Calligraphy is the art of creating decorative handwriting or lettering using a pen or brush. To help you get started practising this beautiful form of writing, Bruynzeel developed two complete calligraphy sets.

What is included in a Bruynzeel calligraphy set?

Bruynzeel calligraphy sets are great for artists of all levels, whether you’re just starting out or already have experience. The sets contain different brass pen points to create varying linewidths with, ink cartridges and an ink converter to use with bottled inks. Create stunning calligraphy works in no time by scanning the QR code on the packaging for instructions and other useful tips and tricks or download them directly with the button below.

Calligraphy instructions, tips and tricks

How do I use my calligraphy pen?

To get started, place two ink cartridges into the barrel and screw the nib section onto the barrel. Now you can start practicing the different strokes and writing letters using the instructions you can find by scanning the QR code on the packaging.

If you’d rather use bottled fountain ink instead of the ink cartridges that come with the sets, you can use the included ink converter.  

What is an ink converter?

With the included ink converter, you can use your own fountain pen inks instead of cartridges. An ink converter works similar to a normal, disposable ink cartridge. The benefit of this converter is that it is reusable and can be filled with any non-waterproof ink of your choice. 

How to use the ink converter: 

• To fill the ink converter with bottled ink (make sure not to use waterproof ink!), unscrew the nib section of the fountain pen to remove the barrel and press the converter into place in the nib section. 
• Dip the nib into the bottle of ink and carefully pull the plunger back to draw the ink into the empty container of the converter. 
• Screw the nib section back onto the barrel of the pen in a clockwise direction.  
• Now your pen is ready to use! To get the ink to flow, hold the pen upright and draw on a scrap piece of paper until the ink starts to flow.  

Getting the ink to flow

It may take a while for the ink to start flowing out of the nib after inserting the cartridge or converter. Here are some things you can do to help you start the ink flow of your calligraphy pen:  

• Make sure the ink converter or cartridge is firmly pushed into place.  
• Tap the nib repeatedly on the paper to get the ink to flow.  
• If the ink still has not started to flow, try squeezing the ink converter or cartridge gently over scrap paper. Be careful not to squeeze too hard, this might cause the ink to spill. If you do create a blob of ink on the paper, you can dip the nib into the ink to encourage the flow. 

How do I take care of my calligraphy pen? 

Here are some tips to keep your pen in perfect writing conditions: 

• To keep your pen clean and functioning properly, occasionally rinse the nib under lukewarm water.  
• Never use waterproof ink with your fountain pen, this may result in blockages and cause your pen to stop writing over time. 
• Replace the cap of the pen after each use. 
• Put a cap on loose ink cartridges if they are not in use. 
• Store and carry your pen horizontally if possible, or upright with the nib facing upwards. Keeping the nib downwards may cause the ink to leak out and pool in the cap. 

Start creating! 

We hope you enjoy practicing and improving your writing skills with these sets! If you want to share your creations with us on social media, don’t forget to tag @bruynzeel_holland and @royaltalens. We love seeing your work!