Can I Write Urdu/Nastaliq with an English Calligraphy Pen?

Yes, you can certainly write Urdu in the Nastaliq script using an English calligraphy pen, but understanding the nuances and making the necessary adjustments is essential. This guide will explore the key considerations and tips for achieving the best results when combining these pen types.

Pen Type

Traditional Urdu calligraphy often relies on broad-tipped or flexible nibs that facilitate the thick and thin strokes characteristic of Nastaliq. However, English calligraphy pens tend to have different nib shapes and flexibility, making it more challenging to achieve the same effect. To overcome this challenge, consider the following tips:

Select a suitable nib: Cremo pens, Sailor Nozomi, or Tombow Fudenosuke are well-regarded for their versatility. Experiment with nib angles: Tilting the pen can help emulate the broad strokes needed for Nastaliq. Practice: Gradually increase your practice time to develop the necessary control and fluency.

Ink Considerations

To achieve smooth and flowing Nastaliq strokes, choose the right ink:

Flowability: Look for inks that flow well, such as Russ Bodner's Ink or Higgins India Ink. Compatibility: Test inks with your chosen pen to ensure they work well together. Type: Consider using calligraphy inks, as they are designed for precision and are less likely to clog pens.

Practice and Technique

Mastery of Nastaliq requires extensive practice to develop the necessary flow and style. As a calligrapher, I recommend the following tips for beginners:

Study the basics: Understand the fundamental strokes and their variations in Nastaliq. Use reference materials: Consult textbooks or online tutorials to get a feel for the script's structure. Participate in workshops: Join calligraphy classes or online workshops to gain insights from experienced practitioners.

Paper and Surface

The choice of paper can significantly impact your calligraphy results:

Smooth surface: Opt for smooth, high-quality paper suitable for calligraphy to prevent bleeding and feathering. pH balance: Use paper with a neutral or slightly alkaline pH, as acidic paper can affect ink. Grain direction: Consider the grain direction of the paper, which can influence how the ink lays down.

Benefits of Traditional Urdu Calligraphy Tools

If you wish to achieve the highest quality results, it may be worthwhile investing in traditional Urdu calligraphy tools:

Traditional Urdu Calligraphy Pencils: The qalam, or reed pen, has a softer edge compared to metal nibs, producing unique calligraphic effects. Specifically, a qalam cut with a finer edge can offer a more nuanced result in Nastaliq.

Practice Recommendation: Once familiar with the nuances of Nastaliq using a qalam, you can more closely approximate the same results with a metal pen nib.

By following these guidelines and tips, you can successfully write Urdu/Nastaliq with an English calligraphy pen. Feel free to experiment and refine your technique through dedicated practice and learning.