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Calligraphy Instructions

Calligraphy instructions:

This page shows you how to set up your calligraphy equipment properly. From having bought your calligraphy equipment to putting your first stroke down on paper.

If you have not read the calligraphy tools page already you should go back and do so, as the page will help you to understanding the different tools and there functions. Right now I am going to focus on the dip pen and nib in this calligraphy instructions guide.

Step-By-Step Guide:
1. Set up your workspace with the appropriate tools and equipment. Check the 'check-list' bellow to see that you have everything to continue. If you do not have everything that is on the list you should try to get it before doing this exercise, and instead move on to the alternative instructional guide bellow.

Check-list:

Nib+ reserver (1 nib minimum)
Pen holder
Drawing board (or if not, clear table would do for now)
Inks (non waterproof). If you do not have Ink's yet you can use watercolors instead. I use black but you can use any colour you like.
water cup
paper
tissue
masking tape
drawing pencils
sharpening stone
paint pallet
small paint brush
water colour base paint and gauche (gauche is optional)

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2. Now you have all the equipment we are ready to begin. Start by setting up your nib by attaching it to the reserver. Slide the reserver down the top of the nib until it is held securely, and the tips or the reserver and nib are even.

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3. The reserver is now attached to the nib. Next attach the nib to the pen holder. Slide the nib/reserver into place. Different pen holders have different attachments for nibs, so have a look at how your pen holder is designed to hold your nib/reserver.

calligraphy_instructions_pen2holder

4. Now your writing equipment is ready, lets sharpen the nib tip. We are going to use your sharpening stone, which should have come with your equipment, and if not then it is cheap to buy online or at your local art store. Place your new nib in hot/warm water. Move the nib across the sharpening stone to sharpen it.

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5.Once sharpened, dry the excess water off the nib/reserver with a tissue.

Squeeze and mix some paint into a paint pallet. Blend the water in with the paint, and make sure its not too watery or too thick. Try to make it ink like in texture.

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6. Mopping up some paint with your paintbrush, load the paint into the gap between the reserver and nib.

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7. You are now set up and you are ready to start making some beautiful calligraphy!

calligraphy_instructions_startCalligraphy

how to hold pen

Most calligraphers hold there calligraphy pen like this(see image bellow. The index finger and the thumb grips the pen, while the pen rests on the middle finger. This is the most comfortable way to hold your pen for good balance. But this pen holding position is only for right-handers. Left handed people use a different holding technique.

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