Iron Fountain Pen by Manu Propria

[Manupropria]

This afternoon I finally finished a fountain pen, entirely made of iron.
After turning and polishing the parts were dipped in a solution of vinegar, salt and Hydrogen peroxide. To speed up rusting process the parts are warmed in hot water first before dipping. After 14 days, repeatedly dipping and brushing, the rust has developed over the entire surface. The rust partcicles are removed completely with a bamboo stick. Then the parts are boiled in a thick tea-soup for several minutes.
The tannine in the grean tea stopps rusting process immediately and seals the rust surface to prevent of further rusting. This is a technique developed by Japanese armorers and tsuba makers. Today craftsmen add a thin coat of "Renaissance wax" to give it an additional sealing. I have burned onto the rust surface several thin layers of raw urushi (ki-urushi) that have only been rubbed on.
Cap: Length 70.00 mm, diameter 16.00 mm
Barrel: Lenght 115.00 mm, diameter 16.00 mm
Capped: Length 150.00 mm,
Weight: 70.00 gr
Feeding: Cartridge/Converter/Eye-Dropper
Nib: 750 gold by Bock
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[manoeuver]

That looks very nice- is it heavy?

[VertOlive]

70 grams = @ 2.5 ounces

[tandaina]

A Montblanc 149 from the 80s looks to weigh roughly 30 grams if the chart I found was correct (Weight without cap + weight of cap from vintagepen.net) which would make this a pretty dang hefty pen at over twice the weight of a 149.

[manoeuver]

Doh- shoulda read the OP more thoroughly.

[Laura N]

I want to say how much I appreciate your creativity in coming up with your pens, as well as your description of the technique.

I can only use lightweight pens, and I have no need for arms and armor, but reading about this type of ironwork makes me wish for a fork, or a letter opener, or something, made with this process.

[Manupropria]

Actually the barrel is 60gr only, so not to heavy.
I have attched some images of watches I made in the same way

Best,

Martin
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[ethernautrix]

I admire your curiosity or imagination - and the work looks great!

[drgoretex]

Fascinating technique, and a very cool pen! I look forward to every post of yours to see what you have come up with - thanks for sharing!

Ken

[Manupropria]

Thanks a lot

[MY63]

Wow what a stunning pen the watches are cool too another pen to add to my ever growing list.

[GING GING]

Does the green tea application permanently stop the rust or does it need to be redone on occasion?

[Manupropria]

It is permanent rust preventing except the rust layer is destroyed.

[Brooks803]

I always look forward to seeing your newest creation as well as learning about the techniques involved!