Reddit mentions: The best calligraphy guides

Fear cuts deeper than swords

1. Something that is grey - Wreck This Journal! A post on /r/travel turned me on to this nifty little book that encourages you to do and look at those things you might not otherwise on your vacations and trips. Main WL
   
2. Something reminiscent of Rain Freshwater Pearl Drop Earrings. This one may be a stretch, but as soon as I read the item list I thought of these. I've always liked calling them rain drops instead of tear drops. Main WL
   
   
3. Something food related that is unusual I didn't think the frying pan on my list would really count as "unusual", hope this counts as "food related." These are a set of vitamins that I saved for my fiance; he loves his drink, and I love him to be healthy. Main WL
   
4. Something on your list for someone else This pinstripe fedora is for my fiance. He's had an identical fedora since we began dating several years ago and he's incredibly sentimental about it. The poor thing is worn out though, and I'm not sure if it can be restored. If it can't, I'm hoping he'll be able to learn to love a new one so that we can retire the original respectfully. Main WL
   
5. Something related to cats I hope that this counts even though I just noticed it's become unavailable! This reminds me of the book Catzilla that was read to me in elementary school and seems perfect for my own vicious kitties. Main WL
   
6. A book you should read I will shamelessly endorse Karen Miller's writing everywhere I go and to everyone I meet. Seriously. She's fantastic. Poor reviews on Amazon, but I chock that up to people not understanding proper plot development. You can trust me on that, I almost have a degree. Books WL
   
7. Something for less than $1.00 This was not on my list previously, but it makes me feel sympathy towards home-school moms to need such a tranquil book cover.
   
8. Something that is not useful Being able to do calligraphy isn't really a useful art these days, but whenever I see those strokes on /r/penmanshipporn I feel I simply must learn how to do it. It's beautiful. And my handwriting is dreadful. Main WL
   
9. A movie that everyone should watch My Neighbor Totoro! I actually just watched this myself for the first time last week! It's just one of those movies that makes you happy and leaves you with a smile. We all need those movies for the days that just get to be too much. Main WL
   
10. Something useful for when the zombies attack It doubles as a weapon AND a tool. Can't always buy replacements when the undead are running amok! Main WL
    
11. Something that would have a profound impact on your life Fitness has become very important to me in the last year or so and I would like very much to one day have a home gym so that I might always keep myself healthy and fit. This particular item would help me tone my stubborn tummy area and is one of my favorite tools at the gym I work out in. Main WL
    
12. Add-on item Just my luck, I would discover add-on items the day this contest begins. I did add these before I saw the contest, but last night I began researching hair products and came across John Frieda. Ordered one product already, hoping to try out these others soon! Main WL
    
13. The most expensive item on your list Oh boy. I guess my dream item is actually a toothbrush. My fiance has awful brushing habits. His parents just never really made him do it. Since we've gotten together I've kind of taken up a "mom" role in this area and made sure that he cleans his teeth daily, but there's damage to his gums from neglect. I did a lot of research on the products on the market and this seems like the best tool to help him get healthier gums. He's not totally on board with spending so much on a toothbrush, but I want and need him to be healthy in every way. You know? Main WL
    
14. Something bigger than a breadbox The rolling massager is your best friend and your worst enemy at the gym. Using this item after your workout helps to minimize your soreness the next day, but I won't lie. It hurts a bit to use. Main WL
    
15. Something smaller than a golf ball Who doesn't love jewelry for your ears? Jewelry WL
    
16. Something that smells wonderful Eucalyptus oil! Main WL
    
17. A SFW toy I saw this on Top Gear UK and I must have it. When asked by a friend why I would ever need such a thing, I promptly responded, “For when I go spelunking.” Toys WL
    
18. Something helpful for going back to school As an English major, I have to buy a LOT of books. My poor overburdened bookshelf is in desperate need of relief. If this weren't my last year, I would absolutely have to buy another bookshelf. As it stands, I'll have to buy a new one soon regardless. Avid readers live here. Main WL
    
19. Something related to my current obsession I am an unashamed, unapologetic Whovian.
    Main WL
    
20. Something awe inspiring - speaking of Whovians Isn't this fantastic? I've always said the best thing after a bath is the snuggle up with the TARDIS. Gifts WL
    
21. Made in Oregon - I've been doing this contest since 7 a.m. I could use this right about now
    
    WHEW. That took way longer than I thought it would but I think I found everything but what your name is! Thanks for the contest, I had a blast!

• Science: You are here - it's just a fun poster, but actually really interesting the more you look at it. It seems silly, but you really get a sense of how big our galaxy is.
  
  
• Gardens: Herb Savor - This thing is pretty awesome and helps keep herbs and such fresh.
  
  
• Writing: Who doesn't want to learn Calligraphy
  
  
• Film/Movies: I absolutely love Mel Brooks - I really really want it!
  
  
• Fantasy: Leaf Clasp
  
  
• Books/Authors: The Border Trilogy by Cormac McCarthy - These books are beautifully written. The most poetical version of prose I've ever read. Anything Richard Matheson - I had to put this as well because Richard Matheson is one of my favorite authors. He wrote many short stories (many became twilight zone episodes) and his novels are amazing. He wrote I Am Legend, which I would 100% recommend. However, the link is to one of his short story collections because they are just too amazing to pass up.
  
• Nature/outdoors: Picnic Wine holder - There's nothing better than a nice glass of wine and these things are awesome.
  
