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| mage courtesy delo of Pixabay |
Especially when it comes to selecting something special for the artistically inclined.
If you have a loved one with a passion for calligraphy, you’re in luck! Calligraphy is a craft that continually offers new avenues for creativity, and a gift related to this art form is both thoughtful and unique.
Here’s a guide to choosing the perfect calligraphy gifts to make their holiday season extra special.
1. High-Quality Calligraphy Pens
Every calligrapher will appreciate a set of top-notch calligraphy pens. If they’re just starting out, a beginner’s set with both pointed and broad nibs will allow them to experiment with different styles. For more advanced artists, consider specialised tools like oblique holders or professional-grade dip pens. Brands like Pilot, LAMY, and Manuscript offer a variety of choices, including refillable pens and nibs that cater to various techniques.
Tip: For a luxurious touch, look for fountain pens with interchangeable nibs that allow them to switch between lettering styles.
2. Speciality Inks
While black ink is a staple, gifting a selection of speciality inks can open up a world of possibilities. Consider metallic inks for shimmer, or eco-friendly inks with unique colours. Watercolour inks or those with pearlescent finishes add depth and sparkle to their work, ideal for festive projects. Some popular options include the Winsor & Newton ink sets, Diamine inks from Liverpool, or Herbin's shimmering series.
Tip: Put together an ink bundle with a few different colours or finishes for an extra-special presentation.
3. Calligraphy Paper and Sketchbooks
Quality paper can make all the difference in calligraphy. Look for smooth, bleed-resistant paper that can handle a range of inks without smudging. Rhodia and Clairefontaine are top brands with a reputation for producing calligraphy-friendly notebooks and sketchpads. For practising letters or flourishing new designs, dot or grid paper is also an excellent choice.
Tip: Consider pairing high-quality paper with a beautifully designed notebook cover or binding for a sophisticated look.
4. Personalised Stamps and Wax Seals
Custom stamps or wax seals add a unique element to calligraphy projects, especially for artists who enjoy creating cards, letters, or decorative pieces. You could order a wax seal with their initials or a motif that has personal significance to them. If they enjoy experimenting with various colours, include a selection of wax beads for them to play with.
Tip: A wax seal set, complete with a stamp, melting spoon, and coloured wax beads, makes for a complete and stylish gift package.
5. Instructional Books or Online Courses
For those keen to expand their skillset, instructional books or online classes are thoughtful ways to encourage growth in their craft. Books like Mastering Copperplate Calligraphy by Eleanor Winters or Modern Calligraphy by Molly Suber Thorpe offer expert guidance and exercises. Alternatively, a subscription to an online learning platform such as Domestika or Skillshare can provide access to a wide variety of calligraphy and lettering classes.
Tip: Choose a book or course aligned with their current skill level, whether they're beginners, intermediate, or advanced calligraphers.
6. Desk Organisers for Calligraphy Tools
Keeping calligraphy supplies organised is key to a productive workspace. Elegant organisers made of wood, metal, or leather can neatly store their pens, inks, paper, and tools. Look for multi-compartment options or customisable setups that suit their collection.
Tip: Add a personal touch by engraving or embossing their initials on the organiser, giving it a unique and practical twist.
7. Lightbox for Tracing and Practice
A lightbox is a valuable tool for calligraphers who like to trace designs or practice consistency in their strokes. Lightweight and portable LED lightboxes make tracing easy, whether they're at home or on the go. It’s a great way to elevate their technique, especially for artists who enjoy creating intricate lettering designs.
Tip: Look for adjustable brightness settings, which make it easier to work with various paper types.
8. Custom Calligraphy Nameplate or Art Piece
For a truly personal touch, consider commissioning a piece from a local or online calligrapher. A beautifully lettered nameplate, quote, or monogram will make a heartfelt addition to their workspace or home décor. It’s a gift that celebrates their craft and gives them something inspirational to look at each day.
Tip: Frame the piece in a style that complements their aesthetic, whether that’s rustic, minimalist, or vintage.
9. Brush Pen Set for Modern Calligraphy
Brush pens are versatile tools for both traditional and modern calligraphy styles. They’re particularly fun for experimenting with expressive, flowing scripts. Tombow, Pentel, and Ecoline offer high-quality brush pens in a range of colours and tip styles. For beginners, a starter set with both soft and hard tips is ideal, while more seasoned artists may appreciate a set of vibrant colours for creative projects.
Tip: If your loved one is new to brush pens, include a practice book or instructional guide with their set.
10. Gift Cards for a Local Art and Craft Supply shop
Sometimes, the best gift is letting them choose for themselves. A gift card to a well-stocked art supply shop or a speciality calligraphy store can allow them to pick out the specific materials they need. They might even discover a new product they hadn’t considered before!
Calligraphy is a timeless art form that brings elegance and beauty into everyday life. By gifting thoughtfully chosen calligraphy supplies, tools, or experiences, you’re encouraging the artist in your life to continue creating and exploring. With any of these gifts, you’re sure to bring a smile to their face this Christmas—and perhaps even inspire their next masterpiece!
I have to admit that I have tried calligraphy but was never able to master it. Hopefully the recipient of your calligraphy gift will be able to do better than I did. My handwriting is so "interesting" that someone praised my shorthand. Imagine their surprise when I revealed that it wasn't shorthand but my own somewhat sloppy scrawling writing!