If you want to learn calligraphy, the number one important thing you should do is find the best calligraphy set for beginners. A perfect one should be easier to use because calligraphy is something you cannot master immediately. It will take you a lot of practice and patience to do calligraphy excellently.
Happily, there are many good calligraphy sets for starters in the market. But, how do you know which one is ideal for your needs? The answer to this is taking time to go through the available ones and see the best because each has different features, pros, and cons. Luckily, we have discussed 6 top picks available in the market today. Going through each details will help you make a better decision.
Top Picks: 5 Best Calligraphy Set for Beginners
Types of Pens for Calligraphy
Some people might think that all calligraphy pens are the same. But, the truth of the matter is that they are not. For this reason, we found it worth highlighting the different options in the market today. Go through each of them to make your shopping experience easier.
Dip Pens
Dip pens are available in two types.
1. Straight Dip Pens
These are the most famous calligraphy pens. This is because they are easy to maintain and use. Even though they are not ideal for angled lines, they are the best when drawing swirls and curves.
2. Oblique Dip Pens
Oblique dip pens sport a metal tip known as the flange. Because they are challenging to master, you find out that not everyone considers them for calligraphy. Nevertheless, they are the best for more accessible angling.
Brush Pens
These are the best for starters and intermediate calligraphists. Like the straight dip pens, they are easy to use. They can change colors seamlessly. But, they are not the best for dated calligraphy styles.
Fountain Pens
Fountain pens can be used for daily use. They come with cartridges to store ink. Hence, you do not have to dip the nip in ink always. It is harder to master using these calligraphy pens than others. When used rightly, these pens glide smoothly on paper. The Top Calligraphy Set for Beginners:
Best Calligraphy Set for Beginners: The Ultimate Guide
1. Mont Marte Calligraphy Set
If you are looking forward to starting calligraphy, one of the best calligraphy sets for beginners you can consider is Mont Marte Calligraphy Set. This is because of how versatile it is.
This elegant calligraphy set for beginners comes with 33 different attachments, 20 ink cartridges in 7 colors, 4 calligraphy pens, a workbook full of calligraphy exercises, and an instruction booklet.
We love this set immensely because its pens offer the convenience of fountain pens. Nevertheless, they have nibs like those of dip pens. This means you can write as much as possible without dipping the nibs after each couple of letters.
Moreover, this gorgeous set contains 4 different pen bodies. Therefore, you do not have to remove the nibs when switching from a single line thickness. Besides, the pen bodies are available in different colors to help you differentiate which nibs are in which pens.
Refillable ink cartridges are another thing you will love about this set. It features 20 cartridges and 7 varying colors. This means you can choose the color you prefer for your needs. But, if you want to switch colors, you have to empty the cartridge and clean the nib and regulator.
As a beginner, you will highly appreciate this calligraphy because it features an instructions booklet. Despite the amazing features, this set has a broad nib that makes the ink flow to be much.
Pros
- Instruction booklet included.
- No dipping is needed.
- Has 20 different ink cartridges in 7 colors.
- Contain 4 pens with different nib sizes each.
Cons
- Broad nibs make ink flow too much.
2. Plotube Calligraphy Pen Set
When you buy this calligraphy set, the first important thing you will note is the 11 different nibs. Even though most of them are specialty nibs for use by experts, you will also have fun using them as a beginner.
Furthermore, you will get 7 ink bottles of varying colors. Besides the colors, these are quality inks with great consistency and opaqueness. We are also impressed by the nib holder because of its perfect weight. It features an ergonomic shape that makes it comfortable to hold.
Although a manual containing basic instructions is included in the set, you will not find any information on the best way to use specialty nibs. Besides, some customers complained that the nibs scratch the paper.
Pros
- Ergonomically shaped.
- Nicely weighted.
- A beginner manual involved.
- A set has 11 different nibs.
Cons
- No instructions on how to use some of the nibs.
3. ASXMA New Model Wooden Calligraphy Pen Set
This set comes with everything you need to begin calligraphy. This includes a solid wood calligraphy pen, a vintage pen holder, and 11 different nibs with 4 black, purple, green, and blue vials. Every pen tip is made of stainless steel that cannot rust. Besides, the pen is made of a single solid wood block to make it sturdy and light.
Thanks to the manufacturer, this set has quality essentials, and it is sold at an affordable rate. This makes them an ideal gift to a person interested in calligraphy. This can be a newbie or an expert.
