As a celebrity calligrapher with over 16 years of experience, I, Carla Schall, have had the privilege of creating bespoke calligraphy for luxury weddings and premium events across Florida and beyond. At Carla Schall Designs, I know that the foundation of beautiful calligraphy lies in using high-quality supplies. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn or a seasoned artist seeking specialized tools, finding the right calligraphy supplies is essential. Florida’s vibrant creative community offers a wealth of options, from online retailers with nationwide shipping to local stores where you can explore products in person. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share the best places to buy calligraphy supplies in Florida, provide tips on selecting the right tools, and include real client stories to inspire your creative journey. For additional inspiration, explore Brides.com’s calligraphy guide or The Knot’s stationery tips.
Calligraphy, derived from the Greek words kallos (beauty) and graphein (to write), is an art form that transforms words into visual poetry. With the right pens, inks, and papers, you can create stunning pieces for weddings, gifts, or personal projects. Let’s dive into where you can find these tools in Florida and how to choose the best ones for your needs.
Why Quality Calligraphy Supplies Matter
The right calligraphy supplies can make or break your creative process. High-quality tools ensure smooth ink flow, crisp lines, and durability, allowing you to focus on your artistry. For beginners, starting with the right pens and paper can build confidence, while professionals benefit from specialized nibs and inks that enhance their work. Florida’s diverse artistic scene, from Miami’s vibrant galleries to Tampa’s creative hubs, makes it an ideal place to source these supplies. Whether you’re crafting wedding invitations or practicing modern brush lettering, the stores listed below offer everything you need to succeed.
Online Options for Calligraphy Supplies
Online retailers provide convenience and a vast selection, making them a go-to choice for Florida calligraphers. These stores ship directly to Florida, ensuring you have access to high-quality tools no matter where you are in the state. Here are my top recommendations:
- Paper and Ink Arts (www.paperinkarts.com)
- A leading source for calligraphy supplies, offering hard-to-find nibs, inks, and papers. Their customer service is exceptional, with fast shipping and careful packaging. They also provide supply lists for online classes and calligraphy conferences, making them a favorite among professionals.
- Tom’s Studio (tomsstudio.com)
- Specializes in beginner-friendly calligraphy kits, including pens, inks, and practice pads. Their Modern Calligraphy Starter Kit is perfect for those new to the craft, and their unique tools, like handcrafted ink wells, add an artistic flair.
- Written Word Calligraphy and Design (writtenwordcalligraphy.com)
- Focuses on modern calligraphy tools, offering starter kits, practice pads, and digital worksheets. They also provide online courses, ideal for learning alongside your supply purchases.
- Scribblers (scribblers.co.uk)
- A UK-based retailer that ships internationally, offering a wide range of traditional and modern calligraphy supplies, including nibs, inks, and workbooks. Their Copperplate Calligraphy collection is particularly noteworthy.
- Dick Blick Art Materials (www.dickblick.com)
- A well-known art supply store with an extensive selection of calligraphy pens, markers, inks, and papers. They offer affordable options for beginners and high-quality tools for professionals.
- Oriental Art Supplies (orientalartsupply.com)
- Specializes in supplies for Eastern calligraphy styles, such as Chinese brush painting and Japanese Sumi-e. Their brushes, inks, and rice papers are perfect for those exploring Asian calligraphy traditions.
- Journey Art Supplies (Cheap Joe’s) (cheapjoes.com)
- Known for competitive prices, they carry calligraphy pens, inks, and papers from trusted brands like J. Herbin and William Mitchell. Their selection is ideal for budget-conscious artists.
- East Coast Calligraphy (eccsupply.com)
- A US-based supplier offering unique tools like glass dip pens with threaded caps, perfect for calligraphers seeking distinctive supplies.
These online retailers provide a convenient way to access a wide range of calligraphy supplies, with many offering fast shipping to Florida.
Local Stores for Calligraphy Supplies in Florida
For those who prefer the tactile experience of shopping in person, Florida has several excellent stores where you can find calligraphy supplies. These local options allow you to test products, support small businesses, and connect with the state’s creative community.
