DIP PENS | What's the Point?
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- čas přidán 24. 02. 2022
- I've never spoken much about dip pens and why I used them. Mostly because people usually find them daunting. But, here, after 30 years, I finally open up about why I love them so much and what I use.
If you've thought about using them or even if you have them and don't use them frequently, perhaps this video will motivate you to explore this classic form of writing and drawing. After all, what's life without trying new things to excite our creative spirits!
GEAR
• Speedball straight crescent nib pen (plastic)
• Speedball standard tube nib pen (plastic)
• Speedball oblique pen with detachable flange (plastic)
• Tachikawa lacquered wood T-40 pen with dual fittings and rubber grip
• Custom Red Hombre Curly Maple pen with permanent brass flange
• Custom Spalted White Maple pen with permanent brass flange
• Nibs: Speedball C Series nibs & Steel Brush/Rake, Zebra G nibs, etc.
• Strathmore Bristol paper
• Ink: Windsor & Newton, Rotring, Liquitex, Dr. PH Martins, Higgins, etc.
• Isopropyl alcohol & Q Tips (for cleaning)
MUSIC:
“Still Fall (instr)” by M.D. Campbell © 2020 M.D. Campbell • All rights reserved
Blog: www.markdcampbell.com/the-9-li...
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The intent of my channel is to bring videos of useful content to help fellow artists and art students with insightful information, as well as bring consumers real-world reviews on the products we're likely to buy and use every day.
I'm always grateful for feedback to help improve my channel, so please feel free to leave your thoughts in the comment section below.
Thank you for your time watching! Cheers! ~ Mark
#mdcampbellart
#dippenart
#obliquepens
#penandinkdrawing - Jak na to + styl
*EDIT:* _I realized I forgot to add in why I use oblique pens, specifically, which is always a big question I get. The way the nib sits at an angle works extremely well to the angle in which I naturally draw. Instead of forcing my hand into a straight position, the oblique allows me to draw at a slant, which is how my hand naturally wants to move. For me, it's very comfortable and ergonomic. Also, I can actually see the lines I'm working on better than with a straight pen because of the angle of the nib in line with my eyes. Lastly, an unexpected benefit was when I record a video, the oblique allows the user to see what I'm drawing without being blocked by the nib, like with my straight pen. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love drawing with my straight pen, but it's always a toss up when I start which I prefer in that moment. I hope that helps clarify! Thank you! ~ Mark_
I’ve wanted to try an oblique. Next time I’m in the art store I’ll pick one up.
I think it's wonderful too. Thank you
The nibs hold more ink than I thought they would. The rake nib with folded metal to create a reservoir is such an awesome idea. Great video. Thank you for it.
Thank you, C W!! I'm really happy you enjoyed this one. It's means more than you may know! I hope you are well! ~ Mark
I have never seen a oblique pen holder used with an edged nib before but it makes sense. The purpose of the holder is to make pointed pen work's angle less stressful on your hand. Your method makes an edged pen for drawing straight lines without the usual angle that is necessary for edged pen calligraphy. Excellent idea. I will have to try that! I have a wealth of nibs, including a box of nibs my grandpa used to use.
I got a full set of those rake nibs, the tin says “mapping border pens”, if youre interested. Set of 6 wasnt much, this was years ago (lets be honest, maybe decades), but if I had to guess, 20 bucks today, maybe? And not to be mixed up with mapping nibs, altho those are great for drawing too (less flexible, thin zebras).
@@janemiettinen5176 Thank you. I did end up getting one for a couple of bucks. Need to play with it more to learn how to use it.
My favorite line in this video is "I spent some money upfront, but I never really lost interest." Isn't that what we all want from our favorite art supplies? I have several of those Speedball nibs and holders in front of me right now. They bring back memories of some great pen and ink classes at the DeCordova Museum in the 1980s. I mostly use them when I want to add a bit of colored ink without cleaning and refilling a fountain pen. I enjoy all of your videos Mark, but this one had me taking notes. An oblique pen, the T40 nib holder, Zebra G nibs and that E1/2 brush nib are going on my art supply wish list! Stay well.
Oh wow! I visit DeCordova on a regular basis. I'm about 45 minutes from there and when my kids were young that's where we'd go for picnics and exploration. I was there about three months ago and they changed a few things. My favorite (not sure why) was a tall pole-type sculpture called "Children of the Corn" (thetrustees.org/content/children-of-the-corn/) made in 2011. It's a pole with a screaming head at the top - faces on the front and back. It's just so strange that I love it! lol!
