Calligraphy has exploded in popularity over the past few years, and finding the best calligraphy sets can feel overwhelming when you are staring at hundreds of options online. I have spent months testing different calligraphy pens, dip pens, brush pens, and complete kits to figure out which ones actually deliver on their promises. Whether you want to address wedding invitations, start a bullet journal with beautiful headers, or learn traditional Copperplate script, the right tools make a massive difference in your learning curve.
One thing I learned quickly is that no single calligraphy set works for everyone. Beginners need something forgiving and easy to control, while experienced calligraphers want precision nibs and professional-quality ink. Left-handed writers face unique challenges that most sets completely ignore. Budget matters too, because spending more does not always mean getting better results.
In this guide, I break down 12 of the best calligraphy sets available right now, covering everything from affordable brush pens under $10 to premium fountain pen kits. I tested each product for ink flow, nib quality, comfort, and value for money. My goal is to help you skip the trial-and-error phase and start creating beautiful lettering from day one. Let me walk you through the top picks and help you find the perfect match for your calligraphy journey.
Top 3 Picks for Best Calligraphy Sets
After testing all 12 products, three stood out from the pack. These picks cover different needs and budgets so you can find your ideal match quickly.
Tombow Fudenosuke Brush Pen 2-Pack
- Soft and hard tips
- Water-based pigmented ink
- #1 in Calligraphy Pens
Mont Marte Calligraphy Set 32 Piece
- 4 refillable pens
- 5 nibs
- 20 ink cartridges
- Exercise booklet
Best Calligraphy Sets in 2026
Here is a quick side-by-side comparison of all 12 calligraphy sets I reviewed. Use this table to scan features at a glance before diving into the detailed reviews below.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Tombow Fudenosuke Brush Pen 2-Pack |
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| Mont Marte Calligraphy Set 32 Piece |
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| Pilot Parallel Calligraphy Pen Set |
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 Plotube Calligraphy Dip Pen Set |
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 STAEDTLER Calligraphy Pen Set 33 Piece |
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 Tombow Advanced Lettering Set |
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 Speedball Basic Calligraphy Set |
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 AXEARTE Glass Dip Calligraphy Pen Set |
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 Speedball Oblique Pen Set |
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 LAMY Joy Calligraphy Set |
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 Kuretake ZIG Calligraphy Markers 12 Colors |
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 U.S. Art Supply 35-Piece Calligraphy Set |
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1. Tombow Fudenosuke Brush Pen 2-Pack – Soft and Hard Tip
Tombow 62038 Fudenosuke Brush Pen, 2-Pack. Soft and Hard Tip Fudenosuke Brush Pens for Calligraphy and Art Drawings
2 brush pens (soft and hard tip)
Water-based pigmented black ink
Pressure-sensitive tips
#1 rated in Calligraphy Pens
Pros
- Contains both soft and hard tip for different techniques
- Flexible brush tip creates extra fine to medium strokes
- Excellent for beginners learning brush lettering
- Water-based pigmented ink flows smoothly
- 81% five-star ratings from 41k reviews
Cons
- Ink may turn gray on regular paper when writing fast
- Tips may eventually bend with heavy use
- Disposable pens
I have used the Tombow Fudenosuke brush pens more than any other calligraphy tool in my collection, and there is a reason they rank number one in the Calligraphy Pens category on Amazon. The two-pack gives you both a soft tip and a hard tip, which covers basically every brush lettering technique you would want to try as a beginner.
The soft tip responds beautifully to pressure changes, letting you create thick downstrokes and delicate hairlines without much effort. The hard tip gives you more control, which I found perfect for smaller lettering and detail work. When I first started learning modern calligraphy, the hard tip was my go-to because it forced me to develop proper pressure control without being too unforgiving.
With over 41,000 reviews and an 81% five-star rating, these pens have earned their reputation. The water-based pigmented ink flows consistently and dries quickly enough to avoid smudging for most right-handed writers. I found the ink stays vibrant black on marker paper and smooth cardstock, though it can look slightly gray on cheap copy paper if you write fast.
The main downside is that these are disposable pens. After a few months of regular use, the tips will start to lose their snap and bend. For the price though, replacing them is not a big deal. I always keep a backup pack in my desk drawer.
