no ink flow on sheaffer calligraphy cartridge pens

[msalazar]

Help. I have two Sheaffer cartridge pens with calligraphy nibs, neither of which work consistently at all. Any suggestions?

 

When you're not using the pen, how should it be stored? On it's side, top, nib up, nib down?

 

Thanks,

Michele

[Nellie]

If they're pens you bought used, soak the section (part with the nib) in a glass of water and about two drops of dish washing liquid overnight. Then rinse with clear water.

 

[Bill Wolfe]

I've had best luck storing pens nib up with the cap on. It's best to write with a loaded pen at least once every day or two. Otherwise, flush it with water and set it aside till you need it. If the pen's been left for awhile inked but unused, try dropping the nib unit in a cup of water with a tablespoon of clear household ammonia. Let it set overnight, then flush several times with cold water. Good Luck!

[Night Owl]

Hi Michele,

 

Even if the pens are new they may benefit from being flushed - just run some cold water through the section. You can either leave the pen to dry overnight, or give it a vigorous shake (take care that you don't drop it, though!) and dry the nib on a paper towel, then add the cartridge.

 

If that doesn't help you might want to add a drop of water to the cartridge. You'll need a syringe with a needle to do so. One drop of water seldom affects the colour and can improve ink flow.

 

Also, make sure you use Sheaffer cartridges and follow the recommended procedure for inserting them: put the cartridge in the barrel, then screw the section on. That ensures that the cartridge is pierced and aligned properly with the feed.

 

Good luck and happy writing!

 

Les