This pen’s superb construction and ink give you perfect strokes that easily glide across the pages. The varying colored ink in this set is fade-resistant, durable, and non-toxic. In addition, you can switch out the pen tips by pulling them off and snapping with another.
Although we highly recommend you to buy this pen, some customers claim that it feels uncomfortable to hold these pens for long.
Pros
- Affordable.
- Lots of ink choices.
- Different pen tips
- Quality inks
Cons
- Uncomfortable to hold the pens for long.
4. AIVN Natural Handcrafted Calligraphy Pen Set
AIVN Natural Handcrafted Calligraphy Pen Set is another perfect calligraphy set for starters in the market today. In addition to featuring a classic and sophisticated presentation, it is loaded with calligraphy essentials.
This set provides a great variation of nibs made of stainless steel. Each of them has a unique edge that gives you smooth writing.
Inside the set, you will find two ink bottles with brown and black colors. Thanks to the manufacturer, the nibs can hold a high ink. Hence, no need to keep dipping the pen.
The long pen is wooden and renders a nice feel on your hand when designing. This, in return, guarantee you a comfortable writing experience. Moreover, it is lightweight and delivers excellent stability and control.
It is perfect for beginners because an instruction booklet is included. In addition, it is a practical plus to the collection. It prevents the ink from drying once the pen is not in use.
The only little concern about this set is that some nibs do not fit well.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Comfortable design.
- Come with an instruction booklet.
- Stainless steel nibs.
Cons
- Some nibs do not fit well.
5. The Lettering Tribe Calligraphy Set
This calligraphy starter kit features 2 calligraphy pens, 5 additional nib attachments, 2 ink bottles, a magnetic gift box, and an instruction booklet starting with the basics. Additionally, it has a trading pad for you to learn novel techniques and letterings.
The pen’s nibs are constructed to control ink flow by tilting the pen. In case of a thicker line, all you need to do is hold the pen more vertical. Otherwise, hold the pen to the horizontal if you need a finer line.
It is tricky to apply the right amount of ink as a beginner. This set has pens with nibs that help in this case. One of these pens is made of hand-carved rosewood, and others are made of light composite material.
Moreover, this set features a trading pad for helping beginners learn the various strokes and lettering techniques. The online and physical booklets give you a better opportunity to access the numerous exercises covering lower/uppercase letters and project ideas.
On the downside, this set has only 2 vials of black ink. This means it is a bit limited on color selection. In addition, they come with only 5 attachment nibs, which is relatively few for a beginner calligraphy set.
Pros
- Comes with a tracing pad.
- Control the ink amount.
- 100 money-back warranty.
- Instructional material involved.
Cons
- It has a limited color selection 5.
6. Calligraphy Set, UBEART Calligraphy Kits
If you want to buy a beginner calligraphy set that is easy to use and will help you write beautiful words, look for none other but Calligraphy Set UBEART Calligraphy Kits. Inside the package, you will find a feather quill pen, a wooden dipping pen, 12 different nibs, a bottle of purple ink, a bottle of black ink, an antique pen holder, and a lovely gift box.
It is considered a beginner set because it comes with an instruction manual. The two pens available in this set have a long, well-balanced pen body that ensures you have a comfortable writing experience. With the two different ink colors, you can write a perfect invitation.
On the other hand, the 12 nibs have different sizes and widths. This ensures you have a different experience when writing. These are quality nibs that write smoothly and allow ink to flow easily.
Despite the fascinating features, some people complained about the feather being short, having split, and very plain.
Pros
- Variety of nibs.
- Perfect gift.
- 100% return guarantee.
- Come with instructions.
Cons
- Feather split and short.
Best Calligraphy Set for Beginners Buying Guide
Chances are high you are here because it is your first time buying the perfect calligraphy set, for starters. It is a fact that they are available in the market in many choices. Hence, choosing the best can be a bit daunting. To help you make a perfect choice, here are some of the top factors you need to pay attention to.
Nib Quality
Regardless of the calligraphy paper you choose to use, the best calligraphy set to buy should have a nib that writes smoothly. They should come across even though they do not write as smoothly as ballpoints. There are different ways to make your calligraphy nibs write smoothly. Nevertheless, an ideal one should do that right out of the box.
Nib Choices
It is wise to have several nib choices whether you are a beginner at calligraphy. Therefore, when making purchases, consider one with many different nibs sizes. Such a set helps you experiment with varying line styles and thicknesses freely.
