Calligraphy is a style of writing that is being popularized all over the world. Learning the art of calligraphy requires a lot of patience and practice. A detailed information is given ahead.
Calligraphy refers to an ancient design of writing. The word is derived from a Greek phrase that means beautiful handwriting and is known as a kind of visual art. Though it is a very old form, it is still practiced all over the world.
Since it has been developed in many countries, a variety of styles are available today. These include Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, Roman, English, and many more.
You need not be an artist or extremely creative to learn this art. It can be mastered with consistent practice. The basics can be learned by following simple instructions.
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Before you start, you should select a particular style. The Roman pattern is easy and would be ideal to start with. Also, you should know about tools, lettering, alphabets and fonts used for this penmanship.
Tools are special pens, nibs, ink, and unique paper for scripting (or lined parchment paper). Pens can be felt, fountain, or quill pens. You will need a ruler and powdered ink. If you are not sure about the type of pen, you can get a set for beginners.
Before Beginning
Select and keep necessary tools handy.
Sit on a firm, wide table with tilted desktop.
Choose the style to learn, and keep it on the table on your right. You can use a book showing basic strokes.
Hold the brush at 35°. Dip it in ink if using quill pen, and start practicing basic strokes.
Start with lower-case alphabets, and if difficult, try practicing by tracing the alphabets.
Practice the letters again and again.
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When you practice, ensure there are no shadows on paper.
Start from basic and perfect writing letters before going to intricate formations, techniques, designs.
Tips To Learning
Learn one style at a time, and practice daily to master it.
Do not lift the pen off the paper suddenly. Hold the pen at the position for a second or two, let the ink saturate at the point, and then lift the pen.
You will need to pay attention to spaces between strokes, width and weight of strokes. Do not use excess ink.
Aim at consistent practice and achieving perfect spacing, strokes, and letters.
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Once you have the required expertise, you can learn Chinese and wedding calligraphy. You can pursue it as a hobby and can prepare wedding and party invitations. Go ahead, and put on your creative thinking caps!