Who Should Buy This
Beginners learning brush lettering will get the most value here. The dual-tip approach lets you experiment with different pressure techniques without buying separate pens. If you are into modern calligraphy, hand lettering, or bullet journaling, this is your starting point.
Paper Compatibility Tips
These pens work best on marker paper or paper rated at 100gsm or higher. I recommend Rhodia dotpads or HP Premium Choice paper for practice. Avoid thin printer paper because the ink will feather and bleed through, making your strokes look fuzzy.
2. Mont Marte Calligraphy Set 32 Piece
Mont Marte Calligraphy Set, 32 Piece. Includes Calligraphy Pens, Calligraphy Nibs, Ink Cartridges, Introduction Booklet and Exercise Booklet, Packaging May Vary
32-piece complete set
4 refillable pens
5 traditional nibs
20 ink cartridges
Exercise booklet
Pros
- Comprehensive 32-piece set with everything beginners need
- 4 refillable pen bodies in different colors
- Traditional nibs for Roman Italic Gothic and Uncial styles
- Includes exercise booklet for guided practice
- Great value for under 25 dollars
Cons
- Instructions can be confusing for absolute beginners
- Practice booklet pages are thin and ink may bleed
- Some nibs need priming before smooth flow
The Mont Marte 32-piece calligraphy set is the kit I recommend most often to friends who ask me about getting into calligraphy. It comes with four refillable pen bodies, five traditional nibs, twenty ink cartridges, an ink pen pump, and two instructional booklets. For the price, you get an impressive amount of material to start practicing right away.
What I appreciate about this set is the variety of nib options. The traditional nibs let you explore different historical calligraphy styles including Roman, Round Hand, Italic, Gothic, and Uncial. I spent weeks working through the exercise booklet, and it genuinely helped me understand stroke order and letter spacing for broad-edged scripts.
The pen bodies feel lightweight and comfortable for extended writing sessions. The click-off caps keep the ink from drying out, and the ribbed grip section gives you decent control. With a 71% five-star rating across over 5,100 reviews, this set clearly delivers for most buyers.
The biggest weakness is the practice booklet quality. The pages are thin and ink bleeds through if you use broad nibs heavily. I ended up buying a separate Rhodia dotpad for actual practice and using the included booklet just for reference. Some nibs also needed a few tries before they started flowing smoothly, which is normal for new calligraphy nibs but can frustrate absolute beginners.
Skill Level Match
This set works best for beginners and early intermediate calligraphers who want to try broad-edged styles without investing in individual professional tools. If you already know you prefer pointed pen calligraphy specifically, you might want a different kit.
Ink and Refill System
The 20 ink cartridges last a surprisingly long time. Each pen body accepts standard international cartridges, so refilling is easy and affordable. The included ink pump lets you use bottled ink if you want to expand your color options beyond what comes in the box.
3. Pilot Parallel Calligraphy Pen Set – 2.4mm Nib
Pilot Parallel Calligraphy Pen Set, 2.4mm Nib with Black and Red Ink Cartridges (90051)
2.4mm parallel plate nib
Black and red ink cartridges
Pipette and nib cleaner
Refillable
Pros
- Unique parallel plate nib design for sharp consistent strokes
- Refillable with wide variety of ink colors
- Smooth ink flow right out of the box
- Can create ombre designs by touching two pens together
- Available in 4 nib widths
Cons
- Ink is not permanent and runs with watercolor
- Plastic pen body feels lightweight
- Ink runs out quickly with heavy use
The Pilot Parallel pen is unlike any other calligraphy tool I have used. Instead of a traditional chisel nib, it uses two parallel metal plates that deliver ink smoothly and consistently. The 2.4mm nib width strikes a great balance between bold expressive strokes and fine hairlines when you rotate the pen.
I was skeptical about the plastic body at first, but the lightweight design actually reduces hand fatigue during long practice sessions. The ink flows immediately when you put nib to paper, with no skipping or hard starts. This is one of the few calligraphy pens that works perfectly straight out of the package with zero priming needed.
The coolest feature is the ability to create ombre effects by touching the nibs of two Parallel pens together. The ink transfers between pens, letting you blend colors mid-stroke. I have used this technique for greeting cards and envelope addressing, and the results look professional.
