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  4. 10 Best Calligraphy Sets in 2022 (Mont Marte, Speedball, and More)
  • 10 Best Calligraphy Sets in 2022 (Mont Marte, Speedball, and More) 1
  • 10 Best Calligraphy Sets in 2022 (Mont Marte, Speedball, and More) 2
  • 10 Best Calligraphy Sets in 2022 (Mont Marte, Speedball, and More) 3
  • 10 Best Calligraphy Sets in 2022 (Mont Marte, Speedball, and More) 4
  • 10 Best Calligraphy Sets in 2022 (Mont Marte, Speedball, and More) 5

10 Best Calligraphy Sets in 2022 (Mont Marte, Speedball, and More)

Want to create beautiful lettering for labels, cards, art, and more? Want your handwriting to look just like a font? Consider getting into calligraphy! We've taken the time to scour the internet and find the 10 best calligraphy kits. We're reviewing based on ink selection, nib choice, and nib holder quality. To a slightly lesser extent, we're reviewing on aesthetics as well. 


The number one calligraphy kit on our list is the Mont Marte calligraphy set. It's a 33 piece calligraphy set that comes with everything a novice or expert calligrapher could want. To see what else we loved and how we chose it, read on to see our full top 10 list and our helpful buying guide!

Last updated 09/26/2023
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Table of Contents

How to Choose Calligraphy Sets

Calligraphy kits are widely produced and it's not unknown for some manufactuers to cut corners on certain parts of the kit. So we're going to tell you everything you need to look for to make a smart calligraphy kit purchase. You'll be an expert before the ink dries. 

1

Figure Out What Type of Pen is Best for Your Needs

Calligraphy pens each have a specific purpose, so it’s important to decide whether you’ll be making signs, writing letters, or creating colorful art. It can be tricky to write a thoughtful letter with just a brush pen, for example. Familiarize yourself with the uses of each pen.

Fountain and Dip Pens are Great for Lettering

Fountain and Dip Pens are Great for Lettering

Typically, fountain pens are used for letter writing, signing, and everyday use. They are also among the easiest to use. A fountain pen is perfect for beginners because you can control how much ink you use at once.


If you prefer fine lines and elegant curves, then a dip or fountain pen might be the pen for you. The downside to dip pens is that typically the nibs are cheaply made so it's not a matter of if but when you'll need to replace them.


Dip pens are one of the oldest pen types, second only to quill pens. They can take a variety of nibs to suit any preference or style. If you're a newbie it's good practice to purchase a kit with plenty of spare nibs because chances are you'll break a couple learning how to adjust your writing slant and pressure. 

Brush Pens are Perfect for Learning Control

Brush Pens are Perfect for Learning Control

Brush pens offer the convenience of a pen with the soft tip of a brush. Brush pens teach pressure control, which is handy for any hand-created art like painting or drawing. Those of us who have issues with shading gradients would do well to practice with a brush pen.


A brush pen is also ideal for calligraphers with more picturesque visions in mind. Note that due to the bleed-through that brush pens are known for, it's a good idea to purchase more resilient calligraphy paper. A good choice is Chinese Xuan paper, which is readily available online and from calligraphy retailers. 

Oblique Dip Pens are Tailored to Right-Handed Calligraphers

Oblique Dip Pens are Tailored to Right-Handed Calligraphers
An oblique dip pen is great for any level of user. The nib of the pen is situated at... well... an oblique angle! These pens are perfect for right-handed calligraphers as it helps them achieve a more natural slant to letters and helps prevent the writing hand from smearing the ink.

Oblique dip pens are also more expensive. You can buy a plastic oblique pen, but you’ll want to buy a more durable wooden or metal pen as your skill level and interest progresses. 

Start With Regular Pens to Build Your Interest

Start With Regular Pens to Build Your Interest

It is possible to write calligraphy with an everyday ball point or fountain pen. However, these pens aren’t designed to reflect the curves and flares of expert calligraphy. You may still use them to learn the basics and to find out if calligraphy is a worthwhile hobby for you. 

