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Beginner’s Guide to Nibs and Nib Holders
June 12, 2023 - Posted by Miriam to Guides, Calligraphy Pens, Comic / Manga Pens, Beginners' Guides, Calligraphy Beginners' Guides
Beginner’s Guide to Nibs and Nib Holders

Although modern pens are prevalent in this day and age, there's still a place for old world writing instruments. One example is the dip pen—specifically the nib and nib holder pairing. What exactly are nibs and nib holders? A nib is a pointed piece of metal that deposits ink onto a writing surface. It is mounted onto a nib holder, which can also be referred to as a pen holder or a pen nib holder, to create a dip pen.

Nibs and nib holders have a few advantages over all-in-one pens. Interchangeable nibs allow flexibility in line width variation and tip size, which can create beautiful calligraphy and art. Dip pens are also necessary for some unique inks. We cover the basics of dip pen nibs, calligraphy nibs, and nib holders in this article and also include tables that detail nib and nib holder compatibility.

Table of Contents
Why Use a Dip Pen?

One of the primary advantages of dip pens is that they do not have an internal filling system that can become clogged. They can be used with a variety of liquids, including thicker metallic and glitter inks, as well as homemade inks crafted from tea, berries, and more. Dip pens are also simple to clean, even when used with permanent inks like India inks: you can remove the nib from the nib holder and scrub it with a toothbrush and rubbing alcohol.

Additionally, dip pens are an inexpensive way to add unique flair to your writing. Flexible pointed pen nibs are far cheaper than fountain pens with flexible nibs and they can create more dramatic downstrokes prized in cursive calligraphy. And switching out nibs is almost instantaneous, so it’s easy to change from flexible nibs and Copperplate cursive to italic nibs and Blackletter gothic.

Of course, dip pens have disadvantages too. Without an internal filling system, dip pens have to be dipped into ink over and over again. Additionally, they tend to write very wetly and may need special paper to ensure that writing does not feather or bleed. The nibs can be finicky, requiring some preparation to remove machining oils and ensure proper function. Nibs will eventually wear out, too, so they need to be replaced. Pointed nibs especially tend to wear out faster, since you need to apply pressure in order to separate the tines.

It can also be difficult to start writing with a dip pen in the first place: you will have to teach yourself the correct hand position, and slowly learn how to control your writing pressure. And, as one last important consideration, they simply aren't as neat and easy to use as a self-contained writing instrument like a fountain pen. It can get quite messy when you use dip pens, even at your desk.
Advantages Disadvantages
  • Variety of inks to choose from
  • Variety of nibs to choose from
  • Switch between nibs and inks with little effort
  • Easy to clean
  • Adds personality to writing
  • Lower entry cost
  • Vintage appeal
  • Must be frequently dipped into ink
  • Nibs have to be prepared and are often not usable straight out of the box
  • Nibs eventually wear out, requiring replacement
  • Learning curve
  • Wet writing requires compatible paper
  • Can get messy
  • Not portable

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Nib Characteristics
Nib Shape
Pointed Nibs
Writing sample and close up of a pointed Speedball Hunt 512 nib.
Writing sample and close up of a pointed Speedball Hunt 512 EF nib.
Pointed nibs can be identified at a glance: they taper to a sharp point! They are often flexible, with tines that are able to split apart and create line variation. The farther the tines are able to separate, the wider the line produced. Pointed nibs are used for many purposes, from modern calligraphy to comic drawings.
Broad Nibs
Writing sample and close up of a broad Speedball C Style nib.
Writing sample and close up of a broad Speedball C Style nib.
Broad nibs, also known as broad-edge nibs, have wide tips instead of pointed ones. While they are not flexible, some broad nibs can still offer line variation. Their long edges create wider strokes, while their perpendicular shorter sides produce finer ones. Broad nib tips can either be squared or at an angle, similar to italic and stub or oblique nibs found on fountain pens.
Round Nibs
Writing sample of and close up of a round Tachikawa Type B nib.
Writing sample and close up of a round Tachikawa Type B nib.
Specialty round nibs create uniform line widths. They differ from broad nibs in that their tips produce rounded marks. These nibs are especially useful for monoline letters or anything that requires even strokes.
Nib Tip Size
From top to bottom: Brause 29 Index Finger, Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin, and Brause 66 EF Arrow pointed nibs.
From top to bottom: Brause 29 Index Finger, Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin, and Brause 66 EF Arrow pointed nibs.
From top to bottom: Speedball C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4 broad nibs.
From top to bottom: Speedball C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4 broad nibs.

