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Review on πŸ–‹οΈ STAEDTLER Calligraphy Pen Set - Complete 33 Piece Tin Ideal for All Skill Levels - 899 SM5, Assorted Colors by Karla Richter

Revainrating 3 out of 5

Not a bad set with too many issues to use reliably

I had high hopes for this set but these pens were a pain to use. They can be good for those who want to practice as a beginner, but can also be frustrating compared to other calligraphy pens. Pen bodies appear to be cheap plastic, but at first glance they appear to be different. The set as a whole is impressive and makes a great gift, but prove them wrong when you use it. does not match. I had some trouble getting the ink to flow from the cartridges to the pen, even after rinsing the tips under water and keeping them clean. Several times I had to tap the tip of the pen to get it flowing, and even then it often clogged. I was sure I would consistently clean the pen with a clean cloth but to no avail. Sometimes "hard" shaking would bring the ink back, but only for a short time. It was an extremely lengthy process. Hoping that the flow issue was with the included ink tanks, I bought others from Joanne - same result. The only leak I had was the result of thinking the cartridge was empty when the tip was not leaking and taking the pen apart to flush. The instructions provided state that the ink cartridge should be placed in the top well of the pen, however this is not required and would create even more of a mess if your current ink reservoir is leaking. The cartridges I have yet to use haven't had any leakage issues, which makes me wonder if those who have complained about their leakage use them in their pens and then remove them expecting the inkwells won't leak.

Pros
  • pens
Cons
  • No instructions