How to Write With a Quill Pen

A quill pen is made from a bird feather and was invented in ancient times. It led to the creation of the fountain pen in the 1800s. Artists use quill pens in their drawings because they create a unique-looking stroke. Others use them for handwriting because they like the way it makes their handwriting look. Writing with a quill pen can be tricky until you get used to it.

Things You'll Need

  • Quill pen

  • Calligraphy ink

  • Flat paper

Step 1

Use very light pressure when writing with a quill pen. You must use much less pressure than you usually apply when writing with a ballpoint pen.

Step 2

Trim the feathers of your quill pen so they do not obstruct your grip. Proper grip is necessary to write well with a quill pen.

Step 3

Purchase calligraphy ink, usually found at an art store, to use with your quill pen. India ink is too sticky and won't flow well.

Step 4

Write on flat rather than textured paper. Textured paper is too difficult to use until you get used to it.

Step 5

Recognize handwriting with a quill pen is very different than handwriting with a ballpoint pen. It's like painting narrow lines. It'll probably look much different than your normal handwriting and you'll have to practice to get used to it.

Step 6

Sharpen your quill pen . Using a small, sharp knife, cut a small piece from the outside edge of the nib at an angle. After the nib is sharpened several times, it's worn down and you must get a new quill pen.