The main drawback is ink consumption. The water-based ink flows generously, which means cartridges run out faster than other fountain pen style calligraphy pens. The ink is also not waterproof, so it will bleed if you try to use watercolor over your lettering. With 79% five-star ratings from nearly 6,000 reviewers, these issues have not stopped people from loving this pen.
Best Uses for the Parallel Pen
This pen excels at Italic, Gothic, and broad-edged scripts where you need consistent thick and thin strokes. It is also fantastic for poster work, signs, and any project where you want bold lettering. I do not recommend it for pointed pen styles like Copperplate.
Nib Size Selection Guide
The 2.4mm nib is the most versatile for beginners. If you want finer detail work, the 1.5mm is excellent. The 3.8mm and 6.0mm sizes are better for large-format work and display lettering. Many calligraphers eventually collect all four sizes for different projects.
4. Plotube Calligraphy Pen Set with Wooden Dip Pen
Plotube Calligraphy Pen Set – Includes Wooden Dip Pen, Antique Brass Holder, 11 Nibs, 7 Colors Ink Bottles and Beginner’s Manual
Wooden dip pen with antique brass holder
11 nibs (2 golden, 10 stainless)
7 ink colors
Luxury gift box
Pros
- Premium wooden pen with antique brass holder
- 7 beautiful ink colors included
- 12 different nibs for variety in line thickness
- Luxury gift box presentation
- Amazon's Choice with 77% five-star ratings
Cons
- Some users report nibs may break and get stuck
- May require stabilization with tape during use
The Plotube dip pen set is the one I reach for when I want to create something that feels special. The wooden pen with its antique brass holder has a vintage aesthetic that makes the whole experience feel more artisanal. It comes packaged in a luxury black gift box that looks impressive straight out of the delivery.
You get 12 different nibs in this set, including 2 golden nibs and 10 stainless steel nibs. This variety lets you experiment with line widths ranging from ultra-fine hairlines to broad expressive strokes. I found the nibs hold ink well once you get them properly primed and loaded.
The seven ink colors are a standout feature. You get black, turquoise, red, green, purple, hot pink, and orange, which covers a wide range of creative projects. I used these for holiday card calligraphy and the vibrant colors really popped on cream cardstock.
The main complaint I have seen from other users is that nibs can sometimes get stuck or break during removal. I recommend being gentle when swapping nibs and using a firm but careful motion. Some calligraphers add a small piece of tape to stabilize the nib in the holder for a more secure fit.
Gift Appeal
This set makes an excellent gift for anyone interested in calligraphy. The luxury presentation box and premium materials create an unboxing experience that feels much more expensive than the actual price. I have given this as a birthday gift twice and both recipients were thrilled.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Dip pen nibs need proper cleaning after each session. Rinse them in lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft cloth. Never leave ink to dry on the nibs because it will corrode the metal and ruin your line quality over time.
5. STAEDTLER Calligraphy Pen Set 33 Piece
STAEDTLER calligraphy pen set, ideal for all skill levels, 899 SM5, Assorted, 33 Piece Set
33-piece set
4 pen bodies
5 interchangeable nibs (EF to XB)
20 ink cartridges
Storage tin
Pros
- 33-piece comprehensive set with 4 pens and 5 nibs
- 20 ink cartridges in various colors
- Instruction and exercise booklets included
- Portable metal storage tin
- Trusted STAEDTLER brand quality
Cons
- Pens feel like lightweight plastic
- Ink flow may be inconsistent and cartridges can clog
- Lower five-star rating at 63% compared to competitors
- Pens require delicate handling
STAEDTLER is a name I have trusted since my school days, and their 33-piece calligraphy set brings that German engineering to lettering. You get four fountain pen bodies, five interchangeable nibs ranging from extra fine to extra broad, twenty assorted ink cartridges, a metal pump converter, instruction booklet, practice paper pad, and a portable storage tin.
The nib variety is where this set shines. Having extra fine, fine, medium, broad, and extra broad nibs lets you explore five different line widths without buying separate pens. I spent a full afternoon switching between nibs and was impressed by how each one produced distinct character in my lettering.
The twenty ink cartridges come in seven colors, which gives you creative freedom right from the start. The metal storage tin is genuinely useful for keeping everything organized. I carry this set in my bag for lettering on the go.