  
• Spirituality: Bamboo wind chime - I don't know why, but I have always felt there was something spiritual about wind chimes; especially wooden ones; and especially bamboo ones.
  
  
• Art supplies - Sketching kit - I don't know much about art supplies, but this looks like a nice set.
  
  
• Math - Pi Ice Cubes - They're just too cute and also math related
  
  
• Travel: Universal Surge Protector - I wasn't sure if you travel a lot internationally, but if you do, get this.
  
  
• Food - Citrus ginger dressing - This stuff is to die for!
  
  
• Fun stuff: Lightsaber chopsticks - These are so fun to use. I'm taking a shot in the dark about whether you like sushi or star wars, but if I'm right, you'll want these.
  
  
• Something not on this list, but that you absolutely have to link to or you'll explode: Dino Sandwich cutter - Do I even need to explain?

Yeah, lots! Some of my old technique books were found in the library of a now-defunct printing school in NYC and thus will be very difficult to find again, but a few good ones that you shouldn't have trouble finding are:

– The Universal Penman is a collection of some of George Bickham's most beautiful calligraphic pieces. It's a lovely book for inspiration and general style (not so much technique but rather seeing how the letters are shaped and spaced, etc.).

– Spencerian Penmanship is a good technique for learning the basics of Spencerian letterforms. I purchased the version without the five extra copy-books on Amazon but I'm not seeing it there right now (just the version with the copy books, which could be useful).

– JA Cavanaugh's Lettering & Alphabets is a good place to learn the basics of a few different lettering styles, particularly loose script lettering for advertising layouts and some Roman + Caslon styles.

– Leslie Cabarga's Logo, Font, & Lettering Bible has some extremely helpful tips for digitizing your lettering work as well as other general design tips. It is, ironically enough, a horrendously designed and dated book but the methods are still instrumental.

– Finally, Colt Bowden's How To Paint Signs and Influence People zine is a really lovely modern take on lettering techniques. Though it is geared for signwriters, the techniques taught for building up letterforms has followed me through to my pen-and-ink work as well. Plus, it's a really fun little series and your money is going to a very talented and passionate dude.

Hope this was helpful!

I've been on a total typography book binge recently!

• Letter Fountain - This book is AMAZING! It's comprehensive, gorgeous and heavy. Note: There's a lot of overlapping information in all these recommendations, so if you buy just one book on typography from my list, make it this one.
  
• Designing Type by Karen Cheng - This book is a great one to get if you are designing a typeface yourself. It takes a close look at all of the letters and characters (serif and sans-serif) describing their key features, comparing and contrasting notable variations of significant typefaces and basically serving as an excellent reference.
  
• Logo Font & Lettering Bible by Leslie Cabarga - This one is a lot of fun, with a focus on practical tips, ie: software tips and tricks. If you're interested in illustration or decorative typefaces, this is the one to get. (I know if you judge this one by its cover and Amazon's 'look inside' preview it may not look the best, but the actual printed volume is attractive, dense and a joy to browse.) [EDIT: The paperback has a much nicer cover! This is the one I have.]
  
• Book Design by Andrew Haslam - Everything you might want to know about book design, naturally! I haven't read much else on this subject, but this seemed excellent to me. A great mix of history and practical advice for designing all kinds of book.
  
• Stop Stealing Sheep and Find Out How Type Works by by Erik Spiekermann and E.M Ginger - Smaller, but full of good information. This was one of the first 'proper' books on typography I read and I think it serves as a great introduction to the subject. If you only have a passing interest in the type, try this book. It reads like an opinionated personal essay. Perhaps skip it if you are looking to get hands-on quickly.
  
  Finally, I strongly don't recommend Type Matters! If you see it in the store you may be tempted - it's a very attractive leather-bound book with sexy black and red illustrations - but I found it to be overly simplistic. It also looks like there's quite a lot of reading to be had, but the vast majority of the text in there is all repeated sample copypasta. (And if I wasn't disappointed enough in the book, the elastic came loose on my copy!)

Oh, you can fix it.

This is going to feel weird, but go buy a bunch of those cheap children's books made from newsprint for them to practice writing in. You can also find these online and print them out.

Then use them. Take it slow and do a good job. Keep practicing. What is slow now will get faster and look better as you practice.

Also, you might want to pick up a copy of Vance Studley's Left Handed Calligraphy. I bought a copy at a pen show some years back and it's a wonderful book. It's cheap and will help you out.

While you're at it, subscribe to /r/fountainpens and buy one! You don't have to spend a lot. A cheap Hero fountain runs about $5 and there are all sorts of inks to choose from. I like Noodler's.

Yes, lefties can use fountain pens. At first, you might want to go for a fine or extra fine nib and a fast-drying ink. When you get used to it, you can switch to broad and oblique nibs. Those are really fun to write with.

Anyhow, you are not stuck with the handwriting you have. You can always improve.

You can get a decent set for cheap. I'll write this up as if you are looking for entry-level stuff - not the fancy stuff. If you want fancier stuff, I will have to defer to someone else. One thing that I didnt realize when I started calligraphy is how much studying and practicing I would need to do. If you want to do it right, you shouldnt just dive in. You really need to study the forms, and techniques for making the proper strokes. One book I have says that calligraphy is more similar to painting than to handwriting and you probably woundnt expect to just start painting without practicing, right?

At a minimum, you just need a pen with a nib ($10), ink ($5) and paper ($20). Speedball makes good beginner sets.

