What I wish I had known about dip pens when I started

[@longstrideillustration]

Let me know which nibs you have tried and how you liked them so far

[@gheeroast7712]

i dont own one looking to buy one btw good quality for first video

[@longstrideillustration]

@@gheeroast7712 Kind of you to say that my first video is good quality, I'm learning all the things. Best of luck with your nib shopping!

[@ohheydamien]

When I need new nibs I usually grab a Speedball set. Sketching set’s a favourite but I dig the mapping, artist’s and cartoonist’s sets, too, depending on what I think I might like to play with, or haven’t played with in a while.

[@ohheydamien]

I *have* been using (and enjoying) the Hunt 22b a lot lately…

[@mr.spaghettinoodleman1383]

Tachikawa and deleter nibs have been working great for me

[@timh7246]

Boy, for your first KZbin post, very good! Succinct, examples, suggestions, no fluff or wasted time rambling -- very well done! Keep it up, and thanks for the many helpful points!

[@longstrideillustration]

Thank you for the encouraging words! Much appreciated and glad it was helpful 🙂

[@monsoon1548]

@@longstrideillustration I agree! I usually get frustrated and forward parts of the video; or just move on to another one. But 7 minutes went by in what seemed like 7 seconds, I was fully engrossed. Very to the point.

[@longstrideillustration]

@@monsoon1548 That makes me happy! Thank you! I aimed to make the sort of video I prefer to watch, so I'm glad to hear that others enjoy it as well

[@isisblackthrash9293]

First post? 😳😳😳😳😳 You got 4.7k likes and a close amount of subscribers in 4 months, just thanks to this video, this is very impressive. Almost makes me believe in myself.

[@longstrideillustration]

@@isisblackthrash9293 I watched a lot of Creator-tips videos on KZbin before starting my channel ... and procrastinated for years lol. The best time to start a channel was 10 years ago and the next best time is today 😅

[@deedoyle4069]

Well done! I'm 85 & have been using these pens since my teens. Ink pen drawing is a wonderful way to explore one's inner Being. There ARE amazing things inside us, just Waiting to dribble out our Pens!

[@deedoyle4069]

'forgot to add: there is no 'wrong' way to draw & no gremlin-critic over you. Simply enjoy!

[@delthorpe223]

I’ve been using dip pens on and off for years but found them unreliable. There’s info in this video that I had no idea about and will undoubtedly make my experience better! And I work in an art supplies store, so I’m going to recommend your video to my customers.

[@longstrideillustration]

That's awesome, thank you. Working in an art supply store must be awesome btw.

[@Gtr4Peace]

EXCELLENT video-you are a natural teacher. I haven't tried dip pens in a long time. When I did, I was disappointed-I now realize they have to be cleaned befor 1rst use!

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad it was helpful! Dip pens are great once we figure out all their charming little capricious ticks.

[@leftyfourguns]

Don't touch your paper or your nibs unless you wash your hands before. The oil from your skin will be absorbed into the paper or onto the nib and mess with ink flow. If you watch a lot of manga artists and calligraphers who use dip pens you'll see a good deal of them wear gloves to avoid this.

[@sooziecougs5425]

Hello Chloe not sure if this has been mentioned yet, but using a dip pen is kinder to the environment as no plastic being dumped. Also I saw somewhere to keep those little silicone things that draw moisture, like in pill bottles etc. put one in with your nibs to prevent rust. Great video, love your work. Thank you.

[@kasiako355]

That actually is an excellent idea, thank you for sharing! 💖

[@longstrideillustration]

I agree! Great idea with the little silicone pouch, thank you for sharing 😀

[@ElParcoHiparco]

You can also use a few grains of rice to keep they dry.

[@sssreggiN]

Bro who even cares about that.

[@xxdravenxx8036]

ikr@@sssreggiN

[@ApocalypticDreams666]

I love dip pens. I have a large collection of vintage nibs and about 30 pens. Love them so much I've made my own inks, some with soot and an iron gal ink from oak gals I found while going through Oklahoma. I have to disagree with them not being travel friendly since I keep some with a couple of inks and cleaner in my truck. I'm an over the road truck driver and always bring LOTS of art supplies. Also love fountain pens too. Also, a great way to clean nibs and fountain pens is with an ultrasonic cleaner for jewelry. Best investment ever!!!

[@longstrideillustration]

Awesome to hear! For sure, it is possible to travel with dip pens though, in the context of comparing that to the ease of packing fine liner or fountain pens, dip pens benefit from a bit more TLC and sounds like you've got your travel toolbox dialled in perfectly for it! 👍

[@BloodAsp]

That is an amazing idea for a small ultrasonic cleaner, I'm getting one right now for just this!