However, this set has some real weaknesses that I need to be honest about. The pen bodies feel plasticky and lack the premium feel of the LAMY or Pilot options. At 63% five-star ratings, this is notably lower than most other sets on this list. Some users report inconsistent ink flow and clogged cartridges, though I did not experience this with careful handling.
Best for Classroom Use
This set works well in educational settings where multiple students share supplies. The storage tin keeps everything together and the variety of nibs means students can experiment without needing individual premium pens.
Nib Care Instructions
The interchangeable nibs are designed to be swapped on the pen bodies, but do this carefully. Forcing nibs on or off can damage the feed mechanism. Always cap your pens when not in use to prevent the ink from drying in the feed.
6. Tombow Advanced Lettering Set
Tombow 56191 Advanced Lettering Set. Tools to Enhance Hand Lettering
4 Dual Brush Pens
2 Fudenosuke pens
MONO Twin marker
Blender pen
Pencil and eraser
Pros
- High-quality brush pens with smooth consistent ink flow
- Comprehensive kit with multiple pen types
- Excellent for blending and embellishing techniques
- Includes instructional pamphlet
- Vibrant pigment with great color payoff
- 4.8-star average rating
Cons
- Tip sheet lacks detailed instructions for beginners
- Nibs can be damaged by improper handling
- Colored pens require practice to use correctly
The Tombow Advanced Lettering Set is what I graduated to after mastering the basics with the Fudenosuke pens. This kit includes four Dual Brush Pens, two Fudenosuke Calligraphy Pens, a MONO Twin Permanent marker, a colorless Blender Pen, a MONO Drawing Pencil, and a MONO Eraser. It is a complete lettering toolkit in one package.
The Dual Brush Pens are the stars here. Each pen has a flexible brush tip on one end and a fine bullet tip on the other, giving you two tools in one. The water-based ink blends beautifully when you use the included colorless blender pen. I created gradient lettering effects that looked professional within my first hour of practice.
With a 4.8-star average rating, this set has some of the highest satisfaction scores of any calligraphy product I have reviewed. Users consistently praise the smooth ink flow, noting that the pens do not streak or skip. The vibrant colors are perfect for hand lettering projects, card making, and journal embellishments.
The set is designed for intermediate to advanced lettering enthusiasts rather than absolute beginners. If you have never used a brush pen before, the included tips sheet is sparse and will not teach you fundamentals. I recommend starting with the Fudenosuke 2-pack first, then upgrading to this set once you feel comfortable with basic strokes.
Blending Techniques
The colorless blender pen is your secret weapon for watercolor effects. Use it to blend two colors directly on paper, or pick up color from a non-porous surface to create smooth gradients. I practice blending on HP Premium Choice paper for the best results.
Skill Progression Path
This set bridges the gap between beginner and advanced lettering. Once you can control the Fudenosuke pens consistently, the Dual Brush Pens in this set will push your skills further with their larger brush tips and blending capabilities.
7. Speedball Basic Calligraphy Set
Speedball Basic Calligraphy Set, Set of 7
6 C-style nibs (C1-C4)
2 pen points
1 pen holder
Triple reservoir design
Instruction booklet
Pros
- Excellent variety of C-style nibs for different calligraphy styles
- Triple reservoir nibs hold ink well for uninterrupted flow
- Good quality nibs that are durable with proper cleaning
- Includes helpful instruction booklet
- Classic Speedball heritage brand
Cons
- Plastic pen holder feels less premium
- Packaging can be difficult to open
- Nibs require cleaning after each use
The Speedball Basic Calligraphy Set is a classic for a reason. Speedball has been making calligraphy tools for decades, and this set includes six C-style nibs (C1 through C4), two pen points (No. 101 and No. 512), and a standard pen holder. It is a no-nonsense dip pen set for traditional broad-edged calligraphy.
The triple reservoir design on the C-style nibs is genuinely impressive. Each nib holds significantly more ink than standard dip pen nibs, which means fewer interruptions to reload. I was able to write entire alphabet sets without stopping to re-dip, which keeps your rhythm and flow consistent.
This set is ideal for Roman text, Italic alphabets, and ornamental work. The instruction booklet walks you through basic strokes and letter construction, which I found helpful even as someone with prior calligraphy experience. The heritage and community trust behind Speedball is real, with calligraphers on Reddit consistently recommending these nibs.
