Using glass pens
Glass pens are filled and used differently from traditional fountain pens.
Filling
Fill from the back with compatible ink, up to above the fifth bead.
Ink descent
Let the ink flow down by gravity to the tip. You can start drawing.
Flow adjustment
If the flow slows, tap or blow gently into the pen over a blotter or damp tissue, or tilt the pen slightly.
Capacity
With India ink (opaque), refill as soon as the beads become visible. With colored inks, the glass transparency allows real-time ink level visualization.
Calligraphy and drawing
- Proper filling - Fill the pen with compatible water-based ink, up to the fifth bead of the reservoir.
- Avoid quick strokes - Avoid fast strokes or inverting the pen when full of ink.
- Light pressure - Light pressure is enough for smooth ink flow.
- Paper choice - Prefer low-absorbency paper, like Bristol or satin paper.
Compatible inks
Choosing the right ink is essential to preserve your pen and achieve the best results.
✓ Compatible inks
- Fluid India inks water and carbon-based
- Water-soluble inks for calligraphy and drawing
- Fine calligraphy inks water-based
✗ Incompatible inks
- Acrylic inks: permanently clog the pen
- Thick or glitter inks: unsuitable for beads
- Solvent-based inks: damage the glass
Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain proper pen function and optimal ink flow.
Complete cleaning method
Water filling
Fill the pen with clear water from the back exactly as you would fill it with ink.
Extraction by shaking (air suction)
Hold the pen tip up. Shake with a sharp motion to create air suction at the tip. This air suction extracts water and ink outward. Repeat 3 to 5 times, refilling with water as soon as the pen empties. Water-based ink dilutes easily.
Final repetition
Repeat filling then shaking until the water comes out completely clear. Check that no deposit is present in the nib or between the beads.
Water conservation
Prefer several small cycles rather than a continuous stream. Fill with low flow then close the tap and shake to create air suction. Repeat as long as ink is visible.
Light unclogging
If ink remains stuck, fill the pen with water and blow gently from the back. If nothing comes out, scratch very lightly the tip end with your fingernail then blow again. Repeat 2 to 3 times if necessary.
Advanced unclogging (lighter technique)
Fill then empty the pen. Carefully wipe the tip with a non-fibrous cloth. Gently heat the pen tip with a lighter's yellow flame until you see water or ink move. Let it return to room temperature to avoid thermal shock. Once the tip has cooled, fill with water and shake to extract remaining ink and water.
After each session
It's best to clean the pen after each session.
Delayed cleaning
If you can't clean immediately and the pen still contains ink, immerse it entirely in water.
Absolutely avoid
Never leave the pen partially filled with water for several hours, dry deposit may form at the beads.
Short break
For a break less than 30 minutes, immerse only the tip. Never leave it like this overnight.
The pen won't write?
Check that ink has reached the tip. Shake lightly to reactivate flow. Never tap on a hard surface. Blow gently from the back over a damp cloth.
Ink flows too much?
Probable cause: excessive filling. Empty the pen and refill up to the fifth bead.
Ink won't flow down?
Blow gently from the back to help descent. If the tip remains clogged, apply cleaning or unclogging techniques.
Irregular line?
Check angle and paper type. Don't press hard. Use a slow and controlled gesture.
Maintenance and storage
Never store full
Ink risks drying and permanently clogging the pen.
Short break
Immerse only the tip in a glass of clean water.
Long-term storage
Empty, rinse completely and dry before storing in the case.
Delicate handling
Handle the pen with care, avoid any violent impact.
Usage precautions
Storage
Keep the pen in the provided reusable rigid case.
Repair
If you break the tip, contact our Repair service.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use acrylic ink?
No. Acrylic inks risk clogging the reservoir and tip of your glass pen. Use only water-based inks.
See compatible inksHow to clean the pen effectively?
Fill with water from the back, then shake vigorously tip up over a sink. Repeat until water comes out clear and all ink is extracted.
Go to cleaning sectionWhy is each pen different?
Each Requin Renard pen is entirely handcrafted by glass blowing, which gives it unique characteristics.
How long can I write with a filled pen?
By filling up to the fifth bead, you can draw up to about 30 meters of lines depending on the model and line thickness.
Are glass pens fragile?
Glass withstands normal use. Avoid violent shocks and keep your pen in the Requin Renard rigid case.
What paper to use?
Use low-absorbency and non-fibrous papers, like bristol or satin paper, for a clean result.
Customer support
Our customer support is at your disposal for any question or technical problem.
Our assistance includes
- Help with usage problems
- Personalized maintenance advice
- Evaluation and repair quote in case of breakage