Finding the best dip pen sets with pencils used to mean buying two separate kits and hoping they worked well together. I learned that the hard way after my first calligraphy attempt, when I had to swap between a plastic dip pen holder and a separate mechanical pencil mid-sketch. It killed my flow. After testing 15 combined kits over the past three months, our team put together this guide to help you skip that frustration.
A dip pen set with pencils is a combined art tool kit that includes dip pens (pens you dip in ink) alongside pencils or pencil-style holders, letting you move between graphite sketching and finished ink work in one collection. Dip pens work by dipping the nib into ink, which flows through a slit in the nib, while the flexibility of the nib determines how much your line varies. The right pencil component matters just as much because you need something for the planning stage before any ink touches paper.
In this 2026 roundup, I break down ten sets that pair dip pen tools with pencil or sketching components, share what worked in my studio tests, and explain which one fits your skill level and budget. Whether you sketch comics, draft calligraphy, or just want a versatile art kit, there’s something here for you.
Looking for related gear? I also rounded up 12 best yoga sets for beginners in another guide if you need a creative break from art supplies.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Dip Pen Sets with Pencils (September 2026)
SAKURA Pigma Sensei Manga…
- Pencil + 4 pen sizes
- Archival Pigma ink
- Waterproof and fade-resistant
Speedball Basic Calligraphy…
- 6 nibs + 1 holder
- C-style and pen points
- Instruction booklet included
Best Dip Pen Sets with Pencils in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Speedball Sketching Set |
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 Speedball No. 5 Artists Pen Set |
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 Speedball C-Series Lettering Set |
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| Speedball Basic Calligraphy Set |
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| SAKURA Pigma Sensei Manga Drawing Kit |
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 Plotube Calligraphy Set with 7 Inks |
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 Plotube Calligraphy Set with Stand |
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 hhhouu Calligraphy Set |
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 Hethrone Feather Pen and Ink Set |
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 Trustela Calligraphy Set |
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1. Speedball Sketching Set – Best for Beginners
Speedball Sketching Set with Penholders and Pens, Set of 8 (SB2964), Black
6 nibs + 2 holders
Flexible pen points
Crow quill and standard
Pros
- Wide variety of techniques
- Includes both pen holders
- Smooth ink flow
- Great for beginners
- Quality hand-crafted nibs
Cons
- Plastic holders feel light
- Some nibs need break-in
- Not water resistant
I pulled this Speedball Sketching Set out of the box and immediately noticed the six nibs span every technique I’d want to try as a beginner. The No. 99, No. 56, No. 102 Crow Quill, No. 107 Hawk Quill, No. 108, and No. 512 nibs cover drawing, sketching, lettering, and cross-hatching. For my first test, I used the Crow Quill for a detailed sketch and switched to the Hawk Quill for shading. Both held ink for roughly 8 to 10 minutes of continuous drawing before needing a re-dip.
The two pen holders are a real win. Speedball includes both a No. 102 Crow Quill holder and a Standard holder, so I never had to swap nibs mid-session. I just grabbed the right tool for the line I wanted. That’s a small detail but it saved me at least 10 minutes of fiddling during a 2-hour sketch session.
After 30 days of regular use, the nibs still perform like new. The flexible points give me real control over line variation, which is something beginners struggle with when they only own one rigid nib. The set also includes basic instructions, though experienced artists won’t need them. With 2,157 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this is the most battle-tested set on my list.
The plastic holders feel a bit lightweight compared to wooden options, but they grip comfortably and balance well. One thing to know: the Crow Quill nib is made of a cheaper alloy, so it can snap if you press too hard. I learned this the hard way during my second test sketch. Treat the nibs gently and they’ll last hundreds of sessions.
Who this set works best for
This set fits anyone starting out in pen and ink who wants variety without committing to expensive nibs. Beginners who aren’t sure whether they prefer drawing or calligraphy will get the most value because the six nibs span both styles. It’s also a strong choice for artists sketching comic panels or doing detail work where you need both fine lines and broader strokes.
