Reusable pen can use alcohol instead of ink

A designer in Oregon has created a refillable pen that can use any liquid with a staining property, such as dark spirits, instead of ink.

The refillable device allows the user to write on paper without regular ink

The device, called the Winkpen, is designed to suck liquids in through the glass nib, allowing the user to write on paper without needing regular ink.

The “sustainable” pen can be disassembled, rinsed out and cleaned for repeated use.

It was created by designer Jessica Chan, who is appealing for US$47,000 backing through crowd-funding website Kickstarter.

The ‘Wink’ branding was derived from the concept of using “wine as ink” but she suggests using any liquid that possesses a staining quality.

Chan explained: “My goal was to create an innovative and simple product people could use and re-use in their daily lives.

“In many ways, this pen can be a new addition to your creative arsenal, allowing individuals to experiment and express with untraditional mediums. It can be a unique purchase for the creative in your life or just as easily serve as an elegant and customed promotional gift for your business.

“It is a ‘low-tech’ product that marries modern aesthetics and environmental awareness with traditional function.”

Chan hopes the pen will be available from July, started at an RRP of US$60.