Pocket Fountain Pens For Artists
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- čas přidán 31. 01. 2023
- In this video I talk about the pocket fountain pens in my collection from an artist's perspective, and give you my recommendations for what pens to get.
I've made detailed reviews of some of these pens. Here they are:
You can purchase many of these pens through my Amazon affiliate link:
www.amazon.com/shop/marckompa...
Kaweco Sport Brass
Kawedo Sport AL
Kawedo Liliput copper
Moonman Wancai
Twsbi Mini
Twsbi Min-vac
Opus 88 Fantasia
Pilot mini
Pilot Prera
This is a lovely video and I'm very grateful for all of your reviews on usage, but the fact that you start right out with "we like them because they're cute" is so very relatable. Who among us has not bought something primarily because it's adorable?
You're right! I try to be practical in my pen purchases, but will occasionally falter and buy something because I like the look of it. Sometimes you get lucky and the pen is both cute and functional, like the Fantasia
I love This and your love to your art. It's artists geekery to its best. Thank you so much for your precious knowledge and the wit and humor you serve it.
That’s very sweet of you to say so . Thank you!
By far one of the best review of fountain pens I've ever seen! I really appreciate the way you conducted the nib tests.
Thanks! Considering how many pen reviewers there are out there, that’s highly praise.
@@mkompan And trust me, I watch a ton of them. People tend to like juicy wet and wide nib, so it was a pleasant surprise to find someone who also appreciates a good not overly wet and fine nib.
I love seeing the variation of the line quality here, thank you! I was looking at some of the Twisbis as they look like they have a larger ink capacity. So many videos seem to show how fountain pens write, but I use mine for both drawing and writing. Another less expensive alternative to the Pilot Prera is the Kakuno, I have two of them , I use one with cartridges and the other I put a converter into for bottled inks, they are around the $10-15 mark, but I have had good results with them and they fit nicely into my watercolour box, or the side pocket of my backpack if I want to take it with me, they would be a good pen for a student on a budget too.
I’ll have to try the Kakuno. If it has the same nib as the Prera and the Metropolitan then 10-15 dollars is a very good deal. And you’re very welcome. I’m glad people are responding positively to the line variation test.
@@mkompan I have the Extra fine nibs in the two Kakunos I have and they are the same nibs as the Metropolitan, just in a clear plastic case. They even draw well when you reverse the nib.
Thank you for the video as always. My lovely Liliput is fitted with a vintage nib thanks to your advice and it has become my main EDC pen. I also have several other pocket pens from independent makers that you mentioned at the end of this video. While I can’t disagree with your opinion on these boutique brands, what they have to offer are some alternative materials such as titanium and engineered plastics, which aren’t found in the mainstream brands (too costly, perhaps?). But anyway, you are one of my favorite CZcamsrs regardless of subject matter. I am so thankful that you’re doing this!
Thank you Graham! Those boutique brands are producing some very beautiful pens, and I will get them at some point, but I wish some of their innovation was directed toward the nibs, which are really what creates a unique writing/drawing experience (and what makes those vintage nibs so wonderful). Schon Design has come out with their own very neat looking nib, and seems to be the exception.
Marc, excellent review of pocket fountain pens 👍👍👍😎😎. Very though, comprehensive, and more information than most folks might want, but a welcome addition imo 👍. I picked up an Opus 88 Omar eye dropper (no way a “pocket pen”). Pilot’s Elite 95s another pocket pen I really enjoy, best kept secret gold nib at a great bargain cost😇. Thanks Marc. You did mention I think putting these pens in your pockets, but it sounded like you were referring to your trouser pockets? I never carry any of my fountain pens in my trouser pockets, only my shirt pocket. Even robust Kaweco AL sports, or brass pens. Each to their his own of course, but I’d be afraid of busting them up. Great review Marc, thanks.
“More information than most folks might want” might a great name for my channel. :)
Yes, only trouser pockets for me. I live Southern California, land of T-shirts, so I don’t have a shirt pockets to place my pens into. And yes, those vintage Pilot elites are really, really great, and maybe it’s better not to let too many people know about them. Thanks for your comment!