[@teddieryan2288]

Loved your video. I am an 83 yr old mostly retired illustrator, designer, artist who has used dip pens for almost 60 years. I love the sensual quality of line. Love speedball 102 and 101 nibs. Still have a little cache of them that I hoard. Would love to hear your take on inks. That was always a problem for me as I was pretty isolated. I was always looking for a good, glob free, permanent sepia ink. Videos now make the networking available that we could only dream of.

[@longstrideillustration]

Amazing! That's so inspiring to hear that you've kept your passion for the dip pens over the years. Ink, I imagine has changed. I haven't tested many different brands of Indian Ink nor different medium types. I stick to Speedball's Super Black pigment based Indian Ink because the viscosity seems to work for my style of detailed drawing. Maybe someone else in the comments can provide additional input with their views on a good glob free permanent sepia ink...

[@InaMacallan]

Me too! I think a lot of our generation were put off dip pens because of the quality of the pens and ink we were expected to use (especially at school and in public offices). Having your own pens and inks and keeping them clean, and modern drawing ink makes all the difference! Now I prefer them to Rotrings and fibretips. Especially for colour work (mostly I use sepia ink for vintage style mapwork.)

[@longstrideillustration]

@@InaMacallan That's great, thank you for sharing your thoughts on this!

[@JannekeVisser-h8c]

Maybe from De Atramentis Document Ink, or Rohrer & Klingner Sketch Inks? Most of these are waterproof. People use them in fountain pens, for sketching. I do not know if that says anything about their usefulness for dip pens. But those brands have other ranges, too.

[@lostonwallace1396]

Great tips for newbies! I haven't used nibs in years, but I used to use them all the time. I would use them to do illustrations and to ink comic book pages, so I'd go through a single 102 per page! I always bought them by the box. I used 108, 107 and 102s, primarily. I switched to inking with Raphael Kolinsky Red Sable #3 and #2 brushes in the late '90s, and I honestly prefer it to nibs for doing the kind of work that I do. Like the nib, a brush is capable of producing a wide variety of lines from thin to thick, and lines that are short, long, curved or tapered. Also just like with nib, control is a major factor in success. I find that control comes down to also having confidence and familiarity with your inking tools. The more you use something like a brush or nib, the more comfortable you become with it, and you can start to draw with it. A mistake I often see is people slowly dragging nibs and brushes to try to match a pencil like. Slow movements often produce duller lines, and can lead to wobbles and so forth. With comic book type work, you don't want a dead, dull line, nor a mechanical line when it comes to inking organic things like people, trees, animals, etc. For buildings and cars, mechanical lines are appropriate, but for living things it's better to vary the line weights and have a more energetic line approach. A spontaneous line with energy in it is desired. Varied line weights also helps to with creating depth, dimension and weight. Traditionally inkers inked with either nib or with a brush, or some inkers used a combination of brush and nib together. This type of inking by-hand is still being done. I do it. However, in the industry of comics and illustration work, you see things changing. Many artists who do things by-hand today use disposable pens like Microns and Pitt Artist pens on most everything. I'm not a fan of this as a lot of the art now seems rather lifeless as a result. You do see the occasional brushpen being used every now and then. Nibs and brush inking, I don't see as often anymore. The learning curve seems to scare a lot of artists away, and they seem to prefer to like taking the shortcut way of doing things. Thus enter the Micron pen. Don't get me wrong. In the hands of an artist who's really accomplished, any tool will work just fine, but it's sad to see that so many artists are producing mechanical, dead figures in comics today. Digital inking is another commonplace method being used today. I've seen good and bad digital inks, and while I like a lot of it, the downside is that you don't have original art to keep or sell. The world is changing, and artists are changing too. I'm glad that a few of us who are still doing work by-hand are willing to share information with others. Thank you so very much for this video. I know it's going to be helpful to many artists who are at a crossroads in regards to inking.

[@longstrideillustration]

Thank you so much for sharing your insights and experience. I'm of the same mind as your observations, happy that you found my channel! I will likely feature some brushwork in the future. It's wobbly now but improving with practice using the brushes 😀

[@coybi]

I always get so happy when I see people say "I wish I had known" instead of the "I wish I knew", which is so wrong. Props for that.

[@sshick06]

Thanks! This is one of the best tutorials I’ve ever watched! As an instructional designer, I really admire your approach.

[@longstrideillustration]

Wow, thank you so much for the kind words and the Super Thanks! That's my first one and it made my day!

