This pen is called the Pnut. (short for “Peanut“).  If it’s not immediately obvious, the name comes from both the shape and the size. I usually use a name from one of the world’s tallest mountains, but as I looked through the list, I couldn’t find one that fit. But when I came up with the shape while working on the prototype, I knew that I had to at least use something that referenced the name “peanut.” And to continue with the acronym theme (used for the PFP), I decided to shorten the name to just “Pnut.”.

Background: The PFP was my first “pocket” pen, and I originally made it just to see if I could make a miniature pen. But after posting some photos on a pen forum, it created quite a stir, and I started getting inquiries for one. Eventually I decided to add the PFP to my pen line-up, and now it’s one of my most popular pens. So, with the success of the PFP, I decided to explore the possibilities for another portable pen.

Styling: As with the styling of the PFP, I like the convertible theme for a portable pen. The idea is to be short for portability, but then it can be quickly converted to a longer pen for writing. So I wanted to continue that same theme with this pen. I also wanted the pen to have an organic feel so it would be comfortable to carry in a pant pocket or purse, but I didn’t want the style to look too similar to the PFP. So after a few mock-ups, I decided on this “peanut” shape.

But there’s more to the pen’s shape than just looking like a peanut. Not only does the shape give the pen that organic look I was after, but it also helps to make the pen more ergonomic, so it’s very comfortable to use. The ‘pinch’ in the center of the outer shell (get it—peanut—outer shell) falls right into the web between your thumb and forefinger when you grip it to write.

Size: The Pnut is sized similar to the PFP. Because they are hand-made, the size can vary slightly from pen to pen. The closed length is about 3 1/2″, and when posted, it grows to about 5 1/4″ posted. The maximum diameter of the outer shell is 5/8″, and the weight (without ink) is only about 12 grams (for the all-acrylic model).

Filling the Pnut:
The pen has two filling options: you can install a disposable cartridge or use it as an eyedropper and fill it directly.

a) Using a disposable cartridge…
If you elect to use a disposable cartridge, you simply remove the filler cap and insert the cartridge into the back end of the barrel, pushing the cartridge in firmly to break the seal and seat it down onto the feed nipple. Then reinstall the filler cap and screw it tight.

b) Filling the pen eyedropper style…
(Note: If you’re not familiar with the term, “eyedropper” is the name used for a pen that is filled directly with ink. Directly means putting the ink directly into the barrel instead of using any kind of reservoir to hold the ink. The method came to be called eyedropper because an eye dropper was used to fill the pen.

You can fill the Pnut using either an eyedropper or a small syringe. Remove the small cap at the back of the barrel. Fill it with ink (don’t fill it into the threads). Then reinstall the small cap. Just like the PFP, the Pnut has a rubber O-ring on the filler cap that will create a tight seal. No need for grease!

c) Refill a disposable cartridge…
A third filling option you can use is refilling a disposable cartridge once it becomes empty. Fill it with the syringe just as you would fill an eyedropper. If you’re filling the cartridge with a different colored ink, just be sure to flush out any residual ink first.

A little helper included… I’ve made mention both on my website and in e-mails to clients that a long needle syringe can be a very helpful tool to have when filling a fountain pen. I used to use them many years ago to fill the ink cartridges for my computer printer. I eventually gave that up, but I kept the syringes (they work great for small gluing applications in the workshop). Then, when I got into pen making, I found them useful for filling fountain pens and would always recommend them. But now, instead of just recommending them, I decided to stock some and include one with each mini pen. So if you order a Pnut, I will include a 5 ml volume syringe with a long (blunt-nose) needle.

How to use… To use the pen once it’s filled with ink, you simply grab the posting ring (the band that sits in the middle of the threads) and unscrew the inner barrel from the outer shell. Then flip it around and screw it back in. Once reconnected, you have a pen that’s over 5 1/4″ long. And if you’re in a hurry or need to give a quick signature, the barrel/section alone is just long enough that it can be used independently without posting.

Ordering information… As with all of my other pens, you can custom order a pen in a variety of acrylics. If you would like help picking something out, I’d be glad to send you some links. The Pnut includes a #5 steel Meister nib in either polished steel or all-gold finish. Several tip sizes are available but can change. So please inquire for current tip sizes. I also include two disposable ink cartridges and a 5 ml syringe with a long, blunt needle.

Upgrade option… The standard Pnut doesn’t have any hardware other than the nib. But if you’d like to add a little bling to your pen, you can upgrade the posting band with a metal band with a vertical knife-cut pattern. Some pens are shown with the metal band. Finishes available are solid brass, 24k gold, rhodium, and nickel plating. You can color-coordinate the band with your nib.

THANKS! If you’ve persevered and read all the way through, I thank you for your patience, and I hope you’ve found the information helpful. If you’re excited about the pen and would like to order one or have some additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I look forward to hearing from you!