Dear Members of The Fountain Pen Network;

Upon advice from RayMan; in response to my introduction (August 27, 2008), I wish to ask advice from the membership in this particular forum. I have arthritis in both hands and suffer tremors. When my hands are fatigued from anything, I tremor worse. At times I cannot unscrew a cap off of a 24 oz. soda bottle, therefore I request advice and guidence-- if:

1. There is a Copperplate flex-nib, like a Swan 4500 Fountain Pen out tfor sale now days?

2. I am not a fan of the elbow Copperplate nib. I prefer a straight nib for Copperplate writing style for everyday writing. I would like to have a fountain pen if possible however, dip is possible. Are there any recommendations?

I do not consider myself a professional Calligrapher however, I have used Calligraphy in my work and personal writing and consider myself fair.

Thank you for your patience with me and, I do look forward to the advice.

Respectfully,
Maria

2. Do eBay searches for "nibs" and for "calligraphy tools" -- probably your best source for antique nibs. For a combo (Gillott 303 dip nib in a fountain pen-like device), see http://www.ackermanpens.com/gillott303.html Perhaps even better for your purposes (writing) is their Principal nib with the same pump pen device: http://www.ackermanpens.com/principal.html

Hope this helps. Good luck in your search.

ADDED: Here is a post from last year about the pump pen and a Hunt 101 nib. Note that his complaint is about using this particular nib, not about the pump pen. http://www.fountainpennetwork.com/forum/in...showtopic=41776

Dear Bill The Editor;

Thank you for your many leads and helpful links.

In your recommendation, concerning the Ackerman Pens; the Principle nib; would this be a flexible nib as to write in Copperplate and or Spencerian styles; in addition to Calligraphy?

If it is of any help, my hand is rather small. Three inches across the knuckles.

I look forward to your responses.

Respectfully,
Maria