Should You Buy 3D Printed Writing Instruments or Fountain Pens?

3D printed pens are redefining what's possible in writing design. Here’s why they matter—and when they’re worth your money.

Spica virgins by Pjotr pens

If you're a fountain pen collector or enthusiast, chances are you've come across 3D printed writing instruments and wondered: Are they really worth it?

In this post, we’ll 3D printing is used in pen-making, and look at some of the best examples where this technology truly shines.

Why 3D Printing Is Gaining Ground

3D printing is becoming increasingly popular across industries—from fashion and automotive to medical and consumer goods. We’re already seeing greater acceptance of 3D printed products by consumers.

One standout example is the Adidas 4D shoes a mass-produced, high-performance product that looks visually striking and can withstand intense physical activity.

What’s important here is this: The unique midsole of Adidas 4D can only be made using 3D printing. No traditional manufacturing process can replicate it.

That’s the superpower of 3D printing—it enables shapes, structures, and internal geometries that simply can’t be made through conventional means.

Additive vs. Subtractive: A Quick Breakdown

Traditional manufacturing is mostly subtractive: you start with a solid block of material and remove parts (via CNC, turning, milling) to reach the final shape.

3D printing is additive: it builds an object layer by layer using digital design, allowing for greater creative freedom.

So why & when should we consider adding 3D printed pens in our collection? 

before we reach a conclusion, let’s look at a few examples of writing instruments that do exactly that.

Additive Pens: Reimagining Ink Flow

Additive pens LHS & Hex pens RHS

Additive Pens are designed specifically for 3D printing. Rather than just creating a fancy outer shape, they use 3D printing to alter the ink flow path itself—creating a visually unique experience as the ink forms distinct patterns.

Interestingly, the cap and grip section are traditionally machined—because 3D printing doesn’t add much value there. It’s a smart blend of both worlds.

Another brand, Hex Pens, has also explored this space. Despite some controversy around design inspiration, they’ve developed a more refined version and launched multiple iterations of the concept.

P22 by Giovanni Pagnotta: Minimalism Meets Ergonomics

P22 by Pagnotta design

Launched around 2016 by Pagnotta Design, the P22 pen is sleek, minimal, and futuristic. It may appear simple at first glance, but its grip design can’t be replicated using traditional manufacturing.

The overall form is ideal for 3D printing—organic and sculptural in a way that’s nearly impossible to machine. This pen is a great example of using 3D printing not just for visual appeal, but also for ergonomic function.

Pininfarina Speedform Ethergraf: Design Heritage Meets Innovation

Pininfarina speedform Ethergraf

 Known for their legendary automotive designs, Pininfarina brought iconic “Speedform” style into the world of writing instruments with the Speedform Ethergraf.

By making the pen’s body hollow, they achieved two things:

• Reduced the weight and shifted the center of gravity forward for better balance

• Allowed leftover metal sand (metal powder that would otherwise get stuck inside) to escape through the hollow structure

The result? A pen that’s sculptural, well-balanced, and rooted in cutting-edge industrial design.

So should You Buy a 3D Printed Fountain Pen? 

If you're drawn to innovation, design, and collecting unique objects, 3D printed writing instruments can be a fascinating addition to your collection. They offer creative possibilities that simply don’t exist in traditionally manufactured pens—whether that’s internal ink flow patterns, sculptural bodies, or futuristic forms.

That said, they’re not for everyone.

While some 3D printed pens are beautifully engineered and conceptually rich, others can feel experimental or unfinished. You might find small imperfections in texture, or realize that certain designs prioritize form over comfort. In many cases, you’re paying for the uniqueness of the design—not necessarily for high-end materials or refined writing performance.