General Categories > Copperplate, Engrosser's Script, Roundhand Calligraphy
Nib tines catch on upstrokes
Jacob.V:
Hello All,
I have devoted most of my time practicing American Cursive Handwriting. I am just now venturing into practicing with steel nibs although I have owned them for a while. Of course, I am just starting so I am sure I am making many errors but was hoping I could receive some advice as to why my nib catches a lot on upstrokes? I have been using an oblique nib holder with a Nikko G nib, sumi ink and HP Premium 32 lb paper. I have a fairly light writing hand from practicing arm movement and thought that less pressure would help prevent the tines from catching. I have also adjusted my nib and flange to the best of my abilities according to Dr. Vitolo's advice. Thank you all for your time and knowledge. This is a great resource for beginners.
Cordially,
Jacob
Starlee:
Hi Jacob,
Nikko G is a very forgiving nib. It is sturdy…so I’m guessing it might be your paper angle or a heavy hand. Nib-catching is a frequent problem with beginners. It was months before I eliminated the nib catch. For me, it was mostly because I am a lefty and I had to learn how to adjust my grip/nib/paper orientation. If you hold the nib too upright, the chances of the nib catching are greater. So play around with your pen angle. Also, the nib will catch more easily if you have a heavy hand overall as the added weight creates too much resistance on the up stroke. This will rectify if you make a conscious effort to lighten your touch. Also, as you learn the strokes and become more comfortable with the tool, your hand will naturally lighten as well. Nibs that I thought really finicky and catchy when I first started are no longer an issue. So keep playing around paying attention to how the nib feels on the paper as you adjust angles and orientation. And of course, have patience. Even if you decrease the frequency of nib catches, you are on the right track. Hope this helps!
AAAndrew:
What Starlee said.
I'd also emphasize angle at which you're holding your pen. That can have a great impact. Also, some individual pens are more prone to catching if they have a manufacturing defect. If you have another Nikko G, try a different nib. If it still catches, then it's your technique or paper.
That all said, I'm curious about your choice of an oblique holder for cursive handwriting. Nothing wrong with it, no judgement here, it's just not a traditional choice. Most people used straight holders for normal handwriting, back in the day, and used oblique for copperplate or decorative handwriting. That's why there are soooo many more vintage straight holders around.
I'd be interested in seeing an example of your handwriting.
Andrew
whose main interest in using dip pens is normal, cursive handwriting rather than calligraphy.
Jacob.V:
Andrew,
I didn't communicate effectively. When practicing handwriting I use pencils and pens. I have only used a straight holder once . I am venturing into oblique's for the purpose of pursuing Copperplate and Spencerian. I believe what both of you have to say. I'm sure that even though I believe I have a light hand for handwriting, it may not be light enough to effectively utilize a nib. I didn't have quite as much trouble with a straight holder as I had with the oblique. It makes sense that the various angles of the pen in relation to the paper and the heaviness of my hand could be the most significant problems. I just want to make sure I'm not making an error that could be easily resolved. Thank you all.
jeanwilson:
While most people are satisfied with printer paper for practice - I find it to be *catchy.*
If you can try Rhodia paper you might find that it resolves some of the problem.
Somehow it is super smooth without being slick or slippery.
I agree with the two previous comments on nib angle.
Make sure you are not writing with the nib *up on its tippy-toes.*
There are two ways to flatten the angle of the nib-to-paper.
Adjusting the holder as well as the way you hold the pen.
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