1. Pointed Pen Calligraphy 101: About nibs and oblique holders

[@donreuter9793]

You state you are not an expert. You are my "go-to" lady when I need hard to find information on dip pens and calligraphy. You have taught me much and have enriched my life greatly.

[@OpenInkStand]

Thank you, it is my honor.

[@alfjones6377]

Your hand writing is lovely , Thank you.

[@2legit64]

I'm so glad that I found you. I just got my oblique holder and Nikko G nibs yesterday and your instructions make perfect sense. I wish that I'd learned about the oblique holder before buying tons of calligraphy pens trying to get the look that I wanted. It most certainly would have saved me a lot of heartache.

[@OpenInkStand]

+2legit64 I went through the same trouble when I started out as well! Glad this helps.

[@eleganciadoodles8270]

I was searching yt, google n everywhere I could search for names n nibs but this video was sent by God directly to me! thanks

[@freewonderland]

Thank you so much for the recommendation on the Nikko G nib. The dip nibs that came with an online calligraphy course I tried were so sharp, that as a lefty, it was always getting caught and felt like a disaster. I got the Nikko G nib and I can actually practice with it!! Thank you for allowing me to give dip pens another go.

[@OpenInkStand]

Heather Folsom I'm glad it works out for you! It is a very good nib and perfect for beginners and experts alike. If you like it, try out the Zebra G and the new Titanium Zebra.

[@paulage1art]

Stumbled onto your vlog and am hooked! You are amazing! Immediately subscribed after watching your video, now can't wait to see more of them. You are going to be my "go to" for writing in calligraphy as I am just starting and love your style and your calm voice!

[@OpenInkStand]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@philiplockwood255]

schin, i simply can not believe your modesty! Quote,." i'm not an expert" i have yet to see someone here on youtube who out shines you! i am in awe and staggered having watched most of your work,... Unbelievable!!! Your raw talent, artistic ability, humility,.. just to name a few, are behond words! Please don't take this wrongly but you are the only person i've watched, who makes me want to "give up". i know that is the opposite of your intentions and i would never wish to offend you, but Goodness me lady! Looks like i'm just going to have to try harder!!! And your Christmas card and envelope for 2016,.. well,.. NO WORDS can do justice......X

[@OpenInkStand]

I'm so glad you like my work, thank you for your kind words :)

[@enfermoliguista9098]

*Hi, thank you for your great videos, I consider myself a good calligrapher and as on opinions of people that know me I have a very beautiful calligraphy, once when I was a teenager I tried to use a nib but I founded it very unconfortable and stressful so I quit and kept writing with a regular pen, I had never heard before of this olbique nib holder, I THINK IT IS WONDERFUL! Now I am going to RE START my hand writing with more encourage! thanks again for sharing these wonderful videos! Greetings from Ecuador!*

[@OpenInkStand]

Glad to respark your passion!

[@rockclimbingrules]

Straight to the point, brilliant. Thankyou.

[@GenWivern2]

Gosh, *five* videos waiting for me this morning? You've made my day. :) Nice to hear your voice again: I look forward to hearing what you have to say but had to pause and recover myself after that bit about not being an expert.

[@OpenInkStand]

GenWivern2 Haha thanks! I hate hearing my voice so it was very difficult to edit the videos. But it is much more efficient to explain things verbally than use subtitles.

[@GenWivern2]

OpenInkStand Art & Calligraphy I understand, but it's very good actually. A second career as a voiceover artist awaits! I've watched all three parts now, and love the pragmatic approach to things like the pen grip and finger movement. Some of the older manuals are so rigid about technique that it's offputting from the outset. Looking forward to further installments, and in the meantime I'll continue to work on releasing that death grip.

[@naderkhan5597]

What type of ink you use. Please tell me about ink?

[@EdwardEiting]

I love your videos! You have the most beautiful handwriting I have ever seen.

[@OpenInkStand]

Thank you!

[@annette.1030]

WOW this is awesome!!! Thank you for sharing this with us!!

[@andresisthename]

Calligraphy for super beginners? LOL! That made my day!

[@krishnan719]

you r expert in this mam....thanks for making this tutorial.....

[@melstevencahilog]

Thank you very much for making this vide. I have learned a lot since I am about to jumpstart my journey to calligraphy.

[@xinvolume]

This was a great video it one of the first times I’ve seen someone describe in detail the various pens and penholders for calligraphy. You can’t practice calligraphy without the right equipment thank you for going into basic details.

[@OpenInkStand]

You're welcome

[@suezwahlen4475]

Thank you very much for your tutorials, its very interesting. I learnt a lot from you.

[@theGISEH]

Thank you sooooo much! You are so helpful and answered all of my questions

[@OpenInkStand]

theGISEH You're welcome!