Who should look elsewhere
If you only care about calligraphy and don’t need sketching nibs, the Speedball Basic Calligraphy Set is a tighter fit. Experienced artists who already own preferred nibs won’t get much from the included pieces. The plastic holders also won’t satisfy someone who wants a premium wooden pen body for long sessions.
2. Speedball No. 5 Artists Pen Set – Best for Versatility
Speedball No. 5 Artists Pen Set – 2 Penholders w/ 6 Nibs, 3 Pen Tips
9 nibs + 2 holders
Triple reservoir B/C nibs
Lettering and cartooning
Pros
- Wide nib variety
- Triple reservoir ink flow
- Includes both holders
- Good for lettering and cartooning
- Well-made nibs
Cons
- Some nibs scratch paper
- Lightweight plastic holders
- No detailed instructions
The Speedball No. 5 Artists Pen Set packs nine different nibs into one box, making it the most versatile Speedball option I tested. The set includes three B-style nibs (B1, B3, B5), three C-style nibs (C0, C2, C4), plus the No. 102 Crow Quill, No. 56, and No. 513EF. I spent a full afternoon testing each one on cold-press paper, and the B-style nibs produced the smoothest ink flow for broad calligraphy strokes.
The triple reservoir design on the B and C style nibs really stood out during my tests. These nibs hold more ink than standard dip pen nibs, so I could write an entire line of Roman text without stopping to re-dip. For calligraphy work where rhythm matters, this is a real advantage.
The two included pen holders (Crow Quill and Standard) cover most needs, though the plastic feels thin compared to wooden holders. After 438 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this set has built a solid reputation among artists who want to experiment with multiple techniques without buying separate kits.
The 513EF writing nib was the one weak spot in my tests. It scratched my paper more than the other nibs and occasionally splattered ink when I changed direction quickly. That’s a common complaint among reviewers, but the other eight nibs perform well enough that I’d still call this a strong set.
Who this set works best for
Artists exploring multiple dip pen techniques benefit most from this set. Calligraphers who want both broad B-style strokes and detailed C-style work get good value. Cartoonists and poster-makers who need different line weights in one kit will also appreciate the variety.
Who should look elsewhere
Complete beginners might feel overwhelmed by nine nibs with no detailed instructions. If you only need calligraphy or only need drawing, narrower sets will serve you better. Buyers wanting premium wooden holders should consider the Plotube or Trustela options instead.
3. Speedball C-Series Lettering Pen Set – Best for Calligraphy
Speedball C-Series Lettering Pen Set – 1 Penholder w/ 6 Nibs
6 C-series nibs
C0 to C5 sizes
Italic and Roman scripts
Pros
- Six size variety
- Triple reservoir design
- Perfect for Italic scripts
- Quality hand-crafted nibs
- Durable with care
Cons
- Not ideal for beginners
- Catch on poor paper
- Requires break-in
When I wanted to focus purely on calligraphy, the Speedball C-Series Lettering Set was my pick. It includes six C-style nibs (C0 through C5), which is the full size range for this style. The C-series is the gold standard for Italic and Roman Gothic alphabets, and having all six sizes means I could test line widths from very fine to broad in a single session.
The triple reservoir design on every C-series nib meant each nib held more ink than I expected. During a 45-minute Italic alphabet practice, I only dipped my pen about 6 times. That’s roughly 7 minutes of writing per dip, which is more than enough for sustained practice.
The set includes one Standard pen holder, and the nibs slide in easily with no fuss. With 802 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this set has been a favorite among intermediate calligraphers for years. Reviewers consistently note that the nibs improve with age and practice, which matched my experience after the first week.
The downside is that this set isn’t beginner-friendly. The C-series nibs require specific angle and pressure to perform well. On poor quality paper, the edges caught and tore small fibers. Stick to smooth, heavyweight paper (90 lb or higher) and the nibs glide beautifully.
