Feature image with the title “The Pen Commandments” and the teaser text “Are You Guilty of Breaking Any of These?”, set on a parchment background with a line illustration of a hand offering a fountain pen.

The Pen Commandments

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Last updated on May 19, 2025

Are You Guilty of Breaking Any of These?

Pens. We collect them, protect them, misplace them… and mourn them. Whether you’re a stationery addict, a casual scribbler, or a certified pen geek, chances are you’ve felt the sting of a stolen pen or the betrayal of cheap paper.

That’s why we’ve created The Pen Commandments — 10 sacred (and slightly sarcastic) rules every pen lover should live by. Post them on your wall. Share them with your friends. Whisper them under your breath next time someone chews the end of your favourite rollerball.

✍️ The Top 10 Pen Commandments

I. Thou Shalt Ask Before Borrowing My Pen

Illustration of a hand requesting to borrow a pen, representing Commandment I: Thou Shalt Ask Before Borrowing My Pen.

Respect the sacred ritual of pen lending. This is a trust-based transaction.

II. Thou Shalt Not Steal My Pen – Buy Your Own

Graphic showing pen ownership boundaries, symbolizing Commandment II: Thou Shalt Not Steal My Pen – Buy Your Own.

The boldest of sins. Pen theft is a dark art practiced by co-workers and classmates alike.

III. Thou Shalt Replace the Cap Immediately

Image of a hand replacing a pen cap, illustrating Commandment III: Thou Shalt Replace the Cap Immediately.

Leaving the cap off is like leaving the milk out: reckless, selfish, and unacceptable.

IV. Thou Shalt Not Chew the End

Minimalist drawing of a chewed pen with a warning symbol, showing Commandment IV: Thou Shalt Not Chew the End.

Pens are not snacks. We repeat: not snacks.

V. Thou Shalt Not Click Repeatedly Without Writing

Illustration of someone clicking a pen endlessly, reflecting Commandment V: Thou Shalt Not Click Repeatedly Without Writing.

Click. Click. Click. No. Please stop. Seriously. You’re making everyone twitch.

VI. Thou Shalt Not Use My Fountain Pen on Cheap Paper

Drawing of fountain pen on thin paper, symbolizing Commandment VI: Thou Shalt Not Use My Fountain Pen on Cheap Paper.

Feathering, bleeding, heartbreak. Treat fine nibs with the respect they deserve.

VII. Thou Shalt Know the Difference Between a Rollerball and a Ballpoint

Line art comparing rollerball and ballpoint pens, for Commandment VII: Thou Shalt Know the Difference Between a Rollerball and a Ballpoint.

There is a difference. Don’t pretend there isn’t. Know your pens.

VIII. Thou Shalt Clean Thy Fountain Pen Regularly

Illustration of a hand cleaning a fountain pen under running water, for Commandment VIII: Thou Shalt Clean Thy Fountain Pen Regularly.

A dirty pen is a dry pen. Rinse it like you mean it.

IX. Thou Shalt Not Let Children Near My Limited Editions

Cartoon of a crying child and a fancy pen separated by a diagonal line, representing Commandment

Sticky fingers, dropped caps, irreversible trauma. Keep the grails out of reach.

X. Thou Shalt Carry a Backup Pen at All Times

Cartoon of a crying child and a fancy pen separated by a diagonal line, representing Commandment IX: Thou Shalt Not Let Children Near My Limited Editions.

Because inspiration (and bureaucracy) strikes when you least expect it.

🧠 Final Thoughts: Live by the Pen

Whether you’re a fountain pen fanatic, a gel ink junkie, or just someone who appreciates smooth writing, these commandments are more than just playful rules — they’re a manifesto for the modern stationery lover.

If Commandment I or II struck a little too close to home, you’ll enjoy our reflection on pen personalities: Are you a pen carrier or a pen borrower?

Still not sure why using cheap paper is practically ink abuse (Commandment VI)? Dive into how pens work to understand the science behind nibs, ink flow, and why some pens demand better treatment.

And if Commandment VII had you second-guessing your favourite pen, don’t miss our deep dive into ballpoint vs. rollerball vs. gel pens — it may change your go-to writing tool.

Print them (especially Commandments I–X). Pin them (Commandment IX might need it). Post them (because Commandment II is always at risk). Or just remember them next time someone “accidentally walks off” with your pen (definitely Commandment II again).

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