Guide to Nibs and Nib Holders

Although modern day pens are more prevalent in this day and age, there’s a place for old world writing instruments beyond sentimental charm. One example is the dip pen—specifically the nib and nib holder pairing. What exactly is a nib and nib holder? A nib is a pointed piece of metal that deposits ink onto a writing surface and mounted onto a nib holder to create a dip pen.

There are actually practical reasons to choose a nib and nib holder over modern day pens, including flexibility in line width variation and tip size, which are advantageous for both writing and drawing purposes. We cover the basics of comic nibs, calligraphy nibs, and nib holders in this article and also include a table that details nib and nib holder compatibility.

Nib Characteristics

Shape

The two main nib shapes are Italic and point.

Writing sample and close up of an Italic nib.

Italic nibs have a blunt edge and don’t offer much flexibility in terms of line variation. They are used to create Italic scripts that are consistent and regular, as opposed to the whimsical scripts seen in modern calligraphy.

Writing sample and close up of a point nib.

Point nibs are rounded with two tines that come to a point. Line variation comes from the tines’ ability to split. The more they separate, the wider the line produced. Point nibs are used for many purposes, from modern calligraphy to comic drawings.

Mount Size

There are two main sizes to consider when mounting nibs into holders: the smaller mapping (maru) size and the regular or comic size. Mapping nibs feature a small circular base, around 3 mm in diameter, whereas regular nibs have a curved base that typically fit in nib holders of roughly 9 mm in diameter. Some nib holders can accommodate both sizes, but dedicated nib holders are more commonly used.

Tip Size

From top to bottom: medium, fine, extra fine.

From top to bottom: Speedball C-1, C-2, C-3, C-4.

Similar to the nibs in fountain pens, tip size measurements for nibs in nib holders range from extra fine to broad (though some manufacturers specify the nib size in millimeters). These measurements are more accurate for Italic nibs, which are stiff and meant to hold their shape to produce lines of consistent widths. Although point nibs are also designated tip sizes, it’s more important to consider their flexibility, which is discussed in the Flexibility section.

Flexibility

Writing sample and demonstration of a “firm” nib.

Writing sample and demonstration of a “flexible” nib.

Typically only applicable to point nibs, flexibility refers to the tines’ ability to spread. The farther they spread, the thicker the line. Applying pressure to the nib causes the tines to separate. A flexible nib can produce more line variation than a stiff nib. Too much flexibility can be difficult to control, so it’s best to experiment and see what’s most comfortable for you.

Material

Nibs are made of metal, typically stainless steel. Some nibs are treated with a coating for cosmetic (i.e. chrome, bronze) and practical purposes. Example coatings include titanium (adds durability) and gold (corrosion-resistant).

Nib Holder Characteristics

Form

The two main types of nib holders are straight and oblique nib holders.

Straight holders have rubber rings at the tip to hold the nib, while oblique holders feature an extra “appendage” that holds the rubber rings. Oblique holders allow the writer to achieve an otherwise difficult angle that is advantageous in various script styles of calligraphy.

Straight nib holders feature different shapes and diameters across brands. Some are wider in the grip area for a better grip, and a few even include a rubber grip for added comfort. There are longer nib holders that are designed to mimic paintbrushes, while others are curved to fit better in the hand.

Material

Most nib holders are made of wood or plastic. Both are lightweight materials that are easy to hold, and which you choose to use is only a matter of personal preference.

Nib Size Compatibility

It’s important to match a nib to the correct holder. Most nib holders are made for regular or standard comic size nibs. The smaller maru or mapping nibs have their own designated nib holders. There are even some nib holders that can accommodate both sizes. Check the tables below to check compatibility. Hover over the images to see nib and nib holder names. *Note: Although Speedball nibs will fit into nib holders from other brands, the fit is much tighter than in their Japanese counterparts. E+M nibs will only fit in E+M nib holders, but E+M holders can accommodate most nibs from other brands.