As for the nostalgia of these pens, I completely understand. The memories we gain through our tools and supplies is like nothing else. While I got rid of all my old airbrushing equipment, whenever I see an Iwata or Paasche airbrush now, it takes me right back to my youth and the countless hours I spent using them. Dip pens have always been a big part of my arsenal, so those memories go back even further. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and your generous words. I'm always grateful to hear from you! Hoping all is well on your end! ~ Mark
Yeah, I was watching this saying: “oh, I’ve got that nib, and that one, I’ve got all those nibs” from when I got obsessed and researched dip pens and nibs and fountain pens, etc nearly 2 years ago… as I often do (I call myself craft ADHD)… I have about 15 nibs, 8 nice holders including 2 gorgeous obliques, 7 FPs, and even a beautiful glass pen
But… I’ve never used the nibs, not a single one of them 😂
My hobby seems to be buying ALL the art supplies… so I have them… putting them all neatly labelled and stored on my shelves…..but not actually using them cos I don’t have any art talent (I’m crafty but not arty), I’m just obsessed by all notions and supplies of every hobby and get totally obsessed for months and have to watch and read and get everything that that hobby needs … but that’s when my attention span wanes ***glares at her over-stuffed craft rooms*** (Yes, I have 2! Lol)
That thick nib is called a steel brush--In the early 20th century they were used for Showcard lettering and signage. I have a couple sizes myself.
Fun, never been first and also one of my favorite tools. I love dip pens, but hated them in high school, when I gotten introduced first to them. But I think, for me my art teacher didn't explain enough about them. Cause I always like drawing with my fountain pen, so in hindsight not so surprising that I eventually fell in love with dip pens. ^^
Weird, Fyn the cat, I had the same experience with my middle school teacher. They didn't really "explain" how to use them; they just said "to" use them. Being the curious cat, myself, I tried to imitate the poster my teacher hung up for the lesson, which had arrows and showed how to make the letters. I got the hang of it pretty quickly, so that's when it clicked for me. In high school, I definitely struggled trying to draw with dip pens at first. I remember getting _really_ frustrated and giving up a few times. But, I kept coming back. My art teacher, then, told me to take it slow and get to know the upstroke versus the downstroke - but to go slow. That's when it all started to work. Fountain pens are another story. I love a good fountain pen, for sure! Thank you for the conversation and taking your time to watch and share thoughts. I'm sincerely grateful! Stay well! ~ Mark
That's very useful thank you. Im discovering dip pens and love them already
1960 I moved from Calgary Alberta to Brisbane Queensland and there they required a full page of Spencerian script done with a dip nib on a cheap low grade paper... The inks were a weak blue and a thin red. ( Note the inks were corrosive so the nib had to be cleaned immediately ).
As soon as we were in a house Mom dug out her selection of nibs from the 1920s and I used them and Waterman fountain pen ink. The teacher grumbled and deducted 1 point for not using the 'crappy' nibs and ink from the shop across the street from the school .
Then a teacher the next year decided each page needed to be titled in Olde English. So.. out of the match box of nibs came the calligraphy 1/8" nib. I was the only student to use the proper nib.
I found that Olde English and German Black Text were "easy and fun with the correct tool ". Then the next year I tried Dad's - slant italic nib - fountain pen and " magically" my class notes and assignments became more legible. Again a case of correct tool for the job. Italic Cursive Script was not created with pencils or ball points.
Twenty years ago I tried my hand at Farsi Arabic script. I found that I needed a cut reed pen for while it looked like a nice Speedball 1/8 inch would work it was again - close - but not the tool used to create the script.
I love my dip pens. Was using them just today. The Schmincke acrylic inks are super nice. I do wish the pens were easier to use on 100% cotton watercolour paper tho. Watercolour being my #1 medium. They’re easier on cotton blend like the Strathmore series 400. The feel of dip pens is second to none. I think I like them partly cuz they’re so immediate. Your brain is on the page right away, faster than with microns, for example. So my thoughts turn off of other matters easier, and I’m into my art more presently. This is especially helpful on the more stressful days like around my blood tests, scans and infusions at the cancer centre. Overall I’d say my dip pens just feel really good. Cheers, Erika.😊
Yes, Erika! Exactly! That "immediacy" you mentioned is so intense, for me. Once you commit, you can't stop. I was working on a drawing recently when my phone rang and it was a call I needed to take. I felt bad because I let it go to voicemail because I just couldn't stop drawing. LOL! I'm glad to hear that you are into your art these days. I know, for me, doing personal artwork - and even making videos - has taken a backseat because of my job. I still do my freelance work, but that's not "fun" work. Whatever can take you away from the health challenges, even for a short while, is a blessing. I sincerely hope you are doing well and continuing to be the strong woman I've come to know. Thoughts for you, my friend! ~ Mark
Good stuff! I am more of a mechanical pencil nerd than I am a pen nerd. That being said, one detail I LOVE about the Tachikawa nib holder is that the nice clear plastic cap it comes with will post on back end. Most people probably don't even care about the cap but it was a bonus feature I did not expect. It also just feels really good in the hand.
