Gel Pens - Your Kidding Right?

[Scott Feltch]

Ok, I wanted to sign the new bows I made for the grandkids this Christmas, and I wanted white. I read post that said "Use gel pens, you'll never go back", bought 4 so far and none work. Just tossed a brand new Sakura in the trash. Could someone tell me what brand they use and where to buy. Because so far I havent found one that would right on a smooth bow limb.

[jess stuart]

I have had good luck with the Sakura (pen touch) or at least that I think that is what it is called.  Have also used India ink. If the writing surface is to smooth the writing doesn't go to well.  Rough it up a bit with fine sandpaper.  Hope that helps.

[hova]

^what he said. if your surface is polished smooth like glass , you want india ink or archive white ink. if you rough it up (even with 2000grit) , the roller ball will have something to grip.


0-hov

[vanillabear?]

[sulphur]

here is the thing with Gel pens.  they sit on the shelf for who knows how long and dry up a bit.  i have found that writing on some regular paper gets the gel flowing to the ball.  and hova is right,  a little steel wool on the writing area helps.  your going to seal the writing anyway.

[Bent Rig]

Never had a problem with any Gel pens , I believe they have a urathane base so it may depend on what you use for a finish .

[Scott Feltch]

Ok, So I ordered 3 Sakura gel pens. straight from Sakuraofamerica.com. Limbs have been sprayed with quick dry poly weeks ago. Will not write on limbs and is terrible at best on paper. Is there a trick to this. Normally I pick up a marker and write with it. Am I missing something. Tried the warm water on the tip. Circles on paper to get it started, and heat from a lighter. I must really be mentally challenged on this.

Cant believe I can build bows but cant write on them...

[beetlebailey1977]

You should write on the limbs before sealing them I believe.

[Scott Feltch]

The Answer...... Jess Stuart has the answer!!!! I also ordered a "Pen Touch" which is actually a calligrapher pen. Works like a champ and is definitely no gel. Gel wipes off with water even 24 hrs later. The pen touch doesn't. not even a minute after applying.

[traditional beagle]

If I use gel, I rough up the surface first and write, then spray finish over it.