How to Make a Reed Pen

Reed pens are among the oldest writing instruments in history. Not only do they create broad, distinctive calligraphic letters, but they are also perfect for artists who prefer to work primarily with tools made from natural and sustainable resources. Of course, it's good to know how to make one regardless of your artistic abilities since you just never know when you'll be trapped on a deserted island and need to write a rescue letter.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Piece of garden cane
• Sharp utility knife
• Hard cutting surface
• Bowl or bucket of water

1. Inspect the garden cane to be sure it is free from any splits, cracks or imperfections. These faults in the reed could lead to huge messes later on.
2. Soak the reed for at least 15 minutes before before cutting, and cut the reed while it is still wet. This makes it easier to cut and keeps the blade sharp longer.
3. Cut the cane into a good working length. About 8 inches should be perfect. Do this by using an oblique slash down towards one end, not a straight cut. This not only helps in forming the nib, but it will also keep the reed from splitting or cracking.
4. Form the shoulders of the nib by slicing another, sharper-angled oblique slash into the previous cut.
5. Clean out any pith from the inside of the cane that has been exposed by the first cut.
6. Trim the end to nearer the length of the final nib. Firmly hold the pen on the cutting surface and cut straight through the cane.
7. Make a small slit in the center of the top side of the newly formed nib. This slit should be at a right angle to the writing edge.
8. Pare down the nib carefully if it seems too thick.
9. Holding the nib with the underside up, trim the nib to its final length with one straight, vertical cut.
10. Make a small diagonal cut into the upper side of the nib, cutting down towards the end. This will help create a more refined writing edge on your pen.
11. Start writing with your new pen. Load your pen by using a small paint brush to transfer the ink into the underside of the nib.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that it's always easier to trim more than to start all over again because you cut off too much.