A common question many have when starting in calligraphy is what are the best calligraphy pens for beginners? For more advanced calligraphy writers or those with a bit of previous practice, you may also wonder what the best calligraphy pen is. Calligraphy is a beautiful and intricate method of art that is completely varied dependent on the writer. To create the most attractive looking lettering, you need the correct tools, meaning your standard ballpoint pen might need a bit of an upgrade. In this article, we’ll run you through the best calligraphy pens for starting, as one size doesn’t necessarily fit all.
What is the best calligraphy pen for beginners?
The Lamy Safari pen is one of the best calligraphy pens for beginners at a very affordable price. It comes in a range of widths and is of excellent quality. In addition, Lamy is a very reputable name, so you know you’re buying into a sound brand when you purchase a Lamy pen.
2. Manuscript Modern Calligraphy Gift Set
If you’re gifting a pen to somebody for Christmas or their birthday, our Manuscript Modern Calligraphy Set is a wonderful option for a beginner. It includes six types of ink, four nibs, two dip pens, one brush, a guide sheet and a storage tin – practically everything you need for a beginner! So look no further for the best calligraphy pen gift set; this has all you need to get started.
3. Manuscript 5 Part Classic Calligraphy Set
For those who would like a set but prefer fewer extras, our 5 part classic set is perfect for someone who already owns the basics. It caters for left-handers, with a specially designed left-handed nib, so you don’t end up smudging your beautiful work all over the page. You can create beautiful flourishes without discomfort, making this pen a great choice for left and right-handed artists.
4. Montblanc Meisterstuck Doue Geometry Classique Champagne Gold-Coated Fountain Pen
For an extra special gift for a special someone, you want to pull out all the stops. When wondering what is the best calligraphy pen to impress somebody, this Montblanc beauty has it all. It is a classically timeless yet truly modern statement with over 2,000 geometrical facets that dance light when moving in your hand. This item is an online exclusive and available on special order, so it makes for a wonderfully impressive and superb gift for a calligraphy beginner.
5. Montegrappa Elmo 02 Cortine Fountain Pen
The Elmo 02 Cortina fountain pen is perfect for the trendy person in your life who enjoys bold colour and isn’t afraid to make a statement. This is no ordinary pen to pull out of your pencil case; the green marbled design oozes vibrant personality and compliments creative spirits. In addition, this specific pen is guaranteed under warranty for 24 months, so it’s perfect for beginners who are apprehensive about committing to the right pen for their writing style.
6. Cross Bailey Matt Red Fountain Pen
Our Cross Bailey Matt Red Fountain Pen is magical in colour and writes delightfully smoothly. Its matte appearance is modern and trendy, making this a perfect beginners option for a young professional or university student. Cross Bailey is the oldest American manufacturer of pens and has heritage a-plenty that promises loyalty, trust and quality. Its distinct nib makes it excellent for calligraphy because you can control the brush to get those lovely thick downstrokes and thin upstrokes.
7. Cross Wanderlust Borneo Fountain Pen
Some people ooze elegance. Everything they touch turns to gold, and life seems to be a catwalk of grace and sophistication. The new Cross Wanderlust pen features a Borneo-inspired green design, accessorised with gold-plated engravings, making it a unique and unforgettable calligraphy pen. Cross pens make some of the best calligraphy pens, and this one is no exception.
8. Parker IM Matte Blue Chrome Trim Fountain Pen
The Parker IM is simple, understated and never goes out of style. Coming in at one of the most affordable options, a list of ‘what are the best calligraphy pens for beginners’ would be incomplete without a Parker. This classic pen looks professional yet reserved, with a polished chrome trim and the iconic trademark arrow-shaped pocket clip. The weighty metal construction promises a quality feel, and the sleek medium nib is optimal for a smooth writing experience.
9. Cross Calais Satin Chrome Fountain Pen
With its stylish chrome body and matching chrome cap, clip and trim, this smart fountain pen is an obvious answer to the question ‘what is the best calligraphy pen?’. The special steel medium nib adapts to your writing style for an effortless finish. This pen takes inspiration from the Art-Deco era with its crisp, clean look and inspired lines. It takes both bottled ink and cartridges, leaving you with plenty of options. So if you’re wondering what is the best calligraphy pen to gift, look no further. This Cross Calais pen is available for engraving, so why not engrave a name or date to celebrate an occasion? With its lifetime mechanical guarantee, you’re buying into a pen for life.
When searching for the best calligraphy pen for beginners, it’s important that you choose a calligraphy pen that is special to you. Calligraphy is historical, and in some cultures, a sacred art that should be respected and treasured with patience. The best calligraphy pen is one that feels balanced in your hand, keeps up with your writing speed and adapts to your style. You may have to try a few pens before finding your perfect match, but the excitement lies within the journey!
For advice on caring for your calligraphy pen, read our guide, which runs you through 12 easy steps. If you have further questions, contact our customer care team who would be happy to help.
