How To Write Calligraphy With A Fountain Pen?

Calligraphy, like any art out there, is a mixture of skill and self-expression represented in the form of some lines scribbled on a piece of paper. Unfortunately, in the 18th and 19th centuries when the printing press came along, a major decline in its practice could be observed. The introduction of computers and mobile from there did not help the cause.

But art, as it often does, found a way. Despite all the technological advancements of modern times, almost as if were written in a book, calligraphy has risen from the ashes and is making a comeback, or resurgence to put it in a more classy way. In this blog, let’s explore how one can start writing calligraphy with a fountain pen

History of Calligraphy

Calligraphy has its roots deep inside several cultures, both Eastern and Western. However, going by archaeological evidence and the consensus, it originated in ancient China, around the 5th century BCE, where calligraphy was performed using brushes to write characters on silk and later on paper.

This art form spread like wildfire, and neighboring Asian countries like Japan and Korea adapted it and created their very own styles. Whereas in the West, it can be observed being used alongside the Latin alphabet. The earliest examples of Calligraphy in the West date back to the Roman Empire, when the need for a clear but aesthetically pleasing manuscript was growing and calligraphy was the perfect fit.

Throughout its history, calligraphy has held a prestigious position and has been linked with literacy, religious texts, and the preservation of cultural heritage. Its effects can still be observed in Islamic traditions today, where images are prohibited in the context of religion. Where images weren’t allowed, writing arose as the preferred form of artistic expression. Words are the truest expression of the soul, after all.

Why Use a Fountain Pen for Calligraphy?

Now, let’s get to the matter at hand and ask the big question: why is using a fountain pen for calligraphy preferred over a regular, say ballpoint pen? Well, it's like saying why offroad in an SUV when you’ve got your Sedan parked in the garage? You can do it, there are no restrictions on using any pen for calligraphy, but calligraphy fountain pens offer certain unique benefits such as:

Variety of Nibs: Fountain pens come with a variety of nibs, giving you the ability to experiment and find which suits you best. Traditionally speaking, a broad nib is used for creating thick and dramatic writing, as seen in Gothic styles.

Fluid Ink Flow: The flow of ink is much smoother and much more consistent making fountain pens quite handy for continuous writing without needing to apply pressure which is required for making clean and smooth lines.

Precision: With the right nib and ink, EDC fountain pens allow for controlled and accurate writing, these help create precise lines and curves of calligraphy.

X-Factor: Let’s face it, there is something extremely classy and retro about using a calligraphy fountain pen a feeling that other pens can’t replicate. Here’s an analogy. Sure, one would play the guitar by attaching 6 strings on a shovel, but will it really compare to playing a classic Gibson Les Paul?

Steps to Write Calligraphy with a Fountain Pen

Choose the Right Fountain Pen and Nib

Every Nib and EDC Pen combination is unique, so you must find out which is your preferred combination. Ideally, look for a pen body type that feels the most natural and comfortable to hold. Nibs, too, come variety of sizes, such as fine, medium, and broad. For example, Gothic requires a broad nib to create sharp, angular strokes and contrasts between thick and thin lines whereas Italic Calligraphy uses a flat nib to achieve elegant, slanted letters with controlled line variation.

Have a Strong Base

Before swimming nib-first into the inkpot of calligraphy, remember that fountain pen writing requires mastering the basic strokes, as they are the foundation for forming every letter.

Upstrokes are light and thin. They’re created by moving the pen upward and should be done with a light hand, applying minimal pressure.

Downstrokes are heavy and thick strokes made when moving the pen—yes, you guessed it—downward. The more pressure you apply, the thicker the strokes.

Calligraphy’s distinct flowy and curvy style of writing is essential to truly master the art form. Practice creating smooth and consistent curves without breaking your flow of writing. Ensure that the size, spacing, and slants are consistent.

Start with Simple Calligraphy Styles

Remember our guitar example from before—you don’t want to start learning Eddie Van Halen right from the get-go. Take it easy. As a beginner, the aim is to master the basics first because if the foundation isn’t well established, the entire building crumbles down.

Start with something simple, like Modern or Italic Calligraphy. These are great calligraphy styles for beginners and still look elegant and professional. Once you’ve got a solid hang of them, you can move on to more complex styles such as Copperplate or Spencerian.

Read more: What is the Difference Between Ballpoint and Fountain Pens?

Paper and Ink

The paper and ink you use can actually have a major impact on your writing.

For ink, you’d ideally want one that flows smoothly and dries quickly. Traditionally, black ink is used, but you can experiment with other colors.

As for the paper, it should be thick and high-quality so the pen glides smoothly, and the thickness helps prevent bleeding. Thin paper might cause the ink to bleed through, which can get messy.

Conclusion

Every art form takes time and consistency. Even a couple of minutes of dedicated practice every day will take you far. The more you practice, the smoother and better you control calligraphy fountain pens. Something as intricate, delicate, and beautiful as calligraphy cannot be mastered in a single day, but consistency will reward you with a highly rewarding skill.

FAQs

Can You Write Calligraphy with a Fountain Pen?

Fountain pens are the preferred kind of pen for calligraphy amongst modern writers due to how convenient it is, especially compared to traditional dip pens. 

How Do You Fill a Calligraphy Fountain Pen?

Filling a fountain pen is super easy. Step one is determining the filling mechanism; it could be either a cartridge, converter or a built-in reservoir.

For a cartridge, simply pop in a compatible ink cartridge until you hear a click, and voila! For converters, attach it to the pen and dip the nib into an ink pot. Then, use the plunger or twisting mechanism to draw in the ink. Last but not least, for a reservoir, submerge the nib into the ink bottle and use the filling mechanism, whether it’s a piston or a vacuum. Once done, use a clean cloth to wipe off the excess ink.

Always check your pen’s manual for specific instructions!

Which Calligraphy Style is Best?

Calligraphy is, undeniably, an art existing within the genre of writing, a writing technique. The best calligraphy style does not exist, for that is not a valid question considering art is subjective. However, the most common styles are Blackletter and Gothic Script.