What a lovely video. Thank you Marc...
Oh by the way, I have a Ohto Tasche FF-10T, great little pen.
@@TheDynamite333 Thanks and thank you for the recommendation! That Ohto might make it into the sequel.
I had the opposite experience than you with the Moonman and Koweco pens. I'm so disapointed in Koweco Liliput's inconsistent ink flow. At its price point, the nib should funciton right out of the box. However, your video has given hope with the idea of replacing the nib with a vintage gold nib. Thanks!!
I think this speaks to the inconsistency of Moonman pens. I’ve also had a few Moonman pens work decently, but never great. Kaweco pen can also be hit or miss, but usually the flow issues can be quickly be corrected by relaxing the times (you can see videos on it on CZcams).
First of all, thanks to you i got into fountain pens and back to drawing since i can't grip and press a regular pen to use it, but fountain pens are way easier for that
Now for the video, really good video and informative as always, I'm really into pocket pens and love seeing good reviews on them for drawing, one i personally recommend is the moonman q1, the fat body of it make it really nice to hold and use for long periods of times, it takes a lot of ink, and the nib is as good, or better in my case, than the one on pilot kakuno, for an extra fine i got, is really wet and can take fast lines perfectly fine
You’re welcome, Diego! I’ve been looking at the Moonman q1, because not only might it be more comfortable for some people, it might be great for using with a fude nib, since its odd dimensions might allow you to hold in all kinds of novel ways.
Really love the video as always but if you're putting the VAC Mini on there you might as well throw in a Pelikan 200 or 400, and a Sailor Pro Gear Slim, they might be super close if not smaller. Thanks for the awesome content.
Thanks, and you're right, the Mini-Vac is not a small pen, and perhaps shouldn't be called a pocket pen.
Thanks for the reviews. I was looking for a pocket fountain pen.
I mostly am a writer but doodle a little still and want a fountain pen to replace my Preppy for carrying.
You’re very welcome!
In my view the TWSBI is always the best because, for some reason, it never seems to dry up, unlike everything else.
I agree. All of their pens seal very well.
I have watched this video at least 5 times, I think this is why I bought 3 of these pens and I will buy a 4th one. 😁
Sorry to be fueling your pen addiction. :)
@@mkompan 😂😂😂👍
Interesting video. There seems to be a dichotomy here though. Either a hefty metal pen with low ink capacity or plastic with a tendency to crack and/or a poor nib. Since I want something that can be used straight away and use bottle ink I will stick with my Duke Ruby . It is small, (5 1/2 inch), slim, fude, all metal with a good size converter and quite inexpensive. Well made and comfortable to use too. Although not a pocket pen can I recommend it as a useful alternative ? Keep up the good work!
Thanks! While it's true that those metal pens usually have for ink capacity, I think the Fantasia is actually a good mix, sturdy with good quality plastic, great ink capacity and with a very good nib. I have a duke 209, which looks to be like a dressed down version of the Ruby. It's a great pen, and like the Ruby is small enough to be pocketable.
I use 2 Kaweco Supras. One in brass and the other one in steel. I changed the 6 size nibs to Bock, one 1.1 and the other extra-fine. Also Lotte black Sketch Ink... And this combination is AWESOME ! Just saying :)
I really wanted to like the Supra because of it's versatility, but just't couldn't get used to it. Just one person's opinion! :)
@@mkompan The Liliput is nice too but I couldn't have nice flowing ink with a 5 size nib 1.1... Anyway, tomorrow I'm changing my Moonman nib. I thought it was difficult to do so I never tried... Thanks !
I'm one of those people who have had many problems with Kaweco! May I ask if you have the name or any info on the vintage nib you picked for the liliput? I would like to get something similar. The nib that came with mine was terrible. I actually ended up swapping it for a cheap Jinhao nib that works much better lol
I came here looking for an alternative to Kaweco pocket pens and I didn't know that vintage nibs would fit the liliput. Thank you so much for the detailed video!
