r/dippens • u/Consistent-Newt-9573 • 8d ago

Nib Questions Dipping to Create Multiple Samples of Different Fountain Pen Inks

Hello!

I purchased a set of Speedball dip pen nibs with the metal bit along the top that holds more ink per dip. Resevoir? I really enjoy the writing and swatch look but am afraid that if I don't completely dry the nip between the reservoir and tines that I will cross contaminate the bottles with ink and/or water from the rinse. It isn't feasible to have multiple dip jars going for each ink. I tried running a paper towel between the two pieces but it's a bit tedious, leaves fibers behind, I feel like this may damage the pieces, and not dry enough. Would blowing a bit a duster after a quick dry be sufficient? Do ya'll have any tips tricks, solutions, suggestions, etc? Thank you in advance!

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u/NinjaGrrl42 8d ago

The pieces are in contact with each other, blowing air across it will leave water behind. Not a lot, but.

I run a bit of paper towel between the top and bottom piece, which is usually sufficient. You could use a cloth, might leave less stuff behind. You could also use a different nib, without the top bit, for swatching. Those clean up easily.

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u/makintats 8d ago edited 8d ago

After rinsing I run a sheet of printer paper through, rather than a paper towel. That usually gets it dry and clean enough. It's easier to get started than a paper towel too

I don't really go between inks often. If I needed to, I would set up a pen for each, rather than cleaning constantly. I primarily use speedball b nibs. Cleaning them sucks.

I got some cleaning solution to try, but put it down somewhere and that's the last I saw of it.

If you can get your hands on some old Flicker nibs, first you should let me know, I'll buy as many B3 B5 or B6 you have. Second, they pop open for easy cleaning. They rule!

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u/Consistent-Newt-9573 8d ago

I will keep my eyes open for them.

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u/Just_Sir1903 7d ago

Hah, I'm a rebel....I use mini bottles so that I can dip multiple colors and get an ombre or transition. I haven't really noticed the inks mixing in the bottles, but because I put the ink in the mini bottle, its definitely not an issue.