NIB WEAR SOLVED - 8$ for 3300 nibs DIY

**AdamWParker** · June 20th, 2012, 09:50 AM

Don't throw away your nib-eating Wacom! Feed it. Make your own nibs with .065" trimmer wire/string (the type you use for lawncare). fits perfectly, works perfectly, its only plastic. They're even more durable than the standard nibs. I've been on the same one for weeks - and I have 3299 left. (I bought a 250 ft. spool for 8$). The process is on youtube "Wacom Nib Wear Solved - Low Price Nibs". It's simple, just cut a 1 inch piece, stick it in your pen and laugh at the people paying $30 for replacements (or tell them; that would be nicer).

*Note this definitely works for Intous4 because that's what I own. I'm 99% sure it works for the other models as they use the same nibs. But post here if you have another model and it works so we know for sure.

**Arshes Nei** · June 20th, 2012, 10:18 AM

Nice, but... I don't always use the plastic generic nib. I use the other ones.

**Malifer** · June 20th, 2012, 10:46 AM

do you have a solution for the felt nibs. those i like the best

**AdamWParker** · June 20th, 2012, 10:59 AM

great questions. Nope no solution for felt or other types of nibs, sorry. If you find one post it here.

**Damien Levs** · June 20th, 2012, 12:05 PM

That is kinda cool...but I use the flex nibs...they're sort of rubbery and have a nice drag across the wacom surface.

**Black Spot** · June 22nd, 2012, 02:11 PM

Might try this when my Volito II pens wears down.

**Holydivered7** · June 25th, 2012, 12:33 PM

How does this thread not have a million comments on it?
Is there a catch to using this? the photo on the packaging looks like this thing is hollow with VERY sharp points on the outer rim. Does it scratch the surface more easily? Does it FEEL the same? Also, in the youtube clip you mention, there is a VERY noticeable "skip" or break in the solid lines a few times, is that because of the new material? Thank you!

**AdamWParker** · June 27th, 2012, 09:07 AM

Hello Holydivered7, I made the video on youtube. The trimmer string is NOT hollow on the inside, it is COMPLETELY round, (the package illustration is misleading I know) it does NOT scratch the tablet (the tablet does wear the nib down, eventually, but this is a very slow process). The break in the video was because I had a hard time putting the nib in with one hand while holding the camera (you try, its not easy). It is the same material. I did not come up with this process, it was buried in a wacom help forum. I tried it and it was so easy and helpful that I wanted to share it on one of my favorite sites, CA.org. Wacom is making a killing off of a 1 inch piece of plastic that wears down in a week, ripping people off, and telling you to cover your tablet with glass and stuff. NO, cut your own nibs, retain that bit of drag. Thank you for your question, I was skeptical at first as well.

**AdamWParker** · June 27th, 2012, 09:13 AM

also, if you want to, you can sand the tip with any sandpaper to make if round at the tip if it really matters to you. (don't sand the back end, it needs to be straight like the standard nibs are). And Holydivered7, to get super-technical compared to the "official" nibs, these ones have maybe 10% less drag. Just a touch slicker and I do mean a touch.

**Jacksmyname** · June 29th, 2012, 03:12 PM

Great idea.
Thanks for sharing it Adam, and for making the video!

Jack

**s12a** · July 1st, 2012, 08:54 AM

I have a Wacom Intuos4 tablet and I solved almost completely the nib wear issue by removing the protective plastic sheet from the tablet and sanding down with wet fine grit sandpaper (1000) its "paper-like" surface before refitting it on the tablet, making it almost mirror polished, very smooth.

From time to time I refit the protective sheet rotating it by 180 degrees (along its z axis) in order to keep its surface consumption even (if you're right handed, the right portion of the tablet will become smoother over time, and viceversa).

I've been suggesting this all along in the european Wacom forums, but it doesn't seem many are following this, although it's very a effective solution. The nibs I have feel like will last forever, with a very even drawing experience across the entire tablet (no portions which feel smoother than other ones).

**AdamWParker** · July 2nd, 2012, 09:51 AM

Great solution s12a, this particular solution is for people who don't want to permanently alter or cover their tablet surface with a mirror-like finish. I personally love the bit of tooth as it helps me make smooth lines and curves. But for thanks for sharing for those who prefer the smooth surface feel.