Celebrating Calligraphy and the Lettering Arts
The Calligraphy & Lettering Arts Society (CLAS) is the UK’s leading organisation for calligraphy and the lettering arts. Since 1994, we have connected learners, tutors, and enthusiasts across the country and beyond, creating opportunities to study, share, and enjoy the beauty of the written word.
About CLAS
CLAS is a registered charity dedicated to the study, practice, and promotion of calligraphy and lettering arts. Our mission is to make the lettering arts accessible and inspiring, bringing together people from all walks of life who are drawn to the creativity and discipline of beautiful writing.
From lively beginners taking their first steps with pen and ink to established professionals sharing expertise, our society celebrates the full spectrum of the calligraphy world. By joining CLAS, you support an organisation that safeguards these traditions while encouraging innovation in modern calligraphy and contemporary lettering.
Membership
Membership of CLAS opens the door to a vibrant and supportive community of calligraphers and lettering artists. It gives you access to exclusive resources, discounts, and opportunities while directly supporting the promotion of calligraphy across the UK.
Benefits include:
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the Edge — our highly regarded magazine, filled with articles, demonstrations, book reviews, and members’ work, delivered regularly to your door
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Discounted LiveOnline courses — interactive online calligraphy classes led by CLAS Accredited Tutors and Fellows, ideal for learners at every level
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Exhibition opportunities — showcase your calligraphy through Art & the Letter, Living Letters, and other CLAS-curated events
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Community and support — connect with like-minded people, share your progress, and enjoy the inspiration of being part of a national lettering arts society
Joining CLAS helps you grow as a calligrapher while contributing to the preservation and celebration of the lettering arts in the UK.
Affiliated Groups
Calligraphy is best enjoyed in community, and CLAS proudly supports groups across the UK that bring people together to learn and create.
Through our Affiliated Groups, you can join local calligraphy communities in your area. Many groups welcome beginners, offering regular workshops and opportunities to share knowledge and enthusiasm.
Our interactive groups map makes it easy to find a society near you, while our Special Interest Groups connect people who want to explore specific scripts, techniques, or traditions — from Italic to Copperplate, from gilding to contemporary design.
Joining a group is a wonderful way to build confidence, make friends, and stay motivated in your lettering journey.
Events
CLAS organises a range of inspiring events each year, giving you the chance to learn, share, and celebrate the lettering arts together. These occasions highlight the vibrancy of the calligraphy community and welcome participants at all levels.
CLAS Creative
A lively spring event at Regent’s University, London, with talks, stalls, demonstrations, and activities.
Art & the Letter
Our annual exhibition showcases creativity across the lettering arts. Open to submissions from all levels, Art & the Letter is presented both at the CLAS Creative and online.
Festival of Calligraphy
A week-long summer school in Hampshire with workshops, masterclasses, and social events, culminating in a celebratory gala dinner.
What You Can Access Through CLAS
Learning with CLAS
CLAS offers one of the UK’s most respected calligraphy learning pathways, from beginner courses to advanced qualifications. Whether you’re learning modern calligraphy or traditional scripts, there’s a route to suit your skills and ambitions.
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Certificate of Calligraphy — your first step on the CLAS Ladder of Progress, building confidence in basic scripts
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LiveOnline Courses — interactive online classes taught by Accredited Tutors and Fellows
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National Diploma in Calligraphy — a respected qualification at Foundation, Intermediate, and Advanced levels
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Specialist Skills Awards — focused training in scripts and techniques such as Copperplate, Italic, Uncial, Gilding, and Heraldry
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Fellowship — the highest honour awarded by CLAS, recognising outstanding mastery and creativity
Teaching with CLAS
CLAS is committed to raising standards in calligraphy teaching and providing recognition for tutors who combine artistry with excellent educational practice.
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Tutor Assessment — a clear pathway to become a CLAS Accredited Tutor, with routes for those with or without teaching qualifications
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Tutors & Talkers Directory — a searchable list of Accredited Tutors and speakers offering workshops, courses, and talks
Join Our Community
Become a CLAS member and enjoy a wealth of benefits — from receiving The Edge magazine and CLASnews updates, to reduced fees for courses and competitions. Members also gain exclusive access to our diploma, free entry to the annual exhibition, and opportunities to exhibit their work.