Okay, Fl3tch_A_Sk3tch, let's not get into the mechanical pencil discussion or we might both be here for a week! lol! I completely relate to that, as well. My favorites were always the Faber-Castell models. Mmm. Great pencils! As for the cap of the Tachikawa, I totally agree. Love that it has that feature, though I don't put it on the end while using it. I love how when you attach it and place it on the table, it won't roll away. Thanks for watching this and for bringing that up. I hope people read your comment and recognize that bonus feature!
I am ecstatic ! I loved every second of this video. The longer it ran, the more excited I got. I dont draw (although I could, having natural talent) but I have collected many nibs over the years, since I am very in love with handwriting and the different ways of doing it. I studied Palmer Method in the 4th grade in 1957 (in Cuba it was a standard part of schooling) and Ive been a fountain pen junkie since I was about 5 years old and I saw a doctor take a Parker 51 from his pocket, post it and proceed to write me a prescription on his little pad. The moment I heard the soft scratching the pen made I was hooked and I went home and cut paper in the size of a pad, took a pencil and spent a long time writing prescriptions, in the same flourish way the doctor had (I still couldnt write at the time) but what I did resembled the chicken scratches that doctors make in prescription writing. To this day I write with a fast flourish and I love writing. I miss the times when I'd write letters to friends, back in the 80s and 90s. Now nobody writes letters; it's all stupid e-mails which take all the fun out of long distance communication . Thank you for this soul elevating video. BTW, that pen holder in the maple, the light one with the black markings, is incredibly beautiful. I'll be watching this again a few more times .
I adore your artstyle! And thank you for the comprehensive look at dip pens. I've always been curious about them
Thank you for both the kind words and compliment on the video! I hope it was helpful! Cheers! ~ Mark
It's great to have you around!! You genuinely inspire, Mark :-)
Wow, thank you so much for the kind words, Optimistic Arty Bloke! That really means a lot! :)
I have C nibs for lefties. Are oblique pens made for lefties also? Thanks for sharing your handsome pens and artwork with us. Nice video.
Hi DeeAnn Cross. Thank you so much for your time watching and generous words. They do make oblique pens for lefties, but you may need to contact the maker or find a resource that sells them. :)
Hi Mark, from Madrid, Spain (a fellow artist and a New Yorker expat living abroad).
I'm new to your channel (Just found you today) and even though I don't usually post much, I decided to tell you that so far from what I've seen, you have a very interesting approach to your Art and I'm ALWAYS learning from other Artists and their creativity (well, I'm actually always learning as much as I can about, sometimes, too many things, while still focusing in my Art voyage).
Thank you for sharing with all of us!
And 2 nibs caught my eye when you demonstrated them in use, which I didn't know about (here in EU speedball is not common). The B1/2 & the E 1/2... both produce very interesting lines and can be used for many purposes... Real cool!
Again... Thank you for sharing and I will continue watching you.
Cheers from Sunny Spain!
😁👍😎
Thank you so much for your kind words and generous feedback. I've been to Madrid and Barcelona and cannot wait to return! I'm grateful that you chose to take your time and share your thoughts. Gracias! ~ Mark
Great video, very informative! I love your doodle too, they’re like if Picasso did the Simpsons as graffiti
Thank you, I like cats and bugs!
Beautiful artwork always! You inspire me throughout! Thank you so much for sharing your work 🙏
Wow, thank you so much BrenRose Art & Soul! I really appreciate your time watching and such generous words. I'm sincerely happy you liked this one! Thank you! ~ Mark
Thanks for the Info . I just received a Cilligraphy set , was not sure how to use this. Now I have a better understanding. Thanks again
I love my Zebra G nibs! They’re good for almost anything and great for a lot of things. Thanks for this fun video, my Friend! It’s nice to see you having fun and enjoying your creative opportunities!
Thank you, Nan! I'm excited to know that you also understand the joy of using these pen nibs. It took a long time to find such a product, but when I did, it was at the right time. Thank you for watching and taking time to comment. I'm glad we're both able to indulge our creative spirits and produce work we enjoy. Hoping all is well!! :)
These are the very same pens we had to use at school when I was really young. These were times before ball point pens. Every desk had ink wells so we could use these dip pens to write with. Glad they’re using these again.