[@acrophobe]

Are pointed pens at all comparable with fine-nibbed fountain pens for daily use in journaling and so on? I've just got into fountain pens but I really love the aesthetics of the turned wood straight handle pointed pen holders, and I really wouldn't mind the constant dipping at all so long as I can find a fine enough nib that won't bleed through the paper I use. Sadly there don't seem to be any manufacturers of fountain pens that make anything like this, except for maybe Platinum and Pilot's desk pens, which I like but are quite cheap in their construction. Are there any decent extra fine, fairly stiff and dry pointed pen nibs that might suit my needs?

[@joaovpmazziero]

I'm really begining with this so, thanks a lot!

[@radk3124]

cool! very informative. Thank you very much :-) I enjoyed your video

[@OpenInkStand]

Thanks for watching!

[@ssimp104]

the steel one with the funny like arrow point do you have to burn it first

[@krakentowa8727]

Thanks for your awesome videos. I am using an oblique holder and I’m finding it won’t fit in my ink bottles once the ink gets a little lower. Not sure the best solution without potentially wasting ink on a paint brush.

[@OpenInkStand]

What ink bottle are you using? Can you pour it into an inkwell with a wide mouth?

[@koyotemark4664]

VERY GOOD!! THANKS@

[@watteau6646]

Hi Ch'in. love your work. I'm having a hard time with Speedball Hunt 101 nib, Higgins Eternal ink on Rhodia 80gsm High Grade Vellum Paper. What happens is that when I do round forms, the ink splatters because the nib catches. I'm beginning to think it's the nib. Should I get a Nikko G? I watched your video using all sorts of papers, and your ink only spattered once (your nib caught) on the sketch pad paper. All other times (even on cardstock!) your nib was fine. Or is it my ink? My nib catches on very smooth vellum! If you can help me, I'd really appreciate it! I subscribed. Thank You!!

[@chinesecalligraphyandpens9246]

this really helped me so much

[@professionalpotato4764]

How do I remove the protective coating on the nibs? Some suggested nail polish remover, and some suggested using a flame to burn it off. I've tried both methods, but burning runs a risk of damaging the nib, and nail polish remover didn't seem to do much even after wiping 10~15 times. So far the ink keeps staying just a little above the tip and doesn't flow when I'm trying to write.

[@OpenInkStand]

Jason Tay You are right, the flame method is risky. I have never heard of using nail polish remover. I always use rubbing alcohol or windex myself. It sounds like you are experiencing a nib creep. Make sure the tines of your nib is not sprung. And is it a Brause Rose/66ef nib? If so then that is a common problem and I have a separate video here on how to deal with it. Good luck!

[@dkdude]

I messed up one of my nibs because of the use of lighter, don't expose the nib to the flame for longer than 3-4 seconds. And DO NOT apply flame in constant steady manner. If u use the lighter, hold it steady and, sort of, wiggle the nib around the flame back and forth, don't let it heat up too much. You want to remove the coating, not set it burning red. Buy some spirit tissues from a pharmacy or an electronics store. Any tissues would work, u don't need expensive good brands. Watch a video on how to remove the coating, that would be useful. Regards

[@honeybearfur]

Thank you for this.

[@volcanowb]

"What ever floats your boat." 🤣

[@Sbi_life]

Wow your nails are beautiful. Can't get rid of it😍😍😍. Are those originals

[@reydelrey5975]

Hi, I was just wondering what crow quill is displayed throughout your video? Very nice video by the way, very helpful for myself and others.

[@moiftab]

So I've been learning with a straight holder and that is NOT at all how I hold it. I hold it angled very slightly in the opposite direction and do most of the angling of the letter simply in the way I draw it. The other interesting thing I noticed is you don't seem to put any fingers underneath the holder when you hold it? When I first learned to write it was with a finder placed under the pen (And you end up with a bump on your finger after several years of doing this).

[@OpenInkStand]

You are right, the way I hold my pen is not conventional. The correct way to hold it is with the two last fingers curled up underneath. Unfortunately I have been holding it my way for so long that I can't change! I'd say just go with what is comfortable for you, as long as it is not a death grip.

[@427AKASH]

Hi Schin, as usual love your videos. Please, can you tell me how to store nibs for long and not let them corrode?

[@OpenInkStand]

You can use those little silica gel moisture absorber packets found in snacks, and put those with your nibs in a container.

[@ryanpagoria9622]

hello, I really enjoy your videos but in this one in particular when you explain that you would need to angle the paper drastically or your hand to use a straight pen.. couldn't you just move your arm in a similar or the same motion as the oblique? I am just getting into this, and it makes sense to me that as long as the nib is "up right" at all times it should flow the ink. in other words, I don't see why you have to draw a line that if you could pick it up and put it on the nib, that it would go directly down the middle. does that make sense?

