Fountain Pen Vs. Dip Pen: Do You Know The Difference?
There is a common misconception amongst many experienced writers that fountain pens and dip pens are very similar to each other. However, they are not similar to each other, and they are actually worlds apart. Do you know the real difference between a fountain pen and a dip pen?
Both fountain pens and dip pens are used globally. The fountain pen does the job perfectly when it comes to regular writing. Dip pens are preferred by people who do calligraphy. Both of these pens are important, and what you need to do with them will ultimately determine which one would be suitable.
Fountain pens and dip pens may look very similar to each other, but they couldn’t be more different. Stay reading as we discuss exactly what is different between these two types of pens!
What Is A Fountain Pen?
The fountain pen may not be the first pen in history, but it made writing a lot easier for the first time since pens were invented.
The goal of the fountain pen was to reduce the hand pressure of writers, thus, saving time when they write. It is a nifty instrument that allows you to write smoothly with the pen’s nib. A fountain pen accepts an ink cartridge, converter, as well as bottle ink because it has an ink reservoir on its inside.
Using bottle ink will provide you with the best writing experience. Fountain pens are widely used among writers, teachers, and even students, as it saves time and is favored over ballpoint pens or gel pens.
What Is A Dip Pen?
From the start of history, people have always used dip pens. The dip pen was invented far before the fountain pen, and there was no updated pen to write with quicker.
Many people find it irritating and time-consuming as you have to repeatedly dip this pen in an ink bottle, as it is unable to save ink for later. A dip pen’s nib only holds a little bit of ink when it is dipped.
A dip pen and a fountain pen may look similar when it comes to looks. Although dip pens seem to have more disadvantages than the fountain pen, they still remain a favorite amongst millions of customers.
The dip pen is ultimately the best pen on the market for calligraphy, and there is no competition when you compare it to other calligraphy pens.
Dip pens are also highly durable and flexible, which is another reason why they might be the most valuable choice for people who want to practice calligraphy art. Dip pens are also widely used in the visual arts.
Fountain Pen Vs. Dip Pen
Of course, there are some key differences one has to note when it comes to fountain pens and dip pens. By knowing precisely what makes them different from each other, you will be able to make the perfect choice to accommodate your writing needs!
Their Bodies Do Not Look Similar
Many people still get confused telling the fountain pen and dip pen apart just by observing their bodies. They can look somewhat similar in some ways, but they still have some dissimilarities.
Dip pens don’t have a reservoir for ink in their bodies, nor do they have any caps. Because you have to dip a dip pen in ink repeatedly, there is no space for a cap to seal the nib correctly.
On the other hand, fountain pens have an ink reservoir inside of their bodies, and it also has a cap!
Fountain Pen Nibs Vs. Dip Pen Nibs
The most important difference you need to know between fountain pens and dip pens is their nibs. The fountain pen’s nib is made of a durable metal material, and the nib is usually very wide.
Basically, the nib material is heavier than the body itself, such as gold, iridium, bronze, or stainless steel. The nib of a fountain pen can last hundreds of years if it is treated and looked after correctly.
However, their nibs are not flexible at all and not easy to control with your hand. This is the main reason why fountain pens are not suitable if you would like to practice calligraphy.
On the other hand, the nibs of dip pens are made of very weak materials, and it is seen as relatively narrow.
The best feature of a dip nib is that it is flexible and can bend easily. Because of its flexibility, the nibs won’t tend to last very long. Nibs often only last for a couple of days, as it works very similar to an art brush.
Because it bends easier, it makes controlling the nib with your hand easy as well. These nibs provide the perfect look for calligraphy.
Because of these significant differences in fountain pens and dip pens’ nibs, it will not be possible for you to convert fountain pens into dip pens or dip pens into fountain pens.
They Have Different Uses
The uses of a fountain pen and a dip pen are not the same. If you are thinking of using a dip pen for your daily writing life or for your office work, you will be making a poor decision.
Always keep in mind that using a dip pen for regular writing is not good at all. If you need to write a handwritten letter, you will quickly get tired of repeatedly dipping the pen in ink, and your hand will get blisters.
Using a fountain pen will make your writing much smoother and more convenient. Some brands may state that their fountain pens can produce calligraphy writing. It is often untrue.
Fountain pens can never be calligraphy pens. If calligraphy is your passion, then a dip pen will ultimately be your best decision.
Conclusion
After all the helpful information above, we are sure that you completely know the differences between a fountain pen and a dip pen.
By knowing the differences and uses of each of these pens, you will ultimately be making your writing experience better by choosing the best one for the job!
