Whether you're brand new to calligraphy or ready to upgrade your tools, our latest guide is packed with hand-picked essentials to help you write with elegance and ease. From shimmering inks to handcrafted pens and everything in between, we’ll show you the best supplies to support your lettering journey - from your first swoop to your finest flourish.
Calligraphy, derived from the Greek words for “beautiful writing,” is an ancient art form that dates back thousands of years, with roots in many cultures, from the flowing brushstrokes of Chinese script to the intricate flourishes of Arabic and medieval European manuscripts.
Originally used for sacred texts and important documents, calligraphy has always been more than just handwriting; it’s a way to express emotion, rhythm, and artistry through the written word. What makes calligraphy so special is its ability to slow us down, turning letters into a meditative practice and transforming even the simplest words into something meaningful and beautiful. In a digital world, it’s a tangible, timeless reminder of the power and beauty of the human touch.
Calligraphy Made Simple
Whether you're just beginning your calligraphy journey or already swirling your way through envelopes and journals like a pro, finding the right tools makes all the difference. From elegant dip pens to shimmering inks, we’ve curated a selection of high-quality calligraphy supplies that will inspire your creativity, refine your technique, and elevate your lettering experience, no matter your level.
For Beginners: Lettering Beginner Set
If you're new to calligraphy, our Lettering Beginner Set has everything you need to dive in with confidence. Thoughtfully curated with the help of professional letterers, this set includes both dip pen and brush lettering tools so you can try both styles and see which one suits you best.
With a smooth dot grid notebook, black India ink, nibs, brush pens, and helpful guides from Blink Lettering and Inkspire Calligraphy, it’s a beautifully comprehensive set to spark your journey.
Flourish Oblique Calligraphy Dip Pen
For those ready to level up (or start with style!), the Flourish Oblique Dip Pen from Tom’s Studio is both a functional tool and a work of art. Designed and handcrafted in England, it’s perfect for beginners and professionals alike, offering a comfortable writing angle that helps create elegant, consistent strokes. Add your favourite nib and ink, and you’re good to go.
The Basics: Calligraphy Nibs & Practice Pad
A beautiful pen needs the right nib, and we love the Leonardt General Drawing Nib for its extra fine point and versatility. Be sure to prep your nib before the first use (a quick dip in boiling water or a wipe with toothpaste works wonders!).
Learn how to prepare your calligraphy nib for its first use here.
Get help choosing the right nib for your project from one of our favourite experts.
Pair it with the Calligraphy Practice Pad from Tom’s Studio, an A5 pad filled with ultra-smooth 100 gsm bleed-proof paper that makes inky practice a pleasure. Each sheet is perforated, so you can remove and display your favourites.
Diamine's Forever Ink
Another exciting development for calligraphy and fountain pen enthusiasts is Diamine’s Forever Ink: a revolutionary pigmented ink designed for both beauty and durability. This ink has been in development for quite some time, and it truly lives up to the anticipation. Unlike traditional pigment inks that often clog fountain pens, Forever Ink uses ultra-fine pigments that stay suspended in the solution, making it perfectly safe for fountain pens, dip pens, and brushes alike. Its unique formulation delivers vibrant colour while also being water- and light-resistant once dry, ensuring your lettering and artwork stand the test of time. With a wide range of stunning colours to choose from, it’s an ideal companion for creatives who want their words and designs to last forever.
Pilot Parallel Pens
For those ready to take their calligraphy to the next level, the Pilot Parallel Pen is a remarkable tool that blends the elegance of fountain pen writing with the flair of traditional calligraphy. Unlike most calligraphy pens, the Parallel Pen features a unique double-blade stainless steel nib, a clever design that allows you to create both sharp, crisp lines and beautifully fluid curves with a single stroke.
Ideal for experimenting with bold alphabets, decorative flourishes, and elaborate swashes, this pen glides effortlessly across the page, thanks to Pilot’s expertly engineered ink flow system. The result? A smooth and consistent line, no matter your speed or style.
Coliro Pearlcolors & Mix Your Own Ink Set
Calligraphy doesn’t need to be black and white. Add magic to your lettering with Coliro Pearlcolors - shimmering metallic paints that can be used just like watercolours and look stunning on dark paper. Ideal for envelopes, place cards, and special projects.
Or get creative with our Mix Your Own Calligraphy Ink Set. Blend Ultra Marine, Hot Pink, and Sunflower inks to make endless custom shades using the included colour wheel and rose gold-lidded jars. It’s colour theory meets creativity, with no lab coat required!
Learn from the Best! Colourful Modern Calligraphy by Milly Whithers
Want to take your skills from hobbyist to expert? Colourful Modern Calligraphy by Milly Whithers is bursting with practical advice, guide sheets, and vibrant inspiration. Learn how to design your own lettering style, use colour creatively, and master projects from wall art to handmade cards.
Shop the full calligraphy collection now and create something truly special.
