shimmer inks in just about every pen I own--not without some regret, admittedly--and my unexpected fave turned out to be the Opus 88 Omar. Dedicated eyedropper pen that can be fully disassembled for cleaning, ink chamber with huge capacity that can be sealed off to prevent drying out, and their broad and 1.4 stub nibs are fabulous for showing off shimmer (that stub in particular OMG--perfection!). And of course I have to put in a vote to include Benu on the small businesses list. I mean if ever there was a pen MADE for shimmer XD They have easily replaceable nib units and converters, and several of their models are excellent candidates for eyedropper conversion.
I have a dedicated converter for my Lamy Al-Star that I like for Noodler's King Philip!!! It's permanently pinkish but I love that ink with a Lamy 1.1 stub!!!
Great video/tips, Drew! A lot of these ideas have crossed my mind but you organized this like a cool fountain pen class!! I love it!!!
Wow! Thanks so much for the kind words, Chris! That really means a lot! - Drew
I do prefer TWSBI Diamond 580 for my sheen and shimmer inks since they just seals so nicely I don't need to worry if I can't use up the fill within certain period of time, which for a piston filling pen, use it up means over a dozen of pages and it's literally impossible for me (EF nib). Plus, the disassemble friendly design is a bliss when using high maintenance inks. Take it apart carefully, toss the parts in an ultrasonic tank, 5 min later everything is good as new. Although I do not recommend take out the nib and feed too frequently since this will wear them out eventually, but it is just somehow satisfying to do so
When I hear the word: Disassemble, I'm always reminded of Johnny-5 from "Short Circuit".
I like the Pilot Metropolitan for shimmer inks, as they are easily disassembled and cleaned.
You have a great sense of humor and fantastic comedic timing. Well done.
I love the orbits reference! 😂 I love my TWSBIs for testy inks and it’s so fun to watch the shimmer swish. I also have a dedicated eco for my pink inks and inks that stain pink.
I was worried not enough people would remember the drink, so I'm glad the picture is there! - Drew
I have been looking at blank faces when I bring up Orbitz for so long. I came here for the topic because I'm trying to navigate my Ferristales inks, but bonus points for someone knowing my favorite lost soda. Delighted to see I'd made a decent decision on medium, broad and stub GOs.
You're not alone! - Drew
If you don't like how cheap the Preppy looks, there's the slightly nicer, slightly more expensive Platinum Plaisir. It's made of aluminimum, comes in all sorts of swanky colors, and has the same grip section as the Preppy, so the wear parts are easy and cheap to replace.
Platinum Prefounte.
Noodlers Ahab with Goulet nib. I have around 40 of these from Goulet since the pioneering days of J Herbin anniversary inks. However, I still hate Lamy Turquoise and Organics Studio’s Nitrogen.
Omg I feel so smart. My BSB is already dedicated and eyedroppered in a very old, scratched up, blue preppy. Yayy
You're all set, then! ‐ Drew
I put shimmer inks in my TWSBIs because I can see their pretty swirly sparkles all the time, and the pens can be taken apart if anything gets clogged. I have never yet had an issue with them that has required dismantling a pen.
The Kakuno while pricier than the Preppy but surely is far more hassle free to maintain and suitable for a wider range of ink.
For me, a dedicated pen has to be under $20 (yeah I'm cheap).
The Kakuno is just a great all around pen, especially for the price💝
I can't say enough great things about the Kakuno. - Drew
Could you make a video on viscosity? That‘s the most important and least discussed feature of a fountain pen ink, as it changes the line width and the maintenance requirements a lot.
Super worthwhile instruction! Goulet Pens also carry Jnhaos. The pens of that company are eminently replaceable at a reasonable cost. I have one which is my Platinum Carbon pen. Eventually, I'll have to replace it for one reason or another . . . but, so long as the market is what it is, meh. It'll be fine. I have a J. Herbin shimmer ink that I am going to try in a brand with an "ultra flex" nib with ebonite feed. I hate that pen for how it exposes my weaknesses! But, it might be the pen for the shimmer. Thanks, Drew, for a fine exposition!
I tend to use a great deal of Platinum Carbon black and love using it in the Opus 88 Demonstrators. Lots of slosh space. Great also for the Diamine Christmas inks. And easy to clean.
I liked this topic. I it possible to do a safest ink’s version of this. Like cleaning ease, least corrosive, safest versions of colors?