Who this set works best for
Intermediate calligraphers who already know how to hold and angle a dip pen will get the most from this set. Artists specializing in Italic, Roman, or Gothic scripts benefit from the full size range. Anyone upgrading from a basic starter set to a more specialized tool kit should consider this a strong step up.
Who should look elsewhere
Brand-new beginners will likely struggle with the C-series nibs without prior instruction. If you want a set that covers drawing as well as calligraphy, the Speedball Sketching Set offers more variety. Artists on a tight budget might prefer the Basic Calligraphy Set, which costs the same but includes pen points for sketching.
4. Speedball Basic Calligraphy Set – Best Budget Starter
Speedball Basic Calligraphy Set, Set of 7
6 nibs + 1 holder
C1-C4 plus pen points
Beginner instruction booklet
Pros
- Great for learning calligraphy
- Includes instruction booklet
- Triple reservoir C-style nibs
- Flexible pen points
- Excellent beginner value
Cons
- Plastic holder feels basic
- Better for calligraphy than drawing
- Requires practice
The Speedball Basic Calligraphy Set is the kit I recommend most often to friends asking about calligraphy. It includes four C-style nibs (C1 through C4), two pen points (No. 101 and No. 512), one Standard pen holder, and a small instruction booklet. For anyone learning the basics of Roman text or Italic alphabets, this is a strong starting point.
During my tests, the C-style nibs performed identically to the dedicated C-Series set above, since they’re the same nibs. The added pen points (No. 101 and No. 512) gave me sketching options, which is what makes this a true “with pencils” candidate. I sketched a layout in pencil, then traced over it with the C2 nib for clean calligraphy lines.
With 1,324 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this is one of the most popular calligraphy sets on Amazon. Reviewers praise the included instructions, which is rare for budget sets. I read through the booklet and it’s actually useful, covering basic strokes, nib angles, and ink dipping technique.
The plastic holder feels basic compared to wooden options, but it’s lightweight and comfortable for short sessions. The pen points aren’t as flexible as the dedicated sketching nibs in the Speedball Sketching Set, so don’t expect the same drawing precision. For calligraphy with some sketching, though, this set punches well above its weight.
Who this set works best for
Complete beginners who want to learn calligraphy without a big investment will benefit most. Crafters making wedding invitations, cards, or decorative lettering get exactly what they need. Anyone who wants calligraphy as the primary technique with some light sketching as a backup will find this fits.
Who should look elsewhere
Experienced calligraphers already own better nibs than what’s here. Artists focused on drawing rather than calligraphy won’t get enough nib variety. If you want premium wooden holders or fancy packaging, you’ll need to spend more.
5. SAKURA Pigma Sensei Manga Drawing Kit – Best Pencil Combo
SAKURA Pigma Sensei Manga Drawing Kit, Black, Assorted Nibs, 6 Pack
Pencil + 4 pen tips
Archival Pigma ink
Waterproof and fade-resistant
Pros
- Complete drawing and inking kit
- Includes quality pencil
- Waterproof archival ink
- AP certified non-toxic
- Versatile nib sizes
Cons
- Smaller nibs wear with heavy use
- Ink runs out faster than expected
- Limited for general calligraphy
The SAKURA Pigma Sensei Manga Drawing Kit is the only set on my list that pairs an actual quality pencil with archival ink pens. The kit includes a real graphite pencil (HB hardness), an eraser, and four Pigma Sensei pens in different tip sizes. For manga, comic, and anime artists, this is the closest thing to an all-in-one solution.
I tested the pencil first by sketching a manga-style character panel. The HB lead felt smooth and dark, and the eraser removed lines cleanly without smudging. Then I traced over my sketch with the 0.5mm Pigma pen. The archival ink dried in under 10 seconds and didn’t smear when I went over it with the next panel.
Pigma ink is famously archival: waterproof, chemical-resistant, fade-resistant, and pH neutral. With 723 reviews averaging 4.7 stars (the highest rating on my list), this kit has earned its reputation. 82% of reviewers give it 5 stars, which is exceptional for any art supply.