[@georgekramer1947]

You know, many years ago I spent a lot of time drawing with dip pens. After many years not drawing I have started again. And the first use cleaning prep is news to me! Every day is a school day! Well done, Chloe! Thanks for sharing, and congrats on the KZbin channel!

[@longstrideillustration]

I couldn't figure out why new nibs where so capricious for the first hour or so of using them, I almost gave up until someone told me about the wax coating.

[@ralphchristianson]

This was an excellent introduction to dip pens. I would think there will be a few more pens sold every time this video is viewed.

[@vocalchords3609]

This is first class in every way! Thorough, crystal clear, 'real'/authentic - and no background music to keep our attention focused on details shared by an excellent 'tutor' / guide. Thank you so much!

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Topscura]

Very much appreciate the advice Chloe. You’re a gem to the writing and drawing community.

[@longstrideillustration]

Thank you! Glad to hear it.🙂

[@OzyIllustrates]

They’re actually very travel friendly. There’s loads of cases you can get for them - even standard pencil cases and even toothbrush travel holders that fit in your pocket or bag and are stab proof 😂 Same with inks. There’s lots of ways to travel with different inks. I actually have my quick travel inks inside those tiny and cheap paint wells (the kinds you typically get in kids art kits from crayola or paint by number kits) and they don’t leak (unless I accidentally sit on them 😂) but I also keep them in a sandwich bag just incase (if accidental sittings 😂).

[@longstrideillustration]

You are dedicated! I dare say comparatively speaking though, that grabbing a couple of Microns and a sketchbook is more likely to happen when on a quick trip to the coffee shop or the park for a pen & ink session 😄

[@cocokitty6557]

I use a film canister to travel with mine.

[@davester1432]

Wow!!! You actually answered all my questions in one video. So much information, well presented and thought out. Thank you! 💗

[@VIncentSunflowers]

Now in my 60s, l remember that first bottle of black ink, the sensual experience of the dip pen - compared to drawing with a ball point - WOW! Nice memories of being that kid who carried his sketch pad everywhere. I'm smiling! Thanks!

[@longstrideillustration]

So happy to hear this brought back good memories, carrying a sketchpad around is the best 🙂

[@susanweber6861]

As someone new to fountain pens, thank you for this excellent video

[@KMadvisor]

Thank you so much for this. It has been decades since using nibs and I've become reliant on pens, yet feel something is missing as I dive back into creative work. Your clarity and pracitcality has inspired me to replace old nibs, be disciplined about maintaining the toos in practice, and get moving again. Thx from Canada!

[@longstrideillustration]

You're so welcome! Glad to hear that you're inspired to give those dip pens another whirl!

[@SherylSparks]

I have been a calligrapher for 30 years. I learned a few things! Thanks!

[@longstrideillustration]

That's great! Thanks for watching 🙂🖋

[@NM-rp5py]

Really good to see an old person do such good art and just enjoying

[@EKA201-j7f]

Old?

[@amexjam55]

As an intermediate skill level dip pen user, I found this video very helpful and informative. Thank you.

[@longstrideillustration]

Great to hear! The Blog post, if you hadn't seen it, has additional info as well: longstrideillustration.com/a-beginners-guide-to-dip-pens-for-drawing/

[@davidea.7424]

Wow that was a very nice video! You condensed pretty much all the most meaningful information in a few minutes, bravo! I'll share my own (hopefully useful) tips : 1 I also clean the nib, before dipping it again in ink, but in plain rubbing alcohol, instead of water (I did a small research and apparently that is what is used to melt shellac, which is the binder of the ink, so, in theory, it should work the best for cleaning) 2 After use, I clean the nib again with rubbing alcohol, then I apply a thin layer of lean oil (linseed or almond, I've also used baby oil 😂) using a puff of cotton. Then I close the nibs inside a tin box together with one of those silica gels (up cycled from some electronics packaging). Never had rust this way! 3 Before use, I clean the nib again with white vinegar (learned this from Shane Patrick White) 4 To make the ink a bit more flowing, it is better to use a few drops of Windex, or similar, instead of distilled water (again learned this from the master SPW) Again great video and congratulations for your progress so far! PS I want to steal your cat!

[@longstrideillustration]

Awesome tips! Thank you for sharing 👍

[@boredgrass]

A treasured school memory the distinct smell of Scriptol ink, these amazing dark lines, and the incredible fine lines one can make with the smallest nibs!

