How does modern calligraphy differ from traditional calligraphy?

One of the oldest forms of communication that exists is still practiced in the modern world, known to most people as calligraphy. Combining aspects of communication and visual art, this form of writing has deep roots in ancient Chinese culture dating back to 200 BC. Over the years, many other cultures have influenced calligraphy with their own style of visual communication. What we know today as modern calligraphy is an evolution of traditional styles, and this article will try to shed some light on its differences from traditional forms.

In this article, you will learn about the history of calligraphy. You will also learn what is traditional calligraphy and what is modern calligraphy. Additionally, you will learn the difference between the two.

What is meant by traditional calligraphy?

If you want to truly understand the meaning of traditional calligraphy, a whole separate subject needs to be created. This essay should focus on calligraphy and its history, the difference between calligraphy and calligraphy, and what calligraphy actually means. However, for the sake of this article, it is important to briefly consider what is meant by traditional calligraphy. Traditional calligraphy is not just beautiful writing, it encompasses much more. However, one distinguishing aspect that makes him unique is the old-fashioned writing style he uses.

To understand what traditional calligraphy is, it is important to first know what the principles of traditional calligraphy are. These are the principles that will allow you to spot the details and distinguish this style of calligraphy from modern calligraphy. For someone who is trying to explore the modern style of calligraphy, it is very important to familiarize himself with the principles of traditional calligraphy. While modern calligraphy focuses on breaking the rules, one needs to know what those rules are before attempting to break them.

Traditional calligraphy has many different styles that a person can use. These styles, commonly called hands, have two distinct schools to which they belong. These schools of traditional calligraphy are Spencerian and Copperplate.

Both the Spencerian School and the Copperplate School have specific rules that need to be followed, and these are important to know in order to best create traditional calligraphy styles. For anyone wanting to learn traditional calligraphy, copperplate is the most recommended style. Using a nib designed specifically to help create this calligraphy style, it introduces beginners to the principles and vocabulary needed to learn calligraphy.

What is meant by modern calligraphy?

While traditional calligraphy can be fitted into the two distinct schools of Copperplate and Spencerian, modern calligraphy is a bit harder to define. This is due to the simple fact that it encompasses a myriad of styles under its umbrella. However, to define what modern calligraphy is in the shortest possible way, it can be considered as any form of calligraphy that is not a traditional form of calligraphy. While traditional calligraphy sticks to rules and specific shapes and strokes, modern calligraphy likes to bend those rules and have fun with style and script. It is a highly creative form of calligraphy and allows for much more than traditional forms allow.

Some of the salient features of modern calligraphy are as follows:

• Non-observance of traditional rules – Traditional calligraphy requires people to follow certain lines to be considered proper. The letters need to be absolutely flawless and perfect. Modern styles of calligraphy, on the other hand, ignore these details and celebrate deviations. So, if your characters are a bit squishy or have progressed beyond Descender, that’s totally fine. The imperfection of modern calligraphy is what makes it refreshing.
• Accessible Calligraphy Style – While traditional calligraphy requires extreme precision and some would argue, an abundance of skill, modern calligraphy is much more accessible. Although this style requires skill and practice, it is very easy to learn if a respectable amount of time is devoted to it.
• You can mix and match – Although traditional calligraphy emphasizes the importance of consistency, it’s the inconsistency of modern calligraphy styles that makes it so appealing. A modern calligrapher may choose to mix and match and even borrow letterforms from other calligraphy styles to create his own unique style of modern calligraphy. A traditional calligrapher does not have this permission and needs to stick to the predetermined rules of that particular style.

Differences between traditional calligraphy and modern calligraphy

Although both forms of calligraphy look like stylistic handwritten letters from the outside, you need to look closely at the details. This will enable you to mark a clear distinction between modern and traditional forms of calligraphy. These differences are summarized in the tables below.

• Traditional calligraphy is more sophisticated and beautiful to look at. Modern calligraphy, on the other hand, is whimsical and fun.
• There are strict rules to follow when writing traditional calligraphy styles. However, modern styles of calligraphy encourage people to deliberately break these predetermined rules and enjoy the style of calligraphy and lettering.
• Traditional calligraphy usually has a more italic script, while the modern style has a more straight italic.
• Conventional and basic fonts are used when writing traditional forms of calligraphy. Modern calligraphy allows for the use of advanced letterforms including loops, ascending ascenders, and dipping descenders.
• Traditional calligraphy is steeped in a rich history as it is a style that has existed for centuries and has stood strong against the test of time. Modern calligraphy styles are more recent and have become extremely popular due to social media and growing trends.
• Traditional calligraphy uses equal spacing, continuous angles and lines. On the other hand, modern calligraphy uses letter proportions that suit the artist’s style. These shapes, sizes, lines and angles can be changed according to the artist’s taste and preferences.
• Traditional style uses a more neutral color palette, while modern style uses a bright range of colors.
• Pointed pens are the most common tool used to create traditional calligraphy. Modern calligraphy can be created using digital mediums and brush pens.

