The JetPens Modern Calligraphy Starter Kit contains everything you need to create the flowing scripts of pointed pen calligraphy! Use these tools to add a touch of beautiful writing to your DIY projects, handmade stationery, and wedding decorations.

Nib Holders

Two straight nib holders are included: The Nikko N-20 and the Tachikawa Model 25. The Nikko nib holder is compatible with all regular size nibs, while the Tachikawa nib holder has two inner rings to accommodate both regular size 9 mm nibs and smaller 3 mm nibs. The Speedball oblique nib holder has a helpful add-on that holds your nib at a slant, making it easier to write at angles that are otherwise difficult to achieve with a normal writing grip.

Nibs

There are a variety of nibs available, and preferences often vary from person to person! In this kit, we’ve included three of our most popular pointed pen calligraphy nibs for you to sample.

The Brause 361 is the most beginner-friendly, and offers a good “happy medium” of stiffness and flexibility that is helpful when first learning how to write with a dip pen. The Speedball 101 is very light and responsive, and can create thick downstrokes with just a light touch. Finally, the Brause 66 has impressive flex for its small size, but can be tricky to use at first due to the sharpness of the extra fine tip. We’d recommend practicing first, and working your way up to this nib!

Note: New nibs have an oil coating that must be removed before use. There are a few ways to prep a new nib: quickly pass a flame underneath it to burn off the oil, or scrub it gently with rubbing alcohol or toothpaste.

Ink

Speedball Super Black is a thick, pigmented India ink. It flows well and dries with a unique, slightly textured look that gives your writing vintage appeal! Once dry, the ink is also waterproof and lightfast, so your writing will be well preserved for years to come.

Paper

In order to achieve smooth, fluid lines in your calligraphy, these dip pens must be paired with high quality paper. The Rhodia DotPad has a subtle dotted grid which will help you practice consistency in your letters. Then, try writing your favorite quotations in the blank, cream-colored pages of the Tsubame notebook. With practice, your nib will glide gracefully across the page!

The items included in this kit are listed again below, in the Products Included section. Links to additional photos and details about each product can be found there.