Similar to the nibs in fountain pens, tip size measurements for nibs in nib holders range from extra fine to broad (though some manufacturers specify the nib size in millimeters). These measurements are more accurate for broad nibs, which are stiff and meant to hold their shape to product lines of consistent widths.

Although some pointed nibs also have designated tip sizes like extra fine or fine, these labels refer to the line width produced by the nib when no pressure is applied. For these nibs, it’s important to consider their flexibility as well.

Nib Flexibility
Writing sample and demonstration of a firm Brause 29 Index Finger nib.
Writing sample and demonstration of a "firm" Brause 29 Index Finger nib.
Writing sample and demonstration of a flexible Brause 66 EF Arrow nib.
Writing sample and demonstration of a "flexible" Brause 66 EF Arrow nib.

Typically only applicable to pointed nibs, flexibility refers to the tines’ ability to spread. The farther they spread, the thicker the line. Applying pressure to the nib causes the tines to separate. A flexible nib can produce more line variation than a stiff nib. Too much flexibility can make it difficult to control, so it’s best to experiment and see what’s most comfortable for you.

It’s important to note that applying pressure to a nib will eventually cause the tines to separate permanently, which means they can no longer produce very fine lines and may stop writing altogether. Nibs designed for use with nib holders are not meant to be permanent fixtures: they will eventually wear out and need to be replaced.

Nib Material
Most nibs are made of steel, and some are coated for cosmetic or practical reasons. From left to right: Speedball Hunt 512 EF, Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial, and Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin.
Most nibs are made of steel, and some are coated for cosmetic or practical reasons. From left to right: Speedball Hunt 512 EF, Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial, and Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin nibs.
Nibs are made of metal, typically steel. Some nibs are treated with a coating for cosmetic or practical purposes. Example coatings include titanium, which adds durability, and gold, which is resistant to corrosion.

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Nib Holder Characteristics
Nib Holder Form

The two main types of nib holders are straight and oblique nib holders.

Straight and oblique nib holders are used for different purposes.
Straight and oblique nib holders are used for different purposes. Top: Speedball Standard Nib Holder and bottom: Speedball Oblique Nib Holder.
On straight pen holders, nibs are mounted on one end, while oblique pen holders feature an extra “appendage” for mounting the nib. Oblique nib holders allow the writer to achieve an otherwise difficult angle that is advantageous in various script styles of calligraphy.
Straight nib holders come in a variety of different shapes.
Straight pen holders come in a variety of different shapes. From top to bottom: Tachikawa T-25 Nib Holder, Tachikawa T-40 Nib Holder, Speedball Standard Nib Holder, and E+M Artists 2062 Nib Holder.
Straight pen holders feature different shapes and diameters across brands. Some are wider in the grip area for a better grasp, and a few even include a rubber section for added comfort. There are longer nib holders that are designed to mimic paintbrushes, while others are curved to fit better in the hand.
Nib Holder Material
Most nib holders are made of wood or plastic.
Most nib holders are made of wood or plastic. Top: Speedball Standard Nib Holder and bottom: Tachikawa T-25 Nib Holder.
Most nib holders are made of wood or plastic. Some plastic holders can be readily wiped clean of ink, while untreated wood holders tend to be more prone to staining. There are also metal holders, which offer a sleek look and provide a nice weight in the hand. All of these materials are lightweight and easy to hold. In terms of comfort, which you choose is generally a matter of personal preference.
Pen Nib Holder Size
The two main nib mount sizes are the smaller crow quill size and the larger standard size.
The two main nib mount sizes are the smaller crow quill size and the larger standard size. From left to right: Speedball Standard Nib Holder, Speedball 102 Crow Quill Nib Holder, and Tachikawa T-40 Nib Holder.
There are two main nib mount sizes to choose from when purchasing a pen holder: the smaller crow quill size and the larger standard size. Standard sized nib mounts accommodate standard nibs, like the G nib popular with manga artists. Crow quill mounts can accommodate small nibs as well as nibs with cylindrical bodies that are around 3 mm in diameter. Some pen nib holders, like comic pen nib holders, have two mounts and can accommodate both sizes.

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Nib Compatibility

It's important to match a nib to the correct holder. Most nib holders are made for “standard” or standard comic size nibs. See the tables below to check compatibility. Hover over the nib holders to see which models are included.