[@longstrideillustration]

You know it 🙂🖋

[@Rawrdoll]

I love your video (and the kitty!), learned a lot. I'm more into watercolor and gouache but started with nib pens recently, and haven't been able to stop. I bought the same Speedball, is an excellent recommendation. I can't wait for your next videos 😊

[@longstrideillustration]

Thanks for watching, I'm glad that the Speedball was a good choice for you as well, and that you like the kitty because she loves being the centre of attention and likely will make an appearance in future videos

[@LyleStyle87]

Beauty

[@blinkybli8326]

I wish I had seen this video before I started messing around with dip pens but it's still helpful, even now and I can't wait to try out your nib recommendations! To anyone considering trying dip pens for drawing, i HIGHLY recommend it. There's just something about the quality of the lines and the richness of the ink that makes it a really beautiful medium.

[@longstrideillustration]

I'm so glad that you're excited to use dip pens again, and I agree with you - the lines and satisfaction from using dip pens - are a beautiful thing!

[@jbkhan1135]

Thanks for your insights! I just started inking my drawings in the past few months with a G-Pen nib and didn't really have instructions, so I just jumped right in. I've been washing my nibs with water and wiping clean with a paper towel, but so far haven't had any problems. The alcohol/dish soap method is something I may try though, just to be sure I'm getting it thoroughly clean. Thanks again!

[@longstrideillustration]

wonderful! Happy inking 🖋🙂

[@MarcoKrieger]

Sorry for being late to the party but YT algorithm didn't recommend your video earlier. I'm drawing and painting with ink since childhood and for me, it was the other way around. I'm 57 in a couple of days and back in my youths nip and handle was the normal tool if you want to draw illustrations, comics and stuff like that. I was in my early twentieth purchasing my first ink pen with an ink cartridge. It was a pen made for technical drawings and it had two advantages over the classical nip. First, the ink was available in a waterproof version and second, the pen wasn't leaking or spilling ink all over my artworks. Until I bought this Pen's the risk of ruin the whole thing because I accidentally took to much ink on the nip was unavoidable. Nowadays I work with a graphics tablet and a program named Krita. My hand isn't as sturdy as is used to be and I'm very great full for this little gismos like stroke stabilizer. But sometimes I grab me some paper, ink and a ink pen like the ones you showed in the video and do some scribblings. I always liked the smell of ink and paper. Greetings from Germany.

[@longstrideillustration]

Greetings, and thanks for watching Marco. I'm sort of late to the party as well, my Channel is new and just beginning to mingle on the Home page. Glad to hear that you found tools that work well to create drawings with, enjoy 😀

[@Cchouette]

This is the video I was looking for 🤩 Your expert opinion on the subject "ink" helps us make the right choice before buying 👍🏻 Thank you 🙂

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad it was helpful! I go into more details in this blog article, if you'd like more info on drawing inks: longstrideillustration.com/a-beginners-guide-to-dip-pens-for-drawing/

[@anastasiarose9003]

Thank you SO much. I have wanted to use these for years and have struggled, now I know why. Thank you again. 😊

[@longstrideillustration]

You are so welcome! Happy inking 😀

[@richardharker2775]

I've only recently started but boy, what a plethora of information and variation of choice. Thank you for sharing your knowledge as it narrows what to look for in a nib and holder.

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad it was helpful! I wish yo the best with your inking projects!

[@bandicoot5412]

Coming out of a dwib dwab, so I grabbed one of the dips in the jar, and started anything, and I appreciate the info you gave me, thank you!

[@longstrideillustration]

You've got rhyme! Happy inking 🙂🖋

[@rubengenesis100]

I’ve seen hundreds of videos on nibs and dip pens, yours is the best .👍🏼

[@longstrideillustration]

Yay! Thank you!It was my first KZbin video, so it's super rewarding to hear that you though well of it.

[@sallyjoligocki5011]

An art I have never tried. It is beautiful. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.

[@longstrideillustration]

Thanks for the kind words and for watching!

[@judyle4893]

Oh my goodness; thanks so much for this. I am a fountain pen lover and have considered willy-nilly getting into dip pens and now I see it's quite an undertaking. Thanks!

[@longstrideillustration]

Thanks for watching! True, the dip pens need a bit more TLC 🙂

[@Natou18]

We met today in person, and discussed your first video…it is great. Love your teaching style, calm and educational.

[@longstrideillustration]

Awesome! Thank you for checking out my channel!

[@s.terris9537]

Thank you! I've been curious about trying a dip pen, and wouldn't have known where to start without your help. Not sure I'll follow through yet - my hands have a slight tremor - but I now have a good idea of what to look for at my local art store. I appreciate your generosity!

