Tombow 62038 Fudenosuke Brush Pen
4.7Editor score
Soft and hard tip included
Flexible brush tip design
Water-based pigmented ink
In this guide
Starting your journey into hand lettering requires the right tools to succeed. Beginners need pens that offer control, smooth ink flow, and a variety of nib sizes to practice different styles effectively.
We have analyzed ten highly rated calligraphy pen sets available this year. Our comparison focuses on ink durability, tip flexibility, ergonomics, and overall value to ensure you invest wisely.
Each selection includes detailed pros and cons to highlight real-world performance. Prices fluctuate frequently, so please check the current listings before making your final purchase decision today.
Top 3 Picks for Best Calligraphy Pens for Beginners
PANDAFLY Calligraphy Pens for Writing
4.6Editor score
Ten different pen sizes
Archival quality black ink
Multi-purpose nib variety
Kuretake Bimoji Brush Pen
4.8Editor score
Japanese made quality
Rubber grip comfort
Water-resistant pigment ink
Top 10 Best Calligraphy Pens for Beginners in 2026 Compared
The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of all ten selected products. Review the specifications and key features to identify the best match for your specific artistic needs.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's Choice
PANDAFLY Calligraphy Pens
10 pen sizes included
Archival pigment ink
Soft and hard tips
Waterproof and fadeproof
4.6Editor score
Editor's Choice
Tombow Fudenosuke Brush Pen
2-pack variety set
Flexible brush tip
Water-based black ink
Ideal for art drawing
4.7Editor score
Best Premium
Mont Marte Calligraphy Set
32 piece full set
Traditional nib options
Includes exercise booklet
Refillable pen system
4.4Editor score
Craft n Beyond Brush Pens
Pack of 3 markers
Quick drying ink
Fadeproof quality
Small medium large sizes
4.3Editor score
Dyvicl Hand Lettering Pens
8 sizes included
Ergonomic sturdy design
Archival smooth ink
No activation needed
4.5Editor score
Brusarth Calligraphy Pens
10 sizes available
Odorless acid free
Flexible nib options
Safe for kids adults
4.5Editor score
Speedball Elegant Writer
Set of 4 markers
Chisel tip design
Acid free non toxic
Instruction booklet included
4.6Editor score
Dual Tip Acrylic Pens
Pro-grade archival ink
Multi-surface capable
Flexible brush control
Assorted nib shapes
4.4Editor score
GETHPEN Calligraphy Brush Set
10-size versatility
Safe for kids use
Multi-surface masterpieces
Sleek gift case
4.5Editor score
Kuretake Bimoji Brush Pen
5 pens in set
Made in Japan
Rubber grip comfort
Water-resistant pigment ink
4.8Editor score
1. PANDAFLY Calligraphy Pens – Best Overall for Variety
PANDAFLY Calligraphy Pens
10 different nib sizes
Waterproof pigment black ink
Soft and hard tips
Ideal for all skills
The PANDAFLY set offers ten different pen sizes which is exceptional for beginners. It holds a solid rating of 4.6 stars from many satisfied users. The standout feature is the mix of soft and hard tips for various strokes.
Pros
- Great variety of sizes
- Waterproof and fadeproof ink
- Smooth writing experience
- Perfect for gift giving
- Versatile usage options
Cons
- May need practice to control
- Ink flow varies slightly
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Its archival quality black ink is waterproof and non-bleeding ensuring your work lasts long. The flexible brush tips allow you to create thick and thin lines by adjusting pressure. This versatility helps learners master different calligraphy styles quickly.
While the ink flow is generally smooth some users note it varies slightly between pens. Practicing on different paper types can help you manage the flow. These trade-offs are acceptable given the value and feature set offered.
Anyone starting calligraphy will benefit from the extensive nib selection. It is also a great gift for friends or family interested in art. We recommend this set as the top choice for beginners wanting options.
Versatile Nib Options
The set includes sizes from 0.5mm to large brush tips covering all basic needs.
Durable Ink Quality
Pigmented black ink ensures your signatures and artwork remain crisp and fade-free.
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2. Tombow Fudenosuke – Best Budget Option
Tombow 62038 Fudenosuke
Soft and hard tips
Flexible brush control
Water-based black ink
Compact two pack size
This two-pack from Tombow is rated 4.7 stars and is a favorite for its quality. It provides both soft and hard tips in one convenient bundle. The price makes it accessible for those on a tight budget.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- High quality brush tips
- Consistent ink flow
- Easy to carry around
- Excellent for small text
Cons
- Only two pens included
- Tips wear with heavy use
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The flexible brush tip responds well to pressure changes for varied line widths. It uses water-based pigmented black ink that is safe and smooth. You can create extra fine or medium strokes easily with simple hand adjustments.
