After I dip the Copperplate pen in the inkwell, how do I keep the first letters from being too thick?

Question

My first letters after dipping the Copperplate pen are too thick with ink - almost like blobs at times, ruining everything. After a few strokes, the letters are the right proportion. Is it possible to get it correctly proportioned right after dipping?

Regarding a blotter: the ink is beaded up too high and would only spread out on the Vellum. Besides, it is already spread too thickly that a blotter would not solve the thickness problem. Thanks for sharing!

Answer 1

Yes. I use a blotter. It is antique, but its function was to initially dry the first ink from the well. You don't have to use a blotter you could use something with the consistancy of a mouse pad. Then begin writing.

Answer 2

Hi.. I always used an extra sheet to work the strokes until they were the perfect consistency before ever letting them touch the final piece. It took a little longer... (fewer letters per gallon of gas.. tee-hee!)... but it saved a lot of heartache:)
I hope this helps!

Edit***

I just remembered! I also used to roll up a piece of paper toweling until it was tight, in the shape of a pencil (think: pencil blotter), and just lightly touch it to the point and draw out the excess.