The Best Handlettering Supplies (For a Professional Wedding Calligrapher!)
There are some days when I can clear-as-day remember opening up “Write Pretty for Me” and there are some days when I feel like it was another lifetime ago! Seriously, I guess it’s true that time flies when you are having fun (or when you work in the fast-paced wedding industry). As I started to put together a list of the best hand lettering supplies for professional wedding calligraphers, I couldn’t help but reflect on all of the lessons I’ve learned over the past 7 years in business.
If you’re here, I’m guessing you’re a fellow wedding calligrapher (hi!) looking for some personal lettering recommendations for your own wedding biz. It might surprise you — or maybe not, since you’re here — but one of the questions I get asked most by other wedding calligraphers is all about the tools I use!
Have you ever tried writing on a denim jacket with the wrong pen? Thought a Sharpie on a mirror would “easily” wipe off after the reception? Took advice from a past bride only to end up with smudges, stains, or regrets? Or maybe you’re just nervous at the possibility of making a mistake with the wrong materials.
Whatever brought you here, I’m so glad you came. I’ve been in your shoes — truly. And if you’re looking for more support beyond the right tools, come say hi over on Instagram — I love connecting with other calligraphers! You can also check out my Education for Calligraphers for more helpful resources and ways to grow your business with confidence.
If you are ready to level up your own wedding calligraphy business – or at the very least looking for some new things to try – below are a few of my favorite things! And if you want even more, I’ve created a guide with ALL of my top recommendations for just $14USD which you can snag below!
Please note that the majority of the vendors in this guide are US-based. All links are clickable and will take you directly to the vendor’s site or product listing. Some links are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase, I earn a small commission. I only share about companies and products that I truly believe in and that I think will be of benefit to you. I promise to never promote anything that I haven’t tried and loved myself!
Best White Calligraphy Ink: Dr. Ph. Martin’s Pen White
Who doesn’t swoon a little when they write with white ink? I know it’s not just me! Although they aren’t my favorite for black or colored inks, Dr. Ph. makes an incredible white ink AND they are my go-to for gold ink as well. If you are writing on paper – whether that be menu cards, vow books, and more – you can’t go wrong with these ink bottles.
Best Oil Based Markers for Mirrors, Glass & Acrylic
When couples are dreaming of mirror, glass or acrylic wedding day signage, my next question is always whether or not they want to re-use the surface I’m writing on! I love to use water-based markers if they are hoping to rent, re-sell, or reuse the mirror or other surface I am working on!
That being said, if you’re working with couples who want a more permanent solution (maybe they want to keep their mirror welcome sign as a forever keepsake!), I tend to prefer oil-based markers! Specifically, I love to use Sakura Pen-Touch Paint Markers or even Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers!
Best Calligraphy Paint for Denim Jackets: Jacquard Textile Paint
Writing on fabric is not for the faint of heart. Jacquard Textile Paint is my absolute favorite for denim jackets, but it’s not the same one I would use for other materials (like leather jackets – for example!). To be honest, I’ve tried about a million different fabric paints (trust me when I say my new handlettering supply guide was created from YEARS of trial and error). I still recommend trying to get your hands on a test swatch of fabric before writing directly on your jacket, but as far as fabric paint goes, Jacquard Textile Paint is one of the best!
Hands Itching to Try a New Medium or Calligraphy Project?
I know the feeling! I hope that this was helpful in your quest to find just a few new (or better!) tools for your wedding calligraphy belt! For more of my “favorite” things (including tips like “if the ink is too thick with this product” or “what I use to get ink OFF the mirrors”), make sure to grab a copy of my handlettering guide below!
Inside, I also share my process for getting sketches from my iPad to real-life mediums (which, like many things in life, is easier said than done!). Whether you are looking to transfer your designs to paper, acrylic, or even something like wood or denim, I’ve got you covered.
Of course, if you have ANY questions about what’s included inside, don’t hesitate to send me a message on Instagram! This guide was truly a labor of love for my fellow wedding calligraphers and I will gladly share what you can expect to find inside!