I have a Lamy Nexx and a Kaweco Sport, both with broad nibs and shimmering inks from Ferris Wheel Press. The ink in the Lamy is somewhat shimmery, it's more of a glittery pink and gives no issues. The one in the Kaweco is heavy shimmer, it's Jade Sunlit if I remember correctly. It needs more shaking to get all the shimmer out but doesn't give me troubles either. I use these pens relatively often. I use these brands because in the EU they're cheap, easy to find & easy to get converters and nibs if I need them. I love Platinum but fine nibs wouldn't show off the shimmer, and their converters as you said are expensive. Kaweco accepts standard international which is a plus in my book.
I love shimmering and glittery inks, and so far no problems.
Very informative video, Drew! Thanks for sharing!
Cheers from Brazil!
Thanks for watching! - Drew
Great timing, Drew! I was just thinking about changing out my Preppy to a sheen or shimmer ink! Thanks for posting this video! I am so more confident now!
Yay! Thanks for watching! - Drew
I've been really surprised by which pens like which inks. Sometimes brands don't play well together, I think. And sometimes you get a pen who's a really good sport. I have a conklin with an omniflex nib for whom the entire inkvent calendar is no hassle whatsoever. Sometimes you just gotta give it a shot I think. (That said I wish I hadn't put noodler's ottoman rose in my Aurora... it's haunting it like a ghost.)
I leave shinnering inks in my pens for months without use. Still write perfectly fine. Even after 6 months. Guess depends on the pen and how well it seals. That jinhao one made like the montblanc is great with high maintenance inks
Very timely video for an issue that appears to have arrested the general fountain pen public for years. There is absolutely no need to fear pigmented, bulletproof, iron gall, or even india (last one with caveats) ink for your pen if you understand basic chemistry and have a pen you can fully disassemble for proper full cleaning each and every time you refill, which for me is on the order of every three or four days. For utility fountain pens that see regular use in the work place that must be archival, water proof, and use regular paper they cannot be beaten!
Yes! It's a VERY popular concern. - Drew
When you use a Platinum Preppy, I convert the cartridge which comes with the pen. After I've used up the cartridge, of course, because one shouldn't waste ink. When it's time to clean the feed, twisting and pulling gently gets the preppy feed off and you clean away -- gently, of course. Even cheaper than the Preppy are those disposable fountain pens. Once the ink is used up, you can twist and pull the feed and clean and reuse. I've found that if you have a good disposable which feeds nicely, you can keep it in ink practically forever.
Wow glad isaw this video before i bought shimmering inks
I picked up a bunch of high maintenance ink and a clear preppy yesterday because of the Ink sample sale. I didn't need ink but... hey, when is a better time to try these inks than during a sale, right?
What a feel good video, you've named many of my everyday pens. I agree with the commenter recommending Jinhao, I have a couple of X450s that write well for the price and are just broad enough for some shimmer.
Drew, thank you for these instruction videos. They are so helpful!
Thanks for another great video, Drew!
When I saw the title of this video, I pretty much knew where you were heading...
I keep a Platinum Preppy (converted to eyedropper) inked with Noodler's Bay State Blue. The pen is horribly stained, but I could always soak it in a mild bleach solution to restore the pen (to its original clarity)... but why bother?
Haha exactly! It's just a blue pen now. - Drew
I've dedicated my Pilot Custom 823 to the Sailor Seiboku pigmented ink for the 4th year now. I keep a simple water flush between every 1 to 2 fill and 1 disassemble clean every 6 to 9 months. So far no problem at all and it remains as my fav combo for daily use.
Still trying to find a pen in my collection to dedicated it to the Sailor Kiwaguro. Tried the Lamy 2000 for a while, but still not a fan of the nib feel. At this point I might end up getting another 823 for the Kiwaguro🤔
Kiwaguro is such a deeeeep black! I love it so much! - Drew
Thanks Drew! I now spend again money on a fountain pen! 😅 Got a TWSBi 580 nickel. Just for shimmer and sheening inks! Organic Studio nitrogen, love the ink, pens don’t like it. This twsbi got the flow with its stub 1,5mm, and it writes great! thanks!
Due to regulatory reasons I need to use permanent inks if I want to use a fountain pen. This is why I use pigmented inks in my work fountain pens.
When choosing the fountain pens that I use for this purpose I had to important categories that my fountain pens need to fullfill: nib-feed-replacements needed to be available and cleaning needed to be easy.