Ergonomics
The pens available in the set should not only be comfortable to write with but also to hold. You have to practice at least an hour or two every day to get good at calligraphy. Thus, it is wise to buy a set with pens you can write with for a long time without your hand’s cramps. If you are a leftie, look for calligraphy for left-handed beginners.
Ink Type
The ink type you are using determines your calligraphy outcomes. When it comes to the ink you use with refillable cartridge pens, you do not have numerous choices. They are a bit restrictive. Thus, you may be needed to only buy from the manufacturer. This helps to avoid clogging up the pen.
Typically, it is recommendable to use viscose ink on various pen types and cartridge-filled pens. This is because they are more versatile and work in cartridges also.
Grip
The role of a grip is to control the calligraphy pen. Therefore, you have to get a proper grip for excellent controls. Mainly, this is a factor that many people overlook. Remember, it is essential because it can make or break your learning experience. The ideal one ought to be easier to grip to help you do the strokes you want comfortably. Because calligraphy is a detailed art form, you have to use something comfortable.
Inclusions
As a beginner, it is essential to consider what other things are involved in your purchase. The right one should come with an instructional manual and a few beginner worksheets. This will help you learn how to use your calligraphy set right away rather than finding other tools.
How to Use a Calligraphy Set
It is easy to learn modern calligraphy. This is provided you have the basics of modern calligraphy set for beginners. They include a pen holder, nib, ink, and right paper. Calligraphy is easier if you are relaxed and can see what you are doing. Therefore, you must ensure a flat, clean surface and a comfortable chair in a bright spot.
Assemble Your Pen
This is the first important step into using a calligraphy set. It would be best to slide the pen nib into the holder. Doing this allows the curved side of the nib to fit snuggly outside of the metal. If it fails, consider moving around the holder’s edge while pushing the nib down until it slides in. To prevent your fingers from hurting, use a protective something to push it firmly.
This pen has a pointed nib made of two split metal pieces that fit perfectly together. Typically, this is known as tines. The tines lead to a tiny hole referred to as a vent. This is where the ink sits.
Twisting the nib makes the ink not be released and feels scratchy. The right way is to have the vent facing up. Besides, the tines should hit the paper equally.
Paper Position
The position of your paper is vital. You have to turn your paper 40 degrees from your body for your pen to work correctly. Consider turning it 40 degrees anti-clockwise for right-handed people and clockwise for lefties. Either lefties or righties can use pointed nibs because they are symmetrical.
When making your thick and downward lines, make sure your pen, holder, nib, and forearm align. It would be best if you held your pen gently and not tightly. While sitting straight and relaxing your shoulders, rest the palm on the table to ensure your arms move easily forth and back.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to Start Learning Calligraphy?
The first important thing is buying pens suitable for your needs. If they come with stencils, use them to practice strokes. Besides, you can try printing out calligraphy worksheets to copy. You can also choose to watch many instructional videos. Combining these learning methods will help you master calligraphy faster.
An I Do Calligraphy With a Fountain Pen?
Even though some people have the impression that fountain pens are not the best tools for calligraphy, fine nibs like the Dryden designs modern classic fountain pens are perfect for faux calligraphy. They make perfect lines than what you will get from other tools like ballpoints, fine point pens, and brush pens.
Can Calligraphy Be Self-taught?
Even if calligraphy is tough to master, you can teach yourself successfully, provided with the right motivation, self-discipline, online resources, and tools.
What Is Modern Calligraphy?
Modern calligraphy is also known as hand lettering. Typically, it is an art form that involves creating artistic lettering using repetitive downstrokes, upstrokes, and repeating shapes.
What Kind of Ink Do You Use for Calligraphy?
The best calligraphy ink for beginners is Sumi ink. Like other inks, this will also need some dilution over time because some water will evaporate. If you find it challenging to find Sumi ink, India ink is an ideal substitute.
Conclusion
Calligraphy is a great hobby. If you know what you are doing, it can be profitable. You do not have to go for professional calligraphy sets, grade pens, and inks if you are a beginner. You need to find the best calligraphy set for beginners. This one comes with everything needed to get started. Luckily, we have given you a analyze of the best we have in the market today. Otherwise, you can use the buying guide to help you make the best decision if your best is not in our top picks. Hence, it is your responsibility to take your time to see what suits your needs. Happy Shopping!