Calligraphy is the art of decorative handwriting through skillful strokes and designs. Calligraphy uses specialized tools like brushes, pens and pointed pens to create distinct thick downstrokes and thin upstrokes. Calligraphy writing is typically used for cards, invitations, branding, logos and hand-written documents. It can be used on different types of paper and specialty paper.

To start learning how to create calligraphy writing, you’re going to need a dip pen or a brush pen, ink, smooth paper and a set of practice guidelines. When shopping for paper, avoid textured paper because it can damage the pens. Smooth paper is gentler on calligraphy pen tips. Additionally, you can have a pencil, pencil sharpener, ruler and eraser with you for sketching and setting up guidelines to practice with.

When you’re shopping for a calligraphy pen, the best ones are comfortable to hold and balanced for consistent ink flow while writing on paper. Look for a pen that has the right nib type (stub, flexible or brush) that suits your writing and art style. If you’re looking for a dip pen, make sure it can hold enough ink and that you have extra ink for when it runs out.

When using a calligraphy pen, start by holding it the same way you would hold a regular pen, pencil or marker, but be aware of the angle you hold the pen. Hold the pen at around a 45-degree angle so you’re able to create thick downstrokes when writing. To achieve different kinds of strokes, apply different amounts of pressure on the paper. Lighter pressure creates thinner lines and heavier pressure creates thicker lines.