So, I picked up a little dip crow quill pen and a bottle o' ink at the store the other day, because I've never written with a dip pen before and it was on sale (hanging of head in shame). WOW am I missing something or is writing with a dip pen with a nib that teeny *really* a whole new skill set? IT looked very spidery and did NOT like up strokes or push strokes at all! (And it shows its displeasure by spitting ink at me!)

Since I have this thing, and I know there are probably *masters* of this particular instrument right here on this forum, any advice? How does this instrument differ in technique from a regular FP? Share your wisdom! Or, just tell me what a doofus I am.

HK

Crow quill pens are designed more for drawing fine lines, and maybe lettering(as in drawing letters, not writing them). Some nibs for dip pens, like the Hunt 101 might be used for script calligraphy. You would probably need a different holder and a whole lot of practice for that sort of thing.

You got the wrong dip pen for a noob to try. A crow quill writes like a needle tipped with a hummingbird whisker. It wants a really light touch and rather smooth paper to write script with.

If you want to try dip pens, go to an artists' supply store and look for a display of nibs. Some displays have examples of line widths and suggested uses. A store clerk can probably help you choose. Get an assortment; the nibs are usually very inexpensive.

Then get a holder that fits the nibs you chose (I think there are only two or three sizes, plus the crow quill holders). The holders can be very inexpensive also. There is no need to get a flashy holder unless one catches your eye.

The first time you use a new nib, use a solvent to remove any oil or rust inhibitor the manufacturer put on. Detergent and water, lighter fluid, lacquer thinner will work. Dry the nib, then lick it on both sides, and dip it in ink. You're in business.

Paddler

First off don't try to push the nib! Then it may help to lower the angle that the pen is to the paper. Then realize that you're only going to be able to write really spidery with a crow quill as it's what it is meant for.

SO you're doing fine it is just that probably not what you want to do with it. Look for a larger nib and holder use the bottle of ink and have fun!

Kurt

If you look here and scroll down to page six, you'll find more information about tubular crow quills. I have used them occasionally as they are ideal for very small flex writing. They have a very sharp point and good flex. Here's another link with crow quill information.

caliken

Oooh dear...

A dip-pen is always fun to play around with, but for someone who's just starting out, I wouldn't use a QUILL!! Go to an art-shop and buy a set of calligraphy supplies. A few nibs of different styles, some paper (if you want it), and a couple of nice nib-holders. And you might want to pick up a box of matches on the way home.

Get out the nibs, pick one you like, and roast it for a few seconds over a burning match. Put it into the holder, select some ink (ordinary fountain pen ink is fine), and go for a doodle. And enjoy.

The reason for the matches is that brand-new nibs/NOS nibs sometimes have oil on them which must be removed before the nib will write properly & hold ink effectively.

Shangas :
"Crow quill" pens aren't feather quills.
If you go to the link in my post, you'll see that "Crow Quill" is the name given to a very small metal dip nib.

caliken

HA! You see? I wasn't the only person a little short on clues in this matter!

This fits perfectly with my imbecilic approach to life: I buy a manual tranny car, without knowing how to drive stick, figuring either I'll learn or have the most expensive lawn ornament in the state. I decide I want to make a souffle, when I'm a little fuzzy on omelets. So, getting the most persnickety kind of dip pen fits right in.

Thanks for the wonderful advice, y'all. I have to say I'm totally hooked on the dip pen now, even WITH all the things I've done wrong, and your advice is giving me confidence that I know what to do. Ummmm, now, at any rate.

You are truly scholars, gentlemen and ladies.

HK

ah-ah...whoops, sorry Kenny.

I'm glad someone cleared that up because I was looking through this thread with interest but wondering where the quill was going to make an appearance, especially since I used to use crow quills (the feather shafts) as floats for fishing. So now I know!

Chris

hellkitty :
Thanks for this topic. As a result of reading it, I've resurrected my "crow quills" from the drawer, and have enjoyed playing with them again. In answer to your query, I hope to post an example of miniature writing with one of them, soon (if I can produce a half-decent result, of course!)

caliken

Originally crow quills (from the crow) were used for extra fine lines, and mapping.

The metal crow quill mapping pens were designed to duplicate what the feather variety did.

It's generally considered best to find naturally shed crow feathers, otherwise the hassle involved in removing one from a live crow generally involves blood (on your part) and pain (on the crow's part).

Metal crow quill pens vary dramatically in their usefulness in normal handwriting. A long time ago I had a box of them which were perfect for normal writing. Sadly, they are long lost. I have found some recently, but they are far too fine (and scratchy) for normal writing.

If you wish to try dip pens for normal writing, I would look for MacNiven & Cameron's Waverly pens, Brandauer scribbler pens or Esterbrook 314 Relief pens. These are all easy to use and work well with modern fountain pens inks.

For miniature writing, I use modern crow quill nibs made by Leonardt and Gillott, and have never had a problem writing with either.

caliken

Linky?

What does Linky mean?

Wants a link to some place on the Web where he can buy them.

Thanks Bill, I hadn't heard that, before.

Crow Quill nibs :-

Hiro Leonardt 801 from www.calligraphy.co.uk
Joseph Gillott 659 from www.scribblers.co.uk

caliken

Grazie!