2

Check Out the Ink Choices in Each Kit

Check Out the Ink Choices in Each Kit

There's no standard for how much ink comes in a kit, and the kind varies by pen type as well. A fountain pen will come with either cartridges or bottles of ink, whereas most modern brush pens will be non-reusable when empty. 


Furthermore, calligraphy ink serves a variety of specialized purposes. For example, color ink is generally thicker, takes longer to dry, and is made with art in mind.


You’ll want to check reviews or test the ink to see how it looks once it’s dried. There are inks that have a glossy finish whereas others might have more muted shades. This will often vary by manufacturer. Also check if the dried ink is waterproof or not (if that's important for your application).

3

Take into Consideration the Contents of the Entire Kit

Take into Consideration the Contents of the Entire Kit

A well-made calligraphy set will have pens, nibs, ink, and a pen holder to help preserve the tip and prevent ink spills. Beginner kits will sometimes come with a calligraphy technique book as a bonus. A key item to look for is additional pen nibs. 


Nibs are often inexpensive and their durability reflects this. There is no certain amount of time a nib will last as it varies widely, based on use, writing pressure, and manufacturer. Just remember to look for spare nibs in your kit to save you time in the long run. 

4

If Aesthetics are Important, Find a Kit With a Wooden Case

If Aesthetics are Important, Find a Kit With a Wooden Case

Cheaper calligraphy kit cases will be made with plastic or cardboard. Not only will these cases break more easily, but they also don’t have the same timeless aesthetic of their wood counterparts. 


Calligraphy is an art based on a set aesthetic, so if a certain level of appearance is important to you, check out wood cases. Keep in mind that a beautiful case won’t always indicate quality. You can always consult reviews if you’re unsure which brand produces pens and nibs as good as their ornate case. 

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10
Best Calligraphy Sets Ranking

Here are the best Calligraphy Sets, ranked according to 10 Best Calligraphy Sets (as of 11-04-2022). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Mont Marte

Calligraphy Pen Set

Mont Marte Calligraphy Pen Set 1

$24.95

Mid

Extensive Calligraphy Kit That's Perfect for Beginners

2

Trustela

Calligraphy Set for Beginners

Trustela Calligraphy Set for Beginners 1

$24.99

Mid

Gain Access to a Multitude of Exciting Nib Choices

3

Plotube

Wooden Pen Calligraphy Set

Plotube Wooden Pen Calligraphy Set 1

$20.19

Low Mid

A Beautiful, Hand-Crafted, Vintage-Look Calligraphy Set

4

Wildflower Art Studio

Brush Lettering Calligraphy Kit

Wildflower Art Studio Brush Lettering Calligraphy Kit 1

$38.50

High Mid

Learn Advanced Techniques With This Award-Winning Set

5

The Lettering Tribe

Calligraphy Set for Beginners

The Lettering Tribe Calligraphy Set for Beginners 1

$23.97

Mid

Create Slanted Letters Easily With This Oblique Pen Set

6

Arthur Newhall and Eugene Metcalf

Beginner Calligraphy KitPaperback

Arthur Newhall and Eugene Metcalf Beginner Calligraphy Kit 1

$19.99

Low Mid

Learn the Basics With This Book and Pen Set

7

Windsor and Newton

Calligraphy Set in Wooden Box

Windsor and Newton Calligraphy Set in Wooden Box 1

$92.10

High

Elevate Your Craft With This Light Wood Calligraphy Set

8

Artecheco

Chinese Calligraphy Kit

Artecheco Chinese Calligraphy Kit 1

$19.99

Low Mid

Experience Asian Calligraphy With This Traditional Brush Kit

9

GC Quill

Calligraphy Pen SetMU-02

GC Quill Calligraphy Pen Set 1

$39.99

High Mid

Add a Touch of Class With This Glass Dip Pen Calligraphy Set

10

Speedball

Collector's Calligraphy Set3063

Speedball Collector's Calligraphy Set 1

$36.74

High Mid

Use a Crowquill Pen to Add Finishing Touches

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

Mont MarteCalligraphy Pen Set

Calligraphy Pen Set 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$24.95
Mid
Reference price
$24.95
Mid

Extensive Calligraphy Kit That's Perfect for Beginners

Mont Marte truly left no area uncovered with their beginner-friendly calligraphy kit. In addition to including the standard pen, nib, and ink items, this kit also comes with a guide to calligraphy and calligraphy paper. 