Books

Personally, I like the 1800s script-y stuff with a little modern thrown in. I have been working out of Mastering Coppoer Plate Calligraphy and Modern Calligraphy: Everything You Need to Know To Get Started In Script Calligraphy. The former book is more technical and is strictly about practicing and technique. The latter will go into more detail about supplies, writing media, and finding your personal style. I think they complement each other well.

Pen

If you dont know what she likes, I would recommend both a straight holder and an oblique holder. A straight holder is good for broad nib stuff (italic and gothic) and modern calligraphy whereas an oblique holder is good for 1800s script-y stuff. Scroll down to the NIB HOLDER CHARACTERISTICS section for a reference image. The speedball sets often come with a nice variety of nibs to swap in and out. Otherwise, you have to hand pick the nibs and that will probably be above your pay grade (I know its above mine!)

Ink

Ink shouldnt really make too much of a difference for a beginner. Just get anything for calligraphy. Again, Speedball has decent stuff for cheap.

Paper

Paper is really important. These pens will put a lot of ink on the paper so the paper needs to be able to absorb it and maintain clean, straight lines. This guy did not choose good paper for his project so you can see how it bleeds. Rhodia makes good paper notebooks. Its more expensive than regular notebooks but it will still be worth it. The really good calligraphers use fancy paper, but this often requires extra skill that your fiance might not be ready for.

Extras

Instead of ink, some people use watercolor or gouche. These can be a lot of fun to use and make a big difference in the final product. They are a little more advanced, but shouldnt be too difficult. She should really be pretty competent with her skill before getting into this stuff. You dont want to use your expensive gouche for practice sessions.

I have to disagree with a couple of things you said.

>There isn't any one authorative definition to "ambigram".

Sure there is. Here's a really concise definition of ambigram from Ambigram.com. Ambigram.com is a web magazine dedicated to the art of ambigram. They work closely with John Langdon, a typographer, who has produced popular and significant works like the 'Illuminati' ambigram and the 'Earth-Air-Fire-Water' ambigrams from Dan Brown's book "Angels and Demons", and has written the book Wordplay which discusses the philosophy of ambigram. He is also currently working as a typography professor at Drexel University. That sound pretty authoritive to me.

>In practice it often conflates just to mean typographical works that look and read the same if rotated 180 degrees. But of course there are some mirror ambigrams and ambigrams that don't look or read the same after the rotation or mirroring. And hardly anyone would say that they are not proper ambigrams.

>But there onwards things get iffy. What if you create a chain or mesh, where words themselves don't turn into full words? What if the only ambivalence in the mesh in in the intersections and mirrored or rotated words don't turn into anything legible? What if you create a rotation or mirroring that flips the roles of background and text? What if there's no rotation needed, the only ambivalence comes from what you see as background and what as foreground...

By the definition given by Ambigram.com, it is clearly defined that "an ambigram is a typographical creation that presents two or more separate words within the same physical space."

They also clearly outlined that there are several types of ambigram, namely:

1. Rotational Ambigram
   
2. Symbiotogram (aka Asymmetrical Rotational Ambigram)
   
3. Reflected Ambigram
   
4. Perceptual Shift Ambigram
   
   
   Though personally I don't believe this list is exhaustive, yet. We may, in the future, encounter new permutation of ambigram that fits into the definition but doesn't fall into any of these four existing categories.
   
   > Pretty much all typographical tricks where you try to evoke multiple interpretations can be loosely called ambigrams. I'd say this one is pretty far from the strict definition, but it's a 3D object that could even be called a 3D glyph, and it definitely turns into different letters depending on how you rotate it. So it's one letter long 90 degree rotational 3D ambigram?
   
   On the contrary, if you follow the definition of ambigram from Ambigram.com closely, this actually falls perfectly into the definition of an ambigram. It is a typographical creation. Check. It does presents two or more separate words (well, it is justifiable in this situation to call the singular letter A, B, and C as words even though two out of three of them aren't technically word in the traditional sense). Check. And it was done within the same physical space (perceptually, it is was done in 3-dimensional space as oppose to 2-dimensional that we're used to). Check. Yup. Sounds like an ambigram to me.
   
   EDIT: Also check out John Langdon other works at his website.

Based off of my own experience... see if you can find a physical shop instead. Ordering online is going to be somewhat iffy. Sets are almost always tourist traps with low-quality brushes and ink, made more to be seen than to be used. I would suggest buying the equipment separately and packaging them up yourself.

So! Actual stuff:

• Paper: Rice paper, full stop. Something like this would work - Japanese and Chinese calligraphy share tools, so it doesn't really matter if you use one or the other. Gridded paper would also be nice.
  
  
• Ink: Get black sumi ink, which should be available at art supply shops as well as online. I recommend the bottled stuff to begin with, because it's just so much less of a hassle than trying to get the appropriate level of thickness if you're grinding an inkstick. If you do decide to get an ink stick, be sure to get an ink stone as well. I prefer the rectangular ones, but that's personal preference. You add a little water on the deep end, then dip the end of your inkstick in the water and grind on the flat portion at the top until the ink is as thick as you want.
  
  
• Brush: I'd say a medium sized wolf or goat hair brush, like this one.
  
  
• Other nice things: something like this practice book might be nice. Look for water-based practice sheets - the idea is you write over it in water, let it dry, and then you can reuse it. From my brief look at the preview, this book looks decent and also has good reviews. I like its stroke-by-stroke breakdown with examples.
  