Please note that although Speedball nibs will fit into nib holders from other brands, the fit is much tighter in Japanese nib holders.

Nib Compatibility with Japanese Nib Holders
Deleter Nib Holder Nikko N-20 Nib Holder Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Brause 29 Compatible with Deleter Nib Holder Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Compatible Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Brause 66 EF Arrow Nib Brause 66 EF Arrow Nib Brause 66 EF Compatible with Deleter Nib Holder Brause 66 EF Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Brause 66 EF Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Brause 76 Rose Nib Brause 76 Rose Nib Brause 76 Rose Nib Compatible with Deleter Nib Holder Brause 76 Rose Nib Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder Brause 76 Rose Nib Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Brause 76 Rose Nib Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Brause 76 Rose Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G Brause 76 Rose Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with Deleter Nib Holder Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
E+M Standard Nibs E+M Standard Nibs E+M Standard Nibs Compatible with Deleter Nib Holder E+M Standard Nibs Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder E+M Standard Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder E+M Standard Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 E+M Standard Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G E+M Standard Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
G Nibs G Nibs G Nibs Compatible with Deleter Nib Holder G Nibs Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder G Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder G Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 G Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G G Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Japanese Nibs Japanese Nibs Japanese Nibs Compatible with Deleter Nib Holder Japanese Nibs Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder Japanese Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Japanese Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Japanese Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G Japanese Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Maru Nibs Maru Nibs Maru Nibs Compatible with Deleter Nib Holder Maru Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Maru Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
School Nibs School Nibs School Nibs Compatible with Deleter Nib Holder School Nibs Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder School Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Maru Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Maru Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G Maru Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Speedball Hunt 56 School Nib Speedball Hunt 56 School Nib
Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Speedball Hunt 102 Crow Quill Nib Speedball Hunt 102 Crow Quill Nib
Speedball Hunt 107 Hawk Quill Nib Speedball Hunt 107 Hawk Quill Nib Speedball Hunt 107 Hawk Quill Nib Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Speedball Hunt 107 Hawk Quill Nib Imperial Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Speedball Hunt 512 Bowl EF Nib Speedball Hunt 512 Bowl EF Nib Speedball Hunt 512 Bowl EF Nib Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 512 Bowl EF Nib Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 512 Bowl EF Nib Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Speedball Hunt 512 Bowl EF Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G
Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Spoon Nibs Spoon Nibs Spoon Nibs Compatible with Deleter Nib Holder Spoon Nibs Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder Spoon Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Spoon Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Spoon Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G Spoon Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Compatible with Nikko N-20 Nib Holder Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa T-20 Nib Holder Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Compatible with Tachikawa Nib Holders - T-25, T-36, T-40 Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Nib Holders - SL1990, SL1993, SL1994, SL2050, SL430G Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Compatible with Tokyo Slider Double-Sided Nib Holder - SL2011
Nib Compatibility with Western Standard Nib Holders
Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Kaweco Special Nib Holder Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder Speedball Standard Nib Holder Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Brause 66 EF Arrow Nib Brause 66 EF Arrow Nib Brause 66 EF Arrow Nib Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Brause 66 EF Arrow Nib Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Brause 66 EF Arrow Nib Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Brause 66 EF Arrow Nib Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder
Brause 76 Rose Nib Brause 76 Rose Nib Brause 76 Rose Nib Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Brause 76 Rose Nib Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Brause 76 Rose Nib Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Brause 76 Rose Nib Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder Brause 76 Rose Nib Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
E+M Standard Nibs E&M Standard Nibs E&M Standard Nibs Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder E&M Standard Nibs Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble E&M Standard Nibs Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder E&M Standard Nibs Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder E&M Standard Nibs Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder E&M Standard Nibs Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
G Nibs G Nibs G Nibs Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder G Nibs Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble G Nibs Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder G Nibs Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder G Nibs Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder G Nibs Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Japanese Nibs Japanese Nibs Japanese Nibs Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Japanese Nibs Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Japanese Nibs Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Japanese Nibs Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder Japanese Nibs Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder Japanese Nibs Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Maru Nibs Maru Nibs