Nib Compatibility with Japanese Nib Holders

Brause 29 Index Finger Calligraphy Pen Nib
Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib
Brause 66 Extra Fine Arrow Nib
E+M Standard Pen Nib
G Model Nib
Japanese Model Nib
Maru (Mapping) Model Nib
School Model Nib
Spoon Model Nib
Tama Model Nib
Speedball Flexible Pen Point Nib – No. 100
Other Speedball Nibs
Tachikawa Calligraphy Pen Nib

Nib Compatibility with Western Nib Holders

Brause 29 Index Finger Calligraphy Pen Nib
Brause 361 Steno Blue Pumpkin Nib
Brause 66 Extra Fine Arrow Nib
E+M Standard Pen Nib
G Model Nib
Japanese Model Nib
Maru (Mapping) Model Nib
School Model Nib
Spoon Model Nib
Tama Model Nib
Speedball Flexible Pen Point Nib – No. 100
Other Speedball Nibs
Tachikawa Calligraphy Pen Nib

Applications

Everyday Writing

Though not as common as before, dip pens can be used for everyday writing. We recommend choosing a nib that is firm and not as flexible for consistent, beautiful writing. Italic nibs are great for adding a bit of flair to everyday writing.

Products Used: Speedball Calligraphy Pen Set, Kuretake Sumi Calligraphy & Comic Ink

Other Product Recommendations: Platinum Carbon Ink

Calligraphy and Decorative Writing

Perhaps the most common application, dip pens are ideal for calligraphy and decorative writing. They’re perfect for spicing up programs, invites, and menus for special occasions. Read our Calligraphy Pen Basics post for more detailed reviews.

Products Used: Speedball Oblique Pen Nib Holder, Kuretake Calligraphy Ink – Gold

Other Product Recommendations: Tachikawa Pen Nib Holder – Model 40, Brause Blue Pumpkin, Kuretake Sumi Calligraphy & Comic Ink

Ink and Comic Drawings

Dip pens are regularly used by comic and manga artists to get more line variation and add expression to their drawings. Nibs are easily cleaned and switched out, allowing artists to have a wide variety of tools at their disposal.

Products Used: Tachikawa Comic Pen Nib Holder – Model 25, Zebra Comic Pen Nib – G Model, Kuretake Sumi Calligraphy & Comic Ink

Other Product Recommendations: Tachikawa Pen Nib Holder – Model 36, Deleter Manga Ink

Advantages and Disadvantages to Using Dip Pens

Advantages

• Variety of “inks” to choose from (including thicker, metallic and glitter inks, and even homemade inks from teas, berries, and more)
• Adds personality to the writing
• Switch easily between nibs and inks
• Lower entry cost
• Vintage appeal

Disadvantages

• Constantly dipping into inks instead of having a continuous ink flow
• May require special ink and paper suitable for dip pens
• Steep learning curve
• Can get messy
• Not as portable

How to Install a Nib into a Nib Holder

• Make sure the nib is compatible with the holder.
• Take the base of the nib and gently wedge it into the nib holder ring. The fit may be tighter depending on the nib holder and nib, but it should never be loose.
• Once it’s secure, the nib holder is ready to use.

How to Use a Nib Holder

Straight Nib Holder

• Hold the nib holder like a regular pen.
• Dip the nib into the ink and wipe the excess on the bottle. Before writing, make sure the nib is at a 45 degree angle for optimal ink flow.
• Do some test strokes to see how the ink behaves with the nib and paper.
• To vary the line width when using a point nib, apply different amounts of pressure on the downstrokes. Do not apply pressure with upstrokes as the nib may catch on the paper.

Oblique Nib Holder

• After installing the nib into the oblique holder, position the nib at the desired angle on the paper.
• Using this angle as a guide, hold the straight part of the nib holder like a regular pen.
• Dip the nib into the ink and practice different strokes to become accustomed to the shape of the nib holder.
• With practice, oblique holders can aid in various script calligraphy styles (Spencerian, Copperplate) by providing angles that are difficult to achieve with straight holders.

How to Care for Nibs and Nib Holders

• Nibs often have an oil coating to protect against sticking together and rusting. To prep it, you can pass a flame under it a couple quick times, use rubbing alcohol, or toothpaste.
• Always remove the nib from the nib holder when not in use. Use a paper towel to remove it to avoid oil transference.
• Wash the ink off the nib with water or rubbing alcohol. Calligraphy inks tend to cake onto the nib and many are difficult to remove completely.
• If ink gets into the nib holder ring, dip it into water or alcohol to remove.
• Make sure to dry both the nib holder and nib completely to avoid rusting.

For more tips on how to care for nibs, read our Calligraphy Pen Basics article.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a dip pen beginner or a seasoned master, we hope we’ve inspired you to consider using dip pens for everyday writing, calligraphy, or drawing. Do you have a favorite comic or calligraphy nib and nib holders combination? Let us know in the comments below!

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SOURCE:http://www.jetpens.com/blog/guide-to-nibs-and-nib-holders/pt/763