[@OpenInkStand]

If that is more comfortable for you then by all means go for it. I am so accustomed to my own grip that anything else feels bizarre. But if it works for you, go for it!

[@JoseEllen1]

well explained

[@TheSmoochy2]

GREAT vidieo.. i man having a problem finding then right nib for copperplate, or roundhand. I too use the oblique. I have bought a lot of Nibs that have not worked out. I was wondering where the best place is to buy nibs. Some of these places charge $8.00 for postage So it can be expensive. Any suggestions would help. I was going to sign up for a class but they would not accept me with a niko G NIB at Then pointed. Writting Class. Thanks, Bo

[@davidmantooth1285]

I just received a dip pen set. My main problem is that the oblique pen doesn't fit into the opening of the ink bottle that came with the set. The straight pen barely fits. Any tips on where to get bottles and what kind of ink?

[@kjzuniga7077]

Nice explanation mam thanks🇵🇭👆

[@mohdhamid7368]

which g nib series have medium flexibility and the best for write the name on the degrees

[@mocknugget]

mohd hamid Nikko G or Zebra G

[@omeander]

Thank you for taking the time and care to make these calligraphy videos you are a talented teacher. One question is what if one writes left handed are there left handed oblique holders and nibs?

[@omeander]

Charlie i have since found that there are left handed oblique holders but that the writing posture of lefties does not necessarily require an oblique holder for most calligraphy styles as much as for North paws...

[@DozrVision]

what paper do I use? I'm not sure what paper to buy online so my ink doesn't bleed or spider?

[@OpenInkStand]

+DOZR Rhodia or Clairefontaine paper is good for practice

[@DozrVision]

now what would you use than for professional or not "practice"? and thank you

[@OpenInkStand]

+DOZR For commissioned work I use a thicker watercolor paper or card stock

[@MingLee1502]

Thank you so much for this vid to clarify the difference between Straight vs Oblique holder. Before watching this, I kinda dislike the Oblique holder for it looked kinda weird.

[@OpenInkStand]

+Ming Lee Glad it helped!

[@MG-gq2rs]

Thank you so much! Where do you buy the oblique holders from?

[@yomomma1924]

What are some good pens and nibs for copperplate

[@41c.vanlalhmingchhuanga67]

i need some pen ....what will be the best

[@gwenfaison8070]

Thanks for the video. I'm curious, how long have you been doing this and did it take you along time to grasp the fundamentals of calligraphy??? Thanks!!

[@OpenInkStand]

+Gail Adams Thanks! The fundamentals well maybe a year or so?

[@NoName-rf9ln]

I'm left handed my hand holds at the left angle already. do you think I could use a straight holder like an oblique holder?

[@vanezcha]

Hi there. The uploader hasn't replied so in case you havent got any info, i try to answer your question as i am also a leftie. I use inlique penholder just like her and i write with the paper angled to the right. The oblique penholder helps us to slant

[@vanezcha]

By inlique i meant oblique

[@dikshitjain3763]

in india where i stay it is approx 1900₹ i.e. approx 30-35$

[@broomtonyt]

hi. thanks for the videos. can you tell me if the Zebra Comic Pen Nib - G Model is the same nib? thanks

[@jonathanphillips6929]

Hi Thank you so much for making these vidoes....very helpful especially for an amateur like me......

[@OpenInkStand]

Jonathan Phillips You're welcome!

[@jonathanphillips6929]

OpenInkStand Art & Calligraphy So I bought a oblique nib holder and a nib, when i try to write why is that I cannot even complete even a single letter without dipping it multiple times, whereas you were able to draw more than seven hair lines and few loops just after dipping once (5:20 in the video), I can barely do one hair line why is that? What am i doing wrong, would you be able to explain, or is it the nib??

[@fancyslayer99]

What is the best place to buy pen holders (the one you have)? im looking to buy a great quality oblique holder (such as yours) and i cant find a good site to buy it from. Any suggestions?

[@OpenInkStand]

fancyslayer99 You can buy good quality oblique holders at Paperinkarts.com or Johnnealbooks.com

[@xkawaiiloverrx3]

any links to where we can get these?

[@byehai]

Where would you buy one of these?

[@mlb_212]

How do i avoid blotting my paper with ink?

[@OpenInkStand]

Be very careful with your nib and try not to over dip

[@sinisterace5272]

Could you possibly link me to the nibs you use if they are on Amazon please? I'm using speedball nibs and where I'm partially color blind, I can't tell how deep I'm dipping the nib.

[@Musikministeren]

can you use an oblique holder the same way/angle as a straight holder...???

[@OpenInkStand]

No, the flange will be in the way...