Regardless of which style you prefer, both of these calligraphy styles are incredibly beautiful. While one takes a restrained approach, the other is more free-spirited, but both are equally charming. It is important that modern calligraphers indulge themselves in the freedom that modern calligraphy affords them. However, they should not forget the foundations that traditional calligraphy has established over time. These are the foundations that have allowed calligraphy to evolve as a style and remain relevant for so many years. Therefore, both need and deserve to be celebrated in their own unique respects.

With so many different types of calligraphy, it can be difficult to decide what kind of calligraphy you want to work on–or even know what kind.

We want to show you the difference between two contrasting styles: traditional and modern calligraphy

. If you are new to traditional calligraphy, we recommend learning more about the art and history of calligraphy. You can learn the difference between calligraphy and calligraphy as well as what calligraphy actually is. There’s more to it than just beautiful writing!

But as you can see, traditional calligraphy looks a lot more “old fashioned” than modern calligraphy. What are the differences, really?

One of the oldest forms of communication that exists is still practiced in the modern world, known to most people as calligraphy. Combining aspects of communication and visual art, this form of writing has deep roots in ancient Chinese culture dating back to 200 BC. Over the years, many other cultures have influenced calligraphy with their own style of visual communication. What we know today as modern calligraphy is an evolution of traditional styles, and this article will try to shed some light on its differences with traditional forms.

In this article, you will learn about the history of calligraphy. You will also learn what is traditional calligraphy and what is modern calligraphy. Additionally, you will learn the difference between the two.

Calligraphy through the ages

From social media to ancient scrolls, calligraphy has been prevalent in human society. Its influence on the culture of people and the societies they live in spans centuries. Even in modern times, calligraphy is constantly reinventing itself to make its place in the world of modern forms of visual communication. While various trends in visual communication usually die out within a few years or decades, calligraphy has remained relevant for centuries.

Origins and different styles of calligraphy

Chinese calligraphy.

Calligraphy can be traced back to the ancient Chinese Shang Dynasty. Writings were commonly inscribed during this period, and animal bones or tortoise shells were used to do the same. During the 3rd century BCE, calligraphy became an official script in Chinese culture. They can be considered as the earliest examples of cursive script that the world encountered. It was the Chinese and their calligraphic style that later influenced calligraphic styles in Korean and Japanese cultures.

Islamic calligraphy.

Likewise, Islamic calligraphy is another important branch of this time-tested style of visual communication. Its roots can be traced back to sometime during the 6th century and draws heavily from the Qur’an for its influence. Written from right to left, this style of calligraphy can be found in different styles. These include Nasakh, Kalphic, modern calligraphy, and regional calligraphy styles. Apart from ordinary paper, tiles, carpets, inscriptions and pots are also used for writing in Islamic calligraphy.

Western calligraphy.

The West was not far behind when it came to calligraphy, with the Latin and Greek alphabets being the result of the evolution of Western calligraphy styles. The main agenda of this style of calligraphy was to spread Christianity by hand copying religious texts and the Bible through calligraphy.

Post Printing Press/Modern Calligraphy.

However, a change occurred when the printing press was invented in Europe in the mid-fifteenth century. While other forms of handwritten letters began to die out, calligraphy held its ground and remained relevant. The most interesting aspect is that calligraphy evolved to make itself relevant and useful for other purposes when its original purpose was lost.

Although today’s era gives most designers the option of choosing calligraphy fonts downloadable from the internet, using authentic handwritten calligraphy is always a great choice. Due to the fact that handwritten calligraphy conveys a distinct voice and personality in itself, there is a great relevance and need for artists learning different calligraphy styles. In modern times, trends like handwritten calligraphy, or videos using bullet journals have encouraged people to practice calligraphy and become well-versed in the style. The need for such artists is great and modern calligraphy owes a great debt to those who have kept this form of visual communication relevant today.

