The “Reed” Qalam (or pen) is the traditional tool for writing Arabic Calligraphy. It is one of the most versatile types of pens for Arabic Calligraphy due to its soft nature and flexibility allowing you to re-cut and shape the tip very easily. For this reason Calligraphers deem this to be the best type for beginners to practice with as other types of qalams are very sturdy and difficult to cut and a fine sharp cut is essential to practicing and learning the art.
Having been a student of calligraphy for over 10 years I still prefer working with this on a lot of my commissions and projects.
I use a Swann Morton scalpel knife with blade size 10 to cut them. This is very cost effective and easily obtainable without the worry of resharpening as all you do is change the blade.
These Qalams are sourced from Turkey through the guidance of many prominent calligraphers ensuring they are of the highest quality.
The average length of these Qalams are 20-22cm as seen in the images which is well above the average requirement of at least 15 cm long which means they will last you a long time.
The inner cut is traditionally measured with the curve of ones thumb and a good cut would sit on the thumb comfortably, also shown in the images.
As soon as the reed is harvested, it is seasoned for years by burying it in horse manure, chosen because it maintains a steady temperature. During this procedures the reed hardens and darkens and become perfect source for a reed pen.
The length of the cut can be between 2-7 mm. With Reed Qalams this is the standard range as Reed doesn’t grow any thicker than that.
For help on cutting the Qalam please watch this video
They are available in the following options:
1) Uncut – fresh uncut Qalam. This should only be purchased by one who is familiar with cutting Qalams the correct way or wants to practice.
2) Right handed cut– cut with the angle for a right handed person.
2) Left handed cut– cut with the angle for a left handed person.
Please specify which option you would like when checking out
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