School Nibs School Nibs School Nibs Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder School Nibs Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder School Nibs Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder School Nibs Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder School Nibs Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 56 School Nib Speedball Hunt 56 School Nib Speedball Hunt 56 School Nib Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 56 School Nib Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Speedball Hunt 56 School Nib Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 56 School Nib Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 56 School Nib Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 56 School Nib Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 102 Crow Quill Nib Speedball Hunt 102 Crow Quill Nib
Speedball Hunt 107 Hawk Quill Nib Speedball Hunt 107 Hawk Quill Nib
Speedball Hunt 512 EF Nib Speedball Hunt 512 EF Nib Speedball Hunt 512 EF Nib Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 512 EF Nib Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Speedball Hunt 512 EF Nib Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 512 EF Nib Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 512 EF Nib Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 512 EF Nib Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Spoon Nibs Spoon Nibs Spoon Nibs Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Spoon Nibs Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Spoon Nibs Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Spoon Nibs Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder Spoon Nibs Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder Spoon Nibs Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Compatible with Brause Ergonomic Nib Holder Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Compatible with E+M Nib Holders - Antique, Artists 2062, Gemini, Marble Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Compatible with Kaweco Special Nib Holder Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Compatible with Speedball Standard Nib Holder Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Compatible with Speedball Signature Calligraphy Nib Holder Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Compatible with Ziller Straight Nib Holder
Nib Compatibility with Western Specialty Nib Holders
E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Speedball #102 Crow Quill Nib Holder Speedball #104 Crow Quill Nib Holder Speedball Oblique Nib Holder Ziller Oblique Wood Nib Holder
Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Compatible with Speedball Oblique Nib Holder Brause 29 Index Finger Nib Compatible with Ziller Oblique Wood Nib Holder
Brause 66 EF Arrow Nib Brause 66 EF Arrow Nib Brause 66 EF Arrow Nib Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Brause 66 EF Arrow Nib Compatible with Speedball #104 Crow Quill Nib Holder
Brause 76 Rose Nib Brause 76 Rose Nib Brause 76 Rose Nib Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Brause 76 Rose Nib Compatible with Speedball Oblique Nib Holder Brause 76 Rose Nib Compatible with Ziller Oblique Wood Nib Holder
Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with Speedball Oblique Nib Holder Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib Compatible with Ziller Oblique Wood Nib Holder
E+M Standard Nibs E&M Standard Nibs E&M Standard Nibs Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder
G Nibs G Nibs G Nibs Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder G Nibs Compatible with Ziller Oblique Wood Nib Holder
Japanese Nibs Japanese Nibs Japanese Nibs Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Japanese Nibs Compatible with Ziller Oblique Wood Nib Holder
Maru Nibs Maru Nibs Maru Nibs Compatible with Speedball #102 Crow Quill Nib Holder
School Nibs School Nibs School Nibs Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder School Nibs Compatible with Ziller Oblique Wood Nib Holder
Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Compatible with Speedball Oblique Nib Holder Speedball A, B, C, LC Style Nibs Compatible with Ziller Oblique Wood Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Speedball Hunt 22B EF Nib Compatible with Speedball Oblique Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 56 School Nib Speedball Hunt 56 School Nib Speedball Hunt 56 School Nib Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 56 School Nib Compatible with Speedball Oblique Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 99 Drawing Nib Compatible with Speedball Oblique Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Compatible with Speedball #104 Crow Quill Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Compatible with Speedball Oblique Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 100 Artist Nib Compatible with Ziller Oblique Wood Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 101 Imperial Nib Compatible with Speedball Oblique Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 102 Crow Quill Nib Speedball Hunt 102 Crow Quill Nib Speedball Hunt 102 Crow Quill Nib Compatible with Speedball #102 Crow Quill Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 102 Crow Quill Nib Compatible with Speedball Oblique Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 107 Hawk Quill Nib Speedball Hunt 107 Hawk Quill Nib Speedball Hunt 107 Hawk Quill Nib Compatible with Speedball #102 Crow Quill Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 512 EF Nib Speedball Hunt 512 EF Nib Speedball Hunt 512 EF Nib Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 512 EF Nib Compatible with Speedball Oblique Nib Holder
Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Speedball Hunt 513 EF Globe Nib Compatible with Speedball Oblique Nib Holder
Spoon Nibs Spoon Nibs Spoon Nibs Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Spoon Nibs Compatible with Ziller Oblique Wood Nib Holder
Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Compatible with E+M Two-Way Nib Holder Tachikawa Calligraphy Nibs Compatible with Ziller Oblique Wood Nib Holder

