Top Hand Lettering Supplies for Every Style
For most lettering artists, the Tombow Dual Brush Pen set stands out as the top choice because it offers a flexible brush tip and a fine tip in one pen, ideal for both lettering and detailing. Its main advantage is versatility and blendability, but the porous tip may wear down with heavy use.
Hand lettering is a creative skill that relies heavily on the right tools. Quality supplies can make the difference between smooth, professional strokes and frustrating, inconsistent lines.
From brush pens to markers, the market is full of options. We looked at the most popular and highly rated supplies to help you choose what fits your style and budget.
How to pick the right one
Our top picks
Tombow Dual Brush Pen Set
The Tombow Dual Brush Pen features a flexible brush tip on one end and a fine tip on the other. It is water-based, blendable, and available in over 90 colors. Artists love its smooth ink flow and the ability to create gradient effects.
Pros
- Dual tips for lettering and detailing
- Colors blend beautifully
- Refillable and long-lasting
Cons
- Brush tip can fray if pressed too hard
- Not permanent, smears with water
Pentel Fude Touch Sign Pen
The Pentel Fude Touch Sign Pen offers a flexible brush tip that is easy to control, making it perfect for beginners. The ink is pigmented and archival, and the pen has a comfortable grip. It comes in 12 colors and is a favorite for journaling.
Pros
- Easy pressure control
- Waterproof and fade-resistant ink
- Comfortable grip for long sessions
Cons
- Limited color selection
- Fine tip not included
Sakura Pigma Brush Pen
Sakura Pigma brush pens are known for their archival quality and consistent ink flow. The brush tip is firm yet flexible, ideal for detailed lettering. They are fade-resistant and waterproof, making them great for mixed media.
Pros
- Archival and fade-resistant
- Firm tip for control
- Works well with watercolor
Cons
- Only a few colors in each set
- Tip may be too stiff for some users
Crayola Supertips Markers
Crayola Supertips are affordable markers with a fine tip that can produce varying line widths depending on pressure. They are not brush pens but are popular for faux calligraphy and coloring. With 100 colors, they offer enormous variety for a low price.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Huge color selection
- Washable and safe for kids
Cons
- Not a true brush tip
- Ink not permanent
Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen
Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pens feature a brush tip with India ink that is waterproof and lightfast. They are perfect for use with watercolors and other wet media. The pen has a comfortable grip and is available in a wide range of colors.
Pros
- Waterproof and lightfast
- Excellent for mixed media
- Smooth ink flow
Cons
- Higher price point
- Tips may dry out if left uncapped
Kuretake Zig Fudebiyori Brush Pen
The Kuretake Zig Fudebiyori is a brush pen with a finely tapered tip that holds its shape well. It produces very smooth, consistent strokes and is great for both lettering and illustration. The ink is water-based and blendable.
Pros
- Super smooth ink flow
- Tip holds shape
- Good for beginners
Cons
- Limited color options
- Not refillable
Ecoline Brush Pen
Ecoline brush pens contain highly pigmented watercolor ink that can be diluted with water for washes. They are excellent for adding vibrant color to lettering and illustrations. The brush tip is flexible and responsive.
Pros
- Vibrant, intense colors
- Can be blended with water
- Good for mixed media
Cons
- Ink can bleed on thin paper
- Tips may fray with heavy use
The lineup, side by side
| # | Model | Tip Type | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tombow Dual Brush Pen Set | Brush + Fine | Versatility and blending | 9.6 | Check price |
| 2 | Pentel Fude Touch Sign Pen | Brush | Beginners and small lettering | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Sakura Pigma Brush Pen | Brush | Precise strokes and archival quality | 9.0 | Check price |
| 4 | Crayola Supertips Markers | Fine | Budget-friendly color variety | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pen | Brush | Mixed media and fine detail | 9.1 | Check price |
| 6 | Kuretake Zig Fudebiyori Brush Pen | Brush | Smooth flexible brush stroke | 8.9 | Check price |
| 7 | Ecoline Brush Pen | Brush | Vibrant colors and watercolor effects | 8.6 | Check price |
Common questions
What is the difference between a brush pen and a marker?
A brush pen has a flexible tip that mimics a paintbrush, allowing for varied stroke widths based on pressure. Markers typically have a rigid tip, such as fine or chisel, which produces consistent line widths. Brush pens are preferred for calligraphy and hand lettering.
Can I use brush pens for watercolor effects?
Yes, many brush pens contain water-soluble ink. You can apply water with a brush to create watercolor-like washes. Brands like Ecoline and Tombow are specifically designed for blending and watercolor techniques.
How do I prevent brush pens from fraying?
Avoid pressing too hard on the tip. Use a light touch and let the pen glide. Also, always recap the pen after use. Store pens horizontally to keep the tips moist. If a tip frays, it may be time to replace the pen.
What is the best paper for hand lettering?
Smooth, heavyweight paper is best to prevent bleeding. Look for marker paper or mixed media paper with a weight of at least 100 lb. Test on a small area first to see if the ink bleeds or feathers.
Are expensive brush pens worth it?
Expensive pens often offer better ink quality, more durable tips, and a wider color range. However, budget options like Pentel or Crayola can be excellent for beginners. It depends on your budget and how often you practice.
Can I use brush pens for other art forms?
Absolutely. Brush pens are great for illustration, doodling, and even coloring. They can also be used for hand lettering on various surfaces like cards or posters. The versatility makes them a valuable addition to any artist’s toolkit.
How long do brush pens last?
The lifespan varies based on usage and care. With regular use, a brush pen can last several months. Storing them properly and not pressing too hard can extend their life. Some pens are refillable, like Tombow, which can save money in the long run.
What is faux calligraphy and do I need special pens?
Faux calligraphy is a technique where you draw the thick downstrokes manually, not relying on a brush tip. You can use any pen, like fine liners or markers. It is a good way to practice letterforms before investing in brush pens.
The verdict
If you want a versatile, high-quality brush pen that works for both beginners and pros, go with the Tombow Dual Brush Pen set. For a budget-friendly option that still performs well, the Pentel Fude Touch is a smart choice. But for the best overall experience in hand lettering, the Tombow set offers the perfect balance of quality, color, and durability.
