How to learn Calligraphy writing
Before we start learning how to write Calligraphy, lets have some instruments and a medium. Lets be at a writing surface, get a pen or pencil and some paper or a pad. If you are artistic naturally, then you will be used to being prepared to starting work on an art piece. If you are not naturally artistically skilled then one thing to bare in mind is that when it come to drawing or writing Calligraphy, you need to be in a relaxed state of mind, slow breathing and basically relaxed. This will help when it comes to starting out, from holding the instrument to making strokes with consistence.
A good way to begin is by having a copy of the alphabet in your chosen style either on the screen or printed out. Click here for examples of Calligraphy styles. It is best to have this printed out on paper so that you can directly copy each letter at a time right underneath. Start off with a pencil or a normal pen to get practicing and to get used to the style shapes and different features.
Generally when holding a Calligraphy pen, you remain in the same angle of writing all throughout so that there is consistency and flow in the script. This will ensure a clear and more professional look and feel to the end result.
Here is video tutorial demonstrating how to practice writing Calligraphy using a pencil.
With repetition you will find that you become more fluid in the motion of your arm and hand and also find that angles of the letters are mostly the same, ie you will begin to find consistency in your writing.
You will next try using a marker, if you have some already, to practice with. You can write on a lined sheet of paper, or if you prefer you can make your own lines. This is what I normally tend to do as I prefer a blank sheet (or a drawing pad) to draw or inscribe on.
Here’s a video by Paul Antonio showing how he prepares the medium before starting to write.
Now that you’ve had some practice copying and writing the alphabet, next you may consider buying a Calligraphy Pen. For beginners I recommend a Calligraphy Mini Kit if you want just a basic set. Alternatively you may consider getting hold of the Calligraphy Maxi Kit
which is a complete starter kit. For other pens and tools for writing Calligraphy Click Here.
Once you have your pens, we can have a go at the same exercise as above by copying the alphabet a few times and getting used to the feel of the pens and how they write. Check the following video for brief description on how to use Calligraphy pens, the correct way.