Description

Speedball No.5 Artist Pen & Nib Set comprises a large black holder, and a short holder for mapping nibs, plus 6 calligraphy nibs and 2 nibs for fine line drawing. Various Speedball Nibs available.

Using the Speedball No.5 Artist Pen & Nib Set:

Insert a metal nib into the pen holder’s circular lip until snug. Dip the nib into ink, coating the opening and curvature but not submerging it too deeply. Hold the pen at roughly a 45° angle to the paper, ensuring both nib “tines” touch the surface. Apply light pressure for thin lines; press slightly harder to spread the tines for thicker lines. Clean the nib immediately after use with soap and water to prevent ink build-up.

Detailed Steps for the Speedball No.5 Pen & Nib Set

1. Assembly

• Insert the Nib: Gently push the back end of the metal nib into the circular opening at the end of the pen holder. It should be firm and not wobble. Do not push it in too far, or it will be difficult to remove.
• Handling: Always hold the nib by the base; avoid touching the sharp, delicate tip.

2. Inking

• The Dip: Dip the nib into your ink container. You only need to submerge it up to the curvature/opening of the nib.
• Avoid Over-dipping: Dipping too deep can cause ink to drip off the back of the nib or blot onto your paper. If it’s too full, tap the nib gently against the rim of the ink bottle.

3. Writing and Drawing

• Angle: Maintain a consistent angle (ideally around 45°) relative to the paper. This is lower than the angle used for a standard ballpoint pen.

• Pressure:

• Light Touch: Use minimal pressure for smooth, consistent hairlines.
• Varying Widths: For flexible nibs, pressing down spreads the “split” in the nib, allowing more ink to flow and creating a wider, bolder line.
• Technique: Aim to have both sides of the nib (the tines) touching the paper evenly. If you twist the pen, you may get scratchy lines or inconsistent ink flow.

4. Maintenance (Crucial)

• Immediate Cleaning: Ink can dry quickly and corrode the metal or clog the mechanism. Rinse the nib with water and wipe it clean with a soft cloth immediately after you finish.
• Storage: Once dry, store your nibs in a clean, dry container to prevent rust.