The history of calligraphy is more than just dates and facts. It is about the story of evolution. It is the charm, as well as the wonderful story, that this stylistic visual communication form naturally absorbs that is the main reason why it has survived for so long. As and when society has evolved, calligraphy has adapted itself to the changing needs and demands of the public.

Top supplies for traditional calligraphy

Traditional calligraphy is a timeless art that has been around for ages and it is what we first learned as young children that sparked our love for handwriting. Since we have been practicing art for so long, we have tried many different pens. Countless pens. Lots of stuff for traditional calligraphy work.

Whether you’re a beginner or looking for a new tool to try, we’ve spent a lot of time (and money) doing the legwork for you.

We reviewed some of the best and most popular brush pens, tournament style. Now we want to introduce you to some of our favorite pens for a more traditional calligraphy style.

Nibs for calligraphy

Ready to dive into calligraphy but not sure what tools you need to get started? Let’s look at some of the equipment used for traditional calligraphy. We recommend starting with the nib as this is ultimately what will give you the lines and design you are looking for.

Nikko G (recommended for beginners)

The Nikko G nibs are good for beginners and come three to a box for those of you who want to try them out with a limited investment. Some heavy-handed users may find that they go overboard quickly but we think it’s a good starting point for those new to calligraphy.

Zebra G (recommended for beginners)

While the Zebra G is a good nib for beginners, it is also the most popular for more experienced calligraphers. It really has the perfect amount of “give” for each stroke.

Hunt 101

These flexible nibs are perfect for both calligraphy and other drawing projects and decorative work. You may get hairline lines because the tip is so sharp, but it’s more likely to smudge the paper. Learn more about choosing a nib.

Pen holders for calligraphy

If you are going to buy a calligraphy nib, you need a pen holder to go with it. There are many different options and you really need to choose one that feels good in your hand. When you’re shopping for a pen holder, pay attention to make sure it has the nibs you want to use.

Oblique

These are beautiful pen holders with decorative designs that look really old world. And if you order from this site, you can request a specific wood finish so you can get exactly what you want (as long as it’s available).

Straight

Apparently there are lefties left in the calligraphy world, but we haven’t forgotten you! This pen holder is a durable plastic and the upright design makes it ideal for lefties (although right-handed calligraphers also like it). The price makes it worth a try. Either way, don’t spend a lot of money on your pen holder if you’re a beginner. Instead, try different styles. When you’re ready, we love the Moblique penholder. It allows you to switch between slanted and straight, has a fun secret storage compartment for nibs, and is available in some really cute colors!

Pointed pen is the best ink for calligraphy

You have many choices when it comes to calligraphy ink. Somi ink is nice and opaque and has a nice sheen when it dries. This is a great black ink to practice with. You’ll want to put the benign ink in a small jar because you can’t dip your pen directly into the ink pot. Fill the container about two-thirds of the way with ink, then top off with water to thin it out a bit. Another good option to practice is walnut ink. The consistency is thinner than Somi Ink, and has a beautiful sepia color. For white ink, Dr. PH Martin’s Blade Proof White is perfect for use on black or colored paper. There are a number of metallic and colored inks, but we recommend starting with plain black before investing in different colors. You’ll get some practice and you’ll probably be inspired to do this fun and colorful project — but if you stick with black ink for now, you’ll save money as you learn the style.

Don’t forget the paper

Without quality paper as part of your traditional calligraphy supplies, the nib, pen holder and ink don’t really matter much. You can’t simply shoot paper from your home printer or notebook and expect good results. Some papers are smooth to the touch and others are more grainy. If your paper is too thin, the ink may bleed through. Get the wrong paper and you could potentially damage your nib.

It’s important to practice on paper with guidelines to keep your lines straight and your letters skewed at a consistent angle. First, download our free guide sheets:

Traditional Chinese Calligraphy

Calligraphy, literally “beautiful writing,” has been admired as an art form in many different cultures around the world, but the stature of calligraphy in Chinese culture is unparalleled. In China, from very early times, calligraphy was considered more than just a form of decorative art. Rather, it was seen as the highest form of visual art, valued above painting and sculpture, and ranked alongside poetry as a means of self-expression and cultivation. How one wrote was, in fact, as important as who wrote. To understand how calligraphy gained such prominence, Various factors need to be considered, such as the materials used in calligraphy and the nature of the Chinese writing script, as well as the respect for writing and literacy in traditional China.

