Gelschreiber

Gelschreiber, or gel pen, is a writing instrument that uses a water-based gel ink. The ink contains pigments suspended in a gel-forming vehicle, producing a smooth flow and high color saturation on paper. Gel inks are generally more viscous than ballpoint inks while remaining water-based, which helps reduce feathering and yields bolder lines.

Designs are commonly retractable or cap-based and offered in a range of tip sizes, typically from about 0.3 mm to 1.0 mm. Gel pens are popular for everyday writing, note-taking, and art because they deliver bright colors and clean lines. Drying times vary by paper and color, but gel inks can smudge if touched before drying, especially on non-absorbent surfaces; some brands address this with quick-dry or archival formulas.

Compared with ballpoints, gel pens can produce smoother, more saturated lines but may be more prone to smearing on damp or glossy papers. They can also clog if left unused for extended periods. Gel pens are widely used in schools and offices, and among hobbyists for illustration and scrapbooking. Variants include metallic, pastel, and glow-in-the-dark inks.

History and development: Gel ink was developed in the late 20th century and became commercially popular through lines like Sakura Gelly Roll, Pilot G2, and Uni-ball Signo, among others. The term gel pen is sometimes used generically for any pen using gel ink, though different brands have distinct formulations.