Arts >> Art >> Art Supplies

How to Clean Ink Well Pens

Inkwell pens, also known as "dip pens," are comprised of two components--a nib holder and a nib that fits into the broad end of it. The nibs are usually made of steel, but they may also be made of brass, copper or glass. The nibs are designed to retain a small amount of ink, which is then discharged in a controlled flow onto the page when you write or draw with the pen. You may use inkwell pens with water-based, pigmented or gall-based inks that might corrode fountain pens. Inkwell pens are easy to maintain, and less likely to clog over time if you use them properly and clean them after each use.

Things You'll Need

  • Inkwell pen
  • Paper towels
  • Newspaper or newsprint paper
  • Clean lint-free cloth
  • 1/4 cup commercial glass cleaner
  • Stiff-bristled tooth brush
  • Cup
  • Warm water
Show More

Instructions

  1. Water-based Ink Cleaning Steps

    • 1

      Use a paper towel to wipe the nib, so that as much ink as possible is removed.

    • 2

      Immerse the inkwell pen nib into a cup of warm water, and swirl the nib around for a few seconds to loosen and remove any remaining ink.

    • 3

      Use a clean, dry lint-free cloth to completely dry the nib and any part of the inkwell pen that is wet.

    • 4

      Dispose of the used water immediately and wash the cup thoroughly.

    Drawing or Pigmented-Ink Cleaning Steps

    • 5

      Lay a piece of newspaper or newsprint on a level, non-porous surface. This will help prevent ink seepage and marking.

    • 6

      Use a paper towel to wipe the nib, so that as much ink as possible is removed.

    • 7

      Immerse the nib in 1/4-cup of commercial glass cleaner (e.g., Windex), and swirl the nib around for at least 10 seconds to loosen and remove any remaining ink.

    • 8

      Scrub the nib surface gently with a tooth brush, and then use a clean, dry lint-free cloth to completely dry the nib and any part of the inkwell pen that is wet.

    • 9

      Dispose of the used glass cleaner immediately and wash the cup thoroughly.

+:
+:

Art Supplies

Related Categories