Cartridge vs Converter: How to Choose a Fountain Pen Filling System and Set It Up Cleanly)

Use this quick plan before you buy refills. It reduces the most common mistake: buying an ink format your pen cannot use.

1. Identify your pen model (or brand line). Refill compatibility is not universal, even within the same brand.
2. Confirm whether your pen accepts cartridges, a converter, or both. For example, some pens are designed to accept both formats, while others are cartridge-only or piston-only.
3. Pick your priority for the next 30 days. Choose convenience (cartridges) or variety (converter plus bottled ink). You can always switch later once you understand your pen.
4. Decide how you will use the pen. If you commute or travel, cartridges are easier to carry. If you mostly write at a desk, a converter is usually more enjoyable.
5. Choose your refill format. If you want cartridges, start with something like Lamy fountain pen ink cartridges (pack of 5). If you want bottled ink, start with a compatible converter such as the LAMY Z28 converter.
6. Sanity-check your plan with one supporting read. If you are still deciding, the Art Noise pen guide helps you confirm that a fountain pen matches how you like to write before you invest further.

If you write with LAMY, it can be helpful to browse the range in Lamy fine pens so you can match refills and accessories to your exact pen.

A converter can be the most satisfying option once you have a basic routine. Pairing a compatible converter with a bottle like Lamy ink bottle (50mL) lets you choose colours more freely and refill on your own schedule.

Clean refill workflow (5–7 minutes):

1. Prepare your station. Set down a folded paper towel and open your bottle on a stable surface.
2. Insert the converter securely. It should seat firmly, similar to a cartridge.
3. Dip the nib and feed fully. Submerge the breather hole so you draw ink properly.
4. Fill slowly. Turn the converter mechanism steadily, then expel a few drops back into the bottle and refill once more. This reduces air bubbles.
5. Wipe and cap. Wipe the grip section and nib gently, cap the pen, then write a few loops to confirm flow.

Make it easier (especially if you are busy)

• If you want a “zero setup” week, use cartridges, then return to bottled ink when you have time.
• If you only refill monthly, pick one reliable everyday colour and stick with it for 30 days.
• If you hate cleaning, avoid switching colours frequently. Frequent switching creates the most flushing work.
• If you travel, keep cartridges for trips and use a converter at home.
• If you tend to spill, refill over a tray or baking sheet so cleanup is contained.
• If you are building a journaling habit, keep your pen stored with your notebook, not in a drawer. Add simple tools like envelopes and note paper from stationery so the kit is always ready.

Simple maintenance routine: once a week, wipe the nib and cap threads. Once a month, rinse the nib section with cool water until it runs clear, then dry overnight before refilling. If you want a small, enjoyable way to practise and stay consistent, pair this with one of the prompts in fine writing mini projects, and browse more options in luxury pens when you are ready to upgrade your daily writer.