Short answer
Start with two pigment fineliners: about 0.2 to 0.3 mm for most lines and hatching, and about 0.5 to 0.8 mm for foreground edges. Add a brush pen for solid blacks. Compare pens by the millimeter width, not the size code on the cap.
Line width chart
Fineliner widths, from retailer listings for Sakura Pigma Micron
| Code (Micron) | Approx. line | Use in a landscape |
|---|---|---|
| 005 | 0.20 mm | Distant hills, fine texture |
| 01 | 0.25 mm | Hatching, grass, leaves |
| 02 | 0.30 mm | Most contours |
| 03 | 0.35 mm | Middle ground contours |
| 05 | 0.45 mm | Foreground edges |
| 08 | 0.50 mm | Bold edges, dark accents |
Widths come from retailer listings (for example this Micron 05 listing at 0.45 mm) and vary a little with pressure and paper. Other brands use different codes, so compare the millimeters.
Pen types
-
01Start here
Pigment fineliner set
Best for: learning ink with several widths
- Widths
- about 0.2 to 0.8 mm
- Ink
- pigment (maker)
- One set covers every line
- Light pressure only
-
02Minimal
Single fineliners, 0.3 and 0.8 mm
Best for: quick outdoor ink sketches
- Count
- two pens
- Fine for lines and hatching, bold for darks
- Cheapest way to start
-
03Darks
Brush pen
Best for: solid blacks and expressive lines
- Tip
- flexible brush
- Line width changes with pressure
- Great for silhouettes
-
04Traditional
India ink and dip pen
Best for: varied, lively line work
- Ink
- bottled
- Very dark, can be diluted for gray washes
- Needs practice and drying time
Paper for pens
Smooth, heavier paper keeps lines crisp. Thin or very rough paper can feather (lines spread) or bleed through. See sketchbooks for drawing.
How to use them: pen and ink landscapes and hatching and stippling.
Questions people ask
What does 005, 01 or 05 mean on a fineliner?
It is a size code, not the line width. On Sakura Pigma Micron pens, for example, retailers list 005 at about 0.20 mm, 01 at 0.25 mm, 02 at 0.30 mm, 03 at 0.35 mm, 05 at 0.45 mm and 08 at 0.50 mm.
Are fineliners waterproof?
Pigment ink fineliners are generally described by their makers as waterproof and fade resistant once dry. Dye based pens can run. Check the label if you plan to add washes.
What is the best pen for drawing trees in ink?
A fine pen, about 0.1 to 0.3 mm, for leaf texture and hatching, plus a thicker pen or brush pen for the dark shadow masses and trunks.
Why does my fineliner stop working?
Pressing hard bends the felt or plastic tip. Fineliners are made for light pressure; use a bigger pen instead of pressing for a thicker line, and cap it between uses.
Sources
Last reviewed October 29, 2026. Product lines and listings change; check the details before you buy.