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How to Use a Dip Pen
Everyday Writing
Dip pens can be used for everyday writing, like letters to penpals.
Dip pens can be used for everyday writing, like letters to penpals.
Though not as common, dip pens can be used for everyday writing. We recommend choosing a nib that is firm and not as flexible for consistent, beautiful writing. Broad nibs can add a bit of extra flair to handwriting, too. Try writing a letter with a dip pen and sending it to a friend through snail mail!

Products Used: Speedball Standard Nib Holder, Brause Dip Pen Nib - 29 Index Finger, Kuretake Sumi Ink

Calligraphy and Decorative Writing
Use dip pens for calligraphy and decorative writing.
Use dip pens for calligraphy and decorative writing.
Perhaps the most common application, dip pens are ideal for calligraphy and decorative writing. They're perfect for spicing up programs, invites, and menus for special occasions. Read our guide on beginner calligraphy supplies to learn more.

Products Used: Speedball Oblique Nib Holder, Brause Dip Pen Nib - 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin, Kuretake Gold Mica Calligraphy Ink

Ink and Comic Art
Dip pens are useful for comic and manga art thanks the variety of line shapes produced.
Dip pens are useful for comic and manga art thanks the variety of line shapes produced.
Dip pens are regularly used by comic and manga artists to get more line variation and add expression to their drawings. Nibs are easily cleaned and switched out, allowing artists to have a wide variety of tools at their disposal. Learn more about using dip pens for art in our comprehensive guide on manga and comic art supplies.

Products Used: Tachikawa T-25 Nib Holder, Zebra Dip Pen Nib - G, Kuretake Sumi Ink

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How to Install a Nib into a Nib Holder
How to Install a Nib into a Nib Holder Video
  • Make sure the nib is compatible with the holder.
  • Take the base of the nib and gently wedge it into the nib holder ring. The fit may be tighter depending on the nib holder and nib, but it should never be loose.
  • Once it's secure, the nib holder is ready to use.

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How to Use a Nib Holder
Straight Nib Holder
How to Use a Straight Nib Holder Video
  • Hold the nib holder like a regular pen.
  • Dip the nib into the ink and wipe the excess on the bottle. Before writing, make sure the nib is at a 45 degree angle to the writing surface for optimal ink flow.
  • Do some test strokes to see how the ink behaves with the nib and paper.
  • To vary line width when using a pointed nib, apply different amounts of pressure on the downstrokes. Do not apply pressure with upstrokes as the nib may catch on the paper.
Oblique Nib Holder
How to Use an Oblique Nib Holder Video
  • After installing the nib into the oblique pen holder, position the nib at the desired angle on the paper.
  • Using this angle as a guide, hold the straight part of the nib holder like a regular pen.
  • Dip the nib into the ink and practice different strokes to become accustomed to the shape of the nib holder.
  • With practice, oblique pen holders can aid in various script calligraphy styles (Spencerian, Copperplate) by providing angles that are difficult to achieve with straight pen holders.

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How to Care for Nibs and Nib Holders
With a little care, you can make sure that your nibs and nib holders last.
With a little care, you can make sure that your nibs and nib holders last.
  • Nibs often have an oil coating to protect against sticking together and rusting. There are several ways to prepare them. You can pass a flame under them a couple quick times, wipe them with rubbing alcohol or toothpaste, or even stick them in a potato!
  • Always remove the nib from the nib holder when not in use. Use a paper towel to remove it to avoid oil transference.
  • Wash the ink off the nib with water or rubbing alcohol. Calligraphy inks tend to cake onto the nib and many are difficult to remove completely.
  • If ink gets into the nib holder ring, dip it into water or alcohol to remove.
  • Make sure to dry both the nib holder and nib completely to avoid rusting.

For more tips on how to care for nibs, read our beginner’s guide on calligraphy supplies.

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More Resources
Conclusion

Whether you're a dip pen beginner or a seasoned master, we hope we've inspired you to consider using dip pens for everyday writing, calligraphy, or drawing. Do you have a favorite comic or calligraphy nib and nib holder combination? Let us know in the comments below!

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JetPens Calligraphy Nib Sampler
JetPens Calligraphy Nib Sampler
Are you ready to jump into the world of nibs and nib holders but aren’t sure where to start? Try one of our calligraphy starter kits! The JetPens Calligraphy Nib Sampler includes six of our most popular pointed nibs for calligraphy. They vary in flexibility, with some nibs creating consistent lines regardless of pressure, and others producing fascinatingly broad downstrokes.

A Modern Calligraphy Starter Kit is also available which includes everything you’ll need to get started with pointed pen calligraphy, such as nibs, nib holders, ink, and dip pen-friendly paper.

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