Five Calligraphy and Lettering Tools for Beginners

What are the best calligraphy and lettering tools for beginners?

That’s one of the most common questions I’m asked from people who are interested in learning modern calligraphy. While the most expensive tools won’t help you master calligraphy overnight, it can ease the learning process by tenfold. With all the variety and options on the market, sorting through the basics you need to get started to learn calligraphy and lettering can be overwhelming. Here are my favorite, most trusted go-to tools for writing on different surfaces.

In this blog you will find calligraphy and lettering tools to have fun and get creative.

1.  Nibs

A great starter nib, which I use for all my calligraphy workshops, is the Nikko G.  This is a strong, long-lasting nib that does not break easily. It holds a good amount of ink so you don’t have to re-dip as often.  Because it is sturdy, it will be easier for you to figure out the right amount of pressure you need to produce the thick and thin strokes for your letters. However, my absolute favorite and go-to nib is the tiny superhero, Brause EF66.  It’s very flexible, which means that the tines spread apart more easily producing beautiful downstrokes (thick) and superfine up strokes (thin).  A good rule of thumb is that once you have a good grip of the pen holder, buy a variety of different nibs and test out which suits your style best.

Calligraphy Nibs

Calligraphy Nibs

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2.  Sharpie Oil Based Markers

I’m often asked what tool I use to write on mirrors/windows/glass/wood. Whether it’s a 6 foot mirror or a small wood signage, the Sharpie Oil Based Paint Pens are fantastic for decorating and adding accents to a variety of items. They are opaque, fast-drying, and mess-free.  

Calligraphy on Acrylic

Calligraphy on Acrylic

Calligraphy on Wood

Calligraphy on Wood

Calligraphy on mirror with Sharpie Paint Marker

3.  Micron Pens      

I’m a huge fan of the Pigma Micron Pens which come in a variety of sizes and colors (black, naturally, is my favorite color). Micron pens work great for any handwritten project that requires precision and detail.  When trying to determine a layout and lettering style before using ink or paint, I start with a quick draft using one of the micron pens. It is bleed-proof and smear-proof.  You can get the different sizes here.

 

4.  Pentel Aquash Water Brushes

This is a great, portable water brush that comes in fine, medium, and broad tip. You can blend colors, fill it in the barrel with water, and use it to create watercolor washes or lettering projects.  The easy to use barrel allows you to control the flow of water and has a good grip. You can get it here.

 

5.  White Mechanical Pencils

This white mechanical pencil (soapstone pencil) is widely used for marking fabric. However, as a calligrapher, this has become a common staple in my tool box.  It’s ideal for drawing lines on dark paper or to mock up a chalkboard.  Its fine point makes it easy to draw and erase lines without leaving residue or marks. Once you have one, you’ll always need one. Find them here.

Source: http://bit.ly/TMIfavefive

Gifts Under $40 for the Paper Lover

Give the gift of handcrafted art this holiday season for all the stationery enthusiasts in your life! To satisfy their paper-quirkiness, choose from a variety of our build-your-own boxes, single cards, or art prints. Enjoy 20% off on ALL orders with code thanksTMI. Happy Shopping!

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Purple Love

PURPLE LOVE: Not literally, but as in this bride's love for the color purple.  This pertinent, yet only information was all I was given when I began collecting inspiration for our recent bride.  While pairing subtle touches of metallics, fresh lavender, letterpress printing, and preserved skeleton leaves, the unique details gave a classy take to this suite.

Yours truly, 

Angela 

#LiveTrulyLoveMadly

 

Love is in the Details

When I met Stella and her mom at our initial consultation, I immediately realized something:  She knew exactly what she liked!  Stella had a keen eye for attention to detail, and I was anxious to start on her project.

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This invitation suite is a combination of unique watercolor brush strokes and modern calligraphy, printed on 100% cotton paper.  Blush tones, soft grey, and rose gold details, brought together a romantic, yet cohesive suite, just like Stella had envisioned it.

Yours truly, 

Angela

#LiveTrulyLoveMadly

Dads & Grads

Right before June rolls around, dads and grads finally get the spotlight. They have worked hard for their achievements, so let’s congratulate and celebrate them for their dedication, time and commitment.  

Shop one of our newly curated sentiments for the special “dads and grads” in your life, and write on the inside to show them your appreciation and how much they mean to you.

Yours truly, 
Angela

#LiveTrulyLoveMadly

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Calligraphy Workshop at Petit Bizoo

On June 23, join us for a creative evening learning a new skill while you enjoy coffee and refreshments at the newly opened Petit Bizoo Art Studio. Our three-hour long beginner workshop will cover all the basics of modern script calligraphy, from holding the pen to writing the complete lowercase alphabet. No previous calligraphy experience is needed.

The workshop includes:

  • 3 hours of instruction with Angela
  • 1 pen holder
  • 3 nibs
  • 1 jar of black ink
  • 1 alphabet guideline 
  • 1 tracing pad
  • 1 resource and supplies handout
  • light refreshments

Investment: $125

Workshops are non-refundable once purchased.

Reserve Your Seat