Caran d'Ache Care Guide

Caran d'Ache writing instruments are made from fine materials such as palladium, gold, precious woods and Chinese lacquer, and a care guide comes with each one. These general steps keep a pen writing smoothly for years.

Cleaning a pen

• Take it apart first. For a fountain pen, gently unscrew the nib section from the barrel; for a ballpoint, rollerball or mechanical pencil, remove the refill or lead.
• Use only cold or slightly lukewarm water and gentle, non-corrosive products. Never use alcohol or acetone, which damage the pen.
• Soak a fountain pen nib, or the tip of a ballpoint or rollerball, in cool or lukewarm water for a few minutes to soften dried ink, then brush gently with a soft brush such as a soft toothbrush.
• For a fountain pen, a syringe of water can flush dried ink from the feed and the cap.
• Wipe the outside with a soft cloth, dry or slightly damp.
• Let every part air-dry completely before reassembling and refilling.

Fountain pens

• Clean the nib each time you change the cartridge or refill the pen.
• Use ink made for fountain pens, and write regularly so ink doesn't dry in the feed.
• Write with light, even pressure, keep the cap screwed on when the pen is not in use, and carry it upright with the nib pointing up.

Storage

• Keep each instrument in a pen case after use, away from humidity, heat and direct sunlight.

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Questions about caring for a piece? Email info@paristableware.com or call (201) 652-4233.