# Best Calligraphy Dip Pens Source: https://calligraphynest.com/best/best-calligraphy-dip-pens Updated: 2026-10-06 Publisher: Calligraphy Nest. Our score is an editorial rating out of 10 (fit 35%, features 25%, build 20%, value 20%), not a customer rating. Method: https://calligraphynest.com/how-we-research#our-score A calligraphy dip pen pairs a simple holder with an interchangeable metal nib that you dip into ink, giving you far more line variation than any cartridge pen can manage. That flexibility is why dip pens remain the standard tool for Copperplate, Spencerian, and classic broad-edge scripts. They suit beginners learning pressure control as well as calligraphers and hand letterers who want crisp hairlines and dramatic swells on invitations, envelopes, and original artwork. When comparing options, look at how securely the holder grips different nib sizes, whether the barrel shape stays comfortable during long practice sessions, and what nibs and accessories come included. A well-balanced holder with a universal insert will outlast dozens of nibs and keep your practice consistent. ## Picks ### 1. Trustela Calligraphy Set for Beginners, Wooden Dip Pen, Feather Quill, 19 Nibs, Ink Set, Gift Box Our score: 8.0/10 (Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 9/10) A gift-boxed dip pen starter kit with wooden holder, feather quill, lots of nibs and ink. Pros: - 19 nibs let beginners try many line widths and styles - Includes both a wooden dip pen and a decorative feather quill - Ink and gift box make it ready to give without extras Cons: - Large nib assortments in starter kits vary in quality - Feather quills are more decorative than practical for daily practice Details: https://calligraphynest.com/product/B081HML7KF ### 2. Mont Marte Signature Calligraphy Dip Pen Set, 9 Nibs, Wooden Dip Pen Handle with Interchangeable Nibs Our score: 7.8/10 (Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10) Mont Marte's signature dip pen set with a wooden handle and interchangeable nibs for learning pen styles. Pros: - 9 nibs give a useful spread of widths without overwhelming beginners - Interchangeable nibs fit the wooden handle quickly - Mont Marte is an established art supply brand Cons: - Check if ink is included, as dip pen sets often sell it separately - Dip pens need practice to load ink evenly Details: https://calligraphynest.com/product/B083JSWLJK ### 3. Speedball Basic Calligraphy Set, Set of 7 Our score: 7.8/10 (Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 9/10) Speedball's basic calligraphy set, a familiar classroom kit with several broad-edge nibs. Pros: - Speedball is a widely used brand for lettering courses and art classes - Set of 7 pieces gives beginners a simple starting toolkit - Budget-friendly way to learn how dip nibs behave Cons: - Basic set may need ink and practice paper added - Entry-level nibs are less refined than premium options Details: https://calligraphynest.com/product/B000BYQLT4 ### 4. Plotube Calligraphy Pen Set, 11 Nibs, Black Ink, Pen Stand Our score: 7.6/10 (Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10) Plotube dip pen set with a wooden pen, 11 interchangeable nibs (1 golden, 10 stainless steel), a bottle of black ink and a golden pen stand, packed as a vintage-style gift set. Pros: - 11 nibs in different shapes let you move between fine lines and broader lettering - Black ink and a pen stand are included, so the set works without extra purchases - Wooden pen body with stainless steel nibs, in gift-style packaging Cons: - One pen holder and one ink color, a smaller kit than multi-pen sets with several inks - Listing does not identify the nib sizes or the ink bottle volume Details: https://calligraphynest.com/product/B07FK1ZX1Z ### 5. Speedball Sketching Set with Penholders and Pens, Set of 8 (SB2964), Black Our score: 7.4/10 (Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10) Speedball set of 8: two penholders (standard and No. 102 crow quill) with six pen points, Nos. 99, 56, 102, 107, 108 and 512. Flexible pointed nibs for lettering, sketching and fine line work. Pros: - Six named pen points, including the 102 crow quill and 107 hawk quill, each with its own number - Two holders are included, a standard penholder and one sized for the crow quill point - Listing describes the points as flexible and hand-crafted, for control over the line Cons: - Pointed pens only: no broad-edge nibs for italic or gothic hands - No ink is included, and the set is labeled for sketching more than formal calligraphy Details: https://calligraphynest.com/product/B0007ZJ8RO ### 6. FEATTY Dip Pen for Drawing with Ink - Antique Wooden Calligraphy Kit with 6 Replaceable Nibs Our score: 7.4/10 (Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10) An antique-style wooden dip pen kit with replaceable nibs, suited to drawing and lettering with ink. Pros: - 6 replaceable nibs support both sketching lines and lettering - Antique wooden design has a classic feel in the hand - Simple kit is easy for beginners to understand Cons: - Ink may not be included, so check before ordering - Fewer nibs than larger starter sets Details: https://calligraphynest.com/product/B01LZBFHBV ### 7. OPENDGO Vintage Feather Quill Pen and Ink Set, Feather Dip Pen with Ink and 5 Nibs Our score: 6.2/10 (Fit for the job 6/10 · Features and specs 6/10 · Build and materials 6/10 · Value 7/10) A vintage feather quill pen and ink set, more of a decorative gift than a serious practice tool. Pros: - Feather quill design looks striking on a desk or as a gift - Includes ink and 5 nibs so it works out of the box - Fun option for wedding guest books and themed events Cons: - Feather shaft is less comfortable for long practice sessions - Few nib options compared with dedicated dip pen kits Details: https://calligraphynest.com/product/B077R1FQP2 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.