The Top 5 Calligraphy Nibs You Need to Always Have On-hand

Here I will share my top 5 which will give you a nice variety for any potential projects you might be working on. This list can of course be mixed around to fit your needs and the types of work you will be doing. If you're only ever working on one type of surface then you can definitely survive with just one type of nib. This list is aimed at giving you an idea of the different situations you will use some nibs, as well as the difference appearances they create even if you're writing in the same style.

Check it out and let me know what your favorites are!

Nikko G

Nikko G Nib

Pauline Staggered

Has the stamina for large projects, won't wear out too quickly

The go-to nib for many calligraphers

Nice ratio of thick to thin strokes

Brause 361 (Blue Pumpkin)

Blue Pumpkin Nib

Astrid Calligraphy Style

I like to use the more square edges for writing in my Astrid style

Thicker downstrokes, wouldn't use it for small x-heights

Tachikawa G or Zebra G

Tachikawa G Nib

Seed paper Place Cards

Firmer than the Nikko G but otherwise comparable

Best for thinner downstrokes and tricky, pulpy paper like this seed paper

Gillott 303

Gillott 303 Nib

Modern Calligraphy Envelope

Also a good option for beginners

Comparable to Nikko G but has the ability for more delicate upstrokes

Leonardt 30

Leonardt EF66

Copperplate Calligraphy Envelopes

I like to use this one for writing in copperplate because it helps square off the top edges of my letters

Less difference between up and downstrokes, but still adequate for small x-heights

The Honorable Mentions

Brause 66EF

I use mostly for agate slices or tiles because they work on the slick surface

Hunt 22

Gives letters a rounder appearance

Good for smaller x-heights