Side view of a second nib mounted above the writing nib as an ink reservoir.

Two Ink Reservoirs I Use with a Pointed Nib

Some of the fountain pen inks I use run quickly from a pointed nib. Repeated dipping can interrupt a letter, so I experimented with two small reservoirs: a second nib mounted above the writing nib, and a wire coil fitted underneath it.

Both methods are optional. The purpose is to hold more ink between dips while keeping the writing nib free to flex. An assembly that stores ink but obstructs the tines does not meet that purpose.

Method one: a second nib as the reservoir

Side view of a second nib mounted above the writing nib as an ink reservoir.
The upper nib forms the reservoir. The lower writing nib must remain free to move and removable from the holder.

Position a second nib in the metal flange of the oblique penholder and secure its base to the flange. Keep the attachment separate from the writing nib. Leave a small gap so the writing nib can flex and its tines can spread under pressure without touching the reservoir.

In the example from my workbook, I use hot glue. That is my personal attachment choice. I have not tested the alternative metal adhesives or compatible soldering mentioned there, so I cannot recommend a specific substitute on the basis of this experiment.

Once the attachment is stable, check that the writing nib can still be removed, that it moves freely and that the reservoir stays in place. Then dip the assembly and test the flow with light and shaded strokes.

Method two: a small wire coil

This reservoir sits in the hollow beneath the nib. A straight section of wire secures it in the metal flange, while the coil holds a small reserve of ink.

  1. Form the coil. Wrap thin, flexible wire around a small rod or round-nose pliers to make several even turns.
  2. Trim the excess. Leave a straight length at one end for the attachment to the flange.
  3. Fold back the short end. Use pliers to keep it from protruding or scratching the nib.
  4. Shape the reservoir. Tighten and slightly flatten the turns, then gradually taper one end to fit the nib’s hollow. Make small adjustments without crushing the loops completely.
  5. Check the position. Hold the coil beneath the nib. It should remain back from the tip and leave the tines free to spread.
  6. Prepare the attachment. Bend the straight wire into a tab that fits the metal flange. Insert it, refit the nib and adjust the assembly so it stays stable.
  7. Test the result. Dip the nib and draw a few hairlines and shades. Check that the ink flows evenly and the reservoir does not interfere with flexibility or contact with the paper.
A small wire coil reservoir fitted beneath a pointed nib on an oblique penholder.
The wire reservoir is fitted beneath the nib, behind the tip. This photograph shows the assembly from the workbook.

Using materials already available

I used the wire and pliers I already had. Possible reclaimed materials include wire from an old USB cable that is permanently out of service, unplugged at both ends and stripped of its insulation, or a small, fine ballpoint pen spring.

These materials vary in diameter, stiffness and resistance to ink. Choose a clean, rust-free piece that holds its shape and can be secured without obstructing the nib. A part that looks suitable still needs to be checked in the actual assembly.

The checks that matter for both methods

  • The reservoir stays securely in position.
  • The tines can spread and close freely.
  • The writing nib remains removable for care or replacement.
  • The reservoir stays clear of the paper and does not change the intended nib contact.
  • Ink reaches the writing tip evenly during test strokes.

The physical Copperplate workbook includes the illustrated construction sequences for both methods alongside the ink discussion and guided writing exercises. These are the adaptations I have used in my own practice, not a promise of compatibility with every nib or holder.

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