Tampa
- Tampa Calligraphy (tampacalligraphy.com)
- Located at 10748 Ayrshire Dr, Tampa, FL 33626, this business specializes in wedding and event calligraphy but also offers supplies and recommendations. With over 25 years of experience, they’re a trusted resource for Tampa calligraphers.
- The Paper Seahorse (paperseahorse.com)
- A charming boutique in Tampa known for its artisan writing tools, including fountain pens, Blackwing pencils, and calligraphy supplies. Their curated selection and beautiful packaging make every purchase feel like a gift. Contact them for the exact address, as it may vary.
Miami
- Rex Art Supplies (www.rexart.com)
- Located at 5806 Commerce Lane, South Miami, FL 33143, Rex Art Supplies has been serving Miami artists for decades. They offer a variety of calligraphy pens, inks, and papers, with knowledgeable staff to assist you.
- Pearl Art & Craft Supply
- With locations in South Miami and Fort Lauderdale (6140 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, FL 33024), Pearl has been a staple for over 70 years. They carry calligraphy supplies alongside other art materials, making them a great option for South Florida artists.
- Jerry’s Artarama
- Located in Miami, this store offers a wide range of art supplies, including calligraphy pens, inks, and papers. They also provide framing services, perfect for displaying your finished calligraphy work.
- Easel Art Supply Center (easelartsupply.com)
- With locations at 5806 Commerce Lane, South Miami, FL 33143, and 810 Park Ave, Lake Park, FL 33403, Easel Art Supply Center carries a broad selection of art supplies, including calligraphy tools. Their Miami store is particularly convenient for South Florida residents.
Other Florida Cities
- Orlando and Jacksonville: National chains like Michael’s and Hobby Lobby often carry basic calligraphy supplies, such as brush pens and practice pads. For more specialized tools, consider visiting nearby cities like Tampa or Miami or ordering online.
- North Florida: Reddi-Arts, located at 1731 N. Main Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206 (www.reddiarts.com), offers calligraphy papers and other art supplies, serving the North Florida area for over 65 years.
If you’re not near these cities, local art guilds like the South Florida Calligraphy Guild can provide recommendations for nearby suppliers or workshops where supplies may be available.
Choosing the Right Calligraphy Supplies
Selecting the right calligraphy supplies depends on your skill level, style, and project goals. Here’s a guide to help you choose:
For Beginners
- Pens: Start with a dip pen and flexible nibs like the Brause 66EF or Nikko G, which are affordable and versatile for practicing basic strokes. Brush pens, such as Tombow Dual Brush Pens, are great for modern calligraphy.
- Inks: Choose traditional calligraphy inks like J. Herbin or waterproof inks like Dr. Ph. Martin’s for mixed media projects.
- Paper: Opt for smooth, absorbent paper like Mohair or Bristol to prevent feathering or bleeding. Practice pads from Written Word Calligraphy are excellent for beginners.
For Intermediate and Advanced Calligraphers
- Nibs and Holders: Experiment with different nibs, such as the Leonardt Principal EF or Hunt 101, for varied line widths. Oblique holders can enhance control for pointed pen calligraphy.
- Inks: Explore metallic inks (gold, silver, rose gold) or specialty inks like iron gall for a professional finish.
- Surfaces: Consider unique surfaces like acrylic or handmade paper for custom projects.
For Eastern Calligraphy
- Brushes: Bamboo or synthetic brushes from Oriental Art Supplies are ideal for Chinese or Japanese calligraphy.
- Inks: Sumi ink provides rich, deep tones for traditional Eastern styles.
- Paper: Rice paper or Xuan paper is designed for brush calligraphy, offering the right absorbency.
When shopping, prioritize quality over quantity. Investing in durable tools from reputable retailers ensures better results and a more enjoyable creative process.
Benefits of Buying Locally vs. Online
Both local and online shopping have unique advantages, depending on your needs:
Benefits of Buying Locally
- Immediate Access: Get supplies without waiting for shipping, ideal for urgent projects.
