How to Get Started in Pen & Ink: The Process of Inking an Acorn

In this video, I show a time-lapse and full-length video of the process of creating a short pen and ink drawing of a bur oak acorn. I also discuss supplies and a general approach to creating pen and ink drawings from life.

1. Find interesting subject matter
2. Get your materials ready (see below for links)
3. Set a timer (if you’re trying to do a quick drawing) so you don’t spend too long
4. Do a light pencil drawing
5. Ink it!
6. When the ink is fully dry, erase the pencil.

ROY TIP: dip pens add a lot of complexity to your work that is difficult to replicate with a fine line pen.

• Mixed Media Sketchbook: Canson XL Mixed Media 9″x12″
  
• 1 pad: Strathmore 300 Series Bristol Smooth Pad, 11″x14″
  
• Higgins Black Magic ink or other waterproof India ink
  
• Nib Holder, e.g. my favorite is Tachikawa. Another option is something like this Comic Pen set

• Nibs: a range of flexible and tighter nibs is good. Zebra and Tachikawa brands both have a range of great nibs to try. I generally use these two:
  • Maru Mapping Nib (tighter, finer, lines)
  • Hunt 99 (more variable line)
    
• Micron pens: 01, 03, 05 plus more per your preference (or other waterproof / alcohol based fineline pens)
  NOTE: I linked below two sets at a pretty good price a nice range of pens
  
• White plastic eraser (Prismacolor, tombow, staetdler, pro art, etc.)
  
• HB Wooden Pencil (brand of your choice)

• Paper Towels

• 1/2″ Artist Tape (brand of your choice)
  
• Small Drawing Board or clipboard

• OPTIONAL: Lamy Fountain Pen with fine tip

Note: All the Amazon links are affiliate links; you can purchase anything you like after using the links, and I will get a small commission off that sale at no extra cost to you.

That sums things up for now!

I hope this inspires you to pick up a dip pen and and start inking. If so, please share what you create! Tag me on instagram (@Laura.roy.art) if you share there.

Did you find this helpful? Do you have any of your own tips you’d like to share? I’d love to hear about it if you decide to try something new. If you use it differently, I’d love to hear that, too!

– Laura