I second what Roseann said about IAMPETH. Their instruction is top notch.
I completely understand your frustration. I know it seems hard to believe, but I still have days like that where my pen skips or the paper bleeds or for some reason my letterforms are completely out of whack. It does get so frustrating. And I find the more frustrated I get, the worse my letters become.
I finished the first tutorial tonight for pointed pen so that will be posted within the next 24 hours. However, I am breaking them down into 10 minute segments so as not to overwhelm. So if I am missing anything and you want something else covered that I didn't show, please speak up! I figure I will do the lesson as a general lesson, then several supporting videos to break down each step. So please hang in there!
In terms of nibs - I tend to cycle through which one works for me! At the moment it is the Hiro 41. But I also love the Nikko G. Our energy changes on a day to day basis and the writing that comes out of our hands is just that - our energy. So some days are better than others. It's also why our handwriting varies from day to day, too.
First, make sure you are preparing your nib properly. I will do a small clip on this tomorrow if I can. You want to either burn the tip quickly or use some saliva on a papertowel to wipe off the end. This removes the oil coating from the nib. If the nib isn't working properly, that is the first thing I re-do.
Second, make sure it is a good nib. Some of them are flawed right out of the bag. However, I do find the Nikko G to be more consistent than others. But look for even tines. A split right down the middle, and nothing bent.
Third, make sure your nib is lined up properly in your holder. You should be able to hold a piece of paper at the center of the pen end (where the flange is) forming a 90 degree angle and the tip of the nib should then touch the edge of the paper. (Again, I will demonstrate this in the video).
Fourth, make sure your ink isn't too thick. If you are using sumi, add a few drops of water before starting.
Fifth, use a good, smooth paper that doesn't skip. (I list the one I like on the lesson attachment.)
Sixth, don't letter when you are in a bad mood or tired.
Seven, ALWAYS use an exemplar. You can't make good letters unless those letters are committed to memory and for me that means I will always letter with an exemplar next to me!
Eight .... relax. It's just ink on paper. Swirl your arm around. Loosen up. Listen to music you enjoy. It should be fun!
Nine - go back to basics. Until you have mastered the strokes, don't try to make flourished capitals!
I hope that helps. Please try not to get discouraged. I promise you it is not going to happen over night. It takes months, if not years of consistent, regular practice to really master it. And we are our own worst critics.
If it is helpful for you, and you can scan in some work. I'd be happy to look at it and give some feedback.
HUGS!
