I'm often asked, especially when teaching a workshop, what is the difference between an oblique pen holder and a straight pen holder?
Simply put - When using an oblique pen holder, you insert the nib into the flange which is offset, making a perfect angle to aid in creating pen strokes. And when using a straight pen holder, the nib is inserted directly into the pen.
Most professional calligraphers prefer using a oblique style pen holder, because it helps to achieve those thin and thick strokes lines - the main characteristic of pointed pen modern calligraphy - more naturally than a straight pen holder would!
Most left handers (lefties) may prefer using a straight pen holder, based on how they'd naturally hold their pen to write usually.
Everyone holds the pen differently and has the paper at various angles, so it's important to find what works for you. And if that includes trying out both types of pen holders, then that's what you should do!
There are many types of pen holders on the market. I'd recommend the speedball oblique pen holder which can be set to both oblique and straight as the flange is removable! This is the pen holder I supply to my workshop attendees.
Shop the oblique pen holder and straight pen holder here.
Love,
Jodie x