Writing instruments
How to make a pen inspired resin paperweight embedding tiny nibs and ink bottles for a decorative desktop accent piece.
Discover step by step techniques to craft a resin paperweight that echoes a fountain pen’s charm, combining miniature nibs, miniature ink bottles, and clear resin for a timeless desk centerpiece you can treasure.
Published by
Robert Harris
July 25, 2025 - 3 min Read
In this guide, you’ll explore turning a simple resin project into a tribute to classic writing instruments. Start by choosing a shallow mold that suits the proportions of a fountain pen nib collection. Gather a few tiny nibs, glass-like ink bottles, and a base resin that cures clear yet strong. Plan the layout before pouring, sketching a composition that places the nibs along a gentle arc and the ink bottles near the center. Work with a contrasting colorant to highlight metallic nib tips without overwhelming the glassy clarity of the resin. Patience during the layering process ensures a crisp, gallery-worthy finish that endures on a desk.
Begin by preparing the workspace with protective gloves and a clean, dust-free surface. Mix the resin per its manufacturer’s instructions, measuring accurately and avoiding air bubbles. Pour a thin base layer to hold the items in place, then allow it to reach a tacky stage before adding the first nib shard and bottle cap. Position each piece with precision using non-metal tools to prevent scratches. Once the arrangement feels balanced, seal the pieces with a clear resin layer and resume layering until you achieve the desired depth. Finally, cure the piece in a dust-free environment until it hardens to a glassy, durable finish.
Craft a balanced, tactile centerpiece inspired by vintage writing tools.
The selection of nibs can define the character of your paperweight. Choose a mix of sizes and finishes—gold, silver, and matte black—to create visual rhythm as light travels through the resin. The nibs should point toward a shared focal point, perhaps the center of the piece where a tiny ink bottle sits. If some nibs have inscriptions, consider orienting them so the inscriptions are partially visible, catching the light without overpowering the overall composition. Embedding tiny details requires a steady hand and a calm workspace. Allow yourself short breaks to keep temperature and resin movement consistent, preventing shifting during cure.
Ink bottle minis provide color and depth without overwhelming the composition. Use authentic-looking tiny bottles with removable caps to simulate ink flow. Fill each with a tiny amount of dyed resin or colored mica so they appear filled yet glassy. Place bottles at varying distances from the center to create perspective and movement. Handling miniature items demands gentle touch; avoid squeezing or bending delicate necks. After setting, apply a final sealing layer to lock in the arrangement. The result should resemble a miniature still life captured inside crystal-clear resin, ready to grace any desk.
Build interest with subtle color and reflective surfaces.
A cohesive base helps anchor the piece and prevents wobble on a desk. Consider a circular or square mold that echoes the footprint of an ink bottle, with a shallow reservoir at the center. The base can be tinted lightly to resemble parchment or aged paper, adding warmth beneath the transparent upper layer. When arranging elements, keep the nibs slightly offset in a curved line and ensure the ink bottles form a gentle arc that guides the eye inward. If you want an extra hint of realism, embed a tiny quill feather in a corner so the composition nods to multiple eras of writing.
Strive for consistency in the resin’s surface texture. Use a heat gun or torch briefly between pours to minimize micro-bubbles, which can obscure small embedded pieces. Tap the mold lightly to encourage uniform resin distribution and avoid air pockets around nibs and bottle rims. Degassing the resin before pouring can help, especially if you’re working with multiple colorants or metallic flecks. As layers build, periodically inspect from all angles to ensure no items shift beneath the surface. The final layer should be perfectly level to achieve that pristine, museum-grade finish.
Use careful assembly to preserve clarity and detail.
Introduce a hint of color by tinting the resin in one or two shallow layers. A pale blue or amber wash can emulate ink reflections while keeping the overall piece transparent. Metallic flecks or micro-glitter can simulate tiny specks of metal on nibs and caps, adding interest as light moves through. Keep the tinting subtle to avoid clouding the clear resin. Use a disposable pipette for accuracy, and apply color in the corners or along the edges where light will refract. After curing, a final polish with a microfiber cloth can restore the glassy luster and remove any surface residues.
Consider textural contrasts to enrich the piece. Pair the smooth, glossy resin with a rougher element such as a linen-textured base or a matte cap on one of the nibs to create variety. The nibs themselves can vary in polish level—some bright, others slightly dulled—to evoke vintage wear. When photographing the completed piece, light from the side will emphasize these textures beautifully. The aim is a desktop accent that invites a closer look without appearing cluttered. A well-balanced mix of materials sustains interest for years of display.
Present a refined, timeless desk accent that invites admiration.
Before pouring, lay out a precise template or guide to ensure symmetry. A simple equidistant spacing plan helps keep nibs aligned along the same curvature, while bottles cluster toward the center. Secure pieces temporarily with adhesive dots designed for craft resin so they won’t migrate during pours. Work in stages, allowing each layer to cure enough to support the next. This staggered approach reduces the risk of movement and guarantees that the final piece looks intentional rather than hurried. Remember to wear protective gear throughout, as some resins can emit fumes during mixing.
After the project cures completely, engage in a controlled cleanup routine. Remove any adhesive residues with a mild solvent that doesn’t affect the resin’s clarity. Inspect the surface for micro-scratches and address them with a light buff. If you notice tiny air pockets, consider a second, ultra-thin top coat to seal them and restore uniform gloss. Display the paperweight beneath bright ambient light to confirm its brilliance in every direction. A well-finished piece should look as if it has emerged from a glassy harbor, with the nibs and bottles perfectly suspended.
To personalize your piece further, craft a tiny inscription on the base—perhaps a date or a short motto—etched discreetly into the resin. Use a fine engraving tool or a paint pen designed for resin surfaces, applying with a measured hand to keep the text legible yet understated. The engraving should not disrupt the optical clarity; position it near the edge where it remains visible but unobtrusive. A restrained inscription adds a storytelling layer, turning the paperweight into a keepsake rather than mere ornament. Store away from direct sun to prevent any potential yellowing over long periods.
Finally, package and present your pen-inspired masterpiece with care. Wrap in tissue paper and place in a sturdy box that cushions the weight and guards against scratches. Include a short care note advising gentle cleaning with a soft, damp cloth and avoiding harsh solvents. If you intend the piece as a gift, pair it with a tiny tag explaining the theme—“A tribute to writing, ink, and the craft of memory.” As with every resin craft, the true reward lies in watching the object sit serenely on a desk, catching light, and inviting calm contemplation about hands, tools, and the stories they carry.
