SUITO Nib Cleaning Paper
SUITO Nib Cleaning Paper is a Japanese functional stationery product developed specifically for fountain pen users who experience ink leaks or ink buildup on the nib. Awarded the Grand Prize in the Functional Category at the Japan Stationery Awards 2015, SUITO transforms a routine maintenance task into a clean, precise, and thoughtful gesture.
Concept and origin
SUITO was created by observing a common problem among fountain pen users: cleaning the nib without staining fingers or damaging delicate parts. Instead of relying on improvised solutions such as tissues or lint rollers, SUITO offers a purpose-designed tool made with highly absorbent blotting paper and a shape adapted to the complex geometry of a fountain pen nib.
High-absorption blotting paper
The paper used is a special type of blotting paper that absorbs excess ink quickly and accelerates drying. This allows the nib to be cleaned efficiently without rubbing or spreading ink, reducing the risk of stains on hands, notebooks, or the surrounding workspace.
Functional strip design
Each cleaning strip measures 24 × 48 mm and features carefully designed slits, notches, and folds. These details are not decorative: they allow the paper to conform to different parts of the nib, including the tines, tip, base, and neck—areas where ink tends to accumulate.
How to use
SUITO｜Separate
Detach one strip from the set.
SUITO｜Fold
Fold the strip along the central crease to prepare the cleaning surface.
SUITO｜Cleaning step 1
Wipe the nib along the fold to remove ink from the tines and the tip.
SUITO｜Cleaning step 2
Use the curved cutout to absorb ink accumulated at the base of the nib.
SUITO｜Cleaning step 3
Fold the strip into a U shape and clean the entire neck of the nib.
The result is a clean, dry, and visibly polished nib, achieved without direct contact with ink.
Portability and everyday use
Each of the six main pieces measures 144 mm in length, making them easy to carry inside A5 or B5 notebooks and planners. Thanks to the perforations, the strips can be folded or separated into smaller sections for even greater portability. SUITO fits neatly into a pen case or pouch, ensuring a clean nib anytime, anywhere.
From maintenance to mindful care
While nib cleaning is often treated as a minor chore, SUITO reframes it through functional design and material choice. By preventing stains, simplifying the process, and protecting the writing instrument, it turns ink-leak maintenance into a small but meaningful act of care—aligned with the Japanese philosophy of respecting tools through proper use.
Contents and technical details
- Contents: 6 long pieces (144 × 48 mm) + 1 small piece (24 × 48 mm)
- Total quantity: 6 pieces × 5 sheets (30 pieces)
- Material: high-absorption blotting paper
- Use: fountain pen nib cleaning
- Award: Japan Stationery Awards 2015 – Functional Category Grand Prize
- Designer: Jin Sugawara (Jin Atelier Co., Ltd.)
- Made in Japan
"Caring for the instrument is part of the act of writing."
