Fountain Pen Nibs
The nibs on most fountain pens are removable. But fountain pens don’t work that well without a nib, so the reason that nibs are removable is so that you can swap in another. And why would you want to do that? The most common reason is because it’s damaged. Accidents happen. But a more exciting reason is so that you can try something different. You could fit an extra-fine nib if you want to try a spot of Japanese lettering. Or a stub nib for some traditional calligraphy. Or - if you’re the type to write big and bold - a broad nib is probably a good idea. We think using a fountain pen is a fabulous way to write, so why not try and find the perfect nib to really elevate your experience?
Fountain Pen Nibs FAQ
Can my pen’s nib be replaced?
It depends on the pen. Some have interchangeable nib units that screw out of the grip section. With others, the whole grip section is the nib unit. A few have pull-off nibs, where replacement nibs just slide back on. But there are quite a few where the nibs aren’t intended to be removed at all, and trying to do so could damage the pen. If your pen isn’t covered below, try a web search to see if anyone has documented it, or contact us to see if we know if it can be changed.
Changing nibs on Lamy pens
Almost all of Lamy’s pens, with the exception of the Lamy 2000, use standard push-fit nibs. The majority are steel nibs, which just pull off the feed, and a replacement pushes on. A bit of sticky tape across the top of the nib can be a huge help, giving you a lot more grip. When pushing the replacement nib on by its sides, not the tip - not only could you damage the tip, but you have to push quite hard, and it’s sharp!
The Lamy 2000 nibs are not replaceable, they should be returned to Lamy for repair if needed. Lamy’s other gold nibs are push fit, but Lamy don’t provide spares, and say the pens should be returned to them for replacements - the gold nibs are softer and easier to damage, along with being more expensive if something goes wrong.
Changing nibs on Faber-Castell pens
Some of Faber-Castell’s pens have replacement nib units available - supplied as a complete nib/feed/grip section. With these, you’d just unscrew that part from the barrel as you would to change cartridges or fill with ink, and put it back together with the new part.
Changing nibs on Kaweco pens
Kaweco have a standard nib unit that’s used on many of their pens, but not all of them. Metal versions of the Sport, the Liliput, and some others, use these nib units. But plastic Sport pens don’t. If your pen uses one of these nib units, you just unscrew the nib unit from the grip section, and screw in the new one. Grip it over the top and bottom of the nib, so you’re not twisting the sides. Wrapping in some tissue is a good idea, as it spreads the force a bit better, as well as absorbing ink, which might keep your fingers cleaner.
Changing nibs on TWSBI pens
Nib units are available for most TWSBI pens, and are complete nib/feed/grip section replacements, like Faber-Castell. Very easy to replace.
Changing nibs on Conklin pens
Many of Conklin’s pens use a screw-in nib unit, very similar to Kaweco. Change it the same way - grip across the top and bottom, and use some tissue to help spread the force.
Take care with the Omniflex nib - don’t try to pull them, those edges are sharp and can cut deep into your thumb. Please don’t ask how we know.