To say that I’m excited is an understatement. I’m overjoyed to take you on this journey of learning calligraphy with me. Over the course of the next 6 weeks, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know to learn calligraphy including step by step instructions, practice sheets & more. I, along with calligrapher Madi Sanders, have designed this to teach you calligraphy in 5 “days.” Today, we’re going to get you started with the basics, so you’ll have plenty of time to purchase supplies & start Day 1!
Recommended Supplies:
Zebra G Nib {firm, great for beginners}
Straight pen {I purchased an oblique & immediately felt overwhelmed. The choice is up to you, but whatever you learn with should be what you continue to use for sake of ease.}
Tracing paper
Black ink {I use Higgins Eternal Black Ink}
Paper in varying weights
Most of these items should be available locally, but are easiest to locate online. I receive numerous emails about where to purchase supplies. While you can find them at numerous stores, this is one I have used.
Let’s do this! To get started, insert the nib.
Dip the pen in ink.
You don’t want to see the hole after you dip. The first time may take a little more. When you fill the hole, remove the excess ink on the nib on the side of the ink jar. Notice that Madi stabilizes her jar with a roll of washi tape. Genius, right? Don’t forget to print your practice grids!
Next week you’ll learn the strokes, how to create varying widths & loops! Everything you need to learn calligraphy is within these posts, but you can subscribe here to receive a bonus practice sheet {goes out once a month}!
PIN the tutorial for later here:
The series, in order:
Calligraphy Resources & Left Handed Calligraphy
You may also like my online flower arranging workshop filled to the brim with beautiful centerpiece ideas you can recreate with step-by-step instructions.
Credits:
flowers Emmy-Ray, photography Wheat Photo, calligraphy instructor Madi Sanders [show_shopthepost_widget id=”1746039″]
LET’S CONNECT!
I went to our local craft store and could not find a Zebra G nib – if I can’t find that, what would you recommend? Then, I couldn’t find your ink – is it waterproof or non-waterproof? So aggravating when you can’t find what you need. Please advise. Thanks so much. : )
It’s also available online. Unfortunately, every store differs & constantly changes inventory. These are merely recommendations.
Unfortunately Robyn, craft stores vary, even from one location to another. In addition, they often continuously update stock. In this post you’ll find a link to the online resource I’ve used if that is more convenient. https://lifestylegleam.com/learn-calligraphy/
Hi,
I just came across your calligraphy series!! So excited. I have been wanting to learn this for years now. I even bought all the supplies but never could find a class near home. I just subscribed. How can I get the practice sheets? Thankyou!
They’re all available within their individual lessons. Enjoy!
Will you be having this free class again anytime soon? I took a beginners class 10 years ago but would like to get started again. I look forward to attending.
I don’t offer classes, but follow the series to learn on your own at home! Enjoy!
Hi Julie! So happy to have found this 5 day course 🙂 It might be helpful with my wedding coming up in a few months time 🙂 I have been looking for the files to download and all I can find is the practice grid.. would you be able to send the alphabet etc by email? Thank you so much! xoxo
All files are within the series of posts for their individual lessons. Enjoy!
I am 79 years of age and I can write fairly well, but I do shake at times. I have wanted to learn this art form for years. Will I be wasting my time and money?
You may actually find it’s easier for you because unlike handwriting, you do a stroke at a time, lifting the pen as needed. It’s free, so give it a try!