Pens & Writing Instruments

Glyph Stationers is Maryland’s source for quality writing instruments—from beginner fountain pens to collector rollerballs to the everyday ballpoint worth carrying. Every pen in our selection is chosen for how it feels in your hand as much as how it looks on a desk.

We’re a boutique in Havre de Grace, Maryland, open Friday through Sunday. Come in to try pens before you buy—it’s the only way to know what works for your hand.

What is a fountain pen?

A fountain pen uses a nib and a feed to draw ink from a reservoir—either a cartridge or a converter filled from a bottle—onto the page. Fountain pens reward slower, more deliberate writing and are favored by journalers, letter writers, and anyone who spends significant time at a desk. They’re also simply more enjoyable to use than most alternatives.

Shop by brand

• Pilot — Japan’s most trusted pen maker. The Metropolitan and Kakuno are excellent first fountain pens; the Vanishing Point is a pen for life.
• Kaweco — Pocket-sized German fountain pens in continuous production since 1935. The Sport is one of the most collected pens in the world.
• Retro51 — American-made Tornado rollerballs and fountain pens with distinctive lacquered finishes and limited-edition collaborations.
• All writing instruments

Choosing your first fountain pen

Start with a medium nib—it’s the most forgiving. The Pilot Metropolitan, Kaweco Sport, and Retro51 Tornado are all excellent entry points. Pair with a quality ink (J. Herbin or Pilot Iroshizuku) and fountain pen-friendly paper (Rhodia or Clairefontaine) and you’ll have a setup that changes how writing feels.

Pens for every writer

Fountain pens are designed for smooth long-form writing. Rollerballs offer fountain-pen-like smoothness without the commitment. Ballpoints are reliable workhorses for daily carry. Mechanical pencils bring precision to drawing and drafting.

Frequently asked questions

What nib size should a beginner choose?

Medium. It writes smoothly on most papers, shows ink character well, and is the most widely available size for cartridge and converter options.

Do fountain pens work with any paper?

Most fountain pens work on most paper, but quality fountain pen-friendly paper (Rhodia, Clairefontaine, Tomoe River) makes a significant difference. Cheap paper causes feathering and bleed-through that can frustrate beginners.

How do I clean a fountain pen?

Flush with cold water until it runs clear. For deeper cleaning, let it soak in water for 30 minutes. Never use hot water or soap.

Can I try pens before buying?

Yes—at Glyph Stationers in Havre de Grace, Maryland, we encourage in-person testing. Open Friday through Sunday.