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This is the first step to building your dip pen. The nib holder is the main stem of the pen. They are molded in a sweeping shape and are thinner at the top then the swollen area where you will hold it. It comes in different materials like cork, wood and plastic, as well as straight or oblique. You will want to start with a straight nib holder and maybe move on to the oblique holder when you start experimenting with different angles and scripts. Most nib holder are plastic or wood. This comes down to a matter of preference. Pick them up and play with them. Some will be heavier or wider. Choose whichever is most comfortable for you. Nibs are the metal writing apparatus at the end of the pen. They come in different shapes, sizes and levels of flexibility. The mount on the nib, where it attaches to the nib holder, also varies. Be sure that the nib you choose is compatible with your holder. The easiest shape to begin with is the italic nib. This has a single, blunt edge and limited flexibility. This will help you create a more consistent line. Choose a nib with a mid-range tip size. Avoid one which is too thin or too thick. The italic nib should not have much flexibility. Flexibility is more suited to point nibs which have two tines that separate with added pressure. As you may guess, ink comes in different colors, but they also come in waterproof and not waterproof, and pigment or dye-based, transparent and opaque and various levels of "lightfastness." Before you get too overwhelmed, know that dip pens will work with all of these and the choice is largely a matter of preference. Start with a black ink. For your first ink, try something with a decent flow. Pelican 4001 is water-soluble and easy to use. Higgens Calligraphy Ink is waterproof and free-flowing. It is best to start with a calligraphy practice pad. This paper will be thick enough that the ink won't bleed. It should be lined to assist you in creating consistent letters. This will be used to clean your nib periodically. It will become ink stained, so make sure that you use a cup which will be dedicated as your drawing water cup from now on.
Start with a nib holder. Collect some nibs. Choose your ink. Find the perfect paper. Fill a cup with water.