About this Event
Most vintage lever-fill pens stop working for the same reason: the rubber sac that holds the ink breaks down over time. Replacing it is one of the most satisfying repairs a pen lover can learn. In this 90-minute workshop, you’ll do it yourself on a vintage Esterbrook that becomes yours to keep.
Sara Pierce, who handles fountain pen repair for Oblation, starts with why the Esterbrook makes such a good first repair pen. It’s sturdy, simply built and was made in large numbers. Then you’ll take your Esterbrook SJ or LJ pen apart safely and remove and clean out the old sac. You’ll size, fit and shellac a new one and reassemble the pen. Along the way, Sara will show you Esterbrook’s interchangeable nibs, one of the things collectors love most about these pens.
You’ll leave with a working pen you restored yourself, plus guidance for letting the shellac cure and giving it its first fill.
No repair experience is needed. All tools and materials are provided, and your vintage Esterbrook is included in the ticket price.
Friday, November 6, 2026 (Fountain Pen Day!)
4:00 - 6:00pm
$70 per person, including your vintage Esterbrook and all materials
Limited to 6 people, so everyone gets hands-on guidance
Event venue & nearby stays
Oblation Papers & Press, 516 Northwest 12th Avenue, Portland, United States
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