Finally I chose a TWSBI 580. Easy to clean by unscrewing the nib-section. I clean the nib section with a ball syringe and the piston with a syringe and a blunt cannula. My second fountain pen for work is a Pilot capless aka vanishing point. Same cleaning procedure due to its cartridge/converter construction.
Hey Drew, You forgot Glass Dip Pens. Great for signing stuff like cards. KB
I recently discovered that my dip nib holder (I think it's an Herbin, but they should be standard sized) also fits #6 and TWSBI ECO nibs - and the writing feel of a tipped steel nib is a bit nicer than that of a glass pen, plus you get a little more variety in nib sizes.
Sold! I’m going to get three dedicated pens, one for each type. Then I’m going to pick a green ink in one of those categories and use that pen exclusively in a current journal. Thanks!
I missed you at the Baltimore show; didn’t want to run over to you just to say ‘hi’. So, ‘hi’! I’m glad to have found your content, it has proven to be informative and entertaining. I’m catching up on the pencasts.
I wonder if anyone out there will scream in agony because my Baystate Blue pen is an Aurora that cost me well over $500. The pen is a beautiful blue (came that way) and the nib matches now (did not come that way). 😃
Excellent advice. I can't speak to all pens or all inks, there are too many, but the ink I had the most trouble cleaning was ESSRI. Which was my fault because it says to clean and flush more regularly than I did - combined with, I suspect, slightly alkaline water - it appeared to clean better with a mild acid (I used a water solution of ascorbic acid) potentially ruling out alkaline pen flushes. I could be wrong. The rest of the troublesome inks seem to depend on the capping of the pen. The TWSBI seems especially well suited because for a cheap-ish pen it has a great cap. I've used all but ESSRI (inc carbon pigments) in a TWSBI with little or no problem cleaning. Similarly the Platinum slip and seal caps seem complimentary to their pigment inks. I ended up going ultrasonic and sacrificing a converter during my ESSRI ink months (a pleonasm and it was during a lockdown), it was a reasonable, cheap, Waterman pen but not a screw cap. Aside from my lackadaisical maintenance I blame the pen's cap. If some manufacturer could have the permanence and durability of a carbon ink with the colour and shading of Diamine Oxblood I'd be there for it (although Graf von Faber Castell garnet red is a cm away on a colour chart minus the striking permanence). So, basically, 'a pen with a proven good cap & maintenance' plus, in my case, listen to ESSRI's actual advice (other ink manufacturers may apply).
I am totally on the Organics Studio Nitrogen bus! My dedicated (matchy) pen is my TWSBI Iris Vac 700r
Drew you make me happy! That is all.
Super helpful! I have Jinhaos with Goulet nibs because, hey, I can always get another nib!
I have a TWSBI Eco 1.1 stub that is my dedicated OS Nitrogen pen. It’s not failed me yet.
Drew: I am one of those people who like to use a pen, in the color of ink that is in it. Can you guys do a segment on which affordable pens have the widest color choices? I am waiting for Buttered Popcorn to be restocked. I would love a Yellow pen that is dedicated to it. Already have the Green Liliput with Spearment ink. (your fault).
Lamy Safari's are cheap and have loads of color options.
@@LolcowAdmirer I knew about the Safaris. Just thought I would like a metal body pen.
@@bbrachman Lamy AL are metal body and have different colours in the cap. Another option, though pricier, would be Kaweco Bronze. But only 2 colours if I remember correctly. Admittedly it's easier to have colour options on acrylic/plastic than on metal.
Don’t forget Conklin and Monteverde both with lots of metal, colors, and nib replacements.
Platinum do some good ones in yellow. There's the Preppy highlighter with a yellow feed, the Plasir has the metal body in yellow (Bali Citron). As the nib units are interchangeable between the two models, a fully yellow pen is doable. Cult Pens in the UK has both in stock at time of writing. Or there's the Procyon in citron yellow - again CPUK has them in stock.
If those are a little too low-end for you, Sailor has several yellow pens available in their various lines, from $30 for a Compass 1911, up to the Sunflower Urushi King of Pens at $1,450. Goulet has them.
There's also the Visconti Van Gogh Sunflowers to consider, if you're more euro-pen inclined. Very yellow, very nice writers, and $276 from Goulet.
As a final thought, the Monteverde Tool Pen comes in yellow. Perhaps not the greatest looking pen in the world, but the built in spirit-level, screwdriver & stylus may come in useful..?
