20-Piece Complete Calligraphy Set for Beginners and Professionals, Creates Clean and Smooth Lines, Calligraphy Kit Includes Pens, Inks, Nibs, and Case (Black & Gold)

First and foremost, something needs to be said about the presentation: it's exquisite and inspiring. When opening the magnetic box, one has a sensation of epiphany. I couldn't wait to begin! Additionally, this set is small and lightweight which makes it easy to transport.Immediately upon opening the box, my eyes went to the glass pen, which is reminiscent of the hand blown glass pens one can find in Italy. I recommend beginning with the lighter, wooden pen, first. Once you have a steady, practiced hand, you'll be able to make the switch to the glass pen with greater ease. With the weight of the glass pen, you want to make sure of your strokes, it takes some time to get used to, but it's wonderful. It feels great in the hand.The little calligraphy instruction booklet was a good reminder guide. Many people may want to purchase an additional book on the subject.The nibs are of very high quality, allowing the ink to flow smoothly from them. I experienced no pooling or clogging of the ink...very good control. The variety in sizes and styles (italics and specialty nibs) allows for a wide range of artistic expression.The inks provided in the kit were some of the most vibrant I have used. They mix well, too. I was able to mix a lovely shade of lavender. A nice warm brown would be a great addition to the colors provided. If you are using pencil guidelines on your paper or board, a kneaded eraser does not interfere with the inks or change the color when erasing.The pens and nibs all clean up well, with no staining or residue. I appreciated the little rubber bands that hold each pen and nib in place when you return them to the box.

Caligraphy is a beautiful art form, and this kit inspired me to give it a try. I'm a total beginner and so read the instructions cover to cover and watched some videos on YouTube. The wooden pen shaft is easy and comfortable to hold, and the nibs switched out fairly easily. The ink bottles feature a plastic "cork" to preserve the ink which also helps to prevent any mess. I like having all the different nibs to play with. If you're new, definitely practice and play with all of the nibs to see what they do and how they work. Do take the time to read the instructions. I wouldn't have thought to clean the nibs (coated to prevent rust) prior to use, so I was thankful I read that first. The glass pen is beautiful, though heavier, and takes a bit more practice. After playing around with the set, I still suck at it .. but that's the beauty of learning any new skill-set. If it were easy, everyone would do it. Only thing I would change is to make the instructions larger and easier to read.

[First, I want to preface with this: I tried sending a review with pictures almost a month ago, and thought it had gone through, but I can't find it. The pictures were going to show it arrived with the red ink more than half depleted because of leakage.]That's ok, it happens.All the calligraphy I've ever done was with a fountain pen. This is VERY different, and will take some getting used to.Also, inky fingers: get used to it.Now I need to hunt down some good "dip pen" tutorials.Cheers!

A beautiful set, both for those starting out and experts in calligraphy.The nibs are all well made and the ink flows smoothly. My personal preference is for the wood pen because I find the glass pen too heavy for finer work, BUT that is a personal preference.I cannot recommend this calligraphy set highly enough.I would also like to commend the sellers. I have rarely come across such brilliant customer service. Their turnaround time is fast and, when I asked if it was possible to purchase a duplicate of one of the nibs because I liked it so much they sent me five new nibs - free of charge. In these days of "want, want, want" it is so very refreshing to find a company as caring as Daveliou. I will certainly be back to buy from them again.

I purchased this for my little cousin for her 14th birthday as she really wants to start experimenting with Calligraphy. I didn't think much of it until I got an e-mail after purchase saying that it could be difficult to change the tips. I made sure my fiance was there when we gave her the gift and that we tested it out with her in case we needed to send it back. The ink bottles were no problem to open but, unfortunately, the tips were very hard to unscrew from the pen. HOWEVER, my fiance found a really easy solution. Take a pair of pliers and SUPER gently turn the tip loose and it's really no trouble at all. With this little tip my cousin was able to keep the set and she really loves it. She's doing so well with it already and she just started. She writes so beautifully with the gorgeous colored inks that she's tempted me to want to purchase one of these kits for myself! I just might treat myself and I'd get the same kit because it really is a very nice set. Very elegant. Very nicely packaged. And I appreciated the instructions from the company and their willingness to work with you if there was any damage in transport or if you had any issues with using the set. That's the kind of company you want to be doing business with. Highly recommend them.