Many calligraphers left five-star reviews due to the colorful ink options, quality of pens, and different nibs for unique writing styles. 


There are negative reviews due to nibs drying out a bit quicker than some calligraphers would like. And some found the instruction manual a little hard to follow, but it's worth noting that most kits don't come with manuals at all.


Many reviews loved the quality of the written letters. They like that you get a lot in just this one little kit, making it a great value.

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No.2

TrustelaCalligraphy Set for Beginners

Calligraphy Set for Beginners 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$24.99
Mid
Reference price
$24.99
Mid

Gain Access to a Multitude of Exciting Nib Choices

The Trustela calligraphy set came on the market in 2019 and it's been maintaining high reviews ever since. It has an impressive amount of nib choices so you can experiment with different lettering techniques. It also gives a choice of gold, black, and brown dip pens. Another talking point is the bright inks included.


A small number of reviewers took issue with some of the nibs not fitting securely into the nib holder. They also felt some of the nibs were cheaply made. 


However, other reviews point out the complimentary pen holder, the beautiful product design, and the three stunning pens, saying this set would make a great gift.

No.3

PlotubeWooden Pen Calligraphy Set

Wooden Pen Calligraphy Set 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$20.19
Low Mid
Reference price
$20.19
Low Mid

A Beautiful, Hand-Crafted, Vintage-Look Calligraphy Set

The Plotube set is one of the most beautiful kits on our list. The wooden pen is handcrafted. The deep blue container comes with a faux wood box for added aesthetic complete with a varied assortment of 11 nibs.


The kit is slimmer than most others on the list and is perfect for taking your calligraphy skills on the road. 


This kit received a handful of negative reviews due to the nibs not quite fitting and the poor quality of ink. But those reviews are few and far between as most calligraphers loved the luxurious design and smooth writing.

No.4

Wildflower Art StudioBrush Lettering Calligraphy Kit

Brush Lettering Calligraphy Kit 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$38.50
High Mid
Reference price
$38.50
High Mid

Learn Advanced Techniques With This Award-Winning Set

Wildflower Art Studio's calligraphy kit includes a variety of brush pens with vibrant ink, a training book, and a 16-page sketchbook. This high-quality kit has been honored by Huffington Post, Etsy and others. 


The true claim to fame for this kit is Wildflower Art Studio, an established and passionate calligraphy studio based out of Texas. Calligraphers raved about the options and quality of the brush pens, and the easy-to-follow instructions to help learn the basics. 


Brush pens are typically considered more advanced than dip or fountain pens due to the delicate pressure required to be effective. This kit opens the door to a plethora of advanced techniques while also teaching beginning calligraphers everything they need.


Reviewers weren't pleased with the overall packaging of the kit as many found the shredded paper packing material gave it a cheap feel. However, the superior pen quality and in-depth training guide make this kit more than worth checking out.

No.5

The Lettering TribeCalligraphy Set for Beginners

Calligraphy Set for Beginners 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$23.97
Mid
Reference price
$23.97
Mid

Create Slanted Letters Easily With This Oblique Pen Set

Oblique pens can be intimidating but this finely-crafted calligraphy kit breaks down that stigma. This kit comes with a 40-page PDF manual to teach everything you need to know about oblique calligraphy. 


The ornate wood stylus with a golden nib holder is a definite eye-catcher that appeals to a certain type of refined taste. Reviewers love the beautiful packaging that makes this kit the perfect gift. The stainless steel nibs allow for smooth, fluid writing. 


Negative reviews state that some kits were missing nibs and ink on arrival. Some had trouble downloading the manual, however, customer service was very helpful. This sleek, comprehensive kit is cherished for its beginner-friendly setup and subtle aesthetics. 

