Sketching with Fountain Pens

As today is International Fountain Pen Day I though it would be a good opportunity to talk about using fountain pens in regards to sketching.

When I first started doing ink and watercolour sketches I used a variety of waterproof markers, each with different sized tips. Which was great but I wanted to work with a single pen that would make a variety of widths. It suited the way I worked. I discovered that many Urban Sketchers were using various types of fountain pens. Liking the results I was seeing, I started researching what might work for me.

The Fude Nib?
After trying a variety of pens and straight nibs, I came across styles that were fitted with what was called a Fude or calligraphy nib. "Fude" is Japanese for "writing brush" but bent metal nibs seem to fall into the same category. These nibs have a curved tip which enables you to create a variety of thin to thick lines depending on how you position the pen. The higher or more vertically you hold the pen the thinner the line while lowering it creates wider lines. They are very spontaneous in terms of line making and do away with the need for a variety of nib sizes.

Watercolour and Ink
If you will be adding watercolours to your ink drawing it is important to be aware that most fountain pen inks are NOT waterproof. If they get wetted the ink will bleed all over the paper. Additionally, regular inks, like India Ink, will destroy most fountain pens. You need to find an ink that is waterproof but specifically made for fountain pens. The brand I currently use is: "Art Alternatives India Black Fountain Pen Ink". There are other brands available. Not every one adds watercolours to their ink drawings so waterproof ink would not be a concern.

Wanting To Try One Out
Pens come with two types of nibs straight or fude (sometimes called calligraphy tip) nibs. Straight nibs are sized in small, medium or large while the Fude is one size. Also check accompanying images to confirm nib type. In terms of purchase there are many venues, including art stores and pen shops. However some of these pens can only be found on eBay. It pays to shop around, especially on eBay as you can find a large price range for the same item.

Here is a list of pens I use and recommend as a starting point.
- Hero 9018 Fude Tip          - Baoer 388 Fude Tip
- Duke 209 Fude Tip           - Jinhao 159 Calligraphy pen
- Sailor Fountain pen Fude De Mannen special nib calligraphy Green shaft

Fountain pens are a great way to work quickly when sketching. They are convenient to carry and can give added line variety in your work.