FAQs

How to Order:

We can supply most products from the ranges of our brands which can be found above. We have a range of their most popular pens, but if you have seen other pens which you are interested in, please feel free to contact us and we will let you know if we can supply for you and let you know the competitive price.

Payment options:

Email: We can arrange to send you a manual invoice by emailing us a list of the products that you require. You can then follow the instructions on the invoice link to complete purchase.

Online purchase: Just add the required items to the cart and follow the instructions, you will be given the option to pay by CREDIT/DEBIT CARD or by PAYPAL at the checkout stage.

Bank Transfer: Please email us and we will supply our bank details if you require this payment method.

Delivery:

We use Royal Mail for most of our deliveries. Depending on the value of the item, within the UK we will post using:

Royal Mail 1st Class - 1-3 working days Royal Mail 1st Class Recorded Signed For - 1-3 working days Royal Mail Special Delivery - Before 1pm next working day

Outside the UK, we use the following:

Airmail - Not tracked. (Western Europe = 3 working days; Eastern Europe = 5 working days; rest of the world up to 10 working days) International Signed For - Tracking available on delivery. The same delivery schedule as Airmail.

N.B These are estimates which will be affected by a lot of factors. If you have any issues, please let us know after these times have elapsed. Tracking number and information available on request.


Fountain Pens:

What is a fountain pen? A fountain pen is a writing instrument that uses a metal nib to apply ink to paper. Unlike ballpoint pens, fountain pens use liquid ink fed through a nib, resulting in a smoother, more expressive writing experience. They are refillable, making them a sustainable and cost-effective choice for everyday writing.

Which fountain pen is best for beginners? We recommend starting with a pen from brands such as Lamy, Pilot, or Kaweco. These offer excellent build quality, reliable nibs, and are available at accessible price points. Our team is always happy to advise — feel free to contact us for a personalised recommendation.

What nib sizes are available? Fountain pen nibs typically come in Extra Fine (EF), Fine (F), Medium (M), and Broad (B) sizes. Nib width affects line thickness and ink flow. Finer nibs suit precise writing and fast-drying inks, while broader nibs showcase ink shading and sheen beautifully.

What filling systems do fountain pens use? The most common filling systems are cartridge (disposable ink cartridges), converter (a refillable reservoir that fits in place of a cartridge), and piston (a built-in mechanism that draws ink directly from a bottle). Many pens support both cartridges and converters for flexibility.


Inks:

Are all fountain pen inks compatible with all pens? Most fountain pen inks are broadly compatible, but we recommend using inks from reputable brands and avoiding permanent, pigmented, or India inks unless the pen is specifically designed for them. When in doubt, contact us and we can advise on the best ink for your pen.

How should I store fountain pen ink? Store ink bottles upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Properly stored ink can last for many years. Always ensure the bottle cap is tightly sealed to prevent evaporation and contamination.

How much ink is in a standard cartridge? Standard international short cartridges hold approximately 0.7–1ml of ink, while long cartridges hold around 1.4ml. Proprietary cartridges vary by brand. For greater ink capacity, a converter or bottled ink with a piston-fill pen is recommended.


Gifting:

Do you offer gift wrapping? Yes, we can arrange gift wrapping for orders. Please contact us before placing your order and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Do you sell gift cards? Yes, Pure Pens gift cards are available in a range of denominations and make the perfect present for any pen enthusiast. They can be used online and are delivered digitally.

Can pens be personalised or engraved? Some of the pens we stock are available with personalisation or engraving options. Please contact us with details of the pen you are interested in and we will advise on what is possible.


Returns & Warranty:

What is your returns policy? We accept returns within 30 days of purchase, provided the item is unused and in its original packaging. Please contact us before returning any item so we can guide you through the process. For full details, please see our Terms and Conditions page.

What should I do if my pen develops a fault? If your pen develops a fault, please contact us as soon as possible with details of the issue and your order number. Most reputable pen brands offer a manufacturer's warranty, and we will work with you to arrange a repair, replacement, or refund as appropriate.