No.6

Arthur Newhall and Eugene MetcalfBeginner Calligraphy KitPaperback

Reference price
$19.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$19.99
Low Mid

Learn the Basics With This Book and Pen Set

This beginner calligraphy kit has been on the market for a while. Since it's designed around beginners it comes with a guideline sheet, a 32-page manual, one cartridge pen with three nibs and 12 cartridges, a felt-tip pen, and paper.

Reviewers loved the comfortable pen grip and in-depth calligraphy manual. The poor reviews stemmed from the overall cheap feel of the kit and its packaging. That being said, the reason this kit has been on the market for so long is that reviewers love the ease of use and complimentary guide paper.

No.7

Windsor and NewtonCalligraphy Set in Wooden Box

Calligraphy Set in Wooden Box 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$92.10
High
Reference price
$92.10
High

Elevate Your Craft With This Light Wood Calligraphy Set

This calligraphy kit comes with a lovely wooden nib holder, five varied nibs, and a collection of radiant inks. It also comes with a training leaflet and example alphabet.


Reviewers loved the wide range of inks and classic presentation. We'd be remiss if we didn't mention that poor reviews circulated around the quality of the stylus.


However, this kit stands out for its handy box, which can fit some extra supplies, and durable nibs. Buyers advise that the gold and silver require frequent shaking, as the particles will settle.

No.8

ArtechecoChinese Calligraphy Kit

Chinese Calligraphy Kit 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$19.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$19.99
Low Mid

Experience Asian Calligraphy With This Traditional Brush Kit

Artecho offers this set with a focus on recreating authentic Chinese arts. This is probably not suitable for beginners, as it doesn't come with a manual and uses an inkstone instead of cartridges or liquid ink. 


This calligraphy kit is perfect for the calligrapher who values Chinese and Japanese calligraphy and who seeks a more traditional appeal. This kit also includes one Chinese seal, paperweights, and a porcelain bowl for added elegance. 


Reviewers loved the authentic feel of the kit and well-made brushes. There are less than stellar reviews about the lack of an instruction manual. But these were widely overshadowed by the smooth writing capabilities and classy presentation

No.9

GC QuillCalligraphy Pen SetMU-02

Calligraphy Pen Set 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$39.99
High Mid
Reference price
$39.99
High Mid

Add a Touch of Class With This Glass Dip Pen Calligraphy Set

The GC Quill MU-02 calligraphy set comes with both a captivating glass dip pen and a meticulously handcrafted wooden dip pen as well. This kit has beauty written all over it and is perfect for any calligrapher from beginners to advanced. 


Reviewers marveled at the ornate design of the box and at the choice of ink and nib selection. A reviewer stated the yellow ink is quite light, but most calligraphers couldn't stop praising this kit for its high craftsmanship that allows fluid writing.

No.10

SpeedballCollector's Calligraphy Set3063

Collector's Calligraphy Set 1
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$36.74
High Mid
Reference price
$36.74
High Mid

Use a Crowquill Pen to Add Finishing Touches

This Speedball calligraphy set is one of the few kits that comes with the rare crowquill pen, which is used to touch up and define calligraphy lines. It's the perfect pen for those with a keen eye for detail. 


It also includes a dip pen with many nibs and the quality acrylic colors that Speedball is known to deliver.  Reviewers gave five-star reviews for the design and extremely durable pen nibs. The bad reviews for this kit were due to the cheap build of the box.


People appreciated the styling, plentiful nib selections, and wood aesthetic. They say it contains everything you need (minus paper) and makes a great gift.

Need More Art Supplies?

Top 5 Calligraphy Sets

No. 1: Mont MarteCalligraphy Pen Set

No. 2: TrustelaCalligraphy Set for Beginners

No. 3: PlotubeWooden Pen Calligraphy Set

No. 4: Wildflower Art StudioBrush Lettering Calligraphy Kit

No. 5: The Lettering TribeCalligraphy Set for Beginners

View Full Ranking
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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