[@longstrideillustration]

You're welcome. I hope it works out for you. There's a bit more information in my blog about choosing nibs for your drawing approach that might give more 'food for thought': longstrideillustration.com/a-beginners-guide-to-dip-pens-for-drawing/

[@nancyloomis3046]

Dip pens have their dedicated users and can be fun to use. Actually, as dip pens go, it's hard to beat the glass dip pens that have become so popular in the last few years, but of course, you can't switch out nibs. I have one and used it recently. They're inexpensive, smooth writing, won't rust, hold a lot of ink and then they're so pretty to look at. I used to do a lot of abstract line work, and for that, I found the disposable fine liner pens were a joy to use. I became a fan of Molotow black liner pens. I should probably invest in a set of the refillable technical pens, but they are an investment. Thanks for sharing. 😊

[@longstrideillustration]

Thanks for watching, and I appreciate that you're sharing your experience with different inking instruments, it's always nice to hear what other artists enjoy from their toolboxes 😊

[@MoofManiac]

Thank you for the info about the oil on the nib. I didn’t know this for years, and couldn’t figure out what I was doing wrong. I read that ammonia will clean them, but I’ll try your method. Thanks!

[@gisaac46]

Just start to draw with dip pens and ink. I have been drawing most of my life and don't know why I haven't used dip pens until now. I really enjoyed this video and I just subscribed to your channel.

[@longstrideillustration]

That's great to hear! Thank you for watching Glenn, and I'm glad you're starting to draw with dip pens.

[@Momladyof4]

Thank you for the very informative video! I've never really tried these kinds of pens, but would like to try it at some point in the future. It looks like you can make very fine lines with these kinds of pens, where fineliner markers are easy the break and become unusable. I look forward to you making more videos!

[@longstrideillustration]

For sure, even the larger nibs can create a fine line with a gentle touch. And thank you, I aim to publish every second Wednesday.

[@johncourtneidge]

This is the very best 'How-to' video that I have ever watched! It's additionally helpful for me since I'm very keen to become proficient with dip pens in life drawings from photographs. Very many thanks!

[@longstrideillustration]

You're very welcome! Thank you for the kind words and all the best with your dip pen and ink projects!

[@katpaints]

I LOVE dip pens! My mother used a fountain pen I was not allowed to touch! Her dad, however, still had a dip pen. I don't remember seeing him use it, but I do have the box of nibs he used to use. In high school, I bought cartridge pens and they were wonderful - and made me feel so grown up! LOL! I took calligraphy classes in the late 90s and I used to stick my nib in a flame to clean off the oils, while the nib was in the holder. Your work is beautiful! I commend you for all of the practice it takes to control those nibs! I was in a calligraphy mail list group before Facebook came along and I learned a lot from those mostly professional calligraphers. The thickness of the ink was important and if the ink was too fresh/thin, they would leave the lid off for some time until it thickened up the way they liked. With a cat, you had to be very careful where you put it while the lid was off!

[@longstrideillustration]

Thank you for watching and for sharing a bit about your experience. I've been considering a calligraphy practice - I think that it would compliment the drawing well for curves and line variation. I know some comic artists who keep an uncovered ink jar and just keep refilling the sludge it makes, haha it sounds like something my cats would definitely get into. That's a nice keepsake the box of nibs from your dad. All the best!

[@InaMacallan]

Thank you for this advice. I have an eclectic collection of nibs acquired over 60 years, but should investigate what is available now, especially for mapping which is my main use.

[@longstrideillustration]

Lately, I've particularly enjoyed the soft Maru 77 as a mapping nib.

[@robertocatrone715]

Brilliant, your presentation and explanation is Spot On. I've been using dip pens for many years now.

[@longstrideillustration]

Thanks for watching and for the kind words! Glad to hear that you are enjoying dip pen drawing for many years 👍

[@kathleenstoin671]

Excellent video, and very helpful. I found that plain old cleaning ammonia will also clean pen nibs quite well. And it isn't flammable, as alcohol is, if any of your viewers is concerned about that.

[@longstrideillustration]

That's great! thanks for sharing that info 🙂

[@MrBahBZ]

Wonderful video. I realize I've been dipping my pens too far past the eyelet, which causes me to lay down inconsistent amounts of ink with the strokes. Really enjoyed this, thank you!

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad it was helpful! There's a bit more info on my blog as well: longstrideillustration.com/a-beginners-guide-to-dip-pens-for-drawing/

[@bradleyrobinson7552]

When I think of dip pens, I think of *(SPLIKT)*, the tip catches and spatters ink in tiny droplets over the pristine paper (and across one's drawing!) I experimented with dip pens, but always came back to the red sable #2 brush for inking.