Great video. I learned a lot watching it. Thank you.
Great video, lot of helpful info.
Thank you for sharing😊
Thank you for checking it out, michaelpeters8615! I really appreciate your kind words!
Ooo this was good video, thanks for sharing! I’ve not had my dip pen out in a while. I might need to get them out again later today!
Thank you so much, ColzoArt! I definitely recommend taking them out for a drive! Enjoy!! :)
Excellent demo
Once again a great video Mark. I like the word investment that you used in the end of the video. You invest in these pens and nibs and now you are using to teach or present to people around the globe.
Can you please published videos on youtube short. It is also useful.
I learn from this video a lot as usual and hope you all the success.
Small reminder, more music in the video is needed.
Thank you so much, ismail abdelhamid! I'm always grateful for your time and kind feedback. I've never used the CZcams Shorts. I will definitely look into that. When you suggest more music, where do you think it is needed? I had a viewer a while back tell me to use _less_ music, as they said it was distracting. I'm very fortunate for your thoughts... thank you for sharing with me! I hope you and yours are all doing well and safe! Cheers! ~ Mark
Thanks for the video; you make it look so easy. I just received my beginner's callihraphy set. Right mow it looks pretty blotchy.
The only time I find myself using my dip pens is during Inktober - and it always reminds me how fun they are to use! I definitely should get them out more often. Perhaps I'll dedicate one of my many unused sketchbooks to a watercolor and dip pen theme (just have to pick one that can handle both the fountain pen and the watercolor). I find the oblique pens quite fascinating, and I think I'll pick one up eventually in the future because of the reasons you talk about in your pinned comment. This is the first time I've ever seen an E12 nib - didn't even know that existed. Interesting... Your doodles always inspire me to just open a sketchbook and have fun - thanks for that!
Thank you for your kind words, Miranda Watson! Despite the challenges in using watercolor paper, it's still the best way to go when working with other mediums like watercolor. That E1/2 Brush Nib (I call it a "rake") is pretty fabulous. Just tough to clean, is all. From people that I talk to, it seems like a LOT of people _have_ dip pens, they just don't use them. Sitting at the bottom of a box or deep in a drawer. My goal in this video was to maybe nudge folks to revisit their tools and find joy in discovery (or rediscovery). I'm glad you were here to share in that spirit! Thank you~ Mark
Testing the water and thinking about getting back into dip pens and calligraphy after several decades break. Found your video very inspiring and informative. You have a wonderful talent! Thanks for sharing this.
I really appreciate your kind feedback. Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me and I hope that if you do venture back into it, you have a great time rediscovering your creative spirit for this medium! Cheers and best wishes! ~ Mark
Your artwork is fabulous
It really shows, that you love dip pens in your art and how you talk about them. You have some very pretty ones in your collection for sure.
When I watch you draw with it, it does remind me of my mother, whom I saw using dip pens first when I was still in kindergarten. She used them to draw and paint posters for holidays and it was beautiful. Sometimes I feel just like that when I watch you draw with them too. Different styles of course :D
Thank you! Have a wonderful day my friend!
Thank you so much for sharing that with me, Lana. That really made my day! It's brilliant that we can raise a discussion about an art tool that can somehow evoke memories or experiences, and when they're positive or inspiring, it just really makes it a wondrous breath of air. Yes, I definitely love my dip pens and glad that shines in the video. I am confident with them, but really, when I see artists who are _really_ good with them, I just sit in awe. I hope all is well with you and you're staying safe during these wild times! ~ Mark
@@MDCampbell Hi, yes, I feel the same about so many artists using the supplies I use but creating breathtaking art. It's insane how much skill some have, but honestly I feel the same about your art, because it's so creative and expressive. Your drawings tell a story and there is always so much to discover in them. I really enjoy your art. :) Thank you for sharing it.
So far we're all good here, but I have relatives closer to the war zones. So I'm just following news nervously in all the languages I speak. It's wild. We live through historical times. That will one day end up in books. Very surreal thought.
Stay safe!
Lana
Great info..hope to get by next years inktober some dip or fountain pens.
Great video … I have a collection of dip pens from my calligraphy days way back when .. I never think to use them for drawing or doodling … I certainly wouldn’t have thought to use the oblique pen for drawing … I have one for calligraphy but I never got the hang of it… thanks for the inspiration
Thanks so much, Diane Gibbons!
Nice overview, Mark, thanks. Great help for those like me who have little or no experience using dip pens. Seem far more responsive and organic than fineliners.