Having only two pens means you might need more for larger projects. Also the tips can wear down if pressed too hard constantly. These limitations are minor considering the reliable performance and low cost.
Ideal for beginners wanting to try brush lettering without big investment. The hard tip is great for uniform text while the soft allows flair. We highly recommend this for cost-conscious learners.
Dual Tip Value
Getting both soft and hard tips in one pack saves money and space.
Reliable Ink
Pigmented black ink stays true and does not bleed through most papers.
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3. Kuretake Bimoji – Best Premium Quality
Kuretake Bimoji Brush Pen
Made in Japan standard
Rubber grip comfort
Water-resistant pigment ink
Five pen variety set
The Kuretake Bimoji set stands out with a 4.8 rating and Japanese craftsmanship. It includes five pens ranging from extra fine to medium brush. The rubber grip ensures comfort during long writing sessions.
Pros
- Superior build quality
- Comfortable rubber grip
- Rich pigment ink
- Versatile nib selection
- Professional grade performance
Cons
- Higher price point
- Ink flow needs warm-up
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Its ink is water-resistant and does not smudge with alcohol markers or watercolor. This makes it perfect for mixed media projects and high quality artwork. The tips mimic traditional bamboo brushes for an authentic feel.
Users note the ink flow may be low at first requiring a few strokes. It is also pricier than budget options which might deter some buyers. However the quality and durability justify the investment for serious artists.
Perfect for those wanting professional results without using dip pens. The variety allows detailed work and broad strokes alike. We consider it the best premium choice for dedication.
Japanese Craftsmanship
Decades of brush pen expertise ensure reliable performance and fine tips.
Mixed Media Ready
Ink resists smudging allowing you to layer other art materials effectively.
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4. Mont Marte Set – Best Complete Kit
Mont Marte Calligraphy Set
32 piece full set
Refillable pen design
Traditional nib options
Includes exercise booklet
This 32 piece set provides a comprehensive entry into traditional calligraphy. It has a 4.4 rating and includes nibs pens and ink cartridges. The inclusion of exercise booklets helps structure your learning path immediately.
Pros
- Everything needed in box
- Traditional nib variety
- Practice booklet included
- Refillable cartridges
- Great starter bundle
Cons
- Bulkier packaging size
- Tips require maintenance
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The traditional nibs work well for Roman Gothic and Italic styles. You can refill pens which reduces waste and long term cost. The introduction booklet guides you through basic strokes effectively.
The kit is bulkier than pen-only options and may take space. Also traditional nibs need cleaning and care to avoid ink clogging. These require some effort but are part of the authentic experience.
Ideal for beginners who want to learn classic styles seriously. The resources included save time on finding guides online. We recommend this for structured learners wanting tradition.
Comprehensive Resources
Included booklets provide immediate practice exercises for new skills.
Traditional Experience
Refillable system mimics classic dip pen methods for authentic feel.
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5. Craft n Beyond – Best for Journaling
Craft n Beyond Brush Pens
Pack of 3 markers
Quick drying ink
Fadeproof quality
Small medium large sizes
Craft n Beyond offers a pack of three pens focused on simplicity. It holds a 4.3 rating and is designed for journaling and scrapbooking. The quick drying ink helps prevent smudges when working in books.
Pros
- Compact small set
- Quick drying ink
- Fadeproof performance
- Easy to handle
- Good for scrapbooking
Cons
- Limited nib selection
- Not waterproof
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The three sizes allow you to vary your lettering thickness easily. Ink is fadeproof ensuring your journal entries stay vibrant over time. The markers are easy to use with no activation steps.
It lacks waterproofing which limits use on wet or textured papers. Also the nib selection is limited compared to larger sets. These constraints make it better for dry paper journaling.
Best for hobbyists wanting a simple kit for daily logs. The convenience factor is high for on the go creativity. We suggest it for casual journaling.
Quick Drying
Fast ink dry time minimizes smearing on thin journal pages.
Simplified Toolset
Three sizes keep the setup uncomplicated for beginners to manage.
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6. Dyvicl Pens – Best Ergonomics
Dyvicl Hand Lettering Pens
8 sizes included
Ergonomic sturdy design
No activation needed
Archival smooth ink
Dyvicl pens come in 8 sizes rated 4.5 for ease of use. They feature ergonomic pens that are easy to hold and comfortable. The coded pocket clip caps make finding the right pen simple.
Pros
- Comfortable to hold
- Sturdy construction
- Ready to use
- Good variety of sizes
- Smooth ink delivery
Cons
- Caps can be tight
- Ink dries if left uncapped
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These pens do not need activation and work right off the bat. The water-based pigmented ink is safe non-toxic and waterproof. Smooth delivery means you write without annoying skipping issues.