You’re welcome! I guess I’ve been lucky so far with my Kawecos. The nibs, while nothing special have all worked just fine. I have detailed info on the vintage nib switches in my reviews if the Kaweco Lilliput and the Kaweco Brass. Check them out!
Hi Mark! What vintage nib (from what pen) fits the kaweco sport? Thank you very much for the very informative video.
You're welcome! A large number of manufacturers made #2 size nibs, but you have to make sure the exact dimensions will fit your pen. My review of the Kaweco Brass gives the details.
@@mkompan thank you for directing me to the video. 😊I watched it
Hello, I saw you have the Bijou box. Would you consider making a review about it? BTW thanks for the video.
I’m planning too! It’s very new. I’m still waiting for the tube colors to dry before trying it. It’s going to be part of my review of portable palettes.
What is the name of the vintage pen that the nib retracts? I think you said More/ Morse safety pen? Thanks so much.
That’s a Moore safety pen.
Kaweco switched from Bach to mostly Jowo nibs. The 060 is a modified No 5.
Good info. Thanks!
What is a black ink that is waterproof, can be used in any fountain pen, does not need to be shaken up..? I have not found a ink like that yet.
I find that Noodler’s black works well without too much maintenance, though I wouldn’t leave it in a pen unused for over a month.
Opus all the way, I do like Twsbi but their plastic has serious issues, I wouldn't care nearly as much for the Echo but the mini and the Vac are serious money pens and should have serious durability, I hope they will improve their manufacturing process but it's been 10 years already, I doubt they will do anything about it.
I agree. All of my TWSBI pens have developed minor cracks. I still recommend the ECO as an inexpensive option, but the more expensive models I would stay away from.
@@mkompan I have an Echo, a 580 Diamond and a Mini, the mini is the only one who hasn't cracked and I'm sure it's only a matter of time (It did last 5 years but pens shouldn't have a expiration date).
Meanwhile my Opus Mini and Fantasia are going super strong and I'm very rough with them, the only issue of the mini is the fact that they don't have a simple clear demonstrator, I can't stand the fancy caps they put on those.
Hi Marc,
How did you change the nib on your TWSBI Mini. I tried it once but i could not get it out. Is there a specific model i have to get?
Strange, the nib on my Mini pulled right out. Perhaps it might be right the first time. Use a paper towel (or better yet a thick rubber band) for grip, hold the nib and feed tightly and pull. It should come out.
@@mkompan Hey Marc, Thanks for your quick reply. Actually I broke the entire feed because it would not come out even with quite some force. on which exact models are you using 3rd party flex nibs?
@@georgpopp1292 I’m sorry to hear that! The nib and feed in mine came right out, as they do with all of the TWSBI models, so I’m not sure what to tell you. The flex nib I’m using is made by Fountain Pen Revolution, the #5.5 ultraflex.
Thank you Mark
You’re welcome!
I own the Burgundy with the Golden accents Kaweco Sport !!! What a beauty and what a writer it is?!!!! If I would go for another, it would be the Aluminum version, because I like performance more than anything else, and any pen/pencil I had, out of aluminum, it was the best writer both in precision and beauty of the letters but also on weight and how that felt! Full brass sounds heavy. I'd take brass grip/front part though, because it adds to precision and better balance. The more front the weight is, the better the pen/pencil. top heavy, is a no no for me.
I've never tried the plastic versions of the sport. I've heard that the nibs aren't removable on them. Is that true?
@@mkompan No, it is not true. I pull out mine, to clean it with water, when it has sit for long time. It's also easy to pull out the nib! I just grab a piece of paper to keep my fingers clean of ink. They have also upgraded their nibs, they don't have the issues that they had for a short time at some point. So, the plastic model. is also perfect!!
@@greekveteran2715 good to know! I’ve been wanting to get a clear plastic model that I can fill with an eye-dropper.
I love my TWSBI mini. It is a great and very sturdy pen with a huge ink capacity. The only improvement I would suggest for it is for TWSBI to come out with a fude nib to go with the huge ink capacity-a match made in heaven!