- Hands-On Experience: Test pens, feel papers, and see ink colors in person.
- Support Local Businesses: Contribute to Florida’s creative community by shopping at stores like The Paper Seahorse or Rex Art Supplies.
Benefits of Buying Online
- Wider Selection: Access specialized tools that may not be available locally.
- Competitive Prices: Online retailers often offer discounts or sales, making them budget-friendly.
- Convenience: Shop from home and have supplies delivered to your door.
Consider your timeline, budget, and preference for in-person shopping when deciding where to buy.
Client Stories and Experiences
The joy of calligraphy often begins with finding the right supplies. Here are a few stories from my clients who’ve sourced tools in Florida:
- Sarah from Orlando: “I was planning my wedding and wanted unique calligraphy paper for our invitations. I drove to The Paper Seahorse in Tampa, and it was worth it! Their selection was stunning, and the staff helped me pick the perfect paper for my project. Now, I’m hooked on calligraphy!”
- Michael from Miami: “I started with basic supplies from Rex Art Supplies in South Miami. As I got better, I ordered specialized nibs from Paper and Ink Arts online. Having both local and online options has made my calligraphy journey so much easier.”
- Lisa from Tampa: “I attended a workshop with the South Florida Calligraphy Guild and discovered The Paper Seahorse. Their curated supplies inspired me to start selling my calligraphy art online. The quality of their tools made all the difference.”
These stories highlight how Florida’s calligraphy community thrives with access to both local and online resources.
My Process for Using Calligraphy Supplies
As a professional calligrapher, I rely on high-quality supplies to create stunning pieces for my clients. Here’s how I use these tools at Carla Schall Designs:
- Consultation: I discuss the client’s vision to determine the best tools and materials for their project, whether it’s a wedding invitation or custom artwork.
- Style Selection: I choose a calligraphy style (e.g., copperplate, modern brush) and corresponding supplies, like specific nibs or inks.
- Material Selection: I use archival papers and inks to ensure durability, selecting surfaces like watercolor paper or acrylic for unique effects.
- Creation: Using dip pens or brushes, I craft each piece with precision, often spending hours to perfect every stroke.
- Delivery: The final piece is packaged beautifully and delivered within 4-6 weeks, ready to impress.
This process ensures that every project is a work of art, and the right supplies are key to achieving that result.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
| What are the best pens for beginner calligraphers? | For beginners, I recommend a dip pen with a flexible nib, like the Brause 66EF or Nikko G, or a brush pen like the Tombow Dual Brush Pen for modern calligraphy. |
| Where can I find affordable calligraphy supplies in Florida? | Online retailers like Paper and Ink Arts often have sales, and local stores like Easel Art Supply Center offer competitive prices. Workshops may also include supply kits. |
| Are there calligraphy supply stores in South Florida? | Yes, in Miami, visit Rex Art Supplies, Pearl Art & Craft Supply, Jerry’s Artarama, or Easel Art Supply Center. In Tampa, try The Paper Seahorse or Tampa Calligraphy. |
| Can I order calligraphy supplies online and have them shipped to Florida? | Absolutely! Retailers like Dick Blick and Paper and Ink Arts ship to Florida, with many offering fast delivery. Check shipping policies for details. |
Conclusion
Whether you’re in Tampa, Miami, or another part of Florida, finding high-quality calligraphy supplies is easier than ever. Online retailers like Paper and Ink Arts and Dick Blick offer a vast selection with convenient shipping, while local stores like The Paper Seahorse and Rex Art Supplies provide hands-on shopping experiences. By choosing the right tools—pens, inks, and papers—you can elevate your calligraphy practice and create stunning pieces for any occasion.
If you need help selecting supplies or want to commission custom calligraphy for your next event, I’m here to assist. Visit my services page or contact me at Carla Schall Designs to discuss your vision. Let’s create something beautiful together!
Ready to start your calligraphy journey or elevate your next project? Explore my services or reach out via my contact page for personalized advice. Let’s make your creative dreams a reality!