The plastic pen holder is the weak link. It feels cheap compared to wooden holders and lacks the weight that helps with control. I ended up using the Speedball nibs in a nicer wooden holder I already owned. The packaging is also notoriously difficult to open without bending the nibs, so take your time with it.
Left-Handed Considerations
The ambidextrous design means left-handed calligraphers can use this set comfortably. The broad-edged nibs work well for lefties because they rely on angle rather than pressure, which suits the left-handed writing position.
Nib Cleaning Routine
Clean your Speedball nibs after every session by dipping them in water and wiping with a soft cloth. For stubborn dried ink, soak nibs in pen cleaner for a few minutes. Proper maintenance keeps these nibs working well for years.
8. AXEARTE Glass Dip Calligraphy Pen Set
AXEARTE Glass Dip Calligraphy Pen Set, 18-Pieces 14 Color Inks, Pen Holder, Cleaning Cup, 2 Crystal Glass Pens for Art, Writing, Drawing, Signatures, Gift for Kids and Artist
2 crystal glass pens
14 ink colors with gold shimmer
Pen holder
Cleaning cup
Writes 40-50 words per dip
Pros
- Beautiful crystal glass pens with elegant aesthetic
- 14 vibrant ink colors including gold shimmer options
- Good value for a complete set
- Easy to switch between colors quickly
- Glass pens rinse clean in 10 seconds
Cons
- Ink bottles can leak when opening or stored on side
- Rubber stoppers are difficult to remove
- Ink stains skin and surfaces
- Included water cup is very small
The AXEARTE Glass Dip Pen Set is the most visually stunning calligraphy kit I have tested. The two crystal glass pens made from high borosilicate glass catch light beautifully on your desk. They feel like artisan tools rather than mass-produced stationery, which adds something special to every writing session.
You get fourteen ink colors with gold shimmer powder mixed in. The shimmer effect is striking on dark paper especially. I used the gold and turquoise inks on black cardstock for holiday cards and the results were jaw-dropping. Each ink bottle holds 7ml, which lasts longer than you might expect since glass pens write 40 to 50 words per dip.
Cleaning is incredibly easy with glass pens. Just rinse under running water for about 10 seconds and the pen is ready for a new color. This makes switching between the fourteen ink colors effortless, which is something you cannot do easily with traditional metal dip pens.
The biggest problem is the ink bottles. Multiple users report leaking issues, especially if the bottles are stored on their side. The rubber stoppers are also frustratingly difficult to remove. I recommend storing bottles upright and opening them over a protected surface to avoid stains. The included glass water cup is also tiny and barely functional for cleaning.
Best Projects for Glass Pens
Glass pens excel at decorative writing, certificate work, and any project where visual appeal matters as much as the lettering itself. The shimmer inks are perfect for wedding signage, gift tags, and special occasion cards.
Ink Storage Tips
Store all ink bottles upright in a cool, dry place. Place them in a small box or tray to catch any leaks. When opening a bottle for the first time, hold it over a paper towel and twist the stopper gently rather than pulling straight up.
9. Speedball Oblique Pen Set for Copperplate
Speedball Oblique Pen Set – 1 Penholder w/ 4 Nibs, 2 Pen Points
Oblique pen holder
4 No.101 pen points
2 No.103 pen points
Removable flange
For Copperplate and Spencerian
Pros
- Essential oblique pen for Copperplate and Spencerian scripts
- Excellent variety with 4 No.101 and 2 No.103 nibs
- Great nib flexibility for line variation
- Suitable for both left and right-handed users
- Removable oblique for easy cleaning
Cons
- Nibs may require breaking in or adjustment
- Nib can slide in holder during writing
- Requires proper paper to avoid catching
- Beginners may struggle until technique improves
The Speedball Oblique Pen Set is specifically designed for pointed pen calligraphy styles like Copperplate and Spencerian. The oblique holder positions the nib at the correct angle for these scripts, which is something a straight holder cannot replicate. You get four No. 101 pen points and two No. 103 pen points, giving you nib options for different line weights.
When I first started learning Copperplate, I tried using a straight pen holder and struggled for weeks. Switching to this oblique holder was a revelation. The angle adjustment made the correct thick and thin strokes feel natural rather than forced. The flexible nibs respond to pressure beautifully, creating sharp hairlines and dramatic shades.