Caps can sometimes be tight making removal harder for some users. Leaving them uncapped even briefly can cause ink to dry. These are minor inconveniences compared to the design benefits.
Great for long sessions where comfort is key. The variety supports diverse projects from small text to large headers. We recommend this for comfort focused users.
Ergonomic Design
Sturdy bodies reduce fatigue during extended writing sessions.
Ready Immediately
No priming needed allows you to start creating right away.
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7. Brusarth Pens – Best for Kids
Brusarth Calligraphy Pens
10 sizes available
Odorless acid free
Flexible nib options
Safe for kids adults
Brusarth offers 10 sizes and holds a 4.5 rating for safety. It is non-toxic and safe for kids and adults to use. The ink is odorless acid-free making it ideal for classrooms.
Pros
- Non-toxic safe materials
- Large pen variety
- Odorless ink
- Smooth writing
- Flexible nib tips
Cons
- Lightweight for adults
- Tips sensitive to pressure
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Flexible nibs let you create different stroke sizes easily. The smooth writing experience ensures no smearing happens. It covers many applications from signatures to artwork.
The pens are lightweight which some adults might find less stable. Tips are sensitive so beginners need to practice pressure control. These are minor issues for the safety and value.
Perfect for schools or family art activities. The variety ensures there is something for every project. We recommend this for safe and versatile use.
Safety First
Non-toxic and odorless ink ensures safe use for children.
Flexible Variety
Ten nib sizes provide room to grow skills without new sets.
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8. Speedball Elegant Writer – Best Classic Style
Speedball Elegant Writer
Set of 4 markers
Chisel tip design
Acid free non toxic
Instruction booklet included
The Speedball Elegant Writer set has a 4.6 rating for reliability. It includes four markers with chisel tips for classic lettering. The acid-free ink is safe and durable for long term storage.
Pros
- Classic chisel tips
- Reliable performance
- Instruction guide included
- Safe acid free ink
- Assorted sizes
Cons
- Chisel tips less flexible
- Older style design
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Chisel tips allow broad strokes and defined lines consistently. The instruction booklet helps new users learn traditional lettering. It is a proven tool for standard calligraphy work.
Chisel tips do not offer the flex of brush pens. The design is older compared to modern ergonomic pens. These traits are acceptable for those seeking traditional tools.
Ideal for learners wanting to master italic or gothic styles. The simplicity of the tools reduces learning curve. We recommend this for classic style students.
Traditional Tips
Chisel tips provide consistent wide lines perfect for classical calligraphy.
Safety Standards
Acid-free ink ensures your work does not degrade over time.
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9. Dual Tip Pens – Best Multi-Surface
Dual Tip Acrylic Pens
Multi-surface capable
Pro-grade archival ink
Flexible brush control
Assorted nib shapes
These dual tip pens have a 4.4 rating for versatility. You can write on paper leather wood and more with ease. The archival ink ensures your masterpieces remain crisp on any surface.
Pros
- Works on many surfaces
- Archival quality ink
- Flexible tips
- Assorted nib shapes
- Convenient dual tips
Cons
- Tip variety confusing
- Ink thick for fine work
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Soft and hard brush tips respond to pressure for thick or thin lines. The assorted nib shapes allow unique strokes in different styles. Dual tips offer convenience for varied tasks.
Some find the nib variety confusing to choose from initially. The acrylic ink is thicker than standard black ink. These issues are manageable once you learn the system.
Best for artists using mixed materials. The surface versatility expands your creative options significantly. We recommend this for multi-surface projects.
Surface Versatility
Works on wood leather and paper for diverse creative projects.
Archival Ink
Fade-proof ink ensures lasting quality across different materials.
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10. GETHPEN Set – Best Gift Choice
GETHPEN Calligraphy Brush Set
10-size versatility
Safe for kids use
Multi-surface masterpieces
Sleek gift case
GETHPEN provides 10 sizes with a 4.5 rating and sleek case. It is packaged beautifully making it perfect for gifting. The versatile set allows every stroke from fine to bold.
Pros
- Sleek gift packaging
- 10 sizes included
- Multi-surface capable
- Safe for all ages
- Archival ink
Cons
- Tips can dry if open
- Ink varies per pen
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Archival ink is waterproof and fade-proof for long lasting work. You can use it on paper leather and wood for masterpieces. It is safe for kids and students to use.
Tips can dry if left open so keep caps secure. Ink flow varies slightly between pens which needs monitoring. These are minor issues for the overall value.
Ideal for birthdays holidays or teacher appreciation. The packaging adds a professional touch. We recommend this as a thoughtful present.