  One thing's for sure - if your boyfriend isn't already learning the language, it will kick his ass, because the writing system is just so different. If he's not learning the language, he will also be limited to whatever words come in the instruction book, because it's not like in alphabets where if you know all 26/52 symbols you can write what you want. Each character is unique, and though there's a standard stroke order, you have to just be able to recognise the character in order to write it.
  
  Learning Chinese calligraphy from written sources is going to be hard. If at all possible, see if your local area offers Chinese calligraphy classes for beginners. It really, really helps to have a teacher who can correct your brushwork. A lot of the expressiveness and beauty of Chinese calligraphy IMO comes from understanding what it is that you're writing, and how it should look proportionally, and these things are hard to understand just by reading.

This is a list of books that was suggest to me by John Langdon (An internationally known typographer for his ambigram used in The DaVinci Code) while I was taking his class in College:

Type Directors Club Annuals: I just recently picked up the latest issue of this (32 I believe) and it shows current works of typography across a broad spectrum of mediums. These are great because they feature only current work and many of the featured designs are extremely creative and pushing the envelope in terms of readability and style.

Logo Lounge Master Library Vol. 1: I do not have a copy of this book but I have thumbed through it briefly and it features tons of logos that mainly deal with letter forms. This is certainly on my personal list of books I would like.

Type: A Visual History of Typefaces and Graphic Styles, Vol. 1: I recently purchased this book as well and I have to say it is a MASSIVE collection of vintage typography and ornaments from type founders all over the world. The majority of the samples in this book are from before the 1900's so you are almost guaranteed to not recognize anything in it. Excellent resource for inspiration!

Logo, Font & Lettering Bible: This is another book on my list. Covers a broad spectrum of lettering and is also good for learning fundementals.

Some other books he has suggested to me but I have not personally look through or read are: Type & Typography, Fonts & Logos, and finally John Langdon's book: Wordplay.

I hope this helps!

I'd highly recommend Ambigrams Revealed, not only because my artwork is in it, but also because there's a whole section going in depth into how some artist created their pieces. The wordplay books are good as well.

You could also come by the Ambigrams Revealed website, where I'm trying my best to get the forums active :). I'm hoping, along with the owner of the site, to get it to be a thriving place where people can help each other learn and improve their work.

The flow and layout is nice but overall the lettering could use some work.

• Work on your spacing and letter width. It is all over the place currently. Compare the width of the p to the o. Look how the p and the h overlap. The r is so tight it is almost not readable. Spacing and letter width are easy enough to make consistent and go a long way.
  
  
• In script letters downward strokes are wide while upward ones are thin. You have this right for the most part except in some of the swashes.
  
  
• Another general rule for script, dont let two wide sections cross. You do this on the uppercase T. Look here Basic example of how to avoid this.
  
  
• For the faux calligraphy only thing I noticed was the f is at a slant while the rest of the letters are straight up. Kind of throws it off.
  
  Good luck!
  
  ps: just a note. this book is where I learned most of these tips. It is amazing in the way it can give you simple tips to make your lettering exponentially better. I would recommend trying to buy it.

Hey there, welcome! I'm a lefty and I write the same way you do (like this, right?). I've found it to be much the easiest way for me to get the right pen angle and all that. I don't think you have to be worried about smudging the ink, your hand should be to the side of your writing, if you write the way I do.

Read the wiki, and the getting started guide (links to them are up top and in the sidebar). Use guidelines, I can't stress that enough, here's a handy guideline generator I use. Keep practicing, don't get discouraged (which as a lefty it's quite easy to do, just remember learning calligraphy is still hard for those righties, us lefties just need a little extra patience and determination!). And share, even if you think your work could be better, we're here to help you!

Also if you are interested in Learning italic I recommend you check out the videos Lloyd Reynolds made for Oregon Public Broadcasting(episode two was lost a long time ago, so don't go looking for it) and see if you can get ahold of his booklet. If you want to know more about Reynolds the Reed College website has a bunch on him.

I hope this was somewhat helpful, and I look forward to seeing some of your practice!

Not a dumb question....that is page 22 of Arrighi's La Operina. Born Ludovicus Vincentinus, he was a scribe in the Papal Chancery. By pure luck, Arrighi, a master scribe, met a master carver, Ugo da Carpi, who carved the woodblocks that printed the 32 pages of La Operina which in 1522 became the first printed calligraphy book. It is a beautiful example of Chancery Cursive which has become better known as Italic today. It was followed by many printed calligraphy example books and by the 1700 was largely forgotten until a facsimilie was produced in the 1920. 300 copies were printed in Switzerland by Fredric Warde and the forward was by Stanley Morrison. I understand that the facsimilie was very influential in Alfred Fairbanks lettering and book, among other prominent 20th C calligraphers.

Perhaps the best modern translation and study is Arrighi's Running Hand by Paul Standard. My copy is well used and I show it to beginners when I teach Italics. I often use the book as practice like this extract of page 13

Apologies for long answer.

TLDR Arrighi's Running Hand discussion

This, in the absence of an on-line edition of Edith Diehl's seminal work "Bookbinding: Its Background and Technique", is an excellent survey of the state of traditional binding as it stood ca 1910, in the US, France, and the UK.

Some of the techniques may no longer be advised, but this is a decent free, readable, illustrated introduction to hand bookbinding, if somewhat oversimplified.