Hope that helps... G
The way that bass line syncs up with his opening words 😘
Thanks for this really helpful vid! Ive recently got into Wearingeul Glistening in a big way and just bought a couple of Broad TWSBIs to show them off and not ruin my finer, pricier pens.
I have a preppy just for organics studio nitrogen. It was very tough to clean when I had that ink in a TWSBI.
I was just thinking about this. Perfect video!
I received today a box full of ink samples and I immediately realised I don't have enough pens or converters for all of them 😅 But they're glorious regardless.
"Sad pile of pizzazz" is an excellent expression and should be used in all shimmer and sheen ink writing demonstrations 😊
Personally i find that the wing sung/yongsheng 3008 is a great pen to dedicate to this cause. 4/$15 on Amazon, and can easily swap nibs for Lamy Z 50 nibs.
Drew, every time I watch you on video I think of all the times you say that your wife is so good on stage but you are not because of stage fright. But why are you so darn good with your expressions on video: be it verbally, gestures or your face. It's perfect!
The Orbitz reference made my day. I miss that stuff.
I'd love to see bloopers at the end of these videos. I **know** you guys have some. It would encourage people to watch all the way to the last second too because bloopers are far too much fun to miss.
That's a great idea! - Drew
Didn't know how much I didn't know. Thanks for the upgrade.
Thank you Drew, this video has given me courage to try those high maintenance inks.
Sounds to me like the best option is just to use a dipping pen. Personally I can only imagine using such inks at home at my desk for some funky lettering or other small things.
I was actually shocked how not scary Organics Studio Walden Pond was once I actually gave it a try. I bought a Lamy Safari I didn’t mind getting ruined but so far after a week of writing there has been no issues, with the pen or with the ink smearing. Well, apart from some dye near the nib from my fill which I can not for the life of my clean off. Oh well.
Just a normal toothbrush drew?? I'm shocked at the lack of pencast reference there!🤣🤣🤣
Haha one day the Drewlet toothbrush shall be a reality!! - Drew
Pilot M with a con-40 (I love those little ones) because it has those small balls in the converter so it shakes the shimmer around.
This is so timely for this fountain pen novice; I loaded up my new TWISBI VAC700R with this cool-looking ink that turned out to be a sheening ink. I just recently figured this out, and now am less worried. Now to find an old tooth brush…
Actually, if you are also wearing glasses I personally recommend an ultrasonic cleaning tank for glasses or small jewelries. It can be versatile and makes the cleaning process much less troublesome. Also please do be cautious if you take the nib and feed of Vac-700R off the section, after you place them back, close the cap SLOWLY to check if the nib hits the inner cap, it is easy to place the nib too far outside and the cap will twist your nib sometimes even break it instantly. If it hits, just push the nib and feed into the section a bit harder so it settles in.
@@PeterTheVoyager Thanks!
@@davidsilva8695 Unless you really know how to do it, I would strictly advice against ultrasonic cleaning of glasses. I destroyed expensive lenses once by doing so.
@@Volkmannx Oh, sorry to hear about that. The use of ultrasonic cleaner is safe for items without air cavity in it. Since the small vacuum bubbles are formed at the surface between the water and your item to clean it, air cavity will induce troubles related to heat and pressure imbalance, sometimes leakage. Also, items with internal cracks or fragile to vibration are not suitable for ultrasonic cleaning. For modern eye glasses and metal pen nibs, they are in the safe category. As for pen barrels on the other hand, it depends. Just make sure it is made of materials not sensitive to water such as ebonite and acrylic. Most celluloid are not fond of soaking in water.
Lol, I shove sheening inks into all of my pens. Love that stuff. I do have dedicated shimmer pens, though.
I do this too! I have Diamine Skull and Roses in a Pelikan, lol. It's as bad as Nitrogen to clean out, but I don't even care.
I'like cross fountain pen and Montblanc ballpoint pelikan M400 fountain pen.
I write pilot caplets FP and paker 51 FP.
Can you suggest how often to clean the pens for the different inks you mentioned here! Thanks in advance!
Excellent info Drew. What do you think about pulling out nib and feeds on Lamy Safari and similar Lamy pens? I do pull out the nib and feeds on TWSBI and am careful about the fins like you mentioned. I'm thinking the Lamy cleaning I don't need to be as careful. Keep up the great technical tips!