[@longstrideillustration]

True dat, there are fewer who can both master brush & dip pen -- the rest of us mortals are either in the brush camp or the nib camp. 😅

[@Claudine6456]

Nice, I started few weeks ago with felt pens and I bought my first dip pen yesterday. Thanks, will follow all your stuffs. Nice seing your cats all around, love it

[@longstrideillustration]

Awesome! Thank you! The cats love to be all around and contribute 😺😺😀

[@AzureSymbiote]

Thank you for sharing. I have just ordered my first dip pen set and ink. I hope to use them well.

[@longstrideillustration]

Wonderful! Have fun!

[@123trippnow]

I've been thinking about trying pen and ink and your video has helped answer a lot of questions for me. Thank you.

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad it was helpful!

[@thirstyrover7703]

I should have watched this video first before starting out with dip pens. Thanks for the advice.

[@CruentusV]

genuinely great video with lots of good information. looking forward to watching some more from you. i started with dip pens and never really found a good reason to use anything else. found i liked speedball for nibs, handles, and ink as it's the best value and has been consistent over many decades. for years, i stuck to crow quill nibs since i was doing a lot of fine stippling and liked the smaller crow quill handle (as i tended to "crab up" my drawing grip); but over time, i fell into using either the imperial or the ball with the simple standard handle (one size fits all). you are so right when you intimated that doing penwork needn't be expensive...

[@longstrideillustration]

Thanks for watching and for sharing your thoughts! 🙂

[@lorenbk]

We used these in high school drafting classes. We used a match to burn off the varnish coating and always loaded them with a dropper.

[@longstrideillustration]

For sure, I did find that information while conducting research. I know of veteran comic artists who swear by the fire & dropper methods. The takeaway in this video is that for new dip pen users, there is a risk of damaging the nib with the fire method if done incorrectly, plus today's protective coating on the nibs are gentler products than latter years and so hot water and isopropyl alcohol are effective. As for using a dropper to load the nib, this is entirely personal preference - not two people draw the same and so how each prefers to use mediums is also an individual inclination. For myself, dipping is more reliable for avoiding overloading the nib consistently.

[@melodiasinger]

Tengo las Speedball y son fantásticas!! Que hermoso tu trabajo, gracias por tus consejos 😍❤️😍

[@longstrideillustration]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it.🙂

[@elle325]

Gosh, I’ve been using dip pens for 25 years but never knew about prepping the nib! I always assumed I had to break the nib in, as it would become good after a couple of uses, which I now realise was after I’d washed it a couple of times! Duh! Thank you, very informative video.

[@longstrideillustration]

Happy to help 😀🖋

[@virginiabellettini2965]

The ink pens were a mystery to me. Great video! Very clear & precise. Thanks!

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad it was helpful!

[@KevinoftheCosmos]

I already knew all of this and just wanted to watch out of interest. And you're right about everything! I figured this all out through trial-and-error, and in a time when the only information on the subject came printed in books. edit: I wish I could have seen this at age 16. Great info, and great video!

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad to hear you can relate. It was through trial and error for me as well. I found many resources for calligraphers, but less info about nibs for drawing. I did reach out to a few pro comic artists and one book illustrator to confirm my findings before making this video, hoping it would be useful to others as well 😊

[@abcdefg-hv2ks]

So glad i found this gold mine of a channel, very informative and relaxing.

[@longstrideillustration]

That's a nice compliment, I enjoy a relaxed atmosphere for sure. Thanks for watching!

[@bones9719]

Wonderful post! I am researching dipping pens on behalf of my 11 year old grandson. He loves drawing and saw dipping pens being used when someone was drawing comics and/or anime. Not as simple as it looks... oh but he would LOVE to learn this method of drawing! I think I will research a nice calligraphy pen (with cartridges) before we head down this particular path of dipping inks and a variety of nibs (he's not quite into all the cleaning that would be involved). I do see this in his future and he has a keen eye and patience when it comes to drawing. Thank you very much for the wonderful overview and the sharing of hints and tips for the beginner.

[@longstrideillustration]

Thanks for watching the video. That's great that your grandson is excited about inking comics. It's a good choice to try a fountain pen first before going the dip pen route. He may also enjoy drawing in ink using watercolor brushes. Brushes require less maintenance than nibs and what many famous comic artists use. Some masters, like Alex Ross, are also painters and do amazing covers in oil paints, so using a brush to draw comics is a natural transition - if this is what your grandson aspires to continue with.