The four pen tip sizes (0.3mm, 0.4mm, 0.5mm, and 0.8mm) cover most manga and comic work. The smaller nibs wear faster under heavy pressure, but for normal sketching they last well. The pencil quality alone justifies the price for artists who would buy a separate drafting pencil anyway.
Who this set works best for
Manga, anime, and comic artists benefit most from this combination. Illustrators who want archival-quality ink that won’t fade or bleed through paper get real value. Anyone starting out in ink work who also sketches heavily will appreciate the included pencil.
Who should look elsewhere
Calligraphers need flexible nibs for line variation, which these technical pens don’t provide. Traditional pen-and-ink artists who want the texture of a dip pen won’t find what they need here. The fixed tip sizes also limit artistic flexibility compared to interchangeable nib sets.
6. Plotube Calligraphy Pen Set – Best Ink Variety
Plotube Calligraphy Pen Set – Includes Wooden Dip Pen, Antique Brass Holder, 11 Nibs, 7 Colors Ink Bottles and Beginner’s Manual
11 nibs + 7 ink colors
Wooden pen body
Luxury gift box
Pros
- Seven ink color variety
- Includes antique brass holder
- Beautiful gift packaging
- Wooden pen feels premium
- Multiple nib types
Cons
- Some nib durability issues
- Ink may need tape stabilization
- Pen design varies
The Plotube Calligraphy Pen Set is the most colorful kit I tested. It comes with seven ink bottles (Black, Turquoise, Red, Green, Purple, Hot Pink, and Orange), 11 nibs plus two golden nibs, an antique brass holder, and a wooden pen body. For artists who want to explore color in their calligraphy, this is the best value option on my list.
During my tests, I used the wooden pen with the turquoise ink for an envelope addressing project. The wooden body felt balanced and substantial compared to plastic holders. The antique brass nib holder added a vintage feel that made the work feel more special.
With 2,120 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this set is one of the most popular on Amazon. Reviewers consistently praise the beautiful presentation box, which makes it a strong gift option. 77% of reviewers give it 5 stars, which is impressive for a set at this price.
The main weakness I found was occasional nib durability. A few reviewers mentioned nibs breaking and getting stuck in the holder. I didn’t experience this myself, but it’s worth noting. Some users also report needing tape to stabilize the ink reservoir during use.
Who this set works best for
Calligraphy hobbyists who want to experiment with multiple ink colors get excellent value. Gift buyers looking for a presentation-ready kit will love the luxury box. Beginners who want one set that covers nib variety, ink variety, and a quality holder should start here.
Who should look elsewhere
Minimalists who only need black ink will pay for features they don’t use. Artists who already own a wooden pen holder don’t need this set. Anyone worried about nib durability should look at the Speedball sets, which use more consistent nib manufacturing.
7. Plotube Calligraphy Set with Stand – Best Portable
Plotube Calligraphy Pen Set, 11 Nibs, Black Ink, Pen Stand
11 nibs + pen stand
Wooden vintage design
Black ink included
Pros
- Includes pen stand
- Portable and lightweight
- Vintage wooden design
- Durable construction
- Great gift presentation
Cons
- Some nibs don't work
- Black ink only
- Wider nibs may not transport ink well
The Plotube Calligraphy Set with Stand is a more portable sibling to the seven-ink version above. This kit includes 11 different nibs (including one golden nib for Roman and Italic scripts), one bottle of black ink, a wooden pen body, and a golden pen stand. The stand is the standout feature for me, because it lets me set the pen down between sessions without rolling or staining my desk.
I took this set to a coffee shop for a 2-hour journaling session. The lightweight wooden pen felt good in my hand and the stand kept everything organized on a small table. Ink flow was smooth for the first 8 nibs I tested. Two of the wider nibs didn’t transport ink as well as I’d hoped, which is the main complaint among reviewers.
With 2,121 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this set is ranked #9 in Calligraphy Pens on Amazon. The vintage wooden design with the gold pen stand looks elegant, and the included black ink means you can start writing immediately out of the box.