[@Musikministeren]

okay thx

[@TheWatermelonlipS]

Hi! I soooooo want an oblique holder, but I cannot find any in my country (Argentina). Do you have any idea if it is possible to modify a straight holder to turn it oblique? Thank you for making these helpful videos! :D

[@OpenInkStand]

TheWatermelonlipS I'm sorry I don't know how... youll have to make your own flange, and to set it properly etc. It is probably easier to try and buy one online. Maybe an art shop in Argentina might have a speedball holder until you can get one with a metal flange.

[@kkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk2100]

Can I use fountain pen ink to write? Or there's a special kind of ink for it? Could you recommend me some ink brands? Please help!

[@OpenInkStand]

Fountain pen ink may be too flowy. I prefer sumi ink thinned with a little water.

[@kennygo8423]

OpenInkStand Art & Calligraphy Does walnut ink also works?

[@Jperez1356]

Do you have any advice for starting with a straight holder?

[@OpenInkStand]

+Jperez1356 Hold it in a way that you can balance a coin on the top of your hand. If the coin starts to slide off then it means your hand is starting to twist. Keep the coin on as long as you can!

[@AndeeSaraDesigns]

Are there different oblique pens for left handed writers? Or are the pens completely adjustable?

[@OpenInkStand]

There are specialty oblique pens for left handers, but if you're a left hander you can try holding the oblique pen a different way, or use a straight holder.

[@TheOrdinaryAccountant]

Hi, I'm trying to find a nib that is unique to my writing style. When I use a mechanical (lead) pencil, I like when the lead is on an angle. Do you know any nib names/size/type that are like this? Thank you!

[@OpenInkStand]

Kim S I'm not sure.. maybe someone else here can help you

[@dkdude]

I made my own pens from bamboo. If you have the hand for craftsmanship - do that. It's a bit tricky however, to attach the nibs to a pen like that, you've got to know what u are doing. I messed up two-tree samples. It takes a couple of hours, depending on what tools u have.

[@patrickguevarra4951]

What paper are you using? What gsm? My ink doesn't seem to dry too well. Or i'm applying tok much pressure. :(

[@OpenInkStand]

This is a Rhodia paper.

[@filmbyashley]

I'm a lefty can i still use an oblique?

[@OpenInkStand]

Sure, but try both an oblique and straight holder and see which is better for you. Some lefties use oblique, some straight.

[@filmbyashley]

Thank you so much :)

[@adnanyaqobi001]

❤

[@gnbnwf]

Hi, thank you so much for your lessons! I love the details that you provide. I have a question about the nib: you mention Nikko Zebra G, but I can only find either Nikko, which does not look like your nib (www.johnnealbooks.com/fullsize/555/s) or Zebra Comic G Model Chrome Pen Nib at Amazon. Not sure if Comic will work. Which one is it? I am a very beginner, so your response with perhaps a link will be much appreciated.

[@rosebiehl4097]

They are two different nibs, she says either is good :3 I've heard lots of good things about the nikko g in particular

[@dikshitjain3763]

what is this pen called

[@dkdude]

Dikshit Jain oblique pen

[@dikshitjain3763]

How much did it cost u at ur place ?

[@dkdude]

+Dikshit Jain I haven't bought it yet, I would like to though. In the UAE (where I am at) I guess it would cost 30-50$; stationary here is expensive

[@katerilevasseur8119]

🎯 The second she used those PLIERS to insert the Nib.....she Lost me! NEVER USE PLIERS ON YOUR NIBS!

[@Mojimusic]

Let me first say how awesome I find your videos. They have been so helpful, and I am completely hooked. You explain things very well, and are an awesome teacher! I ordered my first oblique holder and have been practicing for 2 days non stop. Scribbling on any forms of paper I can get my hand on. Finally decided to give lined paper a chance, and I see my writing improve. I was wondering if you ever have time you could show how to ease in and out of swells. I have been getting a hold of moving the pen around freely but when I apply pressure the entire line gets thick. Here is a picture of my attempt at writing pretty, nowhere near as beautiful as yours, but one can dream hah! postimg.org/image/lc7okm0sh/ If a demonstration is a bit much, and tips would be greatly appreciated. Thank you so much for taking the time and helping us curious ones. -Moji-

[@OpenInkStand]

+Moji Thank you! I am glad this helps. You are doing pretty good for 2 days. You have nice ovals going on but need to work more on lower case letters. Remember that lowercase is 99% of a sentence and it needs to be impeccable. Keep it up and you'll go far!

[@manaralhomsi5088]

Are you from syria? It is my country

[@xinvolume]

Oblique Holder instead of the word off-set Nub holder.

[@dikshitjain3763]

and 1900₹ is quite expensive..

[@tanyapunyo2074]

Seems expensive

[@rodneysmart9774]

You get to the only part I'm interested in, and you turn away from the mic and mumble.

[@feuerundwasser282]

Just rotate your paper on the correct angle and you will not need an oblique holder. Simple.