I wince at the sawing of the backs, but it was common then, and certainly common now... And the book is no guarantee of success, given that there's no replacement for instruction and practice under the direction of someone who knows what they are doing. But it's still a good overview.

Even Edith Diehl, who does go into many subtleties, glosses over things. This just glosses a bit more. Still, it's a good start-to-finish overview.

EDIT: formatting

best of luck! And take all the training they offer you, never miss a chance to better your skills (especially if they'll translate to the civilian world). (Source: my brother in the Army.)

I would love to get this to drool over the pretty scripts and hopefully get my sister the artist to learn how to do :)

I think I know what you mean. For broad edge, I'd suggest Michelle Brown's A Guide To Western Historical Manuscripts. I'm not sure what the answer is for pointed pen.

Brown's book is meant for paleographers (historians who read old manuscripts) not calligraphers, so it won't have anything like a ductus or comments on how to do the scripts inside. What it does have is a crap ton of scripts, laid out in high-quality full-page photos from the original manuscripts in a nice large format.

If you want instructions for how to do said scripts, I'd recommend The Historical Source Book for Scribes, by Brown (again) and Patricia Lovett, an accomplished calligrapher. This won't have quite the breadth you're after (it only has 14 scripts vs. 55 in Guide to Western historical manuscripts), but I think it's a valuable starting point to learning scripts from just a manuscript, as I talk about at length here (that comment also has some links to online libraries with extensive digitization projects; it takes some work to get what you want out of them, but once you do the selection and image quality is miles better than any book).

If you can't find an affordable copy of "historical source book" (the price seems to fluctuate wildly), Drogin's Medieval Calligraphy is not as good, but still a good starting point. And it's super cheap.

Also, I wouldn't recommend Harris' The Calligrapher's Bible. It's overdone in some areas and underdone in others, as I talk about here.

Sorry to link to my own replies so much, but I have a lot to say on this topic and I only have so much time to type :)

Just some fun ideas. Not sure what type of stuff she is into. Maybe you could tell us a little more about her.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/484691591/teal-druzy-necklace-geode-necklace-druzy?ga_order=most_relevant&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery&ga_search_query=&ref=sr_gallery-2-10

Modern Calligraphy: A Beginner's Guide to Pointed Pen and Brush Pen Lettering https://www.amazon.com/dp/0998906204/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_0gI0BbAK1NYYQ

Crazy Rich Asians (Crazy Rich Asians Trilogy) https://www.amazon.com/dp/0345803787/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_YkI0Bb2D8J8WF

This place is super fun and you both could go. I have done this several times with friends and even my husband enjoyed it. https://boardandbrush.com

https://www.lushusa.com/gifts/christmas-gifts/

1. You should print out guidelines from the Calligraphy Line Generator in the wiki (external links section) or draw in angle lines. Without the angle guidelines it is really really hard to maintain the slant.
   
   
2. I super highly suggest Lloyd Reynold's book. Here is an Amazon link. If you cant afford it (though used copies are particularly cheap, look at his online videos. He is the 'father' of Italic, and really shows the basics well.
   
   
3. It sounds like your nib is faulty. Brush it briefly through a flame, and see if that helps. Otherwise, buy a new nib. The PP pens are great, especially for beginning. The 3.5 or 2.4 are good to start with.
   
   
4. There are a lot of broad nibs out there. That's why we don't really recommend any. I have some from Standard Graph, that work really well. Otherwise, just buy a few different types... local art stores usually have a big box of assorted nibs and they aren't too expensive.
   
   
5. Guides for Spencerian and Copperplate are best found in IAMPETH.com. Especially the video series by Joe Vitolo.

I'm new to design as well but I just happened to read something that you might find as a valuable critique. Check out this book and "Look Inside" at pages 10 and 11. I think some of the points the author raises about some of those logos -- irregularity of certain features among letters, namely -- will apply to yours as well. For example

• in the logo, the T is slanted but that is not the case in any other design you have
  
  
• the width of the stem of the T and the L and the E are all different
  
  
• it's not clear if there is a reason why the F, E, and R are not specialized but the U, C, and I are not -- it makes the text hard to read
  
• the lack of an F in the forum sig is especially confusing
  
  Personally, I like they style and think it's very creative; but I don't think it serves the function you'd like it as well as you'd like -- I had to read your username in order to initially pick up on your nickname from your design.

I did notice the similarity. I've been looking at the few difference "italic cursive" forms that are out there. I did get a copy of this Arrighi's Running Hand book but I think I need to pick up a more modern one as well to practice from.

However, right now.. I'm actually mostly focusing on basic American cursive. I'd like to be "decent" at both styles. I love how some of the flourishes can look in cursive for writing little notes, cards, letters.. I love the speed and readability of italic for work notes, meetings, journaling, etc.

I'm still learning myself so some of these books I'm recommending depend on your skillset and interest I guess. For typedesign and understanding fundamentals: Designing type is a good read, same with Stroke. Free stuff like briem superhandy. As a primer I'd read this before I buy a type design book. For lettering I don't really have books of preference. I generally go googling for info on whatever I may have a doubt in or if I just need inspiration. Like if I were looking at script, I'd look at works by Tony di spigna, tommy thompson, david quay and the like. When I once had a doubt about negative space within letters, I googled and stumbled upon this which helped. so for lettering it's a bit all over the place where I mostly just got info from googling. However if you want a book in lettering for a beginner-intermediate then logo,font & lettering gets you upto speed on a lot of things though he can be a lil old in his methods. Also books by Mortimer Leach and Doyald Young. For calligraphy I think I mostly learnt it from speedball manuals and then just googled but more importantly I did a lot of writing which is why I picked up on it. I think to understand type properly you need to do some calligraphy, once you get a grasp on calligraphy, typedesign makes sense so you go buy type design books, eventually lettering becomes super easy.

