Finding the perfect pencil case is just as time-consuming for a pen collector as acquiring a desired writing instrument.
Among collectors, the proper storage of the collection is often a topic of discussion. Choosing the right pen case greatly contributes to ensuring that our favorite fountain pen serves us problem-free for decades in our daily lives. Of course, just like collectors, the needs can vary greatly. Below, we provide ideas for those who are still searching for the perfect solution for storing their favorite writing instruments.
General rules regarding storage
Most fountain pens are made of durable plastic, so they do not require special treatment. Their more expensive counterparts made of precious resin, ebonite, or various metal coatings deserve more attention due to their value: a single annoying scratch or damage can be a serious value-reducing factor. There are writing instruments made with special surface treatments (e.g., urushi lacquer) that have specific storage rules: for example, the pen should not be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods, nor should it be soaked for too long, as this could damage the coating.
A basic rule is that if we do not use a fountain pen for an extended period, we should always clean it before storing it, waiting for the individual parts to dry, and possibly wiping it with a soft cloth. When storing, it is also worth ensuring that the pens do not touch each other, thus protecting them from scratches.
Of course, extreme conditions should be avoided: excessively high temperatures, direct sunlight, or humid environments are not ideal for fountain pens. Recently, I came across a Pelikan 400NN fountain pen that its owner stored in a glass display case at a flea market. The celluloid body of the fountain pen became completely deformed and unusable due to the heat generated inside the display case.
Collector boxes
Most fountain pens come with their own box at the time of purchase, which often contains accessories (e.g., warranty card, cleaning cloth, user instructions) along with the writing instrument. Storing these boxes can become cumbersome and difficult over time, especially considering that manufacturers often view branded boxes as marketing tools, so practicality is not the primary consideration (though there are refreshing exceptions).
Collectors like to have an overview of their collection – whether by a specific theme, e.g., type, era, or brand. Collector boxes can also be made at home, but many types are available commercially. Practically, with just a few clicks, any quality storage box can be obtained, with only our budget limiting our options. One can even order multi-tiered collector boxes made of precious wood, containing velvet-lined compartments and a glass top.
The idea of storage boxes made for fountain pens is not new: these practical and easily transportable boxes appeared roughly at the same time as the first mass-produced fountain pens and helped traveling agents showcase their writing instrument collections, and they also proved to be useful tools during sales in stores.
The advantage of collector boxes is that even a larger collection can be stored securely and transparently in a small space, with each writing instrument in a padded compartment. In addition to security, it is also important that the fountain pen can be used daily when laid flat.
Desk pen holders
Classic writing instrument storage containers that can be placed on a desk are also as old as the first writing instruments, as it was necessary to ensure proper storage for writing tools alongside inks. Writing instrument trays, stands, and pen and ink holders quickly became decorative elements on desks, often serving representative purposes as well.
The spread of dipping metal nibs in the 18th century brought about a renaissance of pen barrels made from various materials. This was accompanied by the spread of desk accessories (pen barrel holders, nib cleaners, ink holders, and blotters), which were often sold as sets.
The first pen barrel fountain pen holder stands appeared sometime in the 1920s, which were still common decorations on desks in the 1960s. Pen barrel fountain pens differed from their traditional counterparts in that the plunger-operating cap was replaced with a long, tapering barrel. Most brands also offered a desk pen holder stand.
There are still many types of desk pen holders today, however, despite their practicality, they are less suitable for storing fountain pens, as storing them cap-up makes the writing instrument dry out more easily. Desk writing instrument holders are ideal for storing, for example, ballpoint pens, mechanical pencils, or markers, as their durable plastic surface does not get damaged during bulk storage.
Portable pencil cases
The appearance of portable pencil cases dates back to the spread of writing instruments. Numerous travel pens and ink pots have survived since the 18th century. These functional storage devices made of metal casting or wood have become increasingly thoughtful and practical over time.
Portable ink pots were mostly made of metal, with glass linings and snap closure caps. They often had leather covers, and the lid that opened with a button could be personalized with engraving. There were many types of travel writing instrument sets. The travel ink pot, various pen barrels, and nibs were included in the first compact pencil cases.
From the early 20th century, portable pencil cases used in the school system were mostly simple, compartmentalized box shapes made of wood, primarily serving practicality. Over time, more interesting solutions appeared here as well: in the 1960s, there was the roller shutter pencil case, the dream of every student.
Various portable pencil cases for daily use are experiencing a renaissance: collectors often place as much emphasis on acquiring the perfect piece as they do on purchasing fountain pens. Just like with collector boxes, there are no hard and fast rules here. Some swear by pencil cases that can hold one, two, three, or even ten fountain pens. Some prefer the hidden type, while others opt for the zippered version. The materials used are also very diverse: they can be made from silk, fabric, synthetic materials, or even split, lacquered leather made from kimono fabric. I particularly like the Galen Leather excellent and quality pencil cases, which are available in various wonderful colors.
For those who desire something even more special, I recommend the Rickshaw Bagworks Sultis Attila's uniquely patterned pencil cases.
During the purchase, it may be worth testing the chosen pencil case whenever possible, as many details matter: for example, the material of the zipper makes a difference. Metal teeth can scratch the pen more easily than plastics), and it also matters what size pens we want to place in the chosen pencil case.
