Beginner Series Part 1 - The 4 Things you Need to Start
- Kirsten Burke
- May 1, 2020
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 2, 2025
Knowing what to choose when there are so many different nibs and inks to choose from can be confusing.
For modern calligraphy you need a pointed nib, sometimes called a drawing nib. Avoid broad edged nibs with a wide flat end, as they are for traditional calligraphy. Universal Pen Holders
Choosing the right pen holder is essential for comfort and control. A universal pen holder is a great option because it is designed to hold a wide range of nibs securely. Here’s how to identify and choose the best one for your needs.
What Makes a Pen Holder "Universal"?
The term universal means that the holder can accommodate different types of nibs, regardless of their size or shape. This flexibility comes from a metal grip mechanism inside the holder, which adjusts to fit various nibs snugly.
How to Identify a Universal Pen Holder
Look for an adjustable grip mechanism – Inside the holder, you should see a circular metal or plastic insert with small flaps or prongs that can expand or contract to hold different nibs.
Check that it holds both broad-edge and pointed nibs – A universal holder should securely fit nibs used for different calligraphy styles, such as Copperplate, Gothic, or Italic.
Ensure it has a comfortable grip – Some universal holders come with a cork grip, which can be helpful if your fingers tire easily or if you need extra cushioning.
Types of Universal Pen Holders
Straight Universal Holder – This is the most common type, and it has a simple, straight handle. It’s great for beginners and works well for a variety of calligraphy styles.
Oblique Universal Holder – This version has a metal flange (a small angled piece) attached to the side, which holds the nib at an angle. This design helps create the natural slant needed for scripts like Copperplate or Spencerian.
Cork-Handled Universal Holder – If you find gripping a pen uncomfortable for long periods, a cork-handled holder provides extra cushioning, making it a great ergonomic option.
If you want to explore slanted scripts, consider trying an oblique holder.
By understanding these differences, you can choose a holder that best supports your calligraphy journey, ensuring a comfortable and smooth writing experience.
Slip the nib into the Pen Holder by pushing it between the inner wall and the 'petals'. It feels easier to place the nib between the metal petals, but then it will wobble around. Instead, you must have all 4 petals together to push the nib against the inside wall of the pen holder.
Prepare Your Nib
Most calligraphy nibs are manufactured with an oil or wax coating that prevents them from rusting. While this is useful for storage, it makes it difficult for ink to adhere to the nib properly. If you skip this step, you may experience ink pooling, skipping, or an inability to create clean strokes.
Methods to Clean a New Calligraphy Nib
Flame Method
Put the new nib into the pen holder.
Quickly pass it through a flame (such as a lighter or candle) for about one second.
Be careful not to overheat the nib, as excessive heat can damage it.
Wipe off any residue with a clean cloth.
Potato Method
Stick the nib into a raw potato for a few minutes.
The natural starches help remove the coating.
Remove the nib, rinse it with water, and dry it thoroughly.
Rubbing Alcohol Acetone
Dip a cotton swab or soft cloth in rubbing alcohol or acetone.
Wipe the nib gently to remove any remaining oil.
Rinse with water and dry it completely before use.
Toothpaste Method
Apply a small amount of non-gel toothpaste to a soft toothbrush or cloth.
Gently scrub the nib to remove the protective coating.
Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry completely before use.
Dip a cotton swab or soft cloth in rubbing alcohol or acetone.
Wipe the nib gently to remove any remaining oil.
Rinse with water and dry completely before use.
Testing Your Nib
After cleaning your nib, dip it in ink and test it on scrap paper. If the ink flows smoothly and consistently, your nib is ready to use. If not, repeat the cleaning process until the ink adheres properly.
Storing Your Nib Properly
Once your nib is clean and ready for use, store it in a dry place to prevent rusting. If you’re not using it for an extended period, consider lightly oiling it with a small amount of gum arabic or anti-rust oil.
Which Nib to Start With
When you’re a beginner, a medium flex pointed nib is perfect. That’s because it copes well if you apply too much or too little pressure. You can make the nice contrasts between the thick and thin lines that make calligraphy so pretty.
Medium flex nibs can handle a great deal of pressure before they break, which is good news while you are working out how hard to press. The tines don’t catch on paper as much as more flexible calligraphy nibs. Finally, because it’s large, it holds a lot of ink, which means you won’t need to dip as much as with other nibs. Because of all this, the Leonardt 30 needs a bit of welly to get a nice down stroke. It can take it, so make sure you press down enough for the tines to open up. The wider they splay, the thicker the line you make. Any nib with the letter G in it's name is a great option, Nikko G, Zebra G or Leonardt G will all make great nibs to start learning with. The G stands for Gereral. Find the name of the nib engraved on the curved section that is slipped into the pen holder.
What does flex mean?
The flex of a nib means how flexible the nib is. The more flexible the nib, the more pronounced the contrast between thin upstrokes and thick downstrokes are. More flexible nibs are more challenging to use, as they hold less ink and can scratch as you work.
There are many different types of ink, and as we work through the course, we will show you how to work with colours, metallics, paints and brush pens. The key to which ink to buy is to look for pigmented inks rather that dye based inks, as they won’t bleed or feather as you work. Find out more in our blog all about inks.
Pointed nibs can vary hugely, from the most delicate, flexible ones; to firm and robust. Watch Kirsten show you her selection of these calligraphy essentials on our YouTube channel. Her video lays out these 4 things you need to start calligraphy.
Happy Lettering, Kirsten
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