This set works for both right-handed and left-handed calligraphers, which is notable because oblique pens are typically marketed toward right-handers. The removable oblique flange makes cleaning easy and lets you replace nibs without hassle.
The learning curve is real though. Beginners often find oblique pens awkward at first, and the nibs can slide around in the holder during writing. I had to readjust the nib position periodically until I learned the proper grip. You also need quality paper, because these fine nibs will catch and jam on rough surfaces.
Pointed Pen vs Broad-Edged
This set is strictly for pointed pen calligraphy. If you want to do Italic, Gothic, or other broad-edged styles, choose a different product from this list. Pointed pen work focuses on pressure-based thick and thin strokes within each letter.
Recommended Practice Paper
Use Rhodia dotpads or HP Premium Choice paper for pointed pen practice. The smooth surface lets the nib glide without catching. Avoid textured or rough papers because they will damage fine nibs and produce inconsistent ink flow.
10. LAMY Joy Calligraphy Set
LAMY Joy Calligraphy Set in Black with Black Ink Cartridges
3 chisel nibs (1.1mm 1.5mm 1.9mm)
Ergonomic triangular grip
LAMY T10 cartridges
Aluminum presentation box
German made
Pros
- Premium German engineering and build quality
- Three interchangeable chisel nib sizes
- Ergonomic triangular grip for extended use
- Easy screw-on nib change system
- Beautiful brushed aluminum presentation box
Cons
- Does not include ink converter must buy separately
- Proprietary cartridges limit ink options
- Nibs may need initial adjustment
- No warranty offered
The LAMY Joy is the most premium fountain pen style calligraphy set on this list, and you can feel the German engineering the moment you pick it up. The pen features three interchangeable chisel nib sizes (1.1mm, 1.5mm, and 1.9mm), each pre-installed on its own ink feed barrel. Changing nibs is as simple as unscrewing one barrel and screwing on another.
The ergonomic triangular grip is genuinely comfortable for extended writing sessions. I have spent two-hour practice blocks with this pen without any hand cramping, which is something I cannot say about most other calligraphy pens. The long barrel design is well-balanced and feels stable in the hand.
The brushed aluminum presentation box makes this set feel like a luxury purchase. It would make an excellent gift for a calligraphy enthusiast who already has some experience. LAMY pens are known for their durability and reliability, and this set lives up to that reputation.
The main drawback is the proprietary ink system. You are limited to LAMY T10 cartridges unless you purchase the LAMY Z-24 converter separately, which lets you use bottled ink. Some users also report that nibs need minor tuning out of the box, particularly tine alignment. With only 282 reviews, this is a niche product that has not reached the mass popularity of the Tombow or Pilot options.
Italic Calligraphy Specialization
This set is purpose-built for italic and broad-edged calligraphy. The chisel nibs create beautiful thick and thin strokes based on pen angle rather than pressure. If Italic script is your primary interest, this is the professional-grade tool you want.
Upgrading with Bottled Ink
Buy the LAMY Z-24 converter to unlock bottled ink options. This expands your color palette dramatically and reduces long-term ink costs. Iroshizuku, Diamine, and Private Reserve all make excellent fountain pen inks compatible with this setup.
11. Kuretake ZIG Calligraphy Marker Pens 12 Colors
Kuretake ZIG Calligraphy Marker Pens, 12 Colors set, 2mm & 3.5mm Dual Tip Markers, for Writing & Hand Lettering, for Professional, Beginner, Water-based dye ink, Made in Japan
12 dual-tip markers
2mm and 3.5mm tips
Water-based dye ink
Japanese made
Blendable colors
Pros
- Vibrant richly pigmented colors
- Dual tip design for versatility
- Smooth ink flow without smudging
- Tips do not fray after extended use
- Blendable with water for gradients
- Japanese-made professional quality
Cons
- Some colors may be weak like grey red pink
- May bleed through lighter 80gsm paper
- Not as precise as traditional dip pens
The Kuretake ZIG Calligraphy markers bring Japanese precision to the marker pen category. Each pen features a dual-tip design with a 2mm tip on one end and a 3.5mm tip on the other, giving you two line widths per pen. The twelve-color set covers a vibrant spectrum that works for both practice and finished projects.
