Rhodia Pads
The calligrapher's practice surface — and why Rhodia specifically
Rhodia pads use Clairefontaine Velin — the same paper used in Clairefontaine notebooks, a smooth, fountain pen optimised French paper widely regarded as among the finest European fountain pen papers available. The smooth surface accepts calligraphy dip pen inks without feathering (provided the ink is appropriate for dip pen — some dye inks are too thin and spread on any surface), shows shading clearly, and produces crisp, clean letterforms when writing with a pointed pen nib or broad-edge nib. The heavy cardboard cover folds completely back, creating a flat working surface without the cover interfering. This fold-back behaviour is important for calligraphy practice: the working surface needs to be completely unobstructed and the pad needs to sit flat on the writing surface without tilting.
Dotpad versus Blank — which to choose
The Dotpad has dots at 5mm intervals printed in a pale colour that provides visual reference for letter height and line spacing without the visual noise of ruled lines. For calligraphy practice, dots are generally preferred over rules because the dot grid provides reference without constraining the work visually — the dots are easy to ignore when looking at the overall letterform but present when you need to check alignment. The Blank Pad has no markings at all — the correct choice for practitioners who find even dots visually distracting, or who are using the pad for free writing and sketching rather than calligraphy practice with height reference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does Rhodia Velin show shading and sheen the same as Tomoe River?
Is Rhodia suitable for dip pen calligraphy inks?
Dotpad A5 or Dotpad A4?
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.