About Nibs

I don't claim to be an expert on these matters but here is a short summary of my understanding of a key manga tool the pen nib. Nibs are interchangeable tips for ink pens that, depending on the type used will produce different effects.

Mangaka use three primary nibs to ink their works. The G-pen, the saji-pen, and the maru-pen. There is a good chance that some of you may have heard of these in some manga (bakuman and school rumble are two that come to mind).

G-Pen- This is a very difficult pen to use. Its tip is flexible and works as a pressure sensitive pen, thus more pressure = thicker lines. It is difficult due to this pressure sensitivity, however when mastered it is an invaluable tool. This effect is often emulated on drawing tablets these days. If not careful you can rip your manga paper very easily when using this nib.

Maru-pen- This nib has a very fine point to it. It works really well for drawing fine lines (things like the wrinkles on clothes). You can also use it for drawing main lines, I had a friend that liked to draw his panels with this nib. It's tip is not flexible so the lines it creates are uniform. This nib is less likely to rip your paper since it flows smoothly.

Saji-pen- aka Tama-pen, Kabura-pen, Spoon-pen This nib has a hard tip. It draws uniform lines and can create thicker lines than the maru nib. This is often labeled as the beginner's nib since it is the easiest to control. Though it lacks the flexibility of the G-pen, it is still useful for panel lines and backgrounds. This pen is a great starter and it is hard to rip your paper when using it.

 From left to right: G, Maru, Saji

An important thing to remember when using nibs is to clean them regularly, they last a lot longer that way and will continue to draw consistently. Water and some tissue are really all that is needed to quickly clean them up.

The other things to take into account are the paper and the type of ink that you use. On top of all that everybody has their own methods when it comes to inking. When I first started using nibs I used sketchbook paper to save money (lighter weight paper is also more likely to rip so it teaches you to relax).

Best to be patient when using them and take your time so as to not ruin your image. Still remember there is always white-out.

I had trouble finding some of these nibs locally in the states, however I met some cool guys at comiket that hooked me up with some. Their website: Deleter Manga Shop

Keep in mind there are other manga supply shops out there, I just happen to prefer these guys.