How to Write With Quills & Nibs

Experiment with different writing styles.

The fountain pen--which contains a nib used to write in ink--was modeled on the quill pen, a medieval writing implement. Either style of pen can be used to create calligraphy or fine handwriting in ink. Write wedding, anniversary or shower invitations with quills or nibs to lend the occasion a special touch, or learn to write using these tools as a hobby. Find all necessary supplies to get started with calligraphy at a good stationer.

Things You'll Need

• Newspaper
• Writing paper
• Calligraphy handbook (optional)
• Quill (optional)
• Fountain pen (optional)
• Ink (optional)

Instructions

1. In order to learn to write well with nibs or quill pens, you'll need a template of good writing to copy. Print off the italic handwriting chart from Covington Innovators or use a calligraphy handbook with an italic handwriting chart.

2. Set up a work space with paper, ink, your quill or fountain pen and your handwriting chart. Spread newspaper underneath your entire workspace if you're afraid of spills.

3. Hold your quill or fountain pen in your writing hand so that the pen's body rests on the pad of flesh between your thumb and forefinger. Grasp the pen with your thumb and forefinger as you would hold a pencil. If holding a fountain pen, you should be able to see the engraving on the nib--and the black side of the nib should face down, toward the paper.

4. Dip the tip of the quill in the ink. Then pull it out. Bring the quill to the paper and touch it down. Move the quill back vertically to create a line. Practice dipping the quill into the ink and making marks until you have a good idea of how much work you can do before you need to apply more ink to the quill. Get used to moving the quill in your hand.

5. Practice using a fountain pen in the same manner. Since these have ink cartridges, you won't need to dip the fountain pen in the ink.

6. Write out the alphabet using the handwriting template as a guideline. Practice both uppercase and lowercase letters. Apply more ink to a quill whenever necessary.

7. Move on to writing sentences when you have a good grasp of the lettering. Try out various writing styles to become a quill and nib writing expert.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a fountain pen with an ink cartridge since it's easier to learn with.

• Left-handed writers can purchase special lefty nibs.

• Store fountain pens with the nib facing up, not down, since ink can leak from the cartridge.

References

• Medieval Writing: The Quill Pen
• Bertram's Inkwell: Write Thinking for Fountain Pens
• The Vinegar Institute: Berry Ink & Quill Pen

Resources

• Covington Innovations: Italic Handwriting