Caring for your pen

Your pen is made using fine Australian timbers. And because it is timber it has all the idiosyncrasies that come with a natural product. It dents and scratches, cracks and moves. This is especially if it is left in the bottom of a handbag, briefcase or toolbox.

It will quickly deteriorate if left sitting in the sun. The dashboard of you car is a real no no.

I suggest that when your pen is not in use, you keep it in the case supplied.

Some timbers are softer than others, for example Huon Pine is relatively soft and can be marked with a fingernail. Gidgee is very dense and hard, and difficult to scratch. Consider that your timber of choice is softish and treat your pen accordingly.

Be careful where you leave you pen. You have a fine bespoke product and if you wish to continue enjoying its use you need to look after it. An unfortunate fact of life is that others will also like your pen and desire it. I can only suggest that you keep a close eye on your pen, and well, ... direct those whom really have designs on your pen to this website!

Physical care

If you feel the need, a wipe over with a soft damp cloth or a cloth with a soft household wax. I use Renaissance Wax as a final polish or buff on all my pens. Pens finished with the more natural wax product can be waxed and polished with any normal household wax product (not silicon based). Do not use a car wax as these often have a cutting compound which will eventually harm the finish on your pen.

Pen Cases

Offcut Woodworks provides a leatherette pen case with all pens sold. The cases are similar to that pictured. I recommend that you keep your pen in its case when not in use. This will help protect it from scratches and bumps.

Other pen cases are also available. And coming soon are home made pen boxes in unique Australian timbers.

And sorry this pen belongs to my wife! Though I could possibly ... probably, well, make you one similar.

Parker Pens guide to pen care

Parker Pens have traditionally made superb pens and have long published a list of timeless tips

"10 timeless tips for a long and satisfying life with your Parker Pen.
  1. If you would rather not lend your precious fountain pen, always keep a ballpoint in your pocket to help out a borrower.
  2. If you don't mind lending your fountain pen, keep the cap. That way it won't "accidentally" walk off with its borrower.
  3. If you write with small letters, use a fine nib. For large letters, use a larger nib.
  4. If you're bothered by a scratchy nib, choose a Medium one.
  5. Always replace the cap with the nib upward. Like magic, the air pocket will force excess ink back into the pen.
  6. If you're going to fly with your fountain pen, keep it either full or empty. At altitude, even a little air could expand and force out some ink.
  7. If you're not going to use your pen for a while, keep it empty and clean the nib before storing it. The acids in ink together with oxygen starts oxidation which corrodes your nib if ink is left in the pen.
  8. Write with your cap posted. If you accidentally drop your pen, hopefully the heavier end will reach the floor first rather than the nib.
  9. Replace the cap when you put your pen down, or keep it posted at all times, to prevent an impetuous roll off the table.
  10. Rinse your nib and section at least once a month with cool water until the water runs clear."