[@bones9719]

Thank you for the feedback...I will have him search Alex Ross and look for comics done with paints...the more you know. ;-)@@longstrideillustration

[@bgaston14]

Excellent video! Thanks for sharing your process, especially how you clean a new nib. The nibs I usually use are G pen, Maru, and blue pumpkin

[@longstrideillustration]

Excellent choice of nibs :) Glad that you enjoyed the video Ben

[@m.ellingson1421]

Thanks, Chloe! Great intro to dip pens. Looking forward to future vids!!

[@longstrideillustration]

Thank you! I'm already working on the next one. I aim to publish every second Wednesday

[@mariechevalier73]

Thank you for sharing your tips, very useful! I now just want to buy more nibs (as I just have just one)! The cleaning tips are awesome too! 🙏🙏

[@longstrideillustration]

You are so welcome! I do sometimes use a single nib for an entire project (no.512 is my go-to), however it is also great to have more nib options for a wider range of line weights.

[@griffinharvey3910]

Your artwork - drawing - is really amazing! Beautiful work.

[@longstrideillustration]

So kind to say, thank you very much 🙂

[@griffinharvey3910]

@@longstrideillustration Neglected to mention that the video itself is very informative, helpful and well done. 🙂

[@banyanroot]

Thanks a lot! I have meddled with dip pens for over a year, and I had no idea about the initial prep to do on new nibs.

[@longstrideillustration]

Happy to help!

[@tessinspired7111]

Thank you! Appreciate these tips and resources. As I recover from foot surgery, I'll be off my feet for at least six to eight weeks. Calligraphy has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. Perfect timing finding your channel. I'm going for it. 😊

[@longstrideillustration]

I found a few good courses for Calligraphy on the Skillshare learning platform that I plan to take myself, to help improve my long-flowing lines. As a side-bar I have an offer from Skillshare with a link on my Community Tab if you're interested - I just posted it yesterday. Recover soon 😊

[@sophia-luciakwon2792]

Have yet to see such a selection of for calligraphy tools at an art store as the one you went to for the video! That’s quite nice, that means the people in your area are more in touch with the tradition than they are here where i am

[@longstrideillustration]

That's part of the challenge of using dip pens for drawing, it's perplexing to know what to order online and most art stores have limited selection if any. I'm lucky there's a good store in my town to test nibs.

[@terrilikens4975]

What a great video for someone wanting to explore dip pens. I'm ordering some now!

[@longstrideillustration]

Yay! Glad it was helpful!

[@MarkDowman]

Good overview! Liked the outline of pros/cons and cleaning tips.

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad you enjoyed it! Happy inking 🖋🙂

[@svenolofsjogren5580]

Thank you just the info I’m been looking for. Just starting out inking with dip pen and well don’t know what I’m doing. 😊

[@priscillawarren9979]

I needed this information. I just bought a simple dip pen and ink to play with. I hoped to see if it suits my simple, beginner style. Pen and ink does add an extra dimension to watercolor.

[@longstrideillustration]

Wonderful! Dip pen line work combined with watercolour adds an extra dimension for sure. Enjoy! And thanks for watching.

[@carolj.sutton4042]

Well done Chloe! So nice to see you on the screen. Cheers!

[@longstrideillustration]

Hi Carol! Thanks for checking out my channel!

[@keyton_weissinger]

Thank you for sharing this video (and coming to KZbin)! Very nice first video. I look forward to more! 🎉😊

[@longstrideillustration]

Thank you so much Keyton! Glad to hear.

[@TheMarkEH]

This was a fantastically helpful video with many practical tips that I was unaware of. Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences.

[@longstrideillustration]

Really glad to hear, thanks!

[@mayukosato8474]

This is my first time learning about dip pens! such a great presentation. Thank you for sharing the video! I will try with your method and will see how this goes.

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad it was helpful! Have fun. There's additional info and resources on my blog as well: longstrideillustration.com/a-beginners-guide-to-dip-pens-for-drawing/

[@mayukosato8474]

Thanks I will take a look!@@longstrideillustration

[@kingtutt61]

Great video. Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@longstrideillustration]

Thanks for watching!

[@paulahaynes6131]

Thank you I had no knowledge about these pens but have wanted to play with them in my art.

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad to hear that you're inspired to play with dip pens, happy inking! 🖋

[@whiskeyvictor5703]

Thanks for the advice! I've got a selection of some very old antique dip-pens, and thought I'd use them for my next illustration project.

[@longstrideillustration]

that sounds fun! thanks for watching 🙂

[@burntt999]

Bless you. Bless you dear lady. I’ve been eyeing the callig / dip pen section from every art store I enter and have been dying to get into it.. but of course… just like you mention .. but intimidating. I just recently bought and used(less than 5mins ago) an inexpensive callig pen and I’m pretty sure the feeing I’m going after is the dip pen and you just helped me save a ton of time researching through KZbin and websites all this info. I have a feeling your about to get mucho $tips$ cuz I’d do it if I could. Thank you again.

