Manga Start Kit
Why a curated kit rather than individual items — and what is in it
Starting dip pen illustration from scratch involves a specific decision problem: you need to know what to buy before you have used any of it, which means every purchase is a guess. The Manga Start Kit removes this. The G-nib is the production standard — the correct nib to learn on. The T-25 holder is the standard Japanese illustration holder. De Atramentis Document Black is archival, waterproof once dry, and suited for work intended for scanning. The Deleter B4 manuscript paper has the correct non-photo blue guidelines. The practice guide covers nib preparation, ink loading, the three pressure levels, and a first session structure that takes you from zero to a completed exercise in under two hours. None of these items is a compromise choice included to reduce cost: they are the correct tools, and they are stocked individually for practitioners who want to expand or replace once the kit is used.
What the practice guide covers
New dip pen practitioners fail for predictable reasons: they try to use the nib without cleaning it first (the protective oil coating repels ink), they press too hard and splay the tines, and they try to do finished work before understanding the pressure range. The practice guide is structured to prevent each of these. Page 1: how to clean the nib before first use and why. Page 2: the three pressure levels and what each produces. Page 3: basic stroke exercises to build pressure control before attempting linework. Page 4: a first complete illustration exercise using the G-nib and manuscript paper. The guide is printed on card, not paper, and is designed to sit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this kit suitable for complete beginners?
Can I use this kit for illustration other than manga?
What should I buy after this kit?
Shipping
Packaging:
We know art supplies are fragile. All professional pair and boards are shipped in reinforced rigid flat mailers. No tubes, no folds, no crushed corners.
Order Processing Times:
Orders are processed within 1–2 business days - we always aim to dispatch all “in-Stock’ items within 24 hours..
Note: Orders placed after 2 PM GMT on Fridays will be processed the following Monday.
Domestic Shipping (UK):
Standard (2–4 days): £3.50 (Free for The Illustrator & Studio Master tiers).
Priority (1–2 days): £4.50 (Free for Studio Master tier)
International Shipping:
We ship globally. Costs are calculated at checkout based on weight and destination. Please note that customers are responsible for any local customs duties or taxes.
Order Tracking:
You will receive a tracking link via email the moment your tools leave our studio.
Returns
30-Day Change of Mind:
We offer a 30-day return window (exceeding the UK legal minimum of 14 days). Items must be unused, in original packaging, and in "as-new" condition.
Faulty Goods:
In the rare event of a defect, you are entitled to a full refund or replacement within 30 days. We will cover all return shipping costs for faulty items.
Defective Nibs:
Occasionally, a pen may arrive dry or a nib maybe scratchy. Contact us within 7 days of purchase with a photo/video of the issue and we will send a replacement immediately.
Exclusions:
Due to the nature of the product, unless faulty we cannot accept returns on opened markers or used paper pads returned.
Digital Goods:
The "Birthday Palette" and other digital downloads are non-refundable once accessed.
How to Start a Return:
Email studio@inkwellartsupplies.com with your order number. We aim to process all refunds to the original payment method within 5–10 business days of receiving the item
The Nib Safety Net
"Gravity Happens. We’ve Got You Covered."
We know the heartbreak of a fountain pen hitting the floor. As a member of our Creative Rewards, you don't have to worry about the 'tines.' If the worst happens, just send us a photo and we'll send you a 50% discount for a fresh start.
"The Nib Safety Net" – Terms & Conditions
- Eligibility: This benefit is exclusive to active members of the Creative Rewards program at the time of the accident.
- Coverage: The 50% discount applies strictly to accidental damage (e.g., dropping the pen) that renders the nib unusable. It does not cover intentional damage, loss of the pen, theft, or normal wear and tear.
- The Claim: To activate your discount, you must provide a clear photo of the damaged nib and your original order number to oops@yourstore.com.
- Limitations: This discount is valid for a one-time replacement per pen purchased and applies only to the cost of the replacement nib unit. It cannot be combined with other promotional codes or used for full pen replacements.
- Availability: We will provide the discount for the exact nib model where stock is available. If the model is discontinued, we will offer a 50% discount on a comparable alternative nib unit.