5 Unexpected Tools in a Calligrapher's Studio
Paper, ink, and some sort of pen are expected tools in a calligrapher’s studio, but if you were to take a closer look, you would probably be surprised by several items you’d find. Many tools in a calligrapher’s studio are similar to other artists’, while others are more often found in a handyman’s toolbox, a hair salon, or even a kitchen! Some of these are MAJOR secrets, so prepare to have your mind blown! 
Without further adieu, here’s a look inside a calligrapher’s tool bag!
1. Laser level
Calligraphers will commonly use laser levels to make sure that they are writing in a straight line. I especially like to use a laser level when addressing envelopes. I have a guide sheet that’s larger than the envelope down first, then place an envelope on top of it. I then put the laser level to the side of my envelope, making sure that the laser connects my guidelines and marks them onto my envelope! See the photo above for a clearer understanding of what I mean.
2. Potato
This one probably should have been number one, because it’s the number one tool that no one saw coming! Obviously, a potato is edible and is usually prepared in a kitchen to eat. The reason calligraphers like to have potatoes on hand is probably unexpected. When nibs (the small metal piece at the end of a pen) are brand new, they come covered in a protective oil. The oil has to be removed before writing or else the ink won’t flow properly. One of the most effective ways to remove this oil is to stick the nib in a potato! Other methods include using saliva or dish soap, but a potato tends to be favored among calligraphers.
3. Magnetic stirrer
A magnetic stirrer has many uses: mixing chemistry solutions, crafting your next homebrew, or even making a sourdough starter. A magnetic stirrer works by placing a small magnetic piece inside the glass or jar of your solution, and then placing the solution on a magnetic pad. When you turn a dial, the small magnet in the solution will spin around, mixing the solution. Magnetic stirrers are used by calligraphers to mix ink–especially metallic ink, which tends to separate and needs frequent remixing.
4. Hairspray
Typically used at home or in hair salons, hairspray is most often used to keep hair in place. BUT that’s not the only thing it can keep in place! You may find a can of aerosol hairspray in a calligrapher’s studio where it has several uses.
Hairspray can be used to set an ink–in other words, it is sprayed on a piece, such as an envelope, after it is written on to prevent ink bleeding in the mail due to rain or other contact with liquids. It is also used on paper before writing if the paper is too smooth or the wrong texture. The final use for hairspray is to heal a piece of paper after correcting a mistake. After using an exacto knife to remove the ink in an error spot, the paper is lightly sprayed with hairspray and then pressed to keep the fibers from becoming fuzzy.
5. Nail polish remover
Finally, the fifth tool you may be surprised to find in a calligrapher’s studio is nail polish remover. Nail polish remover, or acetone, is a great solution for removing not only nail polish, but also things like Sharpie or superglue, and it can also be used for various cleaning and sanitation purposes.
A calligrapher will use acetone for several purposes, but the most common is to remove oil-based paint off of mirrors or glass. I will frequently use oil-based paint pens to write seating charts and other wedding signs on window panes or mirrors. Oil-based paint is great because it doesn’t smudge or come off when touched. You can even use Windex on it and it will stay good as new! However, if I make a mistake, or if the surface is a rental that needs to be returned or reused, acetone can be used to easily wipe it clean!
Did something surprise you?
I’m sure most of these tools in a calligrapher’s studio were unexpected. If you are interested in learning more about calligraphy, check out my free modern calligraphy exemplar! Hit the button below for access.
