I’ll start this out by saying this isn’t a how-to on calligraphy blog post. Not one bit. Instead, it’s all about my attempt at learning calligraphy. I’m learning on my own, and it’s definitely not going as I anticipated.
Learning is my thing, it was even one of my goals/plans/whatever you want to call it for 2016. I love learning new skills and calligraphy is at the top of my list (along with web development, but we’ll get to that later).
Using a Calligraphy Starter Kit
To start out, I ordered Laura Hooper’s starter kit and let me just say, it’s beautiful. It has everything you need to start learning calligraphy (right from Laura Hooper’s shop):
- 1 Adjustable oblique pen holder
- Assortment of 3 nibs
- 1 Pot of black ink
- 1 Pot of white ink
- Instructional tips & techniques from Laura’s personal experience including 3 alphabets
- 1 Journal with gold foil letterpress cover & quality calligraphy paper inside
- A few notes on modern calligraphy & mixing inks
- 3 Sheets of vellum tracing paper
- 3 Sheets of gridline practice sheets
She also offers some optional add-ons. I really wanted the gold ink, but restrained myself. Obviously, I still want it. First thing on my 2016 holiday wish list ;).
Naturally, I thought I could pick up a pen and immediately or almost immediately create these beautiful, sweeping lines. Wrong. So, so wrong.
I knew learning calligraphy takes time and practice, but I had no idea how much. It also doesn’t help that it took me forever to figure out how to hold the pen. Maybe I’m even holding it wrong here! (In case you didn’t catch it, that’s a hint for you to tell me if I’m doing it all wrong and let me in on a secret all the pros know).
Perhaps I’m on a slower learning curve with this one. But, I still love it! I just wish I had more time to dedicate to learning calligraphy. It takes time, lots of time. But, if you’re looking into it – I say jump right in! It’s a learn-as-you-go process, one that’s particularly enjoyable.
If you’re interested, Laura also offers a video tutorial to help you get started – if you sign up, let me know how it is!
Are you learning calligraphy or have you already mastered it? Please do share your tips! I’m struggling over here.
If not, what else do you hope to learn/kick ass at in 2016?
And if you’re looking for an actual how-to post, here they are!
g.
Calligraphy is SO HARD. It definitely takes sooooo much practice. You’ll be a pro in no time, I’m sure. 😉
It is so so hard, but I love it already! Thanks for the encouragement, you’re so wonderful <3
g.
What a great thing to pick up! I’m dying to learn the art. I’d love this as a birthday gift!! Sending to my mom as a little hint 😉
It’s been so much fun! Frustrating at times, but that good kind of frustrated..because I want to be better at it. And yay! What a great birthday gift idea – you’ll have to let me know if you get it! 🙂
g.
Thank you for your interest in the art! You ARE holding the pen correctly, so good work there 🙂 It does just take lots and lots of patience, time & practice…but looks like you are on a great start! Do you mind if we share one of your pics on our feed with credit to you of course?
Hi Laura, thank you for taking the time to read my post! It means so much. And I’m so excited to be getting better! Your kit has been extremely helpful. Please feel free to use any of the photographs here 🙂
Cheers,
g.