I was impressed by how well these markers maintain their tips. After weeks of regular use, the chisel tips showed zero fraying, which is a common problem with cheaper calligraphy markers. The water-based dye ink flows smoothly and dries quickly, and the colors are genuinely vivid on both white and cream paper.
The blendable ink is a standout feature. You can use a water brush to mix and blur colors for gradient effects, similar to watercolor painting. I used this technique for decorative borders and floral embellishments around my lettering, and the results looked professional.
The set is not perfect. Some colors like grey, red, and pink are noticeably weaker than the brighter shades. On paper below 100gsm, the ink bleeds through to the other side. These are markers rather than precision dip pens, so do not expect the razor-sharp hairlines you get from metal nibs.
Marker Calligraphy vs Traditional
Marker pens offer convenience and portability that dip pens cannot match. They are perfect for on-the-go lettering, journaling, and quick projects. However, if your goal is traditional Copperplate or Spencerian scripts, you need pointed pen nibs instead.
Color Blending Guide
To blend colors, scribble both shades on a non-porous surface like a plastic palette. Pick up the mixed color with a water brush and apply to paper. You can also touch two marker tips directly together for a quick gradient effect on the page.
12. U.S. Art Supply 35-Piece Calligraphy Pen Set
U.S. Art Supply 35-Piece Calligraphy Pen Set – 4 Pens, 5 Nibs, 22 Inks
35-piece set
4 pens
5 nib styles
22 ink cartridges
Instructional handbook
Pros
- Comprehensive 35-piece set with excellent value
- 4 pens and 5 different nib styles included
- 22 ink cartridges in 8 colors
- Includes instructional handbook for beginners
- Refillable cartridges for long-lasting use
Cons
- Packaging can be flimsy and cheap
- Booklet is sparse and printed on glossy paper
- Not ideal for gifting due to packaging quality
The U.S. Art Supply 35-piece calligraphy set offers the most pieces of any kit on this list. You get four calligraphy pens, five nib styles ranging from extra-fine to extra-broad, twenty-two ink cartridges in eight colors, and an instructional handbook. For sheer quantity, it is hard to beat.
The nib variety is the real selling point. Having extra-fine, fine, medium, broad, and extra-broad nibs lets you experiment with five completely different line widths. I found this particularly useful for figuring out which nib size suited my handwriting style before investing in higher-quality individual pens.
The twenty-two ink cartridges come in eight colors, giving you plenty of creative options. The refillable cartridge system means you can keep using the pens long after the included ink runs out. At this price point, the value proposition is strong for someone just testing the waters.
The downsides are mostly about presentation and materials. The packaging is flimsy and looks cheap, which makes this a poor choice if you want a gift-ready set. The instructional handbook is sparse and printed on glossy paper that ink will bead up on. The pen bodies are basic plastic without much weight or premium feel.
Best for Trial and Discovery
This set is ideal for someone who is not sure whether calligraphy will become a long-term hobby. It gives you maximum variety at minimum cost, letting you discover which nib sizes and styles you prefer before spending more on professional tools.
What to Upgrade Next
Once you identify your preferred nib size from this set, consider investing in a quality pen that matches that width. The Pilot Parallel or LAMY Joy are excellent upgrades if you enjoy broad-edged styles, while the Tombow Fudenosuke is the natural next step for brush lettering fans.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Calligraphy Set
Choosing the right calligraphy set depends on several factors that go beyond just picking the highest-rated product. Let me walk you through the key decisions you need to make before buying.
Understand the Three Main Pen Types
Broad-edged pens create thick and thin strokes based on the angle you hold the pen. They are used for Italic, Gothic, Roman, and Uncial scripts. The Pilot Parallel, LAMY Joy, and Speedball C-style nibs fall into this category.
Pointed nib pens use a flexible nib that responds to pressure. Press harder for thick strokes and lighter for thin ones. These are used for Copperplate, Spencerian, and modern pointed pen calligraphy. The Speedball Oblique Pen Set is your tool here.
Brush pens use a flexible tip instead of a metal nib. They are the easiest entry point for beginners and are used for modern calligraphy and hand lettering. The Tombow Fudenosuke and Kuretake ZIG markers represent this category.
