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How to Restart a Gel Pen

Gel pens get clogged because of the type of ink that is used inside them. It's dark, thick and viscous, so it often gets stuck inside the plastic cylinder of the pen. Since gels are water-based, they respond to temperatures. Cold, dry areas will cause the gel pen ink to become cold and dry. Humid and warm environments are best for gel pens. You can get the gel pens working again by warming them up and getting the ink to flow again.

Things You'll Need

  • Plain, white paper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Warm up the gel pen by rubbing it between the palms of your hands for a few minutes or holding it under hot, running water. The heat will get the ink flowing again.

    • 2

      Attempt to get the ballpoint tip of the pen rolling again by drawing small circles on a piece of plain, white, copy paper. Do not press too hard, or the roller ball might get jammed inside.

    • 3

      Replace the cap on the gel pen to prevent it from drying out in the future.

    • 4

      Store the gel pen in a cup or container with the tip pointing down to keep the ink near the ballpoint.

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