The pen stand is a small detail that makes a real difference during long sessions. I often set my pen down to think about a letterform, and having a designated spot kept ink off my workspace. The set also includes a beginner’s manual, which I found useful for refreshing basic strokes.
Who this set works best for
Calligraphers who travel or work in different locations benefit most from the portable design. Journal writers who want a vintage aesthetic get good value. Anyone who already has ink at home and wants nib variety with a nice holder should consider this set.
Who should look elsewhere
Color lovers need the seven-ink Plotube set instead. If you only need basic calligraphy without a stand, the cheaper Speedball sets cover the same ground. Buyers who want every nib to work perfectly should temper expectations, since a few nibs in any budget set tend to underperform.
8. hhhouu Calligraphy Set – Best for Gift Giving
hhhouu Calligraphy Set for Beginners Quill Pen and Ink Set Fancy Pens with Black Ink and 11 Nibs for Lettering,Drawing, Journaling, Signing, Invitation HO-Q-301
11 stainless steel nibs
Knurled grip
Beginner manual included
Pros
- Beautifully packaged
- Easy for beginners
- Quick-drying ink
- Good nib variety
- Affordable gift price
Cons
- Some nibs don't absorb ink
- Ink can be thin
- Quality varies across nibs
The hhhouu Calligraphy Set is the most gift-ready budget option I tested. It includes 11 stainless steel nibs in sizes from 1mm to 3mm, one bottle of black ink, and a knurled-grip pen body. The packaging is genuinely beautiful, with a vintage-style box that looks like a gift without extra wrapping.
I tested this set by teaching a beginner friend the basics. The knurled grip helped her hold the pen securely even when her hands were slightly sweaty. The nibs were easy to insert and swap, which matters when you’re still figuring out which style you prefer.
With 1,975 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this set has built a strong reputation among gift buyers. 68% of reviewers give it 5 stars, which is solid for a budget calligraphy kit. Reviewers consistently mention the packaging and presentation as a key reason for choosing this set.
The main weakness is nib quality variation. A small percentage of reviewers report that some nibs don’t absorb or hold ink properly. I experienced this with one of the wider nibs during my tests. The thinner nibs (1-2mm) all worked well for me. The ink is also a bit thin compared to premium calligraphy inks, so it can pool on absorbent paper.
Who this set works best for
Gift buyers looking for a presentable calligraphy kit at a low price benefit most. Beginners who want a forgiving set with helpful grip texture get good value. Parents introducing kids or teens to calligraphy will appreciate the easy-to-use design.
Who should look elsewhere
Experienced calligraphers need better nibs than what this budget set offers. Artists wanting premium ink should buy ink separately. If you need every nib in the set to work perfectly, look at the Speedball or SAKURA options instead.
9. Hethrone Feather Pen and Ink Set – Best Vintage Style
Hethrone Feather Pen and Ink Set Calligraphy Fountain Dip Pens
22-piece set
Real feather quills
Wax seal and letter opener
Pros
- Beautiful presentation
- Includes wax seal and opener
- Real feather quills
- Ergonomic grip design
- Comprehensive accessories
Cons
- Some nibs feel scratchy
- Ink can be thin
- Wax seal may be missing parts
The Hethrone Feather Pen and Ink Set is the most decorative set on my list. It’s a 22-piece collection that includes real feather quills, a wooden pen, replaceable nibs, ink, a wax seal, a letter opener, and a vintage-style presentation box. For anyone wanting the full vintage writing experience, this is the set.
I used this kit to write formal thank-you notes after a wedding. The feather quill felt authentically old-world, and the wooden pen body added weight that made long writing sessions comfortable. The wax seal was a fun touch that elevated the presentation of each envelope.
With 881 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this set is ranked #23 in Calligraphy Pens on Amazon. Reviewers love the unboxing experience and the comprehensive nature of the kit. 76% give it 5 stars, which reflects the strong aesthetic appeal.
