resources
Discover everything you need to master calligraphy, from beginner tips to advanced techniques. Explore tutorials, expert advice, and creative inspiration to elevate your lettering skills.
beginners’ guides
Whether you’re new to calligraphy or looking to enhance your skills, some techniques can take time and practice to perfect. To support you on your journey, we’ve compiled a collection of video guides filled with expert tips and solutions to tackle even the most challenging aspects, all based on years of experience.
Explanation of x-height
How to fit a nib and reservoir
How to set up a workstation
How to set up an angled board
How to clean and care for nibs
How to use a flat board to write against
How to rule up your paper
Troubleshooting ink flow
Guide to using double pencils
Comparison of broad edge nibs
How to make a micropore reservoir
Tips for left handers
advice for left-handed calligraphers
If you’re left-handed, don’t despair! Many of the most talented calligraphers and letterers are left-handed, proving that any challenges you face can absolutely be overcome. With the right techniques, tools, and a bit of practice, you can master the art of beautiful lettering and create stunning calligraphy. This guide offers practical tips tailored specifically for left-handed calligraphers, helping you navigate common hurdles and unlock your full creative potential.
Image courtesy of Gaynor Goffe
specialist calligraphy material suppliers
Scribblers
12 Witney Road
Pakefield
Lowestoft, Suffolk NR33 7AW
United Kingdom
E-mail: sales@scribblers.co.uk
Website: www.scribblers.co.uk
L Cornelissen & Son
105 Great Russell Street
London
WC1B 3RY
United Kingdom
E-mail: info@cornelissen.co.uk
Website: www.cornelissen.com
Charles Perkins (Calligraphity)
1 Brodrick Drive
Gourock
Renfrewshire PA19 1AF
United Kingdom
E-mail: charlie.perkins@mail.com
Shepherds – including Falkiner Fine Papers
(Suppliers of Fine Papers, Bookbinding Materials and Related Goods)
30 Gillingham St, London SW1V 1HU
United Kingdom
E-mail: rk@bookbinding.co.uk
Website: www.bookbinding.co.uk
John Neal Bookseller
1833 Spring Garden Street
Greensboro, NC 27403
USA
E-mail: info@JohnNealBooks.com
Website: www.johnnealbooks.com
Blots Pen & Ink Supplies – Online catalogue of a range of calligraphy materials.
Email: sales@blotspens.co.uk
Website: www.blotspens.co.uk
helpful links
The British Library – A wealth of Manuscripts, books and information including an online book collection
Victoria & Albert Museum – The Victoria and Albert Museum is the world’s greatest museum of art and design
The Edward Johnston Foundation – Dedicated to the promotion of public awareness of calligraphy and other associated disciplines including modern typeface design.
University of Sunderland – Hosts International Calligraphy Symposiums and offers Foundation degrees in Calligraphy & Design
The Letter Exchange – Society for professionals involved in the lettering arts and crafts, from calligraphy and letter-cutting, through design for print, publishing and typography
become a part of clas
Join CLAS today for exclusive benefits including the Edge magazine, CLASnews updates, discounted course and competition fees, exclusive diploma access, free entry to our annual exhibition, invitations to exhibit, and discounts on calligraphy items from L Cornelissen and Son.