How to Restart a Dry Ball Point Pen

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Scribble vigorously for a while on a piece of scratch paper.

   Sometimes, this is all it takes to coax a pen into writing again.
2. 2

   Step 2: If you're able to remove the ink cartridge and the cartridge does not have a cap on the opposite end from the ballpoint

   This may work as an on the go fix. , Once you've done that, reinsert the ink cartridge. ,, This may get the end rolling. , When something comes out, make swirls to test that the pen is working. , Hold the back end of the pen, opposite the tip, and shake the pen like a thermometer.
   
   Sometimes air bubbles get into the ink cylinder, so shaking the ink down toward the tip is a good idea. , If a pen was a special favorite and you'd rather not replace it, get a fresh ink cartridge or refill from your office supply store and install it.
3. 3

   Step 3: you can blow into that end for a second or two.

4. 4

   Step 4: You can also take the ink cartridge out and blow on the clean end.

5. 5

   Step 5: Lightly press your pen on something (paper is best) and see if it will start writing.

6. 6

   Step 6: Press down hard vertically on a piece of paper then move it while still holding it down.

7. 7

   Step 7: Make a few dots.

8. 8

   Step 8: Shake the pen.

9. 9

   Step 9: Install the correct refill.

Detailed Guide

About the Author