Materials
What is actually laid out at the table.
This page lists the materials used during a session in more detail, for anyone deciding whether to bring anything of their own along.
Overview
Why are materials included instead of sold separately?
Buying a calligraphy set before knowing which nib width or ink type suits a beginner can be difficult. Materials are provided during the session so participants can try a few options before deciding whether to invest in their own set later.
| Material | What is provided | Used in |
|---|---|---|
| Dip pens and holders | Straight holders and oblique holders, matched to left- or right-handed grip | All formats |
| Nibs | A small selection of nib widths, from fine to broad-edge | Foundations, italic, envelope formats |
| Brush pens | Flexible-tip brush pens in one or two sizes | Modern brush lettering |
| Ink | Sumi and iron gall ink, with a couple of coloured options | All formats |
| Practice paper | Guide-lined sheets for warm-up strokes and letterforms | All formats |
| Finishing paper | A heavier weight paper for the take-home piece | All formats |
| Envelopes | Plain envelopes for practising addressing layout | Envelope and invitation lettering |
One kit per seat
Each seat gets its own set of materials rather than shared equipment passed around a table. This keeps the session moving and avoids waiting for a nib to become free.
Different papers for different stages
Lighter practice paper takes ink differently to the heavier finishing stock. Trying both during a session gives a clearer sense of how paper choice affects a finished letter.
Brush pens for a looser style
Brush pens are set out specifically for the modern lettering format, offering a softer, more forgiving tool for people who prefer a looser letterform than the traditional dip pen scripts.
Bringing your own
Can I bring my own pen or paper?
Yes. Anyone who already owns a dip pen, nib or preferred brush pen is welcome to bring it along and use it during a session alongside the studio-provided materials. This is common among people returning for a second or third format after starting with the foundations session. There is no requirement to use only the provided set, and no discount applies for bringing personal equipment, since the course price covers the session and instruction rather than the materials alone.