The mini is a fantastic pen. It's only draw back is that #4 size nib which can't be switch out with anything else. However, FPnibs.com sells them with a fude customization. I have one in an ECO, and it works absolutely great.
Fun vid. I want to strongly second the Opus 88 Fantasia! They're a little hard to come by but worth the hunt. The pocket pen Opus 88 writes equally well but doesn't securely post.
Thanks! Sadly the Fantasia was discontinued recently, as was another of my favorite Opus 88’s, the Halo. The other pocket pen they make doesn’t appeal to me. For one the themed caps look cheesy and there’s as a metal band right behind the short grip section that I know will bug me. Good to know they don’t post well. Now they’re completely disqualified.
Good to know they dont post. I have been on the fence about them, but like Marc says, dont like the designs on them except maybe the checkered one.
@@starr-starr that's exactly the one I have! I should correct myself-- they don't post securely
@@mkompan Have you looked at the ensso pocket Piuma? I recently picked one up in ultem -- what a delight! Screw on cap to post, girthier than many other pocket pens, excellent eye dropper (o-rings etc) but on the somewhat pricier end of this grouping (80$ on special). BTW, what ink do you prefer to use for your FP drawing?
@@13noman1 I looked at quite a few pens in preparation for this video, including the Ensso. Thanks for the recommendation. 80 is steep, but having a lighter more comfortable pocket pen with a #6 nib would be great. As for inks, for blacks I use either Platinum Carbon, or Noodler’s black. For other colors it’s constantly changing.
Hi Marc,
I recently broke the feeder of my beloved TWSBI Diamond Mini. Do you have any recommendations how to replace it? i think you also mentioned jowo nibs/feeder for the pen? I also have an FPR 5.5 ultra flex with the corresponding feeder? Will the feeder work properly in my mini?
Best, and thank you for your inspirations! Georg
Hi Georg. You might try contacting the TWSBI company directly to see if they can send you a feed (I've heard that they're good about replacing broken parts). #5 Jowo feeds are close enough, however, and will work ( I just tried it to re-confirm). I some for sale for around $8 on Ebay here in the US.
And it's my pleasure! Thanks for your kind words of support.
Thanks! I asked TWSBI and they are sending me a new feeder now.
Which Jowo Nibs are you using with the TWSBI Diamond Mini?@@mkompan
@@georgpopp1292 in retrospect, I gave you bad advice. The mini (unlike the mini-vac, which I confused it with) uses a smaller #4 nib and feed. I’m glad you ordered a replacement from TWSBI because the #5 would not have fit. My apologies! Those #4 nibs are proprietary to TWSBi. I did buy a gold replacement from FPnibs, and then had a semi flex mod done by Gena Salorino.
1. Wonderful, thorough, review, thanks.
2. I like cool pocket pens, but their smallness and pocketability do not provide me any extra value. 99% of the time I'm drawing in the studio, where I've developed a taste for the exact opposite, desk pens. And on the rare occasions when I am thinking about drawing on the road, I feel no pressure to downsize the pens, all pens fit easily in my shirt pocket or messenger bag. I guess the handiness of pocket pens might come into play if working with a pocket-sized sketchbook as well. For those who travel REALLY light.
3. Are you saying the #2 nib (EF Flex) from my Waterman 52V might fit in my Kaweco Steel Sport, or at least a Liliput? I've finally learned to love its nib, but I wouldn't mind upgrading by putting it in a different body. Hate the lever filler.
4. The Pilot Petit1 is available at jetpens for $3.30. What a bargain. It's my recommendation for a beginner pen: works, costs nothing.
5. Sailor fans might be interested in the Pro Gear Slim Mini, which is quite similar in size to the Kaweco Sport. Maybe with a Zoom nib.
You're welcome as always.
1. Pocket pens aren't for everyone, but lately I've come to appreciate carrying a small sketchbook and a pen around in my pocket. You never know when an itch to draw develops, and I don't like being caught out without my drawing stuff.
2. Yes, that #2 nib will fit, but it's sacrilege to remove an original waterman nib from a functioning body. there are plenty of homeless vintage nibs out there--get one of those.