Match the Set to Your Skill Level
Absolute beginners should start with brush pens like the Tombow Fudenosuke or a comprehensive starter kit like the Mont Marte 32-piece set. These options are forgiving and include instructional materials. Intermediate calligraphers can explore dip pen sets from Speedball or the Pilot Parallel for more precise control. Advanced users will appreciate the LAMY Joy or Speedball Oblique for specialized script work.
Consider Left-Handed Needs
Left-handed calligraphers face unique challenges. Broad-edged pens and markers work better for lefties because they rely on angle rather than the push-pull pressure that favors right-handers. The Speedball Oblique set is also suitable for left-handed users. Avoid sets marketed exclusively for right-handed writers.
Paper Matters More Than You Think
Even the best calligraphy set will perform poorly on the wrong paper. For brush pens and markers, use paper rated at 100gsm or higher. Rhodia dotpads at around $13 are the community favorite for practice. HP Premium Choice paper is excellent for finished work. For dip pens, Canon Marker Paper gets strong recommendations from the Reddit calligraphy community.
Budget Tiers Explained
Under $15 gets you quality brush pens like the Tombow Fudenosuke or basic dip pen sets. The $15 to $35 range covers comprehensive starter kits from Mont Marte, STAEDTLER, and Plotube. Over $50 puts you in professional territory with the LAMY Joy or specialized tools. Price does not always equal quality, as forum users consistently point out.
Premade Kit vs Building Your Own
Reddit users frequently warn against buying cheap premade kits that contain low-quality items. However, the kits on this list have been vetted through thousands of customer reviews. If you prefer building your own kit, start with a quality pen holder, two or three professional nibs (like Nikko G or Zebra G), and bottled ink from a reputable brand like Sumi or Speedball.
FAQs
What pen does Meghan Markle use for calligraphy?
Meghan Markle trained as a calligrapher and has been associated with high-quality fountain pens and dip pens. While she has not publicly endorsed a specific pen brand, professional calligraphers working in her style typically use pointed dip pens with flexible nibs like the Nikko G or Zebra G, paired with an oblique pen holder and quality Sumi ink.
Which calligraphy set is best for beginners?
For brush lettering beginners, the Tombow Fudenosuke Brush Pen 2-Pack is the best starting point due to its forgiving tips and pressure sensitivity. For traditional calligraphy, the Mont Marte 32-piece set offers the most comprehensive starter kit with instructional materials, multiple nibs, and ink cartridges at an affordable price.
What is the difference between brush pens and calligraphy pens?
Brush pens use a flexible synthetic or felt tip that responds to pressure to create thick and thin strokes, making them ideal for modern calligraphy and hand lettering. Traditional calligraphy pens use metal nibs, either broad-edged for angle-based scripts or pointed for pressure-based scripts. Brush pens are easier for beginners, while metal nibs offer more precision for traditional scripts.
Is calligraphy hard to learn?
Calligraphy requires patience and consistent practice but is not inherently difficult. Most beginners see noticeable improvement within two to three weeks of daily practice. Starting with the right tools, like brush pens or a guided starter kit, significantly reduces the learning curve. The key is practicing basic strokes before attempting full letters and words.
What comes in a typical calligraphy set?
A standard calligraphy set includes pens or pen bodies, interchangeable nibs in various widths, ink cartridges or bottled ink, and sometimes an instructional booklet. Comprehensive sets like the Mont Marte or STAEDTLER also include practice paper, storage tins, and pen pumps for using bottled ink. Specialty sets may include oblique holders, glass pens, or multiple colored inks.
Conclusion
Finding the best calligraphy sets comes down to matching the tool to your goals and skill level. For brush lettering beginners, the Tombow Fudenosuke 2-pack is unmatched in value and learning potential. The Mont Marte 32-piece set wins for comprehensive starter kits, while the Pilot Parallel pen offers incredible precision at a budget-friendly price. Intermediate and advanced calligraphers should look at the LAMY Joy for premium fountain pen work or the Speedball Oblique for traditional pointed pen scripts.
No matter which set you choose, remember that consistent practice matters more than the tools themselves. Start with basic strokes, invest in quality paper, and clean your nibs regularly. The right calligraphy set will support your creative journey for years to come. Pick the one that fits your style and start lettering today.