The Needlepoint - Our Latest Custom Grind

We are thrilled to announce that we are launching the latest addition to our custom nib line. In working with Kirk Speer of Pen Realm, we developed a needlepoint nib that's perfectly balanced for your Esterbrook. If you've not written with a needlepoint before, have no fear - we've put together a primer on what makes this grind a favorite for many fountain pen users.

What is a Needlepoint Nib?

Have you ever written with an Extra Fine nib and thought that even that was too big for you? A Needlepoint may be your new best friend. As the name suggests, it is a super-fine grind that creates a sharp point on the nib. 

Who would like a Needlepoint?

This grind is great for those who practice character writing (such as Kanji), or for those who simply have a smaller writing style in general, for artists who work in fine lines, and for notetaking. Academics, mathematicians, and scientists appreciate the fine nib for their own work as well.

What Inks Flow Best for a Needlepoint?

Because of the super-fine point, really wet inks work great with a needlepoint. If you have inks that are gushers, the needlepoint acts to slow down the flow and lays less of the wet ink on the paper. It should be noted because it is so fine, a needlepoint is terrible for anything with shimmer in it as it will clog up the nib

Other benefits of a Needlepoint Nib?

If you're into planners such as Hobonichi, you'll know that the small grids don't always accommodate for larger sized nibs. A needlepoint is a great way to have a controlled writing to fit more into a smaller space. 

And let's say you're not writing in one of your favorite planners, but on a cheap piece of printer paper. A needlepoint does really well on cheaper paper not specifically designed for fountain pens, given how controlled the ink flow is, which means less feathering and bleeding on the paper.

Separate Esterbrook nib units retail for $25 for Palladium trim & $30 for gold plated. They come in EF, F, M, B & 1.1 stub.

Writing Samples using the Needlepoint Nib

Photo credit to Klarissa Maria. You can find her Instagram here.