Thank you, D G! I really appreciate your feedback.
I STILL have the callus on my middle finger from using a Speedball dip pen to write advertising show cards for products on shelves at a drug store and hardware chain. The only difference now is my finger is no longer stained with black Higgins ink! We did brush prices with red tempera. This was back in the 70’s and 80’s. There aren’t many corporate sign shops left anymore, but there are a few. It was a great job.🖌️✒️
this was so interesting , mark!! I'm glad you faced your" fears ", and did this video lol that rake nib is wild !! i love working with the dip pen.. it is definitely such a unique experience , and so interactive ( i believe that's the word you used , as well).. the lines are just very different from anything else ( fine markers, etc).. i think the small round nibs are croquill points / nibs.. I've been using them since high school days!!😳😳 thanks for this video , as always!!! Norakag 👍👍
Ah yes!! I was trying so hard to think of the name "crowquill!" Thank you for that! They're named after the old feather quill pens. Can't believe the name escaped me! lol! But, yes, I was reluctant to discuss because it opens up a larger debate of which is better, modern felt-tip pens, fountain pens, dip pens, etc. and, of course, whether these kinds of pens are even relevant. Then, there's the digital vs. traditional debate. So, I figured if I finally addressed the topic from a "what I use" and "how I use them" point of view, it might minimize debate and maybe generate curiosity. I think it worked, as I'm not seeing any debate replies...... yet. LOL!! Thank you for your time watching and always for your kind words. Hoping all is well with you, my friend! :)
@@MDCampbell i think you overthought this wayyyyyy too much, o friend o' mine 😂😂😂😂no comparison between dip pens and all the others :-)) they are a world unto themselves 😬😬😬😬
Inspiring video. Thank you for sharing your art, joy and insights. Apologies if you have already answered this a dozen times--where did you get the maple obliques? They are absolutely gorgeous.
Thank you so much for your kind words and for watching! I'm glad you enjoyed this one. I got the maple obliques on Etsy but not sure who the sellers were. They still look & work as good as the day I got them! Cheers!
Very enjoyable, thank you. Do you ever use glass nibs?
Hi Mark. I got some G nibs and the Tachikawa holder the other day, not quite what I needed bit my question is, will a Kakimoto nib fit into the T40 holder? Thanks for the video
Great tips!
Thank you! I'm grateful for your comment and time watching this one!
Loved the presentation. I have several of these pens and nibs as well and I love them for the nice flow a d variety of lines. It'a also cheaper to use these than microns. I have recently discovered a portable one (one of those small round nibs). They use the same principle as travel brushes (the cap becomes the handle). Lovely quality as well, although it is plastic.
I'm thrilled you enjoyed this one, Meda Halmaciu! I'll have to check out the portable one - do you recall the brand/kind? Thank you for checking this out and leaving your kind feedback! Always good! ~ Mark
Great video! I started to learn dip pen in high school. Probably the same pens you showed. I love the G pen nib and that Tachikawa nib holder. Next to acquire is the oblique pen.
Have you played with the glass pens? I tried one out for the first time and really like it for drawing so far.
Thank you so much, Keri Luiz! I always saw glass pens as a bit gratuitous until I finally tried them. They're so beautiful, but I've never bought one... maybe it's something on my birthday wish list this year! lol! Stay well! ~ Mark
@@MDCampbell I bought a couple sets for my nieces for Christmas last year and I thought they were so cool looking I got a set for myself. I love that you can get a nice line out of them and they don’t scratch the paper like the dip pens.
thanks for reminding me of what a joy dip pens are to draw with, i should really dig mine up(pretty sure I've even got the same cheap black one) and play with it. The rake nib looks amazing, how does it compare to a normal brush? I might have to look into getting one for myself.
I'm glad this piqued your memory! lol! I hope you do find yours, just because "why not?" The rake (or steel brush) is just fabulous. To me, it allows for SO much more control than a brush. Funny, I left out that I do use brushes, too, because I didn't want to veer into that direction. But, yes, that rake nib is pretty great. The biggest downside to it is that it's difficult to clean. It requires more time than any other nib to clean because it's got such intricate little bits inside. Thank you for watching and leaving your thoughts! :)
I have an ok dip pens collection. But now I looking at building a Fountain pen collection. Have you tried Fountain pen before? What is your favorite?
