How to Clean Calligraphy Dip Pen Nibs
One of the most important parts of writing calligraphy is cleaning your pen, and continuing to keep the nib clean. Dip pens are cleaned similarly to fountain pens, but the designs are much less complicated. However, dip pen nibs are changed often, and new nibs require an initial cleaning to remove the protective manufacturer's oils.
Part 1Removing Manufacturer's Oil with Dish Soap
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Most dish detergent soaps are made to scrub off grease and are excellent at removing the oils from pen nibs.
This can also be done with a soft toothbrush instead of a sponge. 
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If the nib has a removable reservoir, remove it and clean it as well. If the nib has a non-removable reservoir, be sure to get soap under it and scrub it as best you can without bending the reservoir away, damaging the nib. 
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When you dry it, drawing the nib across the cloth as if you were writing helps to draw out any water left in the reservoir. Part 2Removing Manufacturer's Oil with Toothpaste
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Toothpaste, oddly enough, can do an even better job at removing the oils than dish soap.
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If the nib has a removable reservoir, remove it and clean it as well. If the nib has a non-removable reservoir, be sure to get under it and scrub it as best you can without bending the reservoir away, damaging the nib. 
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When you dry it, drawing the nib across the cloth as if you were writing helps to draw out any water left in the reservoir. Part 3Cleaning Off the Ink After Use
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Tip: It may be helpful to remove the nib from the nib holder before cleaning. 
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Then remove the soap or toothpaste.
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Tip: You may find it easier to leave the dirty nib on the nib holder when soaking it in the pen cleaner; this way you don't have to fish it out.
After letting it soak, remove the nib from the cleaner and rinse it with clean water for several seconds to remove the ink and cleaner. You may need to use soap again. 
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When you dry it, drawing the nib across the cloth as if you were writing helps to draw out any water left in the reservoir. 