The Best Paper For Fountain Pens And Calligraphy

Not all paper is created equal. Not only does the quality of the paper affect your writing experience but also affects your pen nibs.

When we are selecting a paper for calligraphy practice, there are some characteristics that we should consider. Our goal is to select the most appropriate paper for our tools.

• Thickness: If you are working with ink, the thickness of the paper is important because if the paper is too thin, it will bleed. Paper thickness also indicates how cleanly it will absorb the ink.
• Smoothness: The type of paper you are using can cause your calligraphy to come out either smooth or scratchy. Certain papers are more forgiving than others depending on the type of ink you're using. For example, some papers have a rougher surface which is ideal for ink brushes and dip pens while other types of paper are more suited to fountain pens.
• Finish: The finish of the paper refers to the surface treatment used by some papers, which impacts how the paper feels when you touch it or how well it absorbs ink. This finishing layer can be matte or gloss, and may also affect the smoothness of the paper.

Now, what paper is best for calligraphy practice? Here is our list:

• Mozera DotGrid Notepad
• Rhodia dotPad
• HP Premium 32 LaserJet Paper
• Tomoe River Paper
• Southworth Linen Paper
• Canson XL Series Marker Pad
• Clairefontaine Triomphe Notepad