Hi Made by Dawn! I used to have several fountain pens. I used to be a Senior Designer for The Gillette Company and they owned Waterman pens, so I was able to acquire a couple of really nice pens back then. My favorite, though, was a Senator-style pen from the 1970s that was hardcore. But, after having pens that would dry out, clog, or in one case while traveling, leak, I guess I just gave up on them. I have a couple, but never use them. How about you? Do you have any favorites you might recommend? I'd love to learn more! Thank you so much for checking this one out. I hope you are doing great and surviving the winter in style! lol! I'm grateful for your time to comment. Thank you! Stay well! ~ Mark
@@MDCampbell my favorite is a cheap Chinese Pen i got from aliexpress guoyi I believe is brand name. Cost like $4USD ($8BZD). I invested in some introductory pens but with conversion rate I cant really invested anything more than $30USD($60BZD) Love the G nib and have speedball introductory set love the student nib. As for the weather, I live in the country of Belize, it's a tropical country we dont have winters here, but it's been scorching hot lately🤗 Thank you for your video, I enjoy your content, stay safe and bless.
I have a collection of nibs and have one similar to the rake nib from what I found out its a poster nib and I use it when colouring in mass amounts of space when drawing comic strips (hope this is helpful, tho I do like the name rake nib for it lol )
What inks do your recommend for drawing? Anything waterproof would be awesome
Hi! You’re amazing and soo talented. I do want to thank you for doing all you do here to help anyone interested in other mediums.
I am 69 years old and still don’t know what I wanna be when I grow up!😁
I began on CZcams looking for something, and stumbled across pastels, went to town, loving them, but the dust was a big problem for my lungs.
Then I found acrylics, and fell in love with that, now I’ve found water colors and also in love with that…. During my acrylics and water color I found the inks!
In high school many moons ago I used a cartridge fountain pen. Loved that, so the inks made me want to try calligraphy and other things with the dip pens.
However I dip it and can barely get a beginning of a word without the pen skipping or having to re dip, Do you suggest specific videos to help me learn to use them and how tos??
Thank you so much for your kindness ❤️💝 god Bless you!❤️🙏🏻
sara
Good morning, Sara Farnham! First, thank you so much for your kind words and generous feedback. It really means the world and I'm grateful for all your time. Second, I applaud your curiosity and passion to continue learning and exploring new creative outlets, especially because most people as the get older begin losing interest in trying new things and settle for their routines. I hope you're having fun and taking pride, even when the project may not work out the way you expected. It's the "trying" and willingness to try that makes ALL the difference! Dip pens and calligraphy are antiquated, so I usually only recommend them to people who enjoy taking time, having patience, and enjoy a full, hands-on experience over a quick-and-done approach. As for a good person to check out, I really recommend visiting Shinah at _The Crooked Calligraphy_ channel. I don't know if she is producing new content, but she has posted a lot of really wonderful videos that I think would help beginners learn from and from which experienced folks could get a great refresher. Here's a link to a great starting point video of hers: czcams.com/video/810-0uD-AOg/video.html . I hope this is helpful and I am thrilled you chose to stop at my channel and spend some time with my work. Thank you x100,000!! Be well and stay safe! ~ Mark
8:01 Strathmore smooth? The Vellum has a slight tooth right?
I have a question for you i have a pretty heavy hand when it come to my dip pen. I was wondering how can you tell when you need to replace a nib? I have a few that hsve split or are bent at the tip you used to draw with. I was wondering if I should replace them or not?
It's a good question, Katie Felgar. I'm fairly light-handed when it comes to my dip pens. I always find the heavier I go, the worse things get. lol!! But, I've found a couple of reasons to get rid of old or worn nibs. *1.* When the tines are no longer aligned. Either there's a gap between them at the tip or when one tine is higher than the other. There's nothing you can do to fix this except bending the tines, which is never good. *2.* When, like you said, the tip is bent. This usually happens when not stored securely or they get dropped. *3.* With caligraphy nibs, they get too clogged and don't deliver an even flow of ink. It's staggered, blotchy, or runs out too quickly. That's a good sign to ditch it. I hope that was helpful info. Thank you so much for watching this one and asking such a thoughtful question. Be well! :)
Thank-you!
Have you ever used a glass dip pen? I'd love to know what you think of them.
I've never actually bought one, but they are wonderful to use. So different than standard dip pens. Cleaning them is a joy in comparison! lol! The only drawback for me is that glass dip pens only allow for a single line weight, mostly. The only way to control the pressure is to lighten the touch instead of put more pressure (to get a thicker line). As I said in another comment, maybe this is something I will look for as a birthday gift! lol! Not a need... but a definite want! Do you use them, yourself, Dawn George? Curious what _you_think of them? Cheers! :)
I do have a glass dip pen, and it is my first experience of dip pens. Whenever I try to use it I get blobs and puddles of ink. I'm probably doing something wrong, and just need more practice. 😁
@@dawngeorge7921 i'm a big fan of practice! lol!
