Yes. Parchment has been used for calligraphy for centuries and remains a popular surface among calligraphers, scribes, and manuscript artists. Unlike paper, parchment is made from animal skin rather than plant fibres. As a result, the pen moves differently across the surface and many calligraphers find that it offers greater control and precision. Broad-edge nibs, quills, and pointed pens can all be used successfully on parchment. Another advantage of parchment is its durability. When stored correctly, parchment can survive for centuries, making it well suited to important artistic, ceremonial, or archival work.

Inks that adhere well to the surface without excessive bleeding, cracking, or flaking generally perform best on parchment. Iron gall ink was the traditional ink used for many historical manuscripts. It penetrates the surface of the parchment and develops a deep tone over time. Modern archival formulations are recommended. Carbon-based inks remain closer to the surface and produce dense black lines with excellent permanence and resistance to fading. Acrylic inks provide strong pigmentation and water resistance while offering good control on parchment. Gouache, diluted with water, is also widely used for coloured calligraphy and manuscript work because of its opacity and versatility. Because parchment is less absorbent than paper, excessively watery inks should generally be avoided. Too much moisture may disturb the surface or cause the parchment to cockle slightly.

A wide range of writing tools can be used on parchment, including dip pens, broad-edge nibs, pointed nibs, quills, reed pens, technical pens, and brushes. Many calligraphers prefer dip pens and quills because they provide excellent control and work well with traditional inks such as iron gall and carbon-based inks. Brushes can also be used for lettering, manuscript decoration, and artistic applications. Pencils may be used for sketching and layout work, although softer grades generally perform better on parchment than harder graphite pencils. Because parchment is less absorbent than paper, it is advisable to test unfamiliar pens and inks on a small area first.

Yes. Parchment can be used for watercolor, gouache, and oil painting, although it behaves differently from paper, canvas, or panel. Because parchment is less absorbent than watercolor paper, pigments tend to remain closer to the surface. This can produce luminous color effects, particularly when working with transparent washes. However, it also requires greater control over the amount of water used. Gouache is particularly well suited to parchment and has traditionally been used for manuscript decoration and illumination. Watercolor can be used successfully, but excess moisture should be avoided as it may cause the parchment to warp temporarily. When painting on parchment, it is often helpful to secure the sheet to a wooden board using drawing pins or a similar method and allow it to dry completely before removal.

Yes. Parchment is the traditional surface for manuscript illumination and was used for the vast majority of medieval illuminated manuscripts. Its smooth yet durable surface allows artists to apply pigments, fine linework, decorative borders, gold leaf, and miniature paintings with a high degree of detail. Many artists and conservators continue to use parchment today for illuminated work because of its historical authenticity and long-term durability.

No. KareDeri parchment can be used for writing, drawing, painting, and calligraphy without special preparation. If you are ordering parchment for a particular project, you are welcome to include details with your order so that we can recommend the most suitable sheets or hides.

Yes. Parchment can be printed using an inkjet printer. Laser printers are generally not recommended because the heat generated during the printing process may cause the parchment to distort. Natural parchment and many lighter-colored dyed parchments can both be printed successfully. We regularly print artwork, photographs, and decorative designs onto parchment for notebook covers, folders, panels, and other applications.

Yes. Parchment has been used in bookbinding for centuries and continues to be valued by bookbinders and conservators. It can be used for covers, spine linings, endpapers, limp bindings, and decorative overlays. Parchment may also be used as a writing surface for journals, notebooks, and artists' books. Because parchment is durable and can be written on both sides, it remains a versatile material for both traditional and contemporary bookbinding.

Parchment has two distinct surfaces, traditionally known as the hair side and the flesh side. The hair side is usually slightly darker and more textured, while the flesh side is generally smoother and lighter in tone. Historically, the flesh side was often preferred for writing, calligraphy, and illumination because of its smoother surface. However, many artists and craftspeople also appreciate the natural character and texture of the hair side. With KareDeri parchment, both sides can be used for writing, drawing, painting, calligraphy, printing, and bookbinding. There is no single "correct" front or back side, and the choice largely depends on the desired appearance of the finished work. In some of our cut parchment sheets, the difference between the hair side and the flesh side can be quite subtle. In these cases, both surfaces are suitable for use and the distinction may not be immediately apparent.

Because parchment is a natural material, it responds to changes in humidity and temperature. For best results, store parchment in a stable environment with moderate humidity and avoid sudden fluctuations in climate. Cut sheets should be stored flat. Full hides may be stored flat or rolled. If parchment develops a curl during storage, it can usually be flattened by placing it under a stack of heavy books for at least 24 hours.

Framing is usually the best way to protect finished artwork on parchment. For objects that will be handled frequently, such as notebook covers, a light coat of matte varnish may provide additional protection. A non-water-based spray varnish is generally recommended. Allow all inks, paints, and other media to dry completely before applying varnish. Once applied, allow the varnish to cure fully according to the manufacturer's instructions.

We offer goatskin parchment as both full hides and pre-cut sheets. Standard sheet sizes include A6, A5, A4, and A3, all of which are available through our online store. Custom-cut pieces can also be produced on request. We additionally supply larger quantities for professional and commercial projects.