Perfect Writing Instruments for Kids

I was looking for a fun pen for my kids (6 and 9) to use and learn cursive with.  I decided to go with the Pelikan Pelikano and Pelikano Junior.  They really are perfect for kids, or anyone just starting with fountain pens.  They both are available in Right or Left Handed A (starter) nibs.  The Pelikano also offers a Fine or Medium version.  I like the ease of getting the pen ready to write - just a quick push and the ink cartridge popped right in.

Pelikan Pelikano

The colors are great as well - the Pelikano is available in Green, Yellow, Red or Blue and the Junior version is Turquoise, Violet and Red.

Pelikano Junior

The kids finally chose the Pelikano Junior since the ink cartridge was pirate-themed.  It's a shame that the ink cartridges are not available with different themes here in the US.  My daughter picked out the Turquoise, Violet and Pink ink cartridges and my son went for the Green, Red and Blue.

They also thought it was cool that they could put their names on the pen with an enclosed sticky white label.

I found the pens to be easy to hold and the grip section comfortable in my hands.  I was not expecting a smooth nib for the type of pen or price, but was pleasantly surprised.  The ink flow was perfect and did not clump or flow out excessively.

Now I can't wait to get home and help them learn a new way of writing.

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Pelikan M101N Tortoise Fountain Pen Review

Pelikan Souverän M101N Tortoisehell Red Fountain Pen

For the collectors amongst us, Pelikan began issuing the Special Edition M101N series as a throw-back to a line that was originally introduced in 1937.  Now in its third Special Edition iteration, the Pelikan Souverän M101N Tortoisehell Red is the latest version to come out of Germany.  These Special Edition pens pay homage to the lines and shape of the original piece while utilizing the best in modern technology and materials.  The body itself is made of cellulose acetate and has a somewhat striated design with differing shades of brown inlaid on an almost creamy parchment brown.  The cap, front section and rear section are a red resin and help to set the piece apart from the more subdued colors of the other two Special Editions.  The nib is 14k gold and, like their other pieces, is easily removed for cleaning/swapping/etc.  However, these nibs do have a vintage looking engraving which sets them apart from normal Pelikan nibs.  The pen is piston filled and for a limited time will have a bottle of Pelikan 4001 Blue ink included.  There will be historic font lettering on the bottle and presentation box.

In a collection that spans up to the extra large M1000, the M101 line is Pelikan’s smallest offering.  It is a handy pen, something that could easily be put into a shirt pocket or bag and be available at a moment’s notice.  It is also a light pen, mainly due to the materials from which it is manufactured, so it shouldn’t be a burden when carried.  The large ink reservoir window aids in keeping track of your ink supply and the 14k gold nib ensures a smooth ink-to-paper writing experience.  The removable nib helps to make certain that you have a completely clean pen when changing inks, something which will be of great value to those who like to change or experiment with different colors.  I found that holding the pen was comfortable with the cap either posted or completely off.  While the pen is shorter than most, I did not find its size to be a detriment to its use.

The M101N Special Edition Tortoiseshell Red fountain pen is a good addition to Pelikan’s growing stable of fine writing instruments.  It has taken a proven historic design and updated it for today’s demanding users.  For those that like a vintage look with the added benefit of modern manufacturing or are just looking for a great writing pen, the Pelikan M101N Special Edition Tortoiseshell Red fountain pen should be high on your list of pieces to check out.  Make sure to act fast as the special Blue ink bottle is only available for a limited time!

- Joe (Pen Boutique Limited, 5560 Sterrett Place, Columbia, MD 21044)

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Pelikan Souveran M600 Fountain Pen

Pelikan Souveran M600 Fountain Pen

Pelikan has been manufacturing fountain pens for 85 years, and their experience shows in the Souveran M600 fountain pen.  I acquired the black with blue stripe model in the photo several years ago, and it quickly became one of my favorites.  The medium sized body and overall balance are great, the gold plated rings are very attractive, and the brass piston filling mechanism is a real pleasure to use.  Probably the best feature is the two-tone 14 carat gold nib decorated with rhodium, which writes so very smoothly, even in fine or extra fine (mine happens to be a fine, and medium or broad nibs are also available).

I've used this pen to send notes to friends as well as to address birthday and holiday cards.  Quite frequently people comment on seeing that I used a fountain pen, and they really appreciate the personal gesture in this world of fast-paced digital communication.  If you'd like to experience the pleasure of writing with a quality fountain pen with a solid gold nib (in my mind, there is no substitute), you can't do much better than the Pelikan Souveran M600.  Choose from a model in all-black, or black with red, blue, or traditional green stripe, and try some of the very colorful Pelikan and Edelstein inks as well.  You won't be disappointed.

- Robert (Pen Boutique Ltd, Montgomery Mall staff)

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