The Best Starter Calligraphy Nibs: A Guide for Beginners

Calligraphy is such a timeless and beautiful art form. There's just something about the variation in letters and that old-world feel that makes it so special. Whether you're just getting started or you're diving deeper into your craft, picking the right tools makes a big difference, especially when it comes to your nibs.

Let’s talk about pointed nibs, which are what you’ll use for modern calligraphy styles. (Copperplate calligraphy, by the way, uses a square tip nib—but that’s another story for another day.)

My Go To Nib

If you’re just getting started and need a solid, reliable nib, the Nikko G is the best overall choice in my book. It’s not super flexible, which actually makes it easier to control if you're still getting the hang of things. It also works beautifully on textured paper, since it doesn't bend too much and keeps your lines thin and smooth.

However, keep in mind that because it’s stiffer, you won’t get a lot of dramatic variation between your up and down strokes. Still, it’s a great starter nib that can take you pretty far.

Fan Favorite: The Blue Pumpkin

Looking for big flair and stroke variation? The Blue Pumpkin nib is a fan favorite for a reason. It’s super flexible and perfect if you’re working on smoother surfaces like cardstock or even ceramics. The dramatic contrast between thick downstrokes and delicate upstrokes gives your letters so much character.

That said, because it's more flexible, it takes a little more practice and control. If you're ready to experiment with more dynamic lettering, it’s definitely worth trying.

Straight vs. Oblique Holders

There are two main types of holders: oblique and straight. My personal favorite is a straight holder because it feels more like a regular pencil—super natural to hold and write with.

For a great straight option, I love the Tachikawa holder. It’s sturdy and simple. But if you want to play with both types, the Luis Creations Moblique holder is amazing—it can switch between oblique and straight, so you get the best of both worlds.

Stephanie Gould Calligraphy | Custom Wedding Stationery

Once you get the hang of these starter tools, the possibilities really open up. Whether you're addressing envelopes, creating custom signage, or designing your wedding invitations—calligraphy adds that unforgettable, hand-touched feel.

Want custom wedding calligraphy that brings your vision to life? I’d love to help. From seating charts to place cards to invitation suites, I offer one-of-a-kind designs tailored to your day. Contact me today to get started!