The earliest examples of Chinese writing are inscriptions that appear on so-called oracle bones (animal bones and tortoise shells) and bronze vessels, the earliest dating from the Shang Dynasty (ca.1600-ca.1100 B.C.E.). belongs to . Shang emperors used these objects in important fortune-telling rituals, and some scholars have argued that this early association of writing with ritual and political authority helped confer a special status on those who could read and write.

These early inscriptions were made with a sharp, pointed tool on the surface of an oracle bone or brass mold. As a result of this process, letters (or “graphs” as they are also called) usually lack the linear variations and other attributes that are considered prerequisites for true calligraphy. These qualities began to emerge most clearly during the Han Dynasty (206 B.C.E.-220 C.E.), when Chinese artisans perfected the basic materials still used by calligraphers today: brushes, ink, paper, and ink. Stone

Although archaeological evidence confirms that brushes were known in China from a very early date, it was during the Han period that they became widely used. A typical brush consisted of a bundle of animal hair (black rabbit hair, white goat hair, and yellow weasel hair were all popular) pushed into a bamboo or wooden tube (although jade, Chinese Pottery and other materials were also occasionally used). Not all hair lengths are the same. Rather, there are small hairs surrounding an inner core, which in turn is covered by an outer layer that is capped to a point. Brushes come in a variety of shapes and sizes that determine the type of line produced. What all such brushes have in common is their flexibility. It is this feature more than any other that allows calligraphy to be so fluid and expressive.

The ink used in calligraphy is usually made from lamp black, which is produced by burning cedar resin or oil under a hood. After assembly, the lamp black is mixed with glue and then pressed into molds. The resulting hard cakes or sticks can then be ground against a stone and mixed with water, a process that allows the calligrapher to control the thickness of the ink and the density of the pigment. Eventually ink cakes and ink sticks became a decorative art form in their own right, and many well-known artists created designs and patterns for their molds.

The invention of paper is hailed as one of China’s most important technological contributions to the world. Tradition credits the discovery of the process to Cai Lun in 105 AD, although recent tomb findings indicate that paper was known at least a century earlier. Paper was made from various fibers, such as mulberry, hemp, and bamboo, and provided a cheaper alternative to silk as a ground material for calligraphy and painting.

Along with the inkstone – a carved stone slab with a reservoir for grinding ink and mixing it with water – the brush, ink and paper are known in China as the Four Treasures of Study (wenfang sibao). Which indicates high respect? Stationery is kept. These four treasures are the same materials used by traditional Chinese painters. Some critics have pointed to this as a way to explain why calligraphy in China has a higher status than elsewhere. The argument is something like this: In Europe, for example, painting is a high art. Calligraphy does not use the same materials as painting; Therefore, calligraphy is not given the same high status as painting. Painting and calligraphy in China use the same materials. Therefore, calligraphy is considered a high art similar to painting.

The problem with this argument rests on the unfounded assumption that painting in China, as in Europe, was the most valuable form of visual art. Indeed, painting in China was considered secondary to calligraphy as a visual art practically from its inception. Furthermore, the argument that the same materials used in painting and calligraphy in the eleventh and twelfth centuries served to elevate the status of painting, rather than the other way around.

In trying to understand why calligraphy gained such prominence in China, it is useful to consider the characteristics that were valued when calligraphy began to emerge as an art form distinct from mere writing. That is to say, when handwriting patterns began to be valued, they began to be collected and considered art. One of the earliest recorded examples concerns the first-century Han emperor Ming, who, upon hearing that his cousin was on his deathbed, sent a messenger to receive a piece of his writing before his death. was sent By doing so, the Ming emperors were hoping to “commune” with their relative through their own personality traits through their calligraphy, even after death.

More than any other factor, it is the claim that calligraphy can serve as a medium of revelation and self-expression that best accounts for why it was held in such high esteem. A brief consideration of how calligraphy techniques are mastered may shed some light on the question of why such expressive potential was seen as intrinsic to calligraphy in the first place.

Hüsn-i Hat, Traditional Calligraphy in Islamic Art in Turkey.

Hasan Topi, traditional calligraphy in Islamic art, adheres to the aesthetic values ​​of writing with a reed pen and lamp black ink or other hand-made ink in a dimensional and proportional manner. Holders and practitioners of the element are known as hattat (calligrapher or calligrapher) or tupi artists. This art is called Hasan hat which means beautiful writing. Aharlı kağıt (paper, which is glazed with organic substances), kamış kalem (reed pen), pen nibs, mukta (special slabs for sharpening red pens), hukka (inkwells), and deut (pancakes). Most commonly used tools are Tradition Hasan Hat, traditional calligraphy in Islamic art admires its audience like painting, architecture and decoration.

