If you know how to revive dried Pigma Micron pens, you’ll have no trouble learning how to refill them with new ink.
The process is just as easy and will fool anyone into thinking they’re brand new.
The benefits? By refilling your pens, you’ll cut down on pricey art pen purchases and, most importantly, reduce waste.
Here’s how to refill Micron pens to keep your beloved fineliner pens around a little longer!
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How to refill Micron pens
The next best thing to purchasing a new set of Micron pens once they’ve run out of ink, is refilling them.
This is a very simple, cost-effective solution to restore your pens in just a few minutes.
And you’ll only need a couple of materials to get the task done:
- Empty Micron pen(s)
- Writing ink
- Pliers (tweezers, X-Acto knife)
- Dropper
- Old rag/cloth
- Paper
When refilling Micron pens, I suggest using water-based writing ink like this one. If you happen to own a dip pen set, that ink should work well, too!
Water-based ink is smoother and thinner, which is better for writing and sketching.
It will also resemble your pen’s original ink — although one of the perks of learning how to refill Micron pens is the chance to experiment with different ink colors.
In addition, know that refilling pens with fresh ink can get messy, so it’s best to protect your work area before getting hands-on.
And speaking of hands, don’t be surprised if you get inky fingers in the process! Below, I’ve included a few easy ways to remove ink from skin quickly and effectively.
Step 1: Prep your materials and workspace
Gather all of your materials and lay out a cloth or craft mat to protect your table from potential ink stains.
Tip: Make sure you use an old rag/cloth for cleaning since stains can be a little trickier to remove from fabric.
Step 2: Remove the nib
Remove the pen’s nib with pliers.
You can do this with tweezers or an X-Acto knife, but pliers are the most effective (and safer since they don’t slip as much).
Don’t squeeze too hard to avoid bending/breaking the nib.
Step 3: Refill your Micron pens with ink
Time to open your ink bottle.
I advise having it closed whenever not in use; you don’t want it to topple over!
Use your dropper or syringe to transfer ink to your pen barrel. For this specific task, the thinner the tool, the better.
Also, make sure you only squeeze 2-3 drops at a time.
Overall, 7-8 drops will be enough.
Ink may rise to the top of the pen after being poured, so let it sit and sink before adding the remaining drops.
Also, lightly tap the bottom of your pen on your surface to help the ink spread through the barrel.
Clean the opening of your pen before adding the remaining drops to eliminate excess ink.
Repeat these steps until you’ve added all of the necessary ink.
Step 4: Reassemble your Micron pens
Once you’ve added all of your ink, it’s time to reassemble your Micron pen.
Attach the nib to the barrel with your hands or with the help of your pliers.
Note that your nib may leak a little after it’s been inserted.
That’s why it’s important to not overdo it with the ink.
And —this is when you’ll likely get a few inky fingers!
Close the ink bottle if you haven’t already (again: friendly reminder that spills are disastrous!).
Position your pen at a slanted angle for 20-30 minutes. This will let the ink settle closer to the nib.
In the meantime, wash your hands!
Effective ways to get writing ink off your hands are:
- Rubbing alcohol and hand sanitizers
- Baby oil
- Tea tree oil
- Pumice stone (soap and water)
- Grip Clean Hand Soap
Step 5: Check the results
Before using your pen on your final projects, test it out on some scrap paper to ensure no excess ink is released.
Wipe off any ink accordingly, until there is zero leaking.
And of course, remember that these art pens aren’t only great for sketching and writing, but also for mixed-media projects; use your imagination!
That’s it for this guide on how to refill Micron pens! Feel free to drop questions or suggestions in the comments below.
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