I’ve had a few fountain pens, but I have never really used a dip pen and ink before. I have to say, I really like this. I don’t know why I haven’t tried it before. I ordered this stuff from Amazon. I spent some time reading reviews, but ultimately just picked some things that seemed like they might work to draw with.

Here is what I purchased:

• Tachikawa Pen Nib Holder
• Nikko Manga Pen Nibs
• Zig Cartoonist Sumi Ink

The first drawing I tried with this pen, I used a mixed-media paper that had some texture to it. The pen wound up catching every little bump and crevice. So I tried again using a sheet of bristol board paper which has a very smooth surface made for pen drawing. I think it turned out pretty nice for an early attempt. I love how the lines vary with the pressure applied. I think I’m going to like using this pen.

And here is my third ever drawing using a dip pen and ink. For this one, I used the smooth surface on the back of a regular index card. Index cards are great for practicing. I really love how much you can vary the line quality using this pen.