Calligraphy is a beautiful art form, but finding the right tools can be tricky. Brush pens make it easier to get those elegant thick and thin strokes, but with so many options, it’s hard to know where to start. I’ve tested a bunch of different brush pens, and these are my top picks for getting started with calligraphy.
Here’s a quick rundown of my favorite brush pens for calligraphy:
- Tombow Dual Brush Pens: Best overall for versatility and blending.
- Pentel Fude Touch Sign Pen: Excellent for beginners due to its firm tip and control.
- Sakura Pigma Brush Pen: Waterproof and great for detailed work.
- Kuretake Fudegokochi Brush Pen: Refillable and delivers consistent ink flow.
- Arteza Real Brush Pens: Ideal for watercolor effects and blending.
Top 5 Best Brush Pens for Calligraphy
Tombow Dual Brush Pens
Tombow Dual Brush Pens are a staple for many calligraphers. They feature a flexible brush tip on one end and a fine tip on the other, making them super versatile for different lettering styles and details. Plus, they come in a massive range of colors which are great for blending.
Pros:
- ✅ Dual tips offer versatility for thick and thin lines.
- ✅ Wide range of colors available.
- ✅ Blendable water-based ink.
Cons:
- ❌ The brush tip can fray with heavy use.
- ❌ The ink can bleed on some paper types.
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to other options.
Verdict: Tombow Dual Brush Pens are excellent for both beginners and experienced calligraphers who want versatility and a wide color selection. The ability to blend colors makes them a standout choice.
Pentel Fude Touch Sign Pen
The Pentel Fude Touch Sign Pen is a fantastic option, especially if you’re just starting out. The firm, felt-like tip gives you a lot of control, so you can create consistent strokes without too much effort. I remember when I was learning, this pen helped me understand pressure control much faster.
Pros:
- ✅ Firm tip provides excellent control.
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting.
- ✅ Affordable and readily available.
Cons:
- ❌ Limited color options.
- ❌ Not ideal for very large lettering due to the tip size.
- ❌ Not blendable.
Verdict: This pen is perfect for beginners and those who prefer a more controlled, precise lettering style. Its durability and affordability make it a great everyday pen.
Sakura Pigma Brush Pen
Sakura Pigma Brush Pens are known for their archival quality ink, which is waterproof and fade-resistant. This makes them perfect for projects that you want to last, like cards, invitations, or artwork. I’ve used these for addressing envelopes, and they always look crisp and professional.
Pros:
- ✅ Waterproof and fade-resistant ink.
- ✅ Great for detailed work and fine lines.
- ✅ Consistent ink flow.
Cons:
- ❌ Limited flexibility in the brush tip.
- ❌ Not ideal for large, bold lettering.
- ❌ Can be a bit scratchy on some papers.
Verdict: The Sakura Pigma Brush Pen is a solid choice for calligraphers who need waterproof, archival-quality results. It’s best for detailed work and smaller lettering projects.
Kuretake Fudegokochi Brush Pen
Kuretake Fudegokochi Brush Pen is a refillable brush pen that offers a smooth and consistent ink flow. I love that it’s refillable because it reduces waste and saves money in the long run. It feels very similar to using a traditional brush, but with the convenience of a pen.
Pros:
- ✅ Refillable, making it eco-friendly and cost-effective.
- ✅ Smooth and consistent ink flow.
- ✅ Comfortable to hold and use.
Cons:
- ❌ Only available in black ink.
- ❌ Requires occasional maintenance to ensure optimal ink flow.
- ❌ Can be a bit more expensive upfront due to the refillable nature.
Verdict: This pen is a great option for calligraphers who want a refillable pen with a traditional brush feel. Its consistent ink flow and comfortable grip make it a pleasure to use.
Arteza Real Brush Pens
Arteza Real Brush Pens are designed to mimic the look and feel of watercolor paints. The nylon brush tips are flexible and allow for beautiful blending and shading effects. If you enjoy watercolor lettering, these pens are a fun alternative.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent for creating watercolor effects.
- ✅ Highly blendable colors.
- ✅ Wide range of colors available.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be difficult to control for beginners.
- ❌ Requires watercolor paper for best results.
- ❌ Tips can fray if used on rough paper.
Verdict: Arteza Real Brush Pens are perfect for calligraphers who want to experiment with watercolor effects and blending. They’re a fun and versatile addition to any artist’s collection.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right brush pen can feel overwhelming, but here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Tip Type: Firm tips are easier for beginners, while flexible tips offer more expressive strokes.
- Ink Type: Water-based inks are blendable, while waterproof inks are more permanent.
- Color Options: Consider whether you need a wide range of colors or if a few basic colors will suffice.
- Refillable vs. Disposable: Refillable pens are more eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run.
- Paper Type: Smooth paper is best for preventing fraying and bleeding.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best brush pen for beginners?
A: The Pentel Fude Touch Sign Pen is a great choice for beginners because of its firm tip, which provides excellent control.
Q: How do I prevent my brush pen from fraying?
A: Use smooth paper and avoid applying too much pressure. Store your pens horizontally to keep the ink flowing evenly.
Q: Can I blend brush pen colors?
A: Yes, you can blend water-based brush pen colors. Tombow Dual Brush Pens and Arteza Real Brush Pens are excellent for blending.
Q: Are brush pens suitable for all types of paper?
A: No, it’s best to use smooth paper to prevent the tips from fraying and the ink from bleeding. Watercolor paper is ideal for brush pens designed for watercolor effects.
Q: How do I store my brush pens?
A: Store them horizontally to ensure the ink flows evenly to the tip. This prevents the tip from drying out and extends the life of your pens.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect brush pen for calligraphy really depends on your personal preferences and what you want to create. Whether you’re a beginner looking for control or an experienced artist wanting to experiment with blending, there’s a brush pen out there for you. I hope this guide helps you find the right tools to unleash your creativity and create beautiful lettering!
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