My super qt calligraphy professor recommends this book and it's what I used for my picture! $3 used, and there are PDFs online (but I think a paper copy is easier to refer to when practicing).

Sheila Waters is kind of the grand dame of calligraphy and has a great book called The Foundations of Calligraphy that's a bit pricier but also good. $35 from John Neal (not on Amazon), but I think just the first book is a great start and enough for a loooooong time.

Coptics are super popular for one reason: They lay flat. A lot of folks love this for sketchbooks. I hate them though. Too much play in the spine means it wiggles a lot and just doesn't feel right to me.

The spine is not going to be too much more worn than any other structure. Paper and linen thread are actually really strong. Like I said, Coptics are favored for sketchbooks, which means they survive being thrown into bags and stand up to a lot of abuse.

There are literally hundreds of different types of bindings. Coptics are actually on of the oldest types of a codex binding, being developed in Africa in the 2nd century CE. Some use only thread to hold the book together and are called non-adhesive bindings. Others use only glue and are called adhesive bindings. Some use both thread and glue. "Regular binding", that you mention is not the name of any binding I'm familiar with. Is that a link stitch? Sewing all along on tapes or cords? Book binding has been around for literally thousands of years, so there are a lot of different structures.

Each binding has it's own advantages and disadvantages, and which one to use on which book depends on size, type of paper used to print on, and desired look and functionality. I went to school for two years to learn all this stuff and to practice a ton of different structures. If you're looking for something to get you started when it comes to traditional Western bookbinding, check out Laura Young's Book or Edith Diehl's. They explain a lot of structures pretty well and are something every binder should read.

I'm new to flourishing myself. This link helped me more than anything so far, and includes a free worksheet:

https://www.thehappyevercrafter.com/suzanne-cunningham/

​

I've looked for books on the subject, but there aren't many. One of the few I've found and bought is "Incorporating Modern Flourishes into Your Lettering" by Jarrin Cheng. It's a really good resource for flourish ideas, but doesn't break down flourishes as much as Suzanne Cunningham's lesson above.

https://www.amazon.com/Flourishing-Incorporating-Flourishes-Lettering-Workbook/dp/0998909904/ref=sr_1_1?crid=A8MXVG4CBLUD&keywords=calligraphy+flourishing+book&qid=1556908968&s=books&sprefix=calligraphy+flourishin%2Cstripbooks%2C162&sr=1-1

​

As a general tip, use whole-arm movements and avoid finger movements when doing calligraphy in general. It's much harder initially, but large flourishes are pretty much impossible any other way. It also reduces hand/finger strain.

​

Good luck!

Thanks! I used to think the same about my writing, but once you find the right teacher things start coming together pretty quickly with patient practice.

In my case, it was Lloyd J. Reynolds work that turned my writing around.

Good Luck!

We don't know why some handwriting looks better than others. You may want to talk to /r/philosophy about that.

But, in my opinion, the type of pen can make the difference. This assumes, though, that the person's strokes and letter-forms are consistent.

Using an italic nib, rather than a rounded one, accentuates the curves of the line and makes each pen-movement distinct. As you can see with a ball-point pen or pencil you used for your example, each stroke is ordinary and boringly consistent. (I don't mean to minimize your handwriting. I'm just commenting on what you provided!)

But it's more than just getting a pen. If one does not have consistent letter forms and pen-strokes, then the tool will do no good.

What should you do? Practice placing an elliptical into each of your letters. Make them more rounded rather than flat and straight. Your public library likely has books on this that can be more helpful than some random person on the Internet like me ...

If you can get a hold of Fred Eager's book and start practicing according to his instructions, you'll see improvement in months. (Months?!)

After your suggestions my current amazon cart for her is:

Calligraphy: A Beginner's Guide to Pointed Pen and Brush Pen Lettering

Hand Lettering for Relaxation: An Inspirational Workbook for Creating Beautiful Lettered Art

Strathmore 300 Series Drawing Pad, Medium Surface, 9"x12" Glue Bound, 50 Sheets

Rhodia No.16 A5 6 x 8 1/4 80 Sheet, Dot Pad.

Tombow 56191 Advanced Lettering Set.

Pilot Parallel Pen 2-Color Calligraphy Pen Set, with Black and Red Ink Cartridges in 2.4mm Nib size and 3.8mm Nib size with extra 12 assorted colors cartridges and 12 black cartridges. I assume the cartridges are not dependent on nib size as that would be infuriatingly stupid. Only dependent on the brands pen circumference? Correct me if I am wrong on that.

Hopefully that's pretty comprehensive but as far as speedball goes these are the texts I've found:

Speedball Textbook 24th Edition for $8.67.

Speedball Textbook: For Pen and Brush Lettering, 20th Edition for $113.35.

The Speedball Textbook, a comprehensive Guide to Pen and Brush Lettering, 23rd, Twenth-Third Edition for $51.01 new.

Did you have a specific edition in mind? A lot of the ones I'm seeing on amazon vary greatly as shown above.

