Pilot Parallel Calligraphy Pen - Blending & Lettering
Technical Specifications
Ink Formula
Specialised Pilot Mixable Ink (dye-based for blending).
Nib Material
Flat parallel plates — produces broad-edge calligraphy strokes through stroke direction, not pressure
Waterproof Rating
Non-waterproof (water-soluble for gradients).
Refill Type
Pilot Parallel proprietary cartridges (two included — one black, one red) or Pilot CON-40 converter
Best Use
Broad-edge calligraphy, gothic lettering, and colour-bleed illustration.
A flat nib for calligraphy and colour — what makes the Parallel different
The Parallel Pen has two flat parallel plates that form the nib rather than the pointed tines of a standard fountain pen. The gap between the plates draws ink by capillary action and the flat edge produces the thick-and-thin strokes of broad-edge calligraphy through stroke direction — exactly as a calligraphy dip pen nib would, but in a self-filling fountain pen format. For calligraphers who want broad-edge italic results without the maintenance of a dip pen, or who want to use fountain pen inks in an italic calligraphy context, the Parallel Pen is the solution. The colour blending use case comes from the flat plate construction: touching the loaded flat nib of one Parallel Pen against the flat nib of another loaded with a different Pilot Parallel mixable cartridge colour causes capillary transfer. Writing with the receiving pen produces a gradient from the transferred colour to the pen's own colour.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I achieve the blending effect?
Is the pen suitable for left-handed writers?
Can I use the inks stocked at Inkwell in this pen?
How does the colour blending effect work, and what inks can I use?
What size for italic calligraphy?
Shipping
Packaging:
We know art supplies are fragile. All professional pair and boards are shipped in reinforced rigid flat mailers. No tubes, no folds, no crushed corners.
Order Processing Times:
Orders are processed within 1–2 business days - we always aim to dispatch all “in-Stock’ items within 24 hours..
Note: Orders placed after 2 PM GMT on Fridays will be processed the following Monday.
Domestic Shipping (UK):
Standard (2–4 days): £3.50 (Free for The Illustrator & Studio Master tiers).
Priority (1–2 days): £4.50 (Free for Studio Master tier)
International Shipping:
We ship globally. Costs are calculated at checkout based on weight and destination. Please note that customers are responsible for any local customs duties or taxes.
Order Tracking:
You will receive a tracking link via email the moment your tools leave our studio.
Returns
30-Day Change of Mind:
We offer a 30-day return window (exceeding the UK legal minimum of 14 days). Items must be unused, in original packaging, and in "as-new" condition.
Faulty Goods:
In the rare event of a defect, you are entitled to a full refund or replacement within 30 days. We will cover all return shipping costs for faulty items.
Defective Nibs:
Occasionally, a pen may arrive dry or a nib maybe scratchy. Contact us within 7 days of purchase with a photo/video of the issue and we will send a replacement immediately.
Exclusions:
Due to the nature of the product, unless faulty we cannot accept returns on opened markers or used paper pads returned.
Digital Goods:
The "Birthday Palette" and other digital downloads are non-refundable once accessed.
How to Start a Return:
Email studio@inkwellartsupplies.com with your order number. We aim to process all refunds to the original payment method within 5–10 business days of receiving the item
The Nib Safety Net
"Gravity Happens. We’ve Got You Covered."
We know the heartbreak of a fountain pen hitting the floor. As a member of our Creative Rewards, you don't have to worry about the 'tines.' If the worst happens, just send us a photo and we'll send you a 50% discount for a fresh start.
"The Nib Safety Net" – Terms & Conditions
- Eligibility: This benefit is exclusive to active members of the Creative Rewards program at the time of the accident.
- Coverage: The 50% discount applies strictly to accidental damage (e.g., dropping the pen) that renders the nib unusable. It does not cover intentional damage, loss of the pen, theft, or normal wear and tear.
- The Claim: To activate your discount, you must provide a clear photo of the damaged nib and your original order number to oops@yourstore.com.
- Limitations: This discount is valid for a one-time replacement per pen purchased and applies only to the cost of the replacement nib unit. It cannot be combined with other promotional codes or used for full pen replacements.
- Availability: We will provide the discount for the exact nib model where stock is available. If the model is discontinued, we will offer a 50% discount on a comparable alternative nib unit.