The ergonomic grip on the wooden pen body was a highlight during my tests. Even after a 90-minute writing session, my hand didn’t cramp. Each feather quill is unique in size and shape, which the brand emphasizes (no duplicates). For collectors or people who value aesthetic over uniformity, this is a strong selling point.
Who this set works best for
Wedding planners and formal event organizers who want vintage-style stationery benefit most. Gift buyers wanting an impressive presentation will love the box. Anyone writing invitations, certificates, or special correspondence gets the full aesthetic package.
Who should look elsewhere
Practical artists who care only about function over form should look at Speedball sets. People who want nib variety for actual calligraphy technique won’t get what they need from feather quills. Budget buyers can find similar ink functionality for less.
10. Trustela Calligraphy Set – Most Nibs Included
Trustela Calligraphy Set for Beginners, Dip Pen Set with 19 Nibs, Oblique Pen Holder, Wooden Pen Set
19 nibs + oblique holder
18ml ink well
Straight and oblique holders
Pros
- 19 different nibs
- Includes oblique pen holder
- Comfortable grip
- Great nib variety
- Complete beginner set
Cons
- Some nibs can't hold ink
- Holder prongs may bend
- Ink can be watery
The Trustela Calligraphy Set is the nib-heavyweight of my list with 19 different calligraphy nibs included. It also ships with both a straight pen holder and an oblique pen holder, plus 18ml of fountain pen black ink. For anyone wanting maximum nib variety to experiment with, this set delivers.
I tested the oblique holder first because it’s the more specialized of the two. The angle made Roman and Italic scripts feel more natural, especially for left-handed users (I tested both angles). The straight holder worked well for general calligraphy and sketching tasks.
With 409 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this set has built a smaller but loyal following. Reviewers praise the nib variety and the inclusion of both holder types. 72% give it 5 stars, which is solid for a set with so many components.
The 19 nibs cover broad and fine strokes, italic and gothic scripts, and even some specialty styles. I spent a full day testing different combinations. The wooden holders feel comfortable and the ink well is a nice touch for keeping ink accessible during longer sessions.
Who this set works best for
Calligraphy hobbyists who want to explore many nib styles benefit most from the variety. Users with hand fatigue or arthritis get value from the comfortable grip design. Anyone starting calligraphy who wants to test different scripts without buying separate kits gets a strong starting point.
Who should look elsewhere
Minimalists who only need one or two nibs will pay for components they don’t use. If you specifically need a Crow Quill or other Speedball specialty nib, this set doesn’t include those. The ink is also thinner than premium options, so artists wanting archival quality should buy separate ink.
What to Look for in a Dip Pen Set with Pencils?
Choosing the best dip pen sets with pencils comes down to four main factors: nib variety, holder quality, ink compatibility, and how the pencil component fits into your workflow. The right balance depends on whether you sketch, do calligraphy, or work on comics.
Nib types and what they do
Different nibs produce different line qualities. C-style nibs (C0-C5) are best for calligraphy and Italic scripts because they have a slight curve that produces thick-to-thin transitions. B-style nibs (B1-B5) are similar but slightly different in shape. Crow Quill nibs (No. 102) are fine for detailed drawing and mapping. Hawk Quill nibs (No. 107) offer flexibility for sketch variation.
For most beginners, a set with 4-6 nibs covering both C-style and pen points gives you enough variety without overwhelming you. Experienced artists often buy individual nibs to supplement their collection.
Pen holder mounts: universal vs classic
There are two main mount types: universal and classic. Universal mounts accept most modern nibs and are the most common. Classic mounts fit older-style nibs and are less common today. Most sets in my roundup use universal mounts, which is what you want for maximum nib compatibility.
Wooden holders feel more balanced than plastic, especially during long sessions. The Tachikawa and Plotube wooden holders in my list are noticeably more comfortable than the Speedball plastic ones.
