When you're learning calligraphy, it's easy to think that beautiful lettering comes down to having the right pen and ink. But some of the most useful tools are actually the ones that help you plan, practise and correct your work. These are some of the tools I use regularly in my own work and recommend to students. Current courses and workshops.
MY ESSENTIAL TOOLKIT
BOHIN MECHANICAL CHALK PENCIL
This is a game changer and something I can’t live without. This chalk pencil leaves a thin white mark on coloured paper that allows you to draw lines and sketch out letters easily. The big bonus is how easy it is to remove with an eraser. You can also readily buy refills. Find it online at quilting supply shops.
Grading Ruler
These rulers are extra special because they allow you to easily draw parallel lines like you would need to create a template. You can also use them to draw parallel stand lines. Once you have drawn one line you simply line it up with next line on the transparent ruler, and like that you get perfectly parallel lines. You can find these really reasonably priced at Muji.
LIGHT PAD
Being able to see through paper is a game changer! It allows you to put a lined template underneath your work to keep writing straight, eliminating the need to draw lines with a pencil. It also allows you to draft lettering in pencil on one piece of paper (imagine a creative saying or quote) and then trace over it in ink on another piece of paper. When things don’t go right, your original draft is still intact.
hobby knife
The question every student asks - what happens when you make a mistake? Well, the truth is sometimes you put your head down and cry, but other times you might just be lucky enough to be able to pick the ink out of the paper using a small knife. A couple of tips: always wait for the ink to dry before you attempt this and work very slowly and gently.
erasers of different kinds
There are 3 erasers I use all the time:
Tombow Sand Eraser
Designed for removing ink from paper. Sometimes you get lucky and this will save you in the case of a mistake or accident.
Tombow Mono Zero Eraser (round tip)
Another great Tombow product. Sometimes you want to erase something very small and at only 2mm across, this is the perfect tool to do it!
Faber-Castell Dust-Free Eraser
In my experience, this is the most gentle eraser around. Also makes the least mess. Win-win!
Dusting Brush
I like to do a lot of drafting with a pencil. Lots of drafting means lots of erasing. I love this brush for cleaning up my workspace in a flash. Plus it makes me feel like the architect (of previous times) I always wish I was. Faber-Castell makes a nice one.
SCORING BOARD
I have my favourite papers for different calligraphy projects. Sometimes I might want to turn those into place cards, greeting cards or envelopes. To get a really professional looking fold you need an embosser like the one below. Game changer!
That is my round up of my favourite calligraphy tools, and the things I use the most often. If you have anything you use a lot that I have missed, please let me know in the comments below - I would love to hear.
If you are interested in learning calligraphy I am always teaching classes in and around London. Some can be found in my shop here or get in touch with me to find out what is currently available.
Until next time, happy lettering. Anthea xo