3. The Pilot Petit isn't bad. But if you can save up 35 bucks, the Pilot Elite is absolutely great.
4. You know, I don't have a single Sailor pen. I gave one to my wife a few years back, and they just don't excite me.
@@mkompan Well, I'm nothing if not sacrilegious...
Oy vey, I can't stand look. :)
Would love to hear your thoughts on the moon man q1 😂
It’s one silly looking pen, but it might be useful for people with hand issues. Not that I have any (yet), but I might just try it.
OK so u got me into buying a pocket pen, too bad u don't do affiliate links. U could of received something for that. I would like to get the moonman q1(not in your review but similar to mini) but I would like to know how can I know which nibs can fit on it. Thinking of buying a kit of nibs for drawing and would love to know which ones will match, no DIY necessary. Can anyone illuminate me on the subject please?
I have a review of the Q1 in a recent video on fude pens. It uses a standard #6 size nib, which can easily be swapped out with many other options. I just set up an affiliate link for my art book recommendation video, and will be doing more in the future. Thanks for watching!
Thank you so much. You're magical. If u can get affiliate on the pens, I'd rather buy through u than just normally on a big retailer. U have done such a great job. Im gonna go watch your review now. Maybe it's good to have an explanation on the nibs and replacement options. Like the size u just mentioned. What's standard, etc. U r an excellent teacher. Thank you so much, may you receive in return all this love you Gove out
Hi Marc,
Is it safe to use the De Artramentis Document Ink with the Pilot Elite? or any other vintage pen?
I wouldn’t. These pens aren’t designed to be fully disassembled and will be difficult to clean if they get clogged. The same goes for other vintage pens.
@@mkompan Thanks Marc. Good to know. If i would like to switch from Document ink in a pen to a normal ink, can i just wash it with water and refill it or would you recommend to properly clean it with cleaning liquids?
@@georgpopp1292 I think you’ll be fine with using water if you haven’t had De Atramentis ink in it very long, and have had no clogging issues. My experience with De Atramentis inks has been very good, and I think if you practice good pen maintenance you probably won’t have problems. Still, I’m not sure it’s worth the risk with vintage pen. Even if you could take it apart, it usually puts stresses on older pens.
Hi Marc,
I now got the Pilot Elite Vintage Pen but without a converter. Do you have any recommendations which converter fits into the pen? Best, G.
@@georgpopp1292 either the con-20 or the the con-40 will fit this pen, but neither are very good converters, in my opinion. I prefer to refill pilot ink cartridges over using those two.
To solve the slippery grip section I apply a coat of clear nail polish.
Interesting tip! I’m
Going to try it.
Marc this is phenomenal, but I just need to know who’s the purple guy (in your opinion!)
Thank you! What “purple guy” are you referring to?
Thank you.
You’re welcome!
I’ve learned so much! @mkompan have you any advice for lefties?
Thank you! I'm not a lefty, and it's not something I've thought about. I'll have to ask some lefty artist friends for advice.
I like my Jinhao 82 with a fine nib
Jinhaos are great! I'll have to look into it.
Is it safe to take the wancai on a plane?
I wouldn’t. It lacks the sealing mechanism of vacuum fillers and that’s a lot of ink to get everywhere.
So NONE of the pens you just "tested" had the factory nib? That helps.....
Did you actually watch the video, or just “watch” it? I tested the stock nibs in all cases.
namiki Myu
That’s a unique looking pen which has become a hot collector’s item and unfortunately now can’t be found for under 200. I would leave it to collectors and seek out the much more affordable Pilot Elite.
@@mkompan Right, similar overall look and feel. Elite is somewhat like a budget Myu.
@@squirts1 the funny thing is that the Myu integrated nib is steel, whereas Elites are often 18k. If one of the Chinese companies makes a knockoff budget version of the Myu they would make a fortune.
@@mkompan Gold doesn't necessarily mean better though. Depends what you're after in a particular pen.
@@squirts1 I completely agree with you there, and say as much in my newest video. The point i was trying to make was that the MYU was likely cheaper than the Elite at the time.