Caring for your Goulet Pen

There are two main types of materials that we use to create Goulet pens: natural materials (such as wood), and man-made materials (such as acrylic). The methods of care for these two types differ slightly.

Wood Pens

The woods we use have either been kiln-dried, seasoned in our shop for more than 6 months, or stabilized with a casting resin. This means that the woods are stable and should not crack under normal circumstances. However, being a natural material, special care must be taken.

As with most wood products, these pens are susceptible to weather conditions, so limiting exposure to temperature and moisture extremes will ensure a long life for your pen. Do not leave in the car!

Carrying your wood pen in a purse or pants pocket without a case will subject it to scratches and damage from keys, coins, cell phones and other items that will compromise the quality of the finish.

Do NOT use chemical fluids or abrasive substances to clean your pen. Care for your pen as you would any wood product, using a light wax or coat of furniture finish and buffing to restore the finish. The frequency with which this is required will vary depending on the type of wood, the amount of use, and the conditions with which the pen is stored.

SUNLIGHT IS THE #1 WOOD DESTROYER!! Try to store your pen out of direct sunlight, as the UV radiation will compromise the quality of the finish and prematurely age and oxidize the wood.

Over time, the natural oils in your hand will wear away the outer wax finish, and bring the wood to a natural patina that will vary in appearance depending on the type of wood and the acidity of the oil from the hands of the user. 

Dropping a pen is always a problem!


Man-made materials (Acrylics)

These materials are synthetic, and as such are more resilient than most materials. However, they are more brittle than wood and are therefore more susceptible to cracking/chipping if dropped onto hard surfaces and may be scratched more easily.

Clean using plastic polish and use a high-quality rubbing compound to remove scratches.


Storing

Keep your pen in a safe place.  We recommend storing it in a pen case or box, or in the tube or sleeve it was shipped in.  If you store it in a drawer, pocket, or pocket book unprotected you risk damaging the wood, acrylic, or hardware.  Although your new pen can withstand a lifetime of use it will not survive abuse.  Protect it and it will deliver years of service.

SUNLIGHT IS THE #1 WOOD DESTROYER!! Try to store your pen out of direct sunlight, as the UV radiation will compromise the quality of the finish and prematurely age and oxidize the wood.

It is recommended for the sake of your writing implement, that the pen be stored with the cap securely over the nib while the pen is not in use. The inks used are all water-based and are susceptible to drying out if left exposed for extended periods of time.



***As with any issue concerning your Goulet pen, please contact Brian at brian@gouletpens.com for further clarification.