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Beginner fountain pens (top 7)
These are the fountain pen models that are both affordable and easy to use. All feature stainless steel nibs, in a range of nib sizes:
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TWSBI Eco: This #1 seller features a piston-filling mechanism, transparent barrel, and a smooth-writing nib. Large 1.8mL ink capacity and cartridge-free. Fill directly with any brand of bottled fountain pen ink. Use unposted or with the cap posted on the end of the pen. Spare nibs available. Excellent value.
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Pilot Kakuno: Features a smiley-face nib that indicates the correct writing orientation. It's lightweight, comfortable to hold, and offers a reliable writing experience. Use with Pilot cartridges (0.8mL) or Converter 70 (1.1mL) to draw up bottled ink. Use pen posted or unposted.
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TWSBI 580: A step up from the Eco, the 580 offers 1.9mL ink capacity, interchangeable nib units and a more comfortable grip. The 580 ALR, with aluminium details and ribbed grip, is the newest model. Use with the cap unposted.
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SAILOR Fude 40 Degree: This low cost art pen, with a bent nib for line variation, is popular for sketching with waterproof ink. Use with SAILOR Converter (0.7mL) and waterproof DA Document ink or refill an empty Sailor cartridge (1.0mL) using a blunt syringe.
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LAMY Safari: With its Bauhaus looks, predictive triangular grip and wide range of interchangeable nibs, this is another popular choice for beginners. Use with Lamy or Monteverde cartridges (1.25mL), or with the Z28 ink converter (0.7mL) and bottled fountain pen ink. Made from sturdy, lightweight ABS plastic. Spare nibs available. Easy to use with the cap posted or unposted.
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Pilot Metropolitan (or Cocoon): A metal body pen, known for its durable construction and smooth writing experience. Use with Pilot cartridges or with the supplied squeeze converter (or upgrade to the Converter 40, 0.4mL) to draw up bottled ink. Option to use with the cap posted or unposted.
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LAMY AL-Star: Similar to the Lamy Safari, but with an aluminum body and cap. Use with Lamy or Monteverde cartridges or use with Z28 ink converter and bottled fountain pen ink.
For all models listed above we recommend starting with a Fine nib, except for Pilot, we recommend Medium.
We have tester pens at our Brookvale store and offer loaner fountain pens for home testing. Contact our team for personalised advice about model and nib size selection.