Ink Shiv Dip Nib and Counterpoint Nib Holder

Ink Shiv Dip Nib and Counterpoint Nib Holder

NOTE: Items sold separately. The nibs and nib holders are separate items and need to be added to card separately. The nibs do not come with a nib holder, nor vice versa. 

Brass “Ink Shiv” Dip Nibs

Aroundsquare`s precision brass “Ink Shiv” Dip Nib brings a fresh addition to our line of traditional writing instruments, combining the tactile appeal of machined metal with the versatility of bottled ink.

Inspired in part by Japan’s rich stationery culture and contemporary developments in machined nibs, the design uses a distinctive network of finely machined, crosshatched channels to retain ink and feed it toward the writing tip.

Rather than relying on an internal ink reservoir, the nib uses capillary action and surface tension to hold ink between its channels. This allows for an reasonably generous amount of writing from a single dip, with a relatively consistent line as the ink supply is gradually depleted.

The brass tip starts out crisp and precise, with a sharp feel that may be slightly scratchy to start with, and will gradually soften through use. As the metal wears in, the writing experience becomes smoother, with the possibility of a slightly broader line over time. Performance will vary a lot depending on the paper, ink, writing technique, and how much ink is dabbed off on the mouth of the ink pot before you put pen to page.

One of the distinguishing features of the Ink Shiv nib is its compatibility with Aroundsquare (AO2) fountain pen bodies (or any other pen set up to use a Bock 250 nib unit). The existing nib assembly can be unscrewed and replaced with the brass dip nib, converting the pen into a cappable dip-writing instrument. This allows the nib to be protected between uses, and can even preserve enough ink for continued writing after a brief pause.

Details:

• Brass “Ink Shiv” Dip Nib:
  • Material: Brass
  • Dimensions: 45mm length
  • Finish: Machined
  • Weight: ~13g each

Counterpoint Dip Nib Holders

For those without an existing compatible pen body, or those who prefer a dedicated writing instrument, the Counterpoint Dip Nib Holder provides a minimalist solution. Based on the 10mm diameter of the K-OS pen, but with a longer body, the Counterpoint nib holder is an elegant and minimalist design, purpose built for comfortable, balanced use with the Ink Shiv nib.

Counterpoint holders are available in anodized aluminum and sandblasted titanium, offering two distinct options in weight and finish. Both provide a clean, understated complement to the warm brass of the nib.

Whether for writing, drawing, testing inks, or simply enjoying the ritual of putting pen to paper, the Brass “Ink Shiv” Dip Nib and Counterpoint dip nib holder offer a compelling addition to Aroundsquare’s stationery collection.

Details:

• Counterpoint Dip Nib Holder:
  • Material & Weight:
    • Titanium (sandblasted): ~35g each
    • Aluminum (black anodized): ~21g each
  • Dimensions: 10mm diameter x 115mm length

For a hands-on look at the Dip Nib and Holders, check out the October 2026 Drop Preview.