Blackletter Basics Supplies List
Every item on this page is a part of my creative toolbox. Nearly every one of these is a product I’ve purchased or have experience with and would recommend, so I hope you find them helpful too. This page contains some affiliate links, which means if you decide to purchase somthing using the links below, I’ll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you (so a huge thank you if you use one of these links!).
Minimum Supplies
This section includes the minimum supplies that you will need for this seminar.
Pen
You can use any broad nib pen for this workshop, but these are a few of my favorites that I recommend:
Ink
Each Pilot Parallel pen comes with two ink cartridges, one black and one red, therefore you will not need any additional ink.
Paper
The paper mentioned below is only a recommendation. You can, of course, use any paper that you prefer. Using a higher quality paper than standard printer paper is preferable because it will minimize or prevent ink bleed, making your work look better and your practice sessions more enjoyable.
FREE Guide Sheets
To help you get started with this style of calligraphy, you can get the complete set guides (and other free resources) by signing up for my community newsletter at the bottom of this page or learn more here)
Suggested Tools for Further Study
The supplies listed in this section are not required or needed to begin learning blackletter calligraphy. They are provided only for your convenience, in case you would like to explore some other creative tools that I have used and recommend.
Calligraphy Pens
Ink
- Pilot Parallel Pen Assorted Ink Refill Packs (3 Pack)– this pack includes some colors that you can’t get individually.
Individual Colors Packs: - Ecoline Watercolor Inks – I use these to create color gradients by dipping pens filled with another color.
- Liquitex Acrylic Inks – not compatible with parallel pens, but great for dipping to create beautiful color gradients.
Paper
- Strathmore Calligraphy Paper
- Strathmore Bristol Board – There are 2 versions: vellum, and smooth. I like the smooth surface when writing with Pilot Parallel pens.
- Strathmore Mixed Media Paper
- Watercolor Paper:
- Nanami Seven Seas Notebooks – Made with Tomoe River paper and a favorite notebook for practicing. The Crossfield and Microdot editions have helpful marks for practicing. The Standard is filled with entirely blank pages.
- Writing Mat (near the bottom of the page if you use the link) – I recommend getting a writing mat to put under the page when practicing (I like the B5 Soft Clear ones)
Reference Books
Other Helpful Tools & Supplies
- Prismacolor Artgum Eraser
- Pentel Click Eraser
- Ruler – if you’re not using grid or line paper then a ruler is a simple way to create guidelines for yourself. Any ruler will do, but I personally like these parallel line rulers because they make drawing parallel lines much easier.
- Helix Circle Ruler – my favorite tool for drawing circles
- Magnifying Glass (Clip) – incredibly helpful tool for writing or drawing small details
- Small Jars
- Dusting Brush – wipe away eraser dust (a lot easier than blowing or wiping with your hand!)
- Acrylic Spray
- Lightbox