Cheap nib flossing tool

What's a nib flossing tool? It's something thin enough that it can slip between the tines of a nib. And why would you want to do that? For two main reasons: to clean paper fibers stuck between the tines (which can affect the quality of writing) and to widen the distance between the tines (to increase ink flow).

I know that most of us who are not nib meisters are reluctant to fiddle with our nibs. Still, sometimes it's worth attempting a quick fix and very often a little flossing can cure a stubborn nib.

In the past I have suggested using a piece of 35mm film, which is usually thin enough that it fits in the tight space between a nib's tines. But who has 35mm film these days? Recently I have discovered a very simple tool that anyone can procure and it won't cost you a cent.

The thing I'm talking about is one of those electronic tags that are very often attached to merchandise such as clothes and electronics, to prevent them from being stolen. Here's how it looks.

If you peel the back, you will see the innards.

Peeling the transparent layer will yield you 2 metal shims that are on the thin side but will do a great job flossing any nib, no matter how tight the tines are.

Here it is in action, with the nib from my Noodler's Ahab.

So next time you buy something that has a tag attached, don't throw it away. Instead, salvage these shims because they might come in handy later.