LAMY feeds are far more resilient than TWSBI feeds, but the re-installation can be challenging and risky to some. So I suppose you could say they've both got a quirk! - Drew
@@Gouletpens I yanked out the feed on A Safari. Hard time putting it back in. But I feel I could do it again. I gently used a rubber grip and pliars. 😅
Nicely done. Recommendations implemented with Kakunos
Love all your guys videos great work as always. I'm currently eyeing up some FWP Ink that looks very pretty but equally scary in terms of cleaning 😅
The only higher maintenance ink I use regularly is Diamine Polar Glow, so I have a dedicated Kaweco Iridescent Pearl for it. I clogged a pen with Herbin's Emerald, so I dip that when I come to use it every once in a while.
Phenomenal inks! - Drew
My Platinum Plaisir handles Nitrogen very well. Has never dried out.
That's a good one! - Drew
Great video! Just ordered some shimmer samples. Hope it goes well!
Have just emptied the plain black ink out of ny TWSBI ECO (broad nib), and refilled it with the Diamine "Happy Holidays" ink, which claims to be both shimmer and sheen (and also got ink all over my fingers, because of course I did!)
Two notes on high end brands: Montblanc is a pain in the ass, as you cannot open them, you have to send them in for a full clean. Graf von Faber-Castell in the other end are easy to clean and have a floating spring in their tanks that stirs up the ink when moving the pen.
Lately, I often find I prefer my less expensive fountain pens with higher maintenance inks opposed to higher quality writing fountain pens with standard inks.
Great suggestions. Thank you, Drew!
For my Mont Blanc Permanent Blue ink, my twsbi eco is best with its airtight seal
Of course, you know I had to put a bunch of pens in my shopping cart after I saw this. I should have my order before too long.
Praise be to the high maintenance inks ! Yay !
Awesome choice and advices, thank you! If it was possible, I would love my Twsbis even more today ;-)
Great advice, thanks, Drew!
KWZ super sheen. Now that is a super wet juicy thick ink and very difficult to fully clean. Use it with a pen that is fully disassemblable like the TWSBIs
Do you think pigmented ink concentrate over time if they sit in your pen for a while? That is, does the concentration of pigment increase as the ink dries out some, thus clogging more or being more difficult to clean? ALSO, what about iron gall inks? Also "high maintenance"? FYI: ALL Organic Studios inks NEVER DRY. Their reputation is well deserved....
My mind kept screaming Noodler's during this video. Ahab in particular. Super easy to take apart and clean.
“sad pile of pizzazz” is exactly how I would describe myself
So, which pen should I use for Robert Oster's Heart of Gold? I was thinking of using it with one of the Cross Sauvage Zodiac pens.
"sad pile of pazaz" is my new favorite phrase
Thanks for this! I have married my TWSBI ALR 580 to Jacques Herbin Vert d'Atlantide and it is working out very nicely so far. (Since you didn't say it in the video -- it's in other Goulet videos -- I will here, for anyone else foolish enough to completely disassemble their TWSBI: LITHIUM grease on the inside, not the included silicone grease!)
This video really helped me clear my doubts. Now I can't wait for my first TWSBI which is Eco in stub nib and my first shimmering ink which is Emeraude de Chivor to arrive!
I hate to be off topic.....but I was wondering where you got those neat lil shelves behind you in this video, only cause they have the perfect asthetic I am needing for a tiny wall in my "office" corner.
I notice that none of the suggested pens are high value, much less high cost and easily replaced. As a former Baystate Blue user, I can assure you should only use it on throwaway pens. I lost a Graf and several Visconti pens with it. Dip pens only.
You: "Use a cheap pen, a cleanable pen, or a pen with replaceable parts."
Me: "Right, so I'll use a Benu for my Diamine Firefly. That's what you meant, right?"
Well, Benu DOES have easily replaceable parts so why not play with the fun inks? The New Year's special edition has a shimmer ink made for it from Colorverse so I guess Benu thinks their pens can handle shimmer.
I’ve been working up the courage to get Carbon Black on one of my “nicer” pens since my Preppy’s cap broke, but maybe I’ll just…buy another Preppy…. 🫣 great video as always, Drew!! love your enthusiasm!
What about a sonic cleaner. I found them relatively inexpensive on Amazon.
“sad pile of pizzaz” LOL!
Pondering here. I want to use my reusable paper. Can I put frixion ink into a fountain pen?