Blog - Calligraphy Beginners' Guides

Beginner’s Guide to Nibs and Nib Holders

Apr 8, 2025

In this guide, we explain the basics of dip pen nibs and nib holders, and provide comprehensive tables showing which nibs are compatible with which holders.

How to Use a Glass Dip Pen

Oct 30, 2023

Glass pens are surprisingly easy to use and a fantastic complement to your favorite inks. Read on to understand the strengths and weaknesses of glass pens, our preferred inks and paper to pair them with, and glass pen calligraphy and drawing techniques.

How to Remove Ink Stains from Clothing and Other Surfaces

Jul 18, 2022

If you're a fountain pen user or a dip pen calligrapher, dealing with spilled ink is inevitable. For tips on how to remove ink stains from clothing and other surfaces, read on.

The Best Calligraphy Pens and Inks for Beginners

Oct 12, 2021

You do not have to be a serious calligrapher or professional to take your writing from mundane to spectacular: all you need are the right tools and some practice. Read on to learn more about our favorite calligraphy pens and inks.

Calligraphy Tips: Solving Common Problems

May 9, 2017

We suggest solutions to common calligraphy problems, from poor ink flow and feathering to a lack of stroke variation.

How to Improve Your Handwriting

Jan 3, 2017

Be honest: can people read your handwriting? If not, we can help! We cover seven adjustments that can quickly make your writing more legible, as well as useful writing tools and tips on how to practice if you want to learn a specific script.

The Best Watercolor Calligraphy Supplies for Beginners

Oct 25, 2016

We show you how to use watercolors to make beautiful calligraphy, starting with the basics and moving on to advanced techniques that will give your art extra glamour. Follow along with detailed instructions, pictures, and a video demonstration.

The Best Pointed Pen Calligraphy Supplies for Beginners

Jul 19, 2016

If you’ve ever wanted to learn calligraphy, this article is for you. We recommend the best supplies to start with and show you how to use them, along with some helpful tips. Watch the video to see live demonstrations of each technique.

The Best Beginner Brush Pens for Lettering

Jun 21, 2016

We recommend the best brush pens for lettering and show you how to use them, from the firm Tombow Fudenosuke Brush Pen to the double-sided Tombow Dual Brush Pens. Watch our video to see live demonstrations of each technique.