I got a variety of somewhat cheap drawing nibs (like the Zebra G ones) and some real cheap pens (Plus some additional ones I just drew in CAD and printed on my 3D-printer, all with those same double circle to hold both nib styles). I'm a somewhat heavy-handed lefty, that never found the right fountain pen for writing, so I'm somewhat surprised at how well these work for me. Their also not as much of a hassle as the tech drawing pens I bought as well ( those gunk up so fast and I never get them cleaned up well enough that the ink flows again, especially on the real small ones) and they don't break as fast as the fineliner-style pens, either....
I completely understand, LunaBianca 1805! I spent a lot of years working with Staedtler reprographic mechanical pens and they were such an incredible pain to clean - and I'm a bit of freak when it comes to cleaning my art tools! lol! I had one repro pen that 20x0. It had the most thin wire filament I've ever seen, but it was truly amazing. I could draw a detailed drawing the size of a small button with that thing. But like you said, the small ones are a big pain with clogging and cleaning. Thank you for checking this video out and for sharing your experience. Always great to hear perspectives from other artists! I hope all is well on your end! ~ Mark
Have you used firmer brush pens like the Tombow Fudenosuke, and if so how would you say it compares to something like the G-pen nib?
I don't really have room to use a dip pen without risk of making a mess, so have been looking for alternatives that have similar levels of control, to compliment my Copic SP brush pen.
Hi @Aubreykun and thanks for reaching out. The only real issue I have with the Tombow Fudenosuke pens is that the ink takes a long time to really dry out and washing over it with watercolor can cause the ink to bleed. I do not like their soft tip Fudenosuke pen because I can't get truly as detailed as I like to; however, their hard tip pen is spectacular for allowing you to get a really fine line (about a .5 mm maybe) yet also allow you to add pressure and get a really heavy line (about 2.0 mm maybe). I found with these pens that the tip lasts a long time, but when they finally do begin to wear down, you just have to stop using them except for fill areas. They're inexpensive enough that you can use them at-will and not worry, whereas the Copic and Micron pens are pricey and don't last as long, in my opinion. I hope that's a bit helpful! Hoping all is well! Cheers!
@@MDCampbell Thank you very much! I picked up one of the firm fudenosukes and it feels really nice. I don't use watercolor but I'll keep that in mind if I ever decide to try.
@@Aubreykun .. You may want to check out Fude fountain pens. Many are fairly inexpensive imho. Sailor Fude Mannen is one. They have different angled nibs for changing line width while drawing.
This was a fun video. I love using my cheap speedball dip pens. I'm still trying to find a nib that is as fine as the Micron .003. Any suggestions?
Thank you so much, @soupbonep! I am like you in that some of my favorites are the cheapest ones! lol! It's going to be tough to find a nib as fine as those really small Micron nibs. That's why those are so great. I also use the Copic Multiliner disposable pens, which are very similar to the Microns. Of the nibs I have, there are a couple of very small ones that can get a similar line quality as that .003, but it's not as precise. Again, thank you for taking the time to watch and especially for your thoughts. Stay well! ~ Mark
Piece of sharpened barbecue skewer, can get some real fine lines with those, also maybe rotring isograph 0.1 tip but you have to look after those because if you don't it'll cost you.
@@kierhudson1328 I meant a nib for dip pens. I have a reform tech pen with a 0.13 nib. I also have the smallest sakura micron pens. I might try sharpening a bamboo dip pen.
Does anyone know where I can get oldstyle school dipping pen bodies, that is very slender pens that will dip inside a bottle without getting ink all up the side. I mean something no thicker than a Bic ballpen. Those curvaceous pens you see everywhere nowadays won't go through the neck of my narrowest bottles. And they won't even hold my favourite handwriting nib (elongated J by John Heath) because their grip isn't tight enough. I've looked everywhere. The only ones I have came from a joblot of 1950s/60s dipping pens and accessories from eBay. Surely someone somewhere makes them new...?
How often do you need to replace nibs???
As long as it’s not broken/rusted you can use the nib
I've used the same nibs for many years without any issue; however, there have been a few I've had to dispose of because the tines became splayed - or in other words, the two prongs of the nib were aligned and it cause problems with ink flow and line quality. But, again, nibs can last a very long time.
Maybe this is a dumb question. Can the oblique pens be set up for left handed people
Not a dumb question at all. To my knowledge, left-handed obliques are available, though you may have to search for them and/or custom order them. Thanks for asking Ralph Crosby!
