9 BEST Notepads for Fountain Pens- Tested and Reviewed!

In this post about notepads for fountain pens, I'll be sharing my personal go-to selection of top-notch notepads that have passed the ultimate test for fountain pen enthusiasts: exceptional ink absorption and minimal feathering. As a devoted fountain pen user, I understand the struggle of finding the perfect notepad that complements the smooth flow of these elegant writing instruments. Whether you're an avid writer, artist, or just someone who appreciates the art of penmanship, this list will help you discover the finest fountain pen-friendly notepads that elevate your writing experience to a whole new level. 

Below are some of my  all-time favorite notepads for fountain pen aficionados is the 5.5in x 8.5in gem that boasts 50 single-sided pages of pure writing pleasure. What truly sets this notepad apart is its premium 70# white opaque paper stock, which effortlessly welcomes the ink from my fountain pen and provides a smooth, no-bleed writing experience. This notepad's durability is evident as well, with its sturdy chipboard padding and secure binding with a padding compound, ensuring that my precious notes stay intact even with frequent use. Plus, the clear sleeve packaging adds a touch of elegance, making it a perfect companion for my fountain pen. It's no wonder this notepad has earned a permanent spot on my list of favorites – it's the epitome of a fountain pen enthusiast's dream notepad.

• Size..5.5 in x 8.5in
• 50 single-sided pages
• Paper Stock: 70# white opaque paper
• Padded with chipboard
• Bound with a padding compound
• Packaged in a clear sleeve
 

The magic of these notepads lies in their fountain pen-friendly design, carefully tailored to enhance your writing experience. The key features that set them apart include the 70# white opaque paper stock. This specific paper weight strikes an ideal balance - it's substantial enough to prevent ink bleed-through and feathering, ensuring your fountain pen ink remains crisp and vibrant on the page.

Additionally, the single-sided pages offer an excellent canvas for your writing or sketches without any distracting bleed-through issues. The generous 50-page count in each notepad provides ample space for your thoughts, ideas, or creative endeavors.

Furthermore, the chipboard padding and padding compound binding ensure that your notepad remains stable and secure. This means you can write with confidence, knowing your pages won't accidentally tear or detach, even during heavy use. This durability is a crucial aspect for fountain pen enthusiasts, as it ensures the longevity of both your notepad and your cherished writings.

Let's delve into the topic of paper types and their suitability for fountain pens. Lets focus on the 70# white opaque paper used in my favorite notepads compared to other common paper types.

Paper Types and Their Suitability for Fountain Pens:

When it comes to fountain pen writing, the choice of paper can significantly impact your writing experience. Various paper types are available, including bond, vellum, cotton, and more. Each has its unique characteristics, but not all are equally fountain pen-friendly. Here's why the 70# white opaque paper in these notepads stands out:

1. 70# White Opaque Paper (Used in Your Favorite Notepads):

• Ink Absorption: This paper type is engineered to absorb fountain pen ink efficiently. It allows the ink to be quickly absorbed into the paper fibers, preventing the ink from pooling on the surface. As a result, your writing appears crisp and clear, without feathering or smudging.

• Minimal Bleed-Through: The paper's thickness and quality contribute to minimal bleed-through. Even if you write with a heavy hand or use wet ink, the chances of ink seeping through to the other side of the page are greatly reduced, preserving the clean appearance of your notes or drawings.

• Smooth Writing Experience: The 70# weight provides a smooth writing experience, allowing your fountain pen nib to glide effortlessly across the page. It minimizes scratchiness and enhances the overall comfort of writing.

2. Bond Paper:

• Ink Absorption: Bond paper is typically less absorbent than the 70# white opaque paper. Fountain pen ink may take longer to dry on the surface, potentially leading to smudging and slower drying times.

• Bleed-Through: Depending on the ink and nib used, bond paper can be more prone to bleed-through, especially with wetter fountain pen inks. This can limit the use of both sides of the page.

• Texture: Bond paper often has a smoother texture, which can be favorable for some writers but may lack the feedback and grip preferred by others.

3. Vellum Paper:

• Ink Absorption: Vellum paper tends to be less absorbent than the 70# white opaque paper. This can result in slower drying times and a higher likelihood of ink smudging.

• Bleed-Through: Similar to bond paper, vellum paper may be more susceptible to bleed-through with certain inks and nibs, limiting its usability for double-sided writing.

• Texture: Vellum paper offers a unique texture that some fountain pen enthusiasts appreciate for its feedback and character.

4. Cotton Paper:

• Ink Absorption: Cotton paper, known for its luxurious feel, often exhibits excellent ink absorption, making it a suitable choice for fountain pens. Ink dries relatively quickly, reducing smudging.

• Bleed-Through: Cotton paper generally resists bleed-through well, allowing for double-sided writing without significant issues.

• Texture: Cotton paper's texture varies, but it often provides a pleasing tactile sensation during writing.

The 70# white opaque paper used in my favorite notepads excels in its ability to absorb ink, minimize bleed-through, and provide a smooth writing experience – all crucial factors for fountain pen enthusiasts. While other paper types may have their merits, this particular paper type strikes an excellent balance, ensuring that your fountain pen writing remains a pleasure without the frustration of ink-related issues.