Learn How to Write the Modern Calligraphy Alphabet
Learn how to write beautifully using a dip pen and ink with these alphabet practice sheets for beginners
If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to write using a pointed pen but didn’t know where to start, or have tried picking it up from random videos that don’t really get you anywhere (YouTube, anyone???) then this beginners workbook will get you started on the right path.
These are the exact same sheets I use at my modern calligraphy classes which sees students going from complete beginners to writing words confidently in just 2 hours.
Not only does this workbook start from the very beginning (which is always the best place to start in my opinion, and also Julie Andrews’ - no relation), but it takes you by the hand step-by-step in the exact order that you need to make progress.
And if you’re making progress then you won’t give up.
You’ll practice doing the right things, in the right order, and with the right advice.
So if you want to learn modern calligraphy then learn it you will!
There are so many reasons to learn modern calligraphy that I won’t go into them here - you can visit this blog post if you still need convincing.
I hope, like me, once you get started on the right foot you won’t be able to live without getting a little inky everyday!
Modern Calligraphy Workbook: Pointed pen calligraphy for complete beginners
This modern calligraphy workbook’s designed to be used as a starting point for you to begin your own hand lettering journey - wherever it may take you.
The alphabet practice sheets come as a PDF digital download so once you’ve printed them you can get started right away!
What Materials You Need
• Printer and PDF reader (computer screen/tablet)
• Smooth printer paper - I use HP Colour Choice
• A calligraphy pen with a pointed nib.
• Pot of calligraphy ink
Visit this blog post for more details.
Of course, I’d strongly recommend going to a workshop if you can get to one. See my workshops here.
Like anything, when you’re learning something new you’ll make progress much quicker under the right guidance than you would by trying to figure it out alone.
However, sometimes life’s hectic so the next best thing is a workbook that you can tackle in your own time. Plus, I’m on hand via Instagram if you need any help.
What’s in the workbook?
The digital workbook contains 20 A4 pages in total, so you can print out the worksheets as many times as you like for personal use.
You’ll also be able to read the instructions on screen if you don’t want to print them out.
Tools and how they work
Before you start writing, you’ll learn all the basics that you need to know.
There are plenty of photos too so you can see what’s being explained.
You’ll learn…
• what tools you need
• how to set up your workspace
• how to prepare the nib to use for the first time
• how the nib works
• how to hold the pen
• how to move the pen - because it’s not how you’d usually write!
• how to apply ink
As you can see, there’s a lot of information in there!
The basic strokes
First things first, you’ll practice the basic strokes and work on getting these right - don’t be tempted to skip this part!
I like to think of the basic strokes as the puzzle pieces that go together to form each letter of the alphabet. You’ll trace the examples and use the space to continue practicing them.
Remember - you’ll be getting used to how the nib works so take your time with this.
Writing the calligraphy alphabet
Instead of learning the alphabet from A-Z like so many worksheets, the alphabet is grouped into letters that are formed in a similar way.
Each letter is broken down into it’s basic strokes so you’ll just be putting together what you’ve previously learnt.
This way you’ll master a group of letters at a time, all whilst helping to build your muscle memory - a key part of learning calligraphy.
What else do you get?
• Included are lots of examples of words and sentiments to trace and copy so you can begin hand lettering for your own creative projects
• There’s an alphabet exemplar for you to trace and create your own sampler - your very own work of art that’ll be worthy of framing!
• I’ve also included some advice about creative style to take your lettering to the next level
• And of course there are some essential line guides too
• Join me on Instagram where I’ll be happy to help you and answer your questions. You can also watch videos for each letter of the alphabet in my story highlights ‘learn’.
So, enjoy the process and fall in love with modern calligraphy. Who knows where it will take you!
If you loved this blog post then save it to Pinterest so others can find it too!
Thank you for reading,
Charlotte