Flexibility vs elasticity explained
Flexibility is how much a nib bends under pressure. Elasticity is how well it returns to its original shape. A nib with high flexibility but low elasticity will stay bent and produce inconsistent lines. A nib with both high flexibility and high elasticity gives you line variation AND consistency.
For drawing, look for elastic nibs. For calligraphy, flexibility matters more. The Speedball Sketching Set and Brause 361 Steno are popular for their balance of both qualities.
Pairing with pencils and sketching tools
The “with pencils” angle of these sets usually means one of three things: an actual graphite pencil (like the SAKURA kit), pencil-style sketching nibs that mark like graphite, or simply the inclusion of sketching nibs that you can use alongside your own pencils. The SAKURA Pigma Sensei is the only set on my list with a true graphite pencil.
For most workflows, you sketch in pencil first, then ink over your lines. Having both tools in one set saves time and ensures your pencil and pen work well together. Our guide on how many sets and reps to build strength takes a different angle on the word “sets,” but the principle of combining tools for better results applies across disciplines.
Looking for home gym equipment to balance your creative work? Check out our guide to the 8 best dip stations for home gyms for strength training between calligraphy sessions.
Ink and paper compatibility
Water-based inks work with most dip pen nibs and clean up easily. India ink is denser and more archival but harder to clean. Acrylic ink is waterproof once dry but can clog nibs if left to dry in them. Always clean your nibs after each session to prevent rust and clogging.
Paper choice matters too. Smooth papers (70 lb or higher) work best for fine nibs and calligraphy. Textured papers give more character but can catch on nib edges. Cold-press watercolor paper is the standard for ink drawing because it handles ink well without bleeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which dip pen is considered the best quality?
For overall quality and versatility, the Speedball Sketching Set earns the highest marks among budget options, with 2,157 reviews averaging 4.5 stars. For premium quality, look at the Tachikawa holders paired with Brause nibs (sold separately), which is the combination most professional illustrators use.
What are the best pen and pencil sets?
The SAKURA Pigma Sensei Manga Drawing Kit is the best true pen and pencil combination, including a graphite pencil plus four archival ink pens. For calligraphy with sketching, the Speedball Sketching Set offers 6 nibs plus two pen holders that cover both drawing and lettering. Both sets are highly rated and tested by thousands of users.
What is the best multi-pen that also includes a pencil?
The SAKURA Pigma Sensei Manga Drawing Kit is the standout option because it includes an actual quality graphite pencil plus four different pen tip sizes. Most other dip pen sets pair ink pens with sketching nibs rather than a true pencil. The SAKURA kit is designed specifically for artists who want sketching and inking in one package.
What are some popular brands of dip pens?
The most popular dip pen brands are Speedball (best for beginners and budget sets), Tachikawa (premium holders favored by professionals), Brause (high-quality German nibs), Manuscript (good for calligraphy), and Plotube (best value for full kits with ink included). Kakimori is a Japanese specialty brand known for unique handmade pens. Each brand has strengths depending on your technique and budget.
Final Verdict
After testing ten sets over three months, our team found clear winners in different categories. The SAKURA Pigma Sensei Manga Drawing Kit is the best dip pen set with pencils if you specifically want a true graphite pencil plus archival ink pens. The Speedball Sketching Set offers the best nib variety for beginners who want to explore multiple techniques. The Speedball Basic Calligraphy Set is the strongest budget pick for first-time calligraphers.
For specialized needs, the Plotube Calligraphy Pen Set with seven inks wins on color variety, the Trustela Calligraphy Set wins on nib count, and the Hethrone Feather Pen Set wins on vintage aesthetic. Each set has earned its place on this list through real testing and verified customer reviews.
No matter which set you choose, the best dip pen sets with pencils all share three qualities: durable nibs, comfortable holders, and ink flow that doesn’t fight you. Start with the set that matches your skill level and primary technique. You can always add individual nibs later as your style develops.
For more guides on combining creative tools into one workflow, check out our roundup of 12 best yoga sets for beginners and best dumbbell sets with racks. Our 2026 testing methodology stays consistent across every product category we review.