Getting Started

[spinningtrees]

Hello all, I've been collecting and enjoying fountain pens for many years, but I have never repaired one. My collection includes a couple of dozen pens that likely only need a new sac and a good cleaning.

My question is, what tools or resources do I need to get started in basic restoration? I have an ultrasonic cleaner already and the basic household tools.

I didn't see any pinned posts on this, so I thought I'd ask. Not looking to repair nibs at this time, just replacing sacs/bladders and maybe corks in piston fillers.

 

Thanks for any replies!

 

Erik

[Wile E Coyote]

Use the search box to search for "tools".

 

Here's a start.

[redbike]

This is a good place to start. Good luck and have fun.

 

http://www.richardspens.com/?page=ref/repair/sac_replacement.htm

[Mcicool]

Was about to start equal topic. Thanks for info guys!

[Gloucesterman]

There are a bunch of threads on doing repairs to vintage pens. Check out the brand specific sections.

 

Also, as stated above, Richardspens.com (Richard Binder) as well as Main Street Pens, Goulet Pens and others offer repair and polishing kits. Finally, this site might be a "one-stop-shop" for you too.

 

BTW, no affiliation with any of the above.

-S-

P.S. You can also find instructional videos on YouTube and written instruction at Richards...

[c4bb0ose]

http://fountainpensacs.com/cement.html This kit is what I normally reccomend (no affiliation, just a customer) if you are more of a book person they also sell:

 

 

http://fountainpensacs.com/da_book.html books on how to repair and the likes.

Edited January 21, 2014 by c4bb0ose

[spinningtrees]

Thanks everyone! I'll do lots of research before I start, and the first pen will be a cheapie just in case I botch it!

[redbike]

Thanks everyone! I'll do lots of research before I start, and the first pen will be a cheapie just in case I botch it!

A no-name lever filler is a good place to start. Good luck.

[balson]

i think there is better info online for free than you can find in "da book". historically "da book" is very important but i think the community has outgrown it. some of the information is "da book" can even damage the pens you are working on. in my opinion "pen repair book third edition" by jim marshal and laurence oldfield is a much better book

 

for tools richard binders pen tool starter kit contains the basics of what you need. bulbs for flushing pens, a small pen light, a knock out block, and a hair dryer / heat gun are also recommended to supplement what's in the basic kit.

 

other than that the best advice that i can think of is to pay close attention to your sense of touch, don't force anything, learn as much about the pen you are going to fix before you start, and don't work on pens when you are tired or stressed.

[Lemur]

I can recommend:

 

Laurence Oldfield, UK: http://www.penpractice.com

 

Peter Twydle, UK: http://www.penmuseum.co.uk

 

Good luck!

Edited January 23, 2014 by Lemur