Before the class, please make sure you have your supplies ready. The list below includes my preferred choices, but if you already have your own favourites, feel free to use them instead!

• Broad-edged nib and penholder OR a Pilot Parallel Pen: We’ll use a 3–4 mm nib for most of the class. I recommend Brause Bandzug, Leonardt TAPE, or Speedball C-series nibs. Alternatively, you can use a 3.8 mm Pilot Parallel Pen (green cap). Having additional sizes is helpful but not essential.
• Ink or gouache: For dip nibs, use black gouache or a non-waterproof ink suitable for calligraphy. If you’re using a Pilot Parallel, its standard ink cartridges are fine.
• Practice paper: An A3 pad of smooth paper that lets you see the guidelines underneath. Recommendations: Fabriano Schizzi, Daler-Rowney Fine Grain, Canson Marker, or similar.
• Flat brush (optional): A good-quality flat brush with a straight edge that holds its shape and produces clean strokes. In the third session, I’ll give a short demonstration of how to write Fraktur with a brush.
• Brush for loading the nib: An old or inexpensive brush for applying ink or gouache to your dip nib.
• Tools and accessories: A 2B pencil, a ruler, an eraser, a rag, and a few small containers for water and gouache.