For me, books. There are a lot of paleographers and calligraphers who have devoted a lot of time analyzing historical manuscripts and tracing the lineage.

Some good ones:

Historical Scripts by Stan Knight

Medieval Calligraphy by Marc Drogin

The Historical Source Book for Scribes by Michelle P. Brown and Patricia Lovett

Those are just a few. There are plenty more good ones! Also, getting into script analysis yourself can be very helpful. Start looking through the manuscript section of the sidebar and making your own observations. It can be quite illuminating.

All that training was needed for endurance writing. Now that we don't write very much simple practice with a modern pen on lived paper will improve penmanship enough.

I recommend something like this The Italic Way to Beautiful Handwriting: Cursive and Calligraphic https://www.amazon.com/dp/1626540381/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_wnnPBbZMBD6XG

Speaking from the "more practical" Copperplate school ;) - I learned Copperplate because I love the look/style, and I wanted to get into wedding calligraphy. Speed is important here since time = money.

I wouldn't say the "non-Engrosser's"-style Copperplate is "without particularly well defined basic strokes" as /u/BestBefore2015 has said, but it is definitely more "open to interpretation" than Engrosser's script. I would say that most of the modern pointed pen calligraphy that's so pervasive on Etsy today comes from this style of Copperplate. I have taken Copperplate from four different teachers who are all master calligraphers in their own right, and all four have different styles. That said, I bought the Eleanor Winters book because it was one of the only few available, and I did not particularly care for her interpretation. IMHO, her style is too rounded and too curved. I much prefer Gordon Turner's book which is much closer to the engravings from George Bickham's The Universal Penman, another must-have if you're going to study old-style Copperplate.

Most of the folks in this sub who do Copperplate are of the Engrosser's school, so you'll have a wealth of resources and feedback should you decide to learn it.

[edited to fix link]

In short, not really. Graffiti tags / handstyles, no matter how weird and wild they are, still have typography roots. Many quality graffiti handstyles could be compared to quality sign painting styles – a lot of overlap. If you're looking to develop a clean, refined, and traditional style then studying traditional sign painting would be my recommendation. Calligraphy, typography (the study of type in general), and drawing letters in a traditional format will all contribute to your knowledge of lettering in general. Then graffiti styles will follow after studying and practicing it more. After I started getting really into type, hand lettering, and fonts in general is when I noticed my overall tag styles improve the greatest. The rest is just a ridiculous amount of practice. Like going through multiple phone books, thousands of pens, and cans of paint.

Here's some links, I haven't checked all the books personally but I have a few of them:

seanwes.com/learn/

http://www.amazon.com/Sign-Painters-Faythe-Levine/dp/1616890835/ref=pd_sim_b_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=18KCM0XRJB2Y65NMC6F7

http://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Type-Classic-Three-Dimensional-Lettering/dp/0500516995/ref=pd_sim_b_14?ie=UTF8&refRID=18KCM0XRJB2Y65NMC6F7

http://www.amazon.com/Mack-Brush-Freehand-Lettering-EDUCATIONAL/dp/B0046DK1EC/ref=pd_sim_b_9?ie=UTF8&refRID=18KCM0XRJB2Y65NMC6F7

http://www.amazon.com/The-Hand-Lettering-Helm-Wotzkow/dp/0486217973/ref=pd_sim_b_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=18KCM0XRJB2Y65NMC6F7

https://www.google.com/search?q=sign+painting+techniques&safe=off&espv=2&biw=1535&bih=1039&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=82p_VInZEsP7ggSK5oDQAg&ved=0CCYQsAQ

https://www.google.com/search?q=sign+painting+techniques&safe=off&espv=2&biw=1535&bih=1039&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=82p_VInZEsP7ggSK5oDQAg&ved=0CCYQsAQ#safe=off&tbm=isch&q=hand+drawn+letter+techniques

One of my favorites:
https://www.google.com/search?q=herb+lubalin&safe=off&hl=en&biw=1535&bih=1039&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=5Gt_VKa8BcSVNqm1gbgJ&sqi=2&ved=0CAYQ_AUoAQ

If you're interested in font design, I would suggest you check out this book by Leslie Carbaga. Even if you're not interested in font design in particular, I would still suggest it... it's an amazing book, and a joy to read and look at.

I'm surprised no one has mentioned the book "Left-Handed Calligraphy." Being right-handed, I have never used it, but it has good reviews on Amazon. Perhaps it could prove useful to you.

I think for only 7 invites that's fine! It may even be a nice personal touch. I taught myself calligraphy for our wedding, and this book was the best resource for it I found: https://www.amazon.com/Modern-Calligraphy-Everything-Started-Script/dp/1250016320

I am almost positive that it is this book. I own it but have not been able to fully read it myself. It does have handy transparent guides at the back and looks pretty solid.

I adore calligraphy and think that everyone should learn a little! write on! I'm going to pm you as well!!!

You can keep practicing cursive, and you need to practice 15 minutes a day. There are quite a few free workbook things on the web, albeit mostly aimed an children, and quite a few YouTube videos. Google for "cursive writing workbooks" or search for "cursive writing" on YouTube.

You can also learn italic handwriting. Italic is also fast and beautiful to look at. This book is out of print but you should be able to find a used copy. If anyone knows of an online copy please post the link!

