A Calligrapher's journey with Nibs.

The very first calligraphy nib I used was a box set my brother Ranjit got, they were a set of broad edge nibs, although I saw him try to use them, they never really enchanted me.

Years later I took my first workshop in London and was introduced to the NIkko G nib. Like all of us I enjoyed using it for its strength and flexibility. I then moved over to a Zebra G nib and found the tip to be smoother. However, over the years I have realized that the G nibs primarily made in Japan are the most forgiving nibs when it comes to your calligraphy work. 

The first jolt came when I used a Hunt 101, it was a nightmare. I can assure you my work looked so bad, and I found is so difficult to use. A Hunt 101 is very flexible, and one needs much control to manipulate the tines. That was my biggest learning curve and also a point when I decided to start using other nibs. The Hunt 22B is less flexible and great to use for smaller x heights. The Gillott 404 was a saver to use on handmade papers and well recommended by my mentor Suzanne Cunningham.

I got a box of the Lenoard Principal EF (LPEF) sometime in 2017 and did not enjoy using that either.

For a long time, I tried to master the manipulation of the 101 tines and somehow decided to give the LP EF nib another try.  The EF stands for Extra Fine. The hairlines I can achieve are the most delicate and my downstrokes more controlled since I am heavy handed and tend to press the nib more. I don't think I have written with any other nib in the last 3 years. 

I am not sure I will change the LPEF as my favorite, but I encourage you all the try different nibs to see the one that suits your hand the best.

For the love of paper and ink.

Amruta.