Calligraphy Supplies for Beginners
Here's a list of basic calligraphy supplies that you'll need to get started. The following list will include links to find the exact supplies I use personally and recommend to beginners. (Some links may include affiliate links.)
CALLIGRAPHY PEN HOLDER
CALLIGRAPHY PEN/NIB HOLDER
Calligraphy pens (also referred to as nib holders) are what hold the nib for us to write with. They come in a variety of styles, sizes, and colors. The 2 types you will most commonly see are straight or oblique nib holders.
LINKS: Straight Nib holder | Oblique Nib Holder | Dual purpose nib holder
NIBS
NIBS
Nibs are the flexible pointed tip that is used to distribute ink onto paper. (pictured: Nikko G nib, most recommended for beginners)
Other nibs for beginners.
LINKS: Nikko G nib | Hunt 512 Nib | Brause Steno 361 Nib | Hunt 101 Nib | Nib Sampler Pack
INK
INK: Choose a waterproof, pigment-based ink for a clean and sharp result.
LINKS: Sumi Ink | Dr. Ph Martin’s Ink Color Pack | Dr. Ph Martin Iridescent Gold | Bleed Proof White
PAPER
PAPER: All paper is NOT created equal! Look for a smooth, heavy-weight paper that's specifically designed for calligraphy.
LINKS: Marker Paper | Rhodia Practice Paper | HP Premium 32 printer paper | Watercolor Paper
MISCELLANEOUS SUPPLIES
Ink Jar with Lid: this is great to store your ink in a smaller container. I recommend either the Plastic ink jar with lid, glass ink jar with lid, or dinky dip.
Pencil and eraser: Use a pencil to sketch out your design, and an eraser to correct any mistakes.
Ruler: A ruler can be helpful for drawing straight lines and creating a consistent baseline and guidelines.
Markers or brush pens: Experiment with different colors to add a touch of fun and creativity to your calligraphy.
Practice Worksheets: I recommend starting with calligraphy practice sheets to help you improve your skills and experiment with different styles and techniques.
LINKS: Basic Strokes Worksheet (FREE) | Modern Calligraphy Workbook | Empowering Affirmations Worksheet
WHERE TO BUY SUPPLIES
Supplies can often be found at your local craft store, but I personally tend to purchase most of my supplies online. Here are a few of my favorite recommendations.
John Neal Bookseller - Worldwide supplier of calligraphy supplies and books.
East Coast Calligraphy - Black-owned boutique calligraphy and art supply store based in New Jersey.
Paper & Ink Arts - Specialized calligraphy supply shop serving calligraphers worldwide.
Tom's Studio (based in the UK) - Tom's Studio has gorgeous, elegant pens, ink holders, and boutique calligraphy supplies. This is where I got my tilted brass ink holder featured in the course videos.
Fabulous Fancy Pants - Fabulous Fancy Pants supplies beautiful handmade paper made of 100% cotton. Each piece of paper is handmade on an individual screen with beautiful, natural deckled edges.
Creative Ink Holders - Creative Ink Holders is a family-owned, small brand that designs calligraphy tools and accessories that are modern, functional, and aesthetic.
JetPens - online stationery store specializing in pens, paper, and art supplies from Japan and beyond.
Amazon - of course Amazon has a little bit of everything. You can always shop here especially if you need supplies fast. CLICK HERE to go to my Amazon store, which contains my list of favorite supplies for modern calligraphy.
While these supplies are a good starting point, feel free to add or remove items based on your specific needs and preferences. With these tools in hand, you're ready to start your calligraphy journey!