Quran (Holy book of Islam), Quranic verses, hadiths and vocabulary are written in caps.

The Hüsn-i Hat is applied to a special paper, which is polished by the hat’s hands with the help of a writing pen and lamp black ink from organic substances, leather or other writing materials. In addition, heat is applied to stone, marble, glass, quarry or wood surfaces using a special technique.

Holding the reed pen and its directions firmly on the paper ensures the perfection of the letters or composition.

Calligraphers (Hatat) have specific roles in elemental transmission. They pass on their knowledge, skills and elemental ethics to the next generation through master apprentices. Calligraphers can also create their own specific tools, materials, and equipment that are used in Hassan hat. They not only pass on their knowledge, skills and ethics but also the traditional crafts related to the element.

The Hüsn-i hat, previously a source of manuscripts, became increasingly used in public and religious architecture. In addition to manuscript folios and wall plaques, the Husain cap became a decorative aspect of these buildings as inscriptions or chronograms in the monumental portals, walls, arches, minbars and domes. The husn-i hat is used as an ornament in public areas, it also reflects the cultural identity of Turkish cities. These beautiful ornaments of public spaces and buildings connect people to their past, strengthen social memory and cultural identity.

“Hüsn-i Hat, Traditional Calligraphy in Islamic Art in Turkey” was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021.

How to Do Modern Calligraphy

At first it was very difficult. I almost gave up. I’m a lefty, and although I’m a hand lettering artist, I’ve never had much luck getting calligraphy with a traditional pen to look like anything more than a hot mess.

Then I tried brush pen calligraphy. Practicing using pressure to control my strokes became second nature. So, when I picked up the dip pan again, it clicked.

And now, calligraphy and calligraphy is my full-time freelance career.

Characteristics of Modern Calligraphy

There are exceptions to every generalization, but modern calligraphy generally has certain characteristics. They are:

1.      It does not adhere to traditional norms.

Many traditional calligraphy styles require you to create very specific letters. Your letters must look exactly like this for the calligraphy to be considered “copper plate,” for example.

This is a page on Mastering Copper Plate Calligraphy. This book is a fantastic resource for anyone who wants to learn copperplate!

 

If you are writing modern calligraphy, you can ignore the traditional rules. Don’t worry about “O’s” that look a little too squished or bottoms that go too low. Instead, those variations are meant to be celebrated, and you can exaggerate them for effect!

This flourishing formal calligraphy has a traditional form but ignores traditional rules.

Right now, we live in an era of intense consistency. Take the words you are reading right now, for example! All these typed letters look the same, and that’s what we see every day. When we can take a step back and create or observe imperfect characters, it’s refreshing!

2.      Modern calligraphy is accessible.

A while ago, a friend alerted me to a Facebook calligraphy community that was relevant to this TPK article. In the article, I emphasized that anyone can learn calligraphy. The community was outraged, and the general consensus was “Not everyone can learn calligraphy – you have to have the talent to do it!”

I made this “false calligraphy” with a Pilot G2 pen! Anyone can write wrong calligraphy with any pen.

First, I think the attitude is bologna, pure and simple. If you want to learn how to do something, you can learn how to do it! You just have to do it, and you have to put in some time. I agree that maybe the strict rules of turn-of-the-century calligraphy aren’t for everyone – myself included. And that’s the beauty of modern calligraphy!

Whimsical modern calligraphy styles like Caitlyn’s are loved by many wedding clients. This wedding map was commissioned by an Illinois bride.

If you want to do calligraphy, you can grab a pen and a toy and create your own style. Be playful and come up with your own thing! People are drawn to individuality, and you’d be surprised how many people appreciate your work.

3.      Modern calligraphy loves to mix and match.

Many modern calligraphers prefer to write a precise quilt of letters. I constantly keep track of individual letters that I like, then I memorize and emulate the letters for future projects.

I saw some flourishes like these on Pinterest, so I decided to mix and match the new inspiration with my Flourish Formal style.

Sometimes, letters stick with me and become part of a pattern that I use regularly. Other times, writing a certain letter in a certain way is a short-lived, albeit happy, phase.