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad I could help! Be sure to check out my website for additional resources once you get further into your pen and ink projects. All the best!

[@isisblackthrash9293]

Excellent video. I often use toothpaste and an old toothbrush to clean nibs. As for writing/drawing, try licking the nib before dipping in the ink- the protein in the saliva improves the ink flow. And I also tend to apply the ink onto the pen with a brush (refillable brush pen), this way I have more control over the amount of ink and avoid the dreaded ink drops.

[@Chisumpa]

Enjoyed this immensely! Thanks for sharing your skills!🙏

[@longstrideillustration]

My pleasure! Thanks for watching :)

[@redliv]

I just clicked the video out of curiosity. Very informative and not boring, it makes me wanna try pen & ink 🙂

[@longstrideillustration]

Thank you! Very cool that you're wanting to give dip pens a try.🖋😀

[@GailKuech]

Thank you so much for so generously sharing your experience with pens. So helpful!

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching.😊

[@LauraGarcia-dh3ki]

Valuable information here for beginners Chloe. Maybe this year I won’t feel as intimidated and just jump into it and try!🤗 congratulations on your channel!🤗

[@longstrideillustration]

Thanks Laura! Really appreciate you checking out my channel. For sure, jump in :)

[@masterklep]

I still have few vintage nibs though I haven`t used them for drawing long ago... But it was my first passion in drawing - drawing in ink with dip pen! 😍

[@TheLonePatriotos7dh]

WOW,, Your drawings are absolutely amazing & breathtaking, I can't say enough about them. They're fantastic, Thank you for sharing them & your knowledge of dip pins❣️👍

[@longstrideillustration]

Thank you very much! Too kind 😊

[@ddeadroachh]

thank you for teaching me how to put it away

[@Stalaxian]

Thank you for this video. Just bought my first set

[@longstrideillustration]

Thanks for letting me know. All the best with your projects!

[@julioluna3366]

You are the best! Definitely, I will check more of your videos!

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad to hear!

[@therugglet]

Thank you! Your tips and introduction to dip pens got me excited and ready to trod off to the art store to try it out.

[@longstrideillustration]

That's great to hear! There's a bit more info on recommended nibs for different drawing approaches on my website: longstrideillustration.com/a-beginners-guide-to-dip-pens-for-drawing/ Happy inking!

[@joeblankenship377]

I love the Zebra A nib. So scratchy and satisfying. Just wanna hatch and hatch and hatch.

[@kimdoucette8079]

Thanks for this! Bought some years ago but didn't have much success. Your tips inspire me to try again. 😊

[@longstrideillustration]

Awesome!

[@przemekmaj3576]

Thank you so much! For me, as a beginner, this is everything I need to know!! Thanks!!

[@longstrideillustration]

Glad it was helpful!

[@la_papetrie]

Such a great video and info I aspire to achieve this detail one day .thank you so much

[@longstrideillustration]

Thanks for watching, I'm glad to hear that the info was useful for your future projects.

[@historicartistic3531]

I really needed this info, since I have started using dip pens for my Pen and ink Illustrations more frequently than Micron pens. The smallest nib there is excellent for details on faces for Scratchboard style portraiture on small scale. I only have two currently working; a Tachikawa pen nib holder with PG-6B-C-K nib and a glass dip pen, but I am hoping to gain more tomorrow and replace the little one I had that was rusted through, and pen cleaner I didn't have.

[@longstrideillustration]

That's great that the info was helpful to you. I've never used a glass dip pen, and curious about it.

[@historicartistic3531]

@Chloe Gendron The Glass Dip Pens have a wider and rounded nib but create the best borderline work. They are also quite easy in the hand, but you do need to be careful not to dip it too far in the ink well, or you'll have large drops of ink running off it.

[@RW7266]

I use 'Leonardt EF Principal' Hunt 101, Gillott 303, and Tachikawa G nib regularly. I've used Leonardt nibs since my earliest school days, when we had ink Wells on the desks!

[@longstrideillustration]

Very cool! Thanks for sharing 🙂

[@hankphillips5746]

Thank you so much. Very well done and informative. Helped me make a choice and probably saved me some time, money and aggravation.

[@longstrideillustration]

Happy to hear it! Wishing you a smooth transition with your new dip pens 🖋😀

[@rainstern]

Thank you for your sharing Chloe 🙏

[@longstrideillustration]

Thanks for checking it out Rain!