How to assemble a calligraphy pen

Calligraphy is an ancient art form that continues to captivate modern creatives.

While some see traditional dip pens as the only proper tools for true calligraphy, alternative pens offer unique advantages and are more accessible to beginners.

Before delving into writing, mastering the assembly of these tools is critical. Discover the diverse range as we explore each calligraphy pen type and its assembly process.

What is calligraphy used for?

Calligraphy is the art of crafting beautiful letters, numbers, or symbols and arranging them thoughtfully.

The precision and artistry of calligraphy find application in various contexts, like addressing invitations, designing fonts and logos, book design, signwriting, inscriptions, memorial documents, and journaling.

Its versatility lends artistic finesse to any project.

How to set up a calligraphy pen

Each calligraphy pen type has its unique setup. Let’s explore them individually, beginning with the classic calligraphy dip pens.

Dip pens

Dip pens remain a favourite among seasoned calligraphers and enthusiasts seeking to replicate classic calligraphy styles.

Unlike fountain pens, dip pens don’t store ink — they rely on periodic top-ups from bottled ink while writing. Assembling them is straightforward: choose and insert a metal nib, pick your ink, and you’re set to write.

For those less confident in calligraphy, having a pencil nearby allows you to sketch your draft before inking the final version.

Some artists dip the pen directly into the bottle when applying ink, while others use an eyedropper for more controlled ink flow. If using an eyedropper, hold the dip pen horizontally, carefully applying ink to the nib’s reservoir, and place the eyedropper on a saucer between uses to prevent spills.

Fountain pens

Fountain pens are popular in the hand lettering community, offering a convenient choice for practising calligraphy.

Assembling a fountain pen varies between models but typically involves selecting and inserting a nib and ink cartridge.

Choosing a compatible calligraphy nib for your pen is crucial. They’re often brand-specific and available in various sizes for different typeface weights.

Inserting an ink cartridge generally involves unscrewing the barrel from the nib section and firmly pushing the cartridge into the nib section until it clicks.

For a pen with an empty cartridge, refill it or replace it with a fresh one.

Ink cartridges can sometimes be limiting in their choice of colours. However, most fountain pens can be used with a converter, allowing you to use any compatible bottled ink for your art.

Converters are available from specific brands, or you can select a universal one like Faber-Castell’s.

To prep a pen with a converter, immerse the nib in the ink bottle, draw the piston back and then expel the ink, repeating the process until the ink chamber is full. Leave a small air space by allowing a few drops of ink back into the bottle.

Refer to our guide on fountain pen ink converters for information on other types and how to fill them. You could read our dedicated blog post on the topic for a more comprehensive understanding of using fountain pens for calligraphy.

The Parallel Pen

The Pilot Parallel Pen is a fountain pen but stands out as the first with a nib comprising two parallel plates, facilitating the swift creation of crisp calligraphy.

Begin by choosing your preferred nib width from 1.5mm, 2.4mm, 3.8mm, or 6.0mm, and attach it to the pen’s main body. Then, select an ICP-3 cartridge or insert and fill the Pilot CON-40 converter with your desired ink.

Brush pens

Brush pens offer a modern and convenient approach to calligraphy, requiring no setup. Grab a pen, remove the cap, and let your creativity flourish.

Unlike traditional calligraphy tools, a brush pen imitates a paintbrush, requiring a distinct technique. Check out our comprehensive brush pen calligraphy guide for a detailed guide on maximising your results with this pen type.