How to Learn Modern Calligraphy

Since there is no real definition of modern calligraphy, there is no way you can learn it. I’m biased, but I think the Beginner’s Modern Calligraphy Online Course is a *fantastic* resource (check out its reviews)!

This is a screenshot of how to hold a pen correctly from TPK’s signature online calligraphy course.

I also like Molly Suberthorpe’s book Modern Calligraphy. This is also a great read if you are interested in dip pen calligraphy. Of course, if you’re a learner, you can search to see if there are any calligraphy workshops in your area (I teach calligraphy workshops here in Boulder, CO every summer)!

How to Learn Traditional Calligraphy

• If you want to learn traditional calligraphy, here are some great resources:
• Mastering Copperplate Calligraphy by Eleanor Winters
• Spencerian penmanship by Platt Rogers Spencer
• IAMPETH Website
• The Script in Copperplate Style by Dr. Joe M. Vitolo (Free eBook)

Of course, you can also find local traditional calligraphy workshops!

 

WHAT TYPE OF PENS CAN I USE?

There are three main types of “pen” you can use.

1. Dip Pen/Pointed Pen

The most traditional tool is a dip pen with a pointed nib. I also think it’s the hardest to learn.

Some of my favorite nibs to work with are Nico G, Brause Steno 361 (aka Blue Pumpkin), and Leonard 40.

2. Brush Pen

A brush pen with a flexible nib is another option. These popular pens come in a variety of options, and are both affordable and beginner-friendly.

For brush calligraphy, I primarily use Tombow Brush Pens and Karin Brush Marker PROs

3. Apple Pencil

The magic trio of the iPad, Apple Pencil, and the Procreate app have revolutionized modern calligraphy, allowing calligraphers to create stunning calligraphy digitally.

My workflow is highly organized thanks to being able to do digital calligraphy. You can usually find me with an Apple Pencil in one hand and a coffee in the other.

Caffeine and calligraphy don’t mix well, though.

Which tool should I start with?

I recommend starting with a small brush pen.

The most beginner-friendly option is Tombow Fudenosuke. It comes in hard tip and soft tip options. Both are flexible but to different degrees.

Grab a combo pack to see which one you prefer. I use both of them regularly.

A brush pen with a small tip is much easier to control and thus easier to learn. The picture below shows how much larger the tip of the Tombo Dual Tip Brush Pen is than the Tombo Fodenosuke.

Provision of basic modern calligraphy

We’ve talked about pens, but there are a few more tools to learn and practice.

You don’t need the best stuff to get started. They are cheap enough but not so cheap that they don’t work.

I’m a big believer in the value of buying quality art supplies.

Dip Pen Supplies

Calligraphy Straight Pen and Nib Set – This is the set I started with. My favorite nib in the set is the pointed 512. I find it easiest to work with as a beginner.

Italic pen holder – They say a straight pen holder is better for lefties, but I find it much easier to work with an italic.

Strathmore Calligraphy Pad – This pad is designed to work well with calligraphy pen ink.

Somi Ink – There are so many beautiful inks you can use for calligraphy, but this basic ink is the best to start with.

Liquid Gum Arabic – This helps prepare your nibs so the ink will coat them properly. I didn’t have it to begin with but recently invested in it, and oh, what a difference it makes!

Pen Cleaner – Pretty self-explanatory. This is to clean your nibs.

Supply of brush pen

Paper is of great importance when it comes to brush pen. Nylon tips are durable, but felt brush pens will fray if you don’t use the proper paper.

HP Premium 32 – This is the smoothest copy paper and the one I use for practice 99% of the time.

Rhodia Dot Pad – I use this pad a lot for sketching and practice. Small dots are perfect for keeping your calligraphy straight.

Apple Pencil Supply

I’ve covered the important stuff, but the practice sheets and fun Procreate Brushes are a huge part of learning iPad calligraphy.

How to Prepare Your Dip Pan Nibs

If you choose to do calligraphy with a dip pen, you’ll need to prepare your pointed nibs first.

New nibs are coated to prevent rust.

1. Prepare a new nib by running it briefly in a candle flame or rubbing it with toothpaste and a toothbrush.
2. Wash and dry it. If the nib is prepared properly, it should coat your ink smoothly.
3. If it’s a bead, try running it through a candle flame very briefly or scrubbing it again with toothpaste and a toothbrush.

How to use your dip pan

Dip it in liquid gum arabic and gently wipe it off before dipping it in your ink.

This helps the ink flow more easily and prevents the nib from catching on the paper.