Creating Calligraphy Workshops with Swell Anchor Studio’s Christie Jones

I met Christie Jones like most other 21st century creatives meet – on the internet. And one day, an idea popped up – a workshop collaboration! I wanted Christie to make the trek to Boston to host one of her spectacular beginner calligraphy workshops, and unbeknownst to me, she also wanted to head this way.

And there you have it, a partnership was born. Christie has been a delight to work with, and we have yet to meet in person! Thanks Google Hang! But, come June, we’ll be enjoying a summer weekend in the best Breather space in Boston with a handful of new friends practicing our calligraphy skills.

Prior to our workshop, I wanted to kickstart a brand new monthly series with – you guessed it – Christie! I asked her a few questions about her experiences, journey to becoming a workshop facilitator, and what it’s like creating calligraphy workshops. Here’s what she had to say, enjoy!

On Creating Calligraphy Workshops: A Q&A with Christie Jones

How did you learn calligraphy? Was it easier or more challenging than you expected?

I started my calligraphy journey with the I Still Love Calligraphy online course. It was MUCH harder than I thought it would be. It was specifically challenging figuring out all the tools on my own and how to assemble and properly hold the pen. This is one of the reasons why I LOVE teaching in person. It can be a simple adjustment in tools that helps someone use the tools properly and excel in their start.

When did you decide to share the love and begin hosting calligraphy workshops for others looking to learn?

I instantly shared my journey through my blog and social media as I was practicing. I had so many supportive people cheering me on and asking me questions. It gave me the motivation to really pursue it further. I began teaching calligraphy workshops a year after I took my course. To date I’ve taught over 200 people and our Boston workshop will be my 30th workshop in two years.

What would be your dream collaboration?

Great question! I’d love to collaborate with Billabong, or SWELL. I feel like a partnership with my lettering and designs for a lifestyle brand that is focused on outdoors (specifically beach + surfing) would be a perfect fit!

What is one thing you’ve learned while working for yourself that you wish you knew earlier?

Oh gosh, I’ve learned so much and I’m still learning but probably the biggest thing especially with a creative biz is that you won’t be creating always. There’s so much to running your own business – scheduling, quoting, billing, customer service, social media, etc. I create probably 40% of the time and the rest is consumed by all the other aspects of running a business which means business life isn’t always as glamorous as it seems. A lot of my friends assume I sit 8 hours a day writing gorgeous letters but that’s not reality.

What are a few resources that you love to use as a self-employed creative that you would suggest others leverage for their soon-to-be businesses?

These tools/courses I swear by: Hey Sweet Pea’s webinars (Writing to Delight, Instagram, Business Systems etc) their classes are geared towards creatives and are so inspiring. Amy’s Be Your Own CFO (life saver for someone like me who hates the financial aspect of business), and I love Buffer.

What is one thing you do every day?

DRINK AS MUCH COFFEE AS NEEDED! I definitely am fueled by coffee.

ps. Interested in attending our June workshop or learning more about creating calligraphy workshops? Visit Christie’s site and grab your ticket here!

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