Circles on Steroids Supplies
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 Recommended Supplies
Calligraphy Pens
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 papers mentioned below are 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.
- Strathmore Calligraphy Paper
- Strathmore Bristol Board – There are 2 versions: vellum and smooth. I recommend the smooth surface.
Other Writing Tools
- Helix Circle Ruler
- Pigma Micron Pens – Used for drawing outlies
- Prismacolor Artgum Eraser
- Pentel Click Eraser
- Magnifying Glass (Clip) – Helpful tool for small details
Free Template
For a free circular calligraphy template, join my newsletter community via the signup at the bottom of this page or learn more here.
There is also a library of circular calligraphy/lettering templates in my Circles on Steroid Instructional Toolkit.
Suggested Tools for Further Study/Projects
Calligraphy Pens
- Pilot Parallel Calligraphy Pen Set – My favorite calligraphy pens. Individual pen links below:
- Automatic Pens
White / Colored Paper
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 – Great for creating color gradients by dipping pens filled with another color.
- Liquitex Acrylic Inks – Also great for dipping to create beautiful color gradients.
Black Paper
Other Helpful Tools & Supplies
- Lightbox
- Small Jars with Screw-On Top
- Dusting Brush – wipe away eraser dust (a lot easier than blowing or wiping with your hand!)
- Rotring Isograph Technical Drawing Pen – For highly detailed designs, these write incredibly fine lines.
- Uni Posca Paint Pens – I use these quite often to add outlines and other effects (especially on black paper).
- Fons & Porter White Mechanical Pencil – great for drawing guidelines on black paper
- Molotow Liquid Chrome Pen (Set) – these create the most amazing chrome effects! I usually use the 1mm size.
- Copic Sketch Markers