Thank you Mark
I inherited my father's speed ball pen BUT I don't know how to use it; is it sad?
No. Just go and play with it and find out the same way he did!! 😁
not at all. it's VERY easy to learn, and we all gotta start somewhere! just go to any art store and pick up some ink. personally, i like the super black india ink, also by speedball. dip your pen in to where about half the nib is coated in ink and tap on the side of the jar so the excess drips off. after that, just draw. you p much want to hold the pen at a 45 degree angle and control the amount of pressure to help control line weight. honestly, it's fun to just mess around with. start small, work your way into experimenting w new nibs, inks, pens, and soon you'll have a very enjoyable hobby!
Have I used the glass pen ?
I don't know. Have you?
Yes sir very beautiful pens and nice to write with you should try one
how much u spend?
i made my own and spend 1usd(dip pen for writing )
and I upload the video@@noemid1458
@@MDCampbell😂
do you know why oblique pens came about. thanks from a novice.
In the mid-1800s, Samuel Mordan developed the "slip nib" pen and went on to develop the "oblique" pen to allow the writer to hold the pen more comfortably, allow the tines to last longer, and keep the angle of the drawn line to be more fluid and consistent. That's what I know of the origins.
@@MDCampbell thank you for the information.
I bought one Speedball dip pen. It is not even working, the quality is so bad. I use alcohol to clean it and Daler Rowney sketchbook that says ink on it, and some other papers as well. This pen just not cooperating with me. Then I was a kid my mom used to have dip pens, very simple Soviet style and I remember they worked great. So speedball was a big disappointment for me. I don't know what am I doing wrong. As for ink I used dealer Rowney and Winsor and Newton and speedball ink.
Thanks for checking this out, Moonlight Gator, and sharing your experience. Speedball definitely makes some less expensive products, but it might be the nib is the problem. I'd check it to make sure the tines are even, not misaligned or split (a gap between them). If the nib is fine, maybe try practicing a bit, using light pressure, angling your hand differently, and drawing different basic shapes. Part of the process of dip pen drawing is muscle memory and getting our hand used to the feel and technique. I remember how frustrating it was when I was young, but eventually I kept at it and it became easier. Even now, when I don't use mine for a while, I have to spend at least two days practicing before finding my muscle memory again. And once I do, it's really fun! Good luck! ~ Mark
@@MDCampbell wow, I didn't know that, thank you. I tried and got frustrated.😅
Can I have the art that you made in this video please and thank you would love to have it love your work bro❤❤
I'm not even sure where that piece is these days! lol! Thank you so much for the kind words. Very nice of you! ~ Mark
thay look realynice you take good wonshipe in them this has ben omage hav a nices day
my own dip pen the most different from your is word size
ur can change size easily but also expensive
mine cost me 1usd but cant change size
I also took a video and upload it
That is a wild looking dip pen, rsi4054! Wow! But, I really enjoyed seeing how you got such a fine line with 100% ink, but then got some really cool lines with the diluted ink. And that thick side... wow!!
Cute
Thank you, but I didn't think you could see my face in this video! lol! :D
Hey do you like any fountain pens? I love the Pilot Custom 1974 extra fine….man it’s incredible and I can take it out for sketches in the field.
@@OMNIFICPICTURES I had one bad experience where a fountain pen blew up in a travel bag - a big mess! - and I never went back. I hadn't really considered them again, but I'll look into that Pilot! Thank you for the "tip!" (see what I did there! ha!!) Cheers!
@@MDCampbell you can use a small pressure sealed pelican case and carry on if worried. I took several on the plane not full to brim. No issues.
You should submit your work to . . . maybe Disney ?
Good video but that hum is a annoying.
I agree. I'm not sure what caused it. I'm using a new microphone and was really disappointed when I heard that hum. Sorry about that. Maybe at some point I can re-record it. Cheers, Anthony!
I'd rather you t6alked about the nibs, which do the job, than the handles
I thought I did discuss the nibs, but the beauty is that you can certainly ask any questions you might have right here! What would you like to know? I love the nibs I use, but to your point about what does the job, the handle is an essential part of the tool. Once you land on a nib you like, ensuring the handle or body of the tool is comfortable, allows for good reach, doesn't slip or lose traction, etc. is paramount to success when drawing with dip pens. I've gathered several nibs I enjoy over the years, but my go-to's are always the same. The body, however, changes depending on the task and my comfort level / necessity at the moment. But again, if you have any specific questions, I'd love to hear from you! Thanks for reaching out. ~ Mark
@@MDCampbell Could you please do a video about tuning and prepping a brand new nib right out of the box? That would probably be the most confusing for newbies.