Ink Tools: Pens, Brushes, and Nibs Examples

Dive into the world of ink drawing with these fun examples of using pens, brushes, and nibs!
By Morgan

When it comes to ink drawing, the tools you choose can make a world of difference in your artistic expression. Think of pens, brushes, and nibs as your trusty sidekicks on this creative adventure! Each tool brings its unique flair, allowing you to explore various textures, styles, and techniques. Let’s dive into three playful examples that will inspire you to unleash your inner ink artist!

1. The Sassy Brush Pen: A Wild Watercolor Wonderland

Context: Brush pens are like the cool kids at the art supply store. They combine the fluidity of a paintbrush with the precision of a pen, making them ideal for everything from whimsical illustrations to vibrant lettering.

Imagine you’re at a park, surrounded by blooming flowers and buzzing bees. Pull out your brush pen and start sketching! With a flick of your wrist, you can create bold strokes for the petals and fine lines for the delicate bee wings. The brush tip allows for a range of line thickness, so you can achieve that gorgeous watercolor effect without the mess!

To get started, try layering colors. Begin with a light wash for the flower petals, then add darker shades for depth. You can even use a water brush to blend colors on your paper, giving it that dreamy, ethereal quality.

Notes: Experiment with different paper types! Watercolor paper works great for blending, while smooth bristol can give you crisp lines. Brush pens also come in a variety of colors, so don’t hold back on creating a vibrant palette!

2. The Daring Dip Nib: Calligraphy Adventures Await

Context: Dip nibs are the elegant ballerinas of the ink world. They require a little more finesse but yield stunning results, especially for calligraphy and intricate line work. Picture yourself hosting a fancy dinner party and wanting to impress your guests with beautifully handwritten invitations.

Grab your dip nib and ink, and start practicing! Use a straight holder for classic calligraphy, or try a flexible holder for more expressive strokes. Dip the nib in the ink, and let it glide across the paper. The key here is to apply varying pressure: press down for thick lines and ease up for thin ones.

To enhance the experience, consider adding decorative flourishes or embellishments around the letters. You can even practice on different textured papers to see how the ink flows and dries.

Notes: Dip nibs come in various sizes and shapes, each creating a different effect. Experiment with different nibs to discover your favorite style. Pro tip: Always have a scrap piece of paper handy to check your ink flow before diving into your masterpiece!

3. The Quirky Fountain Pen: Everyday Ink Magic

Context: Fountain pens are the classic charmers of the ink world. They’re perfect for both everyday writing and artistic endeavors. Imagine you’re at a cozy café, sipping a latte while sketching the world around you. With a fountain pen in hand, you can capture the essence of the scene in a fluid and expressive manner.

Begin by sketching the café’s interior with quick, loose lines. The fountain pen allows for smooth, effortless writing, so you can seamlessly transition from drawing to jotting down thoughts and ideas. Use the pen’s varying nib sizes to add character to your sketches: a fine nib for details and a broader nib for bolder strokes.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with ink colors, too! A deep blue or rich green can add dimension to your sketches, making them pop with personality.

Notes: Fountain pens are refillable and come in a plethora of ink colors. Try mixing inks for unique shades and effects! Keep in mind that the type of paper can affect how the ink flows, so test it out to find your favorite combination.


With these examples of exploring different ink tools: pens, brushes, and nibs, you’re well on your way to creating stunning ink artworks. Each tool offers a unique experience, so grab your favorites and let your creativity flow!