How to share a love of fountain pens with the people in your life.
Whether you’re relatively new to fountain pens or a seasoned collector, part of the joy is also sharing the hobby with friends. In the fountain pen community, this artful (and slightly dangerous) process is affectionately called “penabling.”
At Fahrney’s, we’ve gathered more than a few proven ways to share the excitement with others. In honor of Fountain Pen Day, here are four simple ways to “penable” your friends:
1. Lend a Pen or Take a Test Drive
The “You Cannot Borrow My Pen” rule does not apply here! Often the easiest way to penable a friend is to physically get a fountain pen into their hands. Lend them one of your pens to try out. Many people have never held a fountain pen before, let alone experienced writing with one.
Using fountain pens is as much an individual experience as it is a tactile one. Most people become hooked once they feel and see how amazing writing with fountain pens is. Add in trying different nib sizes and ink choices, and you may not need any other penabling tactics.
For even more impact take a friend to your local fountain pen shop like Fahrney’s and test drive some pens together! At Fahrney’s, our staff is happy to help you test any of our pens and inks and offer recommendations. Plan your Fahrney’s visit today.
2. Put Together a Starter Kit
People are more likely to try something new when they have everything they need to start. With the holidays coming up, it is the perfect time to put together a fountain pen starter kit for a loved one.
Whether they’re into journaling, taking functional notes, or looking for a more artful alternative to regular pens, a fountain pen starter kit makes a meaningful gift that you can also tailor for the receiver.
Pick out some fountain pen-friendly paper, an ink in their favorite color, and a suitable starter pen with a smooth, forgiving nib. For a personal touch, walk them through filling and caring for their new pen. Find everything you’ll need to create the perfect gift at Fahrney’s.
3. Share Ink Samples
Sharing ink samples is a great way to introduce a bit of fun and exploration, while also allowing friends new to the hobby a way to test out different colors and finishes without committing to a full-size bottle. Experimenting with different inks across different pens and nibs unlocks a whole side of the hobby.
Once they’re hooked on writing with fountain pens, exploring ink is a sure way to deepen the fun and creativity.
4. Bring Them Into the Community
Fountain pen joy is infectious. Invite friends to a local fountain pen meetup, pen show, or shop event where they can experience the energy and camaraderie of the community in person. Not only will they be able to see fountain pens, but they’ll be able to connect and engage with other community members of all experience levels and backgrounds. If you’re in the D.C. area, join us for an upcoming store event.
Share your favorite fountain pen makers, YouTube channels, shops, or other resources so they can learn more about fountain pens and form their own bonds in the community. Check out our YouTube channel and our blog for fountain pen commentary, brand highlights, and other helpful posts.
In the end, penabling is less about encouraging a friend to buy fountain pens and more about sharing something you love. There’s no better feeling than when someone you care about takes an interest in your interests.
Proceed using our penabling tips with caution: it won’t be long before your loved one starts penabling you back!
For all your writing needs, whether you’re being penabled or not, check out Fahrney’s online or in-store.
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During Fountain Pen Day and beyond, the team at Fahrney’s continues to celebrate the art of writing and the spirit of connection among the fountain pen community.
Whether you are penning everyday notes or writing history, our goal at Fahrney’s continues to center on guiding all writers towards appreciating the joy and craft of writing in all aspects of their lives.
Fountain Pen Day is a global celebration held annually on the first Friday of November. Beyond a festive event of connection across the fountain pen community, it’s a time to embrace the art of writing, promote the use of fountain pens, and share this interest and hobby with others.
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About the Author: Kasey C. is a marketing specialist at Fahrney's, who helps write and promote the store's creative content. She's a fountain pen and stationery enthusiast who is also quite particular about journaling, starting new crafting projects (and maybe never finishing them), and exploring the great outdoors.
From the Fahrney’s Team
We’re passionate about the art of writing and sharing the tools, traditions, and stories behind it. Check back for more insights, tips, and featured collections.