EDIT: See this link http://www.reddit.com/r/Handwriting/comments/2iyso7/the_italic_way_to_beautiful_handwriting_by_fred/

I found [The Italic Way to Beautiful Handwriting] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/002079990X/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1) the most helpful. I go back and review some of the exercises every few years just to keep my handwriting legible.

Universal Penman - Here's a book that I'd recommend for some inspiration. It won't provide you with much in the way of instruction, but will definitely show you what can be done with the style you've shown.

In the sidebar is Handwriting repair: The italic approach.pdf for something free/crash course. I just purchased The Italic Way to Beautiful Handwriting: Cursive and Calligraphic by Fred Eager to start learning Italic Cursive myself.

Jarrin @midnightscribblings is awesome and he recently released a workbook about flourishes! Here's the link to his book on Amazon: https://smile.amazon.com/Flourishing-Incorporating-Flourishes-Lettering-Workbook/dp/0998909904

Thank you kindly for your reply

I used a Manuscript pen. This one:

https://www.google.ca/search?q=manuscript+pen&num=30&rlz=1C1AWFC_enCA733CA733&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjP28vo-rTaAhXK8YMKHRl6CIwQ_AUICigB&biw=1093&bih=470#imgrc=NGUJgXky3zOa5M:

ductus is how high letters are in nib widths right? If so I aim for 5

And I worked from the book The Art of Calligraphy by David Harris

https://www.amazon.ca/Art-Calligraphy-David-Harris/dp/1564588491

I have Chinese Calligraphy Made Easy and like it. Get a Magic Cloth (or similar product) so you can practice with water and without wasting paper.

I will caution you: I have followed this method and still suck. A teacher would probably help, but I'm just not that serious. I console myself by remembering that I'm better than all but a small handful of non-Chinese people at it.

Best 20$ I ever spent as a designer http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1581804369/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=cuup-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1581804369

For anyone interested, it's from an ambigram book called Wordplay by John Langdon, the typographer who created the ambigrams for Angels & Demons.

Several of these are ripped from John Langdon; at the very least me/you and illusion appear in his excellent book Wordplay.

I actually got into typography because of Leslie Cabarga's Logo, Font, and Lettering Bible.

I think it's a typography goldmine regardless of whether you're completely new to this or already have some experience. And it's really entertaining, too.
If you don't have a problem pirating it, you can PM me for a torrent link.

The short answer is to practice. But don't practice to the point of burning yourself out. Practice with a purpose. Work on a specific stroke or letter form at a time.

I found this book to be the most helpful.

An interesting variant is one by Fred Eager.

Whenever I first got into by doing the examples in thisbook

Edit: pardon my englais, it isn't my first language

There's a book by Vance Studley that does just that, called Left Handed Calligraphy. I personally didn't find it very helpful, as by the time I checked out the book I'd already read a lot about how to handle calligraphy left handed, but maybe something in it will speak to you.

Fred Eager's seminal work is the definitive volume on the subject. https://www.amazon.com/Italic-Way-Beautiful-Handwriting-Calligraphic/dp/1626540381/ref=pd_sim_14_1/132-2624008-7086028?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=1626540381&pd_rd_r=6c27233e-6fa2-11e9-9f57-c98fbdd56605&pd_rd_w=LVDc1&pd_rd_wg=Sv8Vs&pf_rd_p=90485860-83e9-4fd9-b838-b28a9b7fda30&pf_rd_r=MTCV5R5Q65CA0Y0B5KQX&psc=1&refRID=MTCV5R5Q65CA0Y0B5KQX

Italic Calligraphy and Handwriting by Lloyd Reynolds.

https://www.amazon.com/Italic-Calligraphy-Handwriting-Exercises-Text/dp/0800842847/ref=sr_1_fkmrnull_1?crid=37E1B6SXLAYP8&keywords=lloyd+reynolds+italic&qid=1557093019&s=gateway&sprefix=Lloyd+Reynolds%2Caps%2C176&sr=8-1-fkmrnull

This book has never let me down. 10 years in the biz and I still refer to it all the time.

http://www.amazon.com/Logo-Lettering-Bible-Leslie-Cabarga/dp/1581804369

Once again, exception proves the rule.

Lots of examples out there:
https://www.google.com/search?q=modern+calligraphy&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjA17rRyZHOAhUGSCYKHcvmA5IQsAQIKQ&biw=1380&bih=725

Slickly produced book that I own:
https://www.amazon.com/Modern-Calligraphy-Everything-Started-Script/dp/1250016320

Pelikan 4001 Ink

Chesterfield Ink 25ml

Chesterfield Ink 50ml

Jinhao x750

Pilot Parallel

Hero 616

A Wooden Pen Box

Nemosine #6 Nibs

J. Herbin Ink Cartridges

Private Reserve Ink

Pen Cleaner

Sheaffer Skrip Bottled Ink

Pilot Plumix

Waterman Fountain Pen Ink

The Universal Penman

Lamy Pen Sleeve

Duke Uranus Fat Man

This it?

> david morris.

Perhaps you meant David Harris?

It’s this one.

Sorry for not giving the author!

> You’re using too many points.

It turns out I was using too few, actually. I drew this font in illustrator by using as little points as possible (I'm lazy), but Fontcreator couldn't deal with some of the long handles, which fucked some of the curves up.
I know what a 'good' font is supposed to look like, but as I've pointed out before: that's not what I'm going for.

(As for that Bible, I had a look at it on amazon, but the front and back cover have some of the worst typography I've ever seen, so I think I'll pass.)