
I have been asked many times for information about lettering with a calligraphy nib
for left-handed people. While I would like to not make a distinction between right-
and left-handers it is inevitable that this will be so on the subject of calligraphy.
The broad edge of a calligraphy nib is cut at a slight angle. Left-handed nibs are
cut on the opposite angle so that they write smoothly on the page when held in the
left hand. If left-handers try writing with a right-handed nib the corner point will
dig into the paper. There are also differences in the way people hold their pens.
Many left-handers will hold the pen almost upside down so that the hand is above
the writing line rather than below it. This prevents the hand rubbing across the
letters just written.
Left-handed nibs are available from most suppliers that stock calligraphy equipment.
If you are lucky and find a set of packaged nibs there may well be an instruction
booklet with it. If not where do you start?
I have been able to find very little information on the internet but books are available.
- Try the Left-Handed shop, the link will take you to the page on calligraphy equipment
for left-handed people.
- Or go to MrArt.com for a beginners set for left-handed calligraphers.
Good Luck and Happy Lettering!
LEFT-HANDED? What is the difference?