Using fountain pens can be a real game-changer for many writers. Not only does writing become smoother and more enjoyable, but different fountain pen styles also offer plenty of variety that further enhance your creativity.
This variety usually boils down to the nib fitted onto your fountain pen. Most standard fountain pens come with a round writing nib that produces a monoline that doesn’t change thickness as you write. But if you’ve been writing for some time now, then you might be curious about nibs that can add flair and character to your writing.
This is where line variation comes in. Some fountain pen nibs are designed to create thicker and thinner strokes as you write, adding a calligraphic quality to your handwriting. One type of nib that is capable of doing this is the stub nib.
Here, we’ll show you how to get started with a stub nib as well as some options to try.
What is a stub nib?
Unlike standard nibs, which are designed to have rounded tips, stub nibs are shaped to have a flat end. This results in different line variations as you write. Stub nibs mimic the look of calligraphy as they produce narrower lines on a cross stroke and broader lines on the downstroke. It gives handwriting a ribbon-like effect that makes it stand out.
Stub nibs are not the only nibs capable of creating line variation. Flex nibs can also produce different line widths, but this is achieved by adding pressure as you write. Stub nibs create this effect by virtue of their shape and do not require pressure when writing.
Writing with a stub nib
Writing with a stub nib can take a bit of adjusting and time to get used to since the shape is different from a standard nib.
The first thing to keep in mind is the writing angle. To ensure smooth, continuous ink flow, make sure your stub nib is kept flat on the paper at all times. Turning your nib slightly may disrupt your writing.
It is also important to use good quality paper when writing with a stub nib. Because of the nib’s size and shape, more ink is laid down on paper. Using good quality pages will prevent ghosting and bleedthrough.
Stub nibs come in several sizes. We recommend starting with the 1.1mm if you want to see a significantly wider line compared to broad nibs. However, if the ink strokes are a little wide for your preference, then using a 0.6mm or 0.8mm nib may be better suited for your writing.
For even more line variation that produces a calligraphic effect, try out 1.5mm, 1.9mm, or 2.3mm nibs. When using larger nibs, it is important to be more intentional when writing. Both tines need to be kept on the page at all times to create continuous and varied lines. Since these nibs lay down more ink, it may also be useful to opt for pens that have higher capacity filling systems, such as piston-fill mechanisms or eyedropper pens.
Getting started with stub nibs
Many fountain pen brands carry their own stub nibs. Here are a few that you can start with to try these nibs out.
TWSBI Stub Nibs
TWSBI is known for having smooth nibs, and their stubs are no exception. You can try their 1.1mm or 1.5mm stub nibs in various models. If you want to change nibs more easily, then it’s worth looking at the 580, Diamond Mini, and Vac Mini models. It’s also possible to change the nib on a TWSBI Eco, but do bear in mind that these nibs aren’t sold as separate units.
LAMY Stub Nibs
LAMY has a great variety of nibs that range from 1.1mm to 1.9mm that fit many of their fountain pens, such as the Safari, Studio, and AL-Star models. You can buy these nibs separately and easily slide them on and off your LAMY pens, thanks to the brand’s proprietary design. These nibs tend to be sharper and write drier than other stubs, so bear that in mind.
Opus 88 Stub Nibs
Opus 88 pens use nibs from the German manufacturer JoWo. JoWo nibs have gained much respect for their quality and versatility. They work on a variety of pens and can be interchanged across compatible brands. If you’re looking for a stub that offers a smooth writing experience, then try the Opus 88 Jowo #5 nib in the 1.4mm size.
The Bottom Line
Choosing nibs that fit you can take some time, but it’s definitely worth trying out a stub nib to see how it enhances your writing. When learning how to write with these unique nibs, take your time so you can fully appreciate how rewarding it can be. With the right nib, ink, and paper, you’ll soon be creating beautiful, calligraphy-like effects with your stub nib.
Happy writing!
Written by EndlessPens Blogger Ramona Kabigting
