Dip Pen Help

[Bradv123]

I wasn't really sure where I should post this, so I apologize if it's in the wrong section.

I'm looking into getting a dip pen for more Spencerian or Copperplate writing rather than Gothic or Italic. My question is where do I start? Like what are some good (preferably cheap) products to get started with. I have read that Gillot 303 and 404 nibs are good, What makes them so good? What type of ink should I be using? What type of holders are good? Will all nibs fit in all holders? What website can I get all of this stuff from?

Thank you very much!

 

[peecee57]

Try these sites although in UK they post overseas

 

http://www.scribblers.co.uk/

 

http://www.dippennibs.co.uk/dippennibs.php

 

http://www.jacquiblackman.co.uk/dip_pens.htm

 

Get yourself an oblique nib holder and buy a few copperplate style nibs and experiment to see what suits you. I'd go for a cheap ink to start with, something like indian ink, dont try fountain pen ink as this can be a bit too runny. You will also need to get some good paper as most copier/inkjet papers will feather and bleed. check out youtube for examples of copperplate and spencerian writing. Good luck and have fun

[Mickey]

Seeing as how you live in the U.S., you're much better off buying your gear over here. In fact, you will be hard pressed to find a decent oblique holder outside the U.S. Here are the two most popular U.S. sellers with large selections of equipment.

 

http://www.johnnealbooks.com

http://www.paperinkarts.com

 

The best way to figure out what to buy is to spend a few hours cruising the penmanship forum, in particular the learn Spencerian and Copperplate threads. You might also try multiple searches on the words Gillott, Hunt, Principal, Zebra, Nikko, McCaffery, and 'unique oblique.' You should also peruse

 

http://www.iampeth.com/lessons_copperplate.php

 

Yes the Gillott 303 and 404 are okay, but they are far from the only nibs worth considering. In fact, I don't much care for either one, though some penman are very fond of them. It's a matter of taste and performance.