Gold-Nib PensLAMY 2000 Fountain Pen
- Iconic Bauhaus design
- Smooth 14K gold nib
- Lifetime piston-fill reliability
Calligraphy SetsSpeedball
The Speedball Calligraphy Set is a solid entry point for beginners wanting to explore pointed and broad-edge calligraphy without a big investment.
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The Speedball Calligraphy Set is a solid entry point for beginners wanting to explore pointed and broad-edge calligraphy without a big investment. The nibs and ink perform well once broken in, and the included guides make learning basic letterforms straightforward. While the holders and accessories feel a bit basic, the overall package delivers reliable practice tools at an accessible price.
| Nib Sizes Included | 3 (Fine, Medium, Broad) |
|---|---|
| Ink Volume | 0.5 fl oz (15ml) |
| Nib Holders | 2 (Oblique & Straight) |
| Material | Steel nibs, plastic holders |
| Set Weight | 0.3 lbs (136g) |
Build notes
What we liked
What could be better
The Speedball Calligraphy Set stands as one of the most trusted entry points into the art of hand lettering, offering beginners and hobbyists alike a reliable, well-rounded introduction to broad-edge pen work. Speedball has been a mainstay in the calligraphy world for generations, and this set reflects that legacy by combining simple, functional tools with clear instructional guidance. Inside the kit, users typically find a comfortable pen holder, a selection of nib sizes suited to different lettering scales, and small ink reservoirs or cartridges that make it easy to get started without needing to source separate ink. The inclusion of a basic instructional booklet or guide sheet helps newcomers understand pen angles, stroke order, and letterform construction, which are the foundational skills needed to develop a confident calligraphic hand.
What makes this set particularly appealing is its balance between affordability and genuine craftsmanship. The nibs are designed to hold ink well and produce consistent line variation, giving letters that classic thick-and-thin contrast associated with traditional calligraphy styles such as Italic, Gothic, and Roman lettering. The pen holder is lightweight yet sturdy, allowing for extended practice sessions without hand fatigue, while the nib sizes included in the set are versatile enough to explore both small, detailed lettering and bolder, more expressive strokes. Because Speedball nibs are widely available and compatible with many standard holders, this set also serves as a gateway for users who may want to expand their collection later with additional nib styles or inks.
Beyond its practical components, the Speedball Calligraphy Set carries an educational spirit that appeals to students, hobbyist letterers, and even professionals looking for a dependable practice kit. It encourages patience and precision, rewarding users who take time to master pen control and ink flow. Whether the goal is addressing wedding invitations, creating hand-lettered art, or simply learning a timeless skill, this set provides the essential tools needed to begin that journey. Its combination of quality materials, clear guidance, and long-standing brand reputation makes it a staple recommendation for anyone stepping into the world of calligraphy for the first time.
Short notes from owners, lightly edited for length.
Perfect starter kit
I had zero calligraphy experience and this set made learning so much easier. The nibs write smoothly once you get the hang of ink flow.
Good value, minor gripes
The nib holder feels a little cheap but the nibs themselves are great quality. Ink included is decent for practice.
Great for beginners
The guide sheets helped me practice basic strokes. Wish there were more sheets included, but overall happy with the purchase.
Needs some patience
Nibs took a few tries to stop skipping. Once broken in, they worked fine. Not bad for the price.