Gift Ready
Sleek case makes presentation easy and impressive for recipients.
Archival Quality
Waterproof ink ensures your gifts and artwork endure over time.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Calligraphy Pens for Beginners
Choosing the right calligraphy pens involves considering several factors. This guide explains what to look for to ensure you select the best set.
Tip Type and Variety
Tip type determines how you control stroke width. Beginners should look for sets that include soft brush tips for variable strokes and hard tips for consistent lines. Brush tips are more forgiving and allow you to learn pressure control. Hard tips offer stability for smaller text and uniform lettering. Having a mix ensures you can try different styles without buying new tools.
Look for sets offering both soft and hard tips for maximum flexibility.
Ink Quality and Durability
The ink quality affects how your art lasts over time. Archival pigment ink is waterproof fade-proof and non-bleeding which is essential for professional work. Water-based ink is smoother and easier to clean but ensure it dries well on your preferred paper. Avoid inks that bleed through thin paper as it ruins the look of your pages.
Choose archival pigment ink for waterproof and fade-resistant results.
Ergonomics and Comfort
Comfort is vital when practicing for long periods. Look for pens with ergonomic shapes or rubber grips to reduce fatigue. Heavy pens can cause strain while very light ones may feel unstable. A pen that fits well in your hand helps you focus on technique rather than grip.
Select pens with ergonomic grips to prevent hand strain.
Number of Nib Sizes
A set with multiple sizes allows you to master various strokes. Beginners benefit from having extra fine to large options to experiment with. This variety helps you understand how nib size affects line width. Having many sizes in one kit reduces the need to buy additional sets.
Opt for sets with at least five to ten sizes for versatility.
Paper Compatibility
Not all pens work well on every paper type. If you plan to use these in journals or on textured surfaces check compatibility. Brush pens can snag on rough paper so smooth paper is often best. Ensure your ink does not bleed through the paper you intend to use.
Verify the ink and tip compatibility with your chosen paper.
Safety and Toxicity
Safety is important especially if kids will use the pens. Non-toxic acid-free and odorless inks are safer for home and school use. Check labels for safety certifications to avoid harmful chemicals. This ensures a safe creative environment for everyone.
Prioritize non-toxic and acid-free ink for safe usage.
Price and Value
Consider the value of the set relative to the price. A higher price does not always mean better quality but often indicates durability. Compare what is included such as booklets or extra ink. Budget sets can be great starters while premium ones offer better longevity.
Assess the full kit contents to determine true value.
Ease of Use
Beginners need tools that are easy to start using immediately. Avoid pens that require activation or complex priming. Look for ready to use markers that work right out of the package. Simple tools help you focus on learning rather than setup.
Choose pens that are ready to use without setup.
How to Use and Care for Your Calligraphy Pens for Beginners
Hold your pen at a 45-degree angle to the paper for best control. Press harder for thick lines and lighter for thin ones. This pressure control is key for brush pens.
Store pens horizontally to keep ink flowing evenly. Replace caps tightly after use to prevent drying. Clean tips regularly with water if they become clogged.
Practice on scrap paper before starting final pieces. This warms up the ink and your hand. Consistent practice will improve your lettering skills quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these calligraphy pens suitable for kids?
Yes many sets like Brusarth and GETHPEN use non-toxic acid-free inks safe for children. Always supervise younger kids to prevent ink spills. Check labels to ensure safety standards are met.
Can I use these pens on cardstock?
Most pens work well on cardstock due to its thickness. Ensure the ink does not bleed through by testing on one sheet first. Some waterproof inks are better for textured cardstock.
How do I clean brush pen tips?
Rinse the tips under warm water until clear. Gently blot with a cloth to remove excess moisture. Dry the pen horizontally to prevent ink from pooling.
Do these pens dry quickly on paper?
Many sets feature quick-drying water-based ink to prevent smearing. Allow a few seconds for the ink to set before handling. This is especially important for left-handed writers.
What paper works best for calligraphy practice?
Smooth paper like marker paper or vellum is ideal. It reduces snagging and bleeding compared to rough paper. Start with standard printer paper for budget practice.
How long does the ink last?
Ink life varies by usage but generally lasts weeks or months. Proper storage extends ink flow. Refillable sets offer longer term value for heavy users.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Calligraphy Pens for Beginners
We have reviewed ten top calligraphy pens for beginners ranging from budget to premium. The PANDAFLY set offers great variety while the Tombow Fudenosuke is the best budget pick. Kuretake remains the top choice for quality.
Prioritize sets that include soft and hard tips along with archival ink. Comfort and safety are also crucial factors for long term use. Choose based on your specific project needs and budget.
Please check current listings as prices change frequently. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect starter set. Happy writing and creativity.