How to Learn Calligraphy – Getting Started
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To say that I’m excited is an understatement. I’m overjoyed to take you on this journey of learning calligraphy with me. Over the course of the next 6 weeks, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know to learn calligraphy including step by step instructions, practice sheets & more. I, along with calligrapher Madi Sanders, have designed this to teach you calligraphy in 5 “days.” Today, we’re going to get you started with the basics, so you’ll have plenty of time to purchase supplies & start Day 1!
Recommended Supplies:
Zebra G Nib {firm, great for beginners}
Straight pen {I purchased an oblique & immediately felt overwhelmed. The choice is up to you, but whatever you learn with should be what you continue to use for sake of ease.}
Tracing paper
Black ink {I use Higgins Eternal Black Ink}
Paper in varying weights
Most of these items should be available locally, but are easiest to locate online. I receive numerous emails about where to purchase supplies. While you can find them at numerous stores, this is one I have used.
Let’s do this! To get started, insert the nib.
Dip the pen in ink.
You don’t want to see the hole after you dip. The first time may take a little more. When you fill the hole, remove the excess ink on the nib on the side of the ink jar. Notice that Madi stabilizes her jar with a roll of washi tape. Genius, right? Don’t forget to print your practice grids!
Next week you’ll learn the strokes, how to create varying widths & loops! Everything you need to learn calligraphy is within these posts, but you can subscribe here to receive a bonus practice sheet {goes out once a month}!
PIN the tutorial for later here:
The series, in order:
Calligraphy Resources & Left Handed Calligraphy
You may also like my online flower arranging workshop filled to the brim with beautiful centerpiece ideas you can recreate with step-by-step instructions.
Credits:
flowers Emmy-Ray, photography Wheat Photo, calligraphy instructor Madi Sanders [show_shopthepost_widget id=”1746039″]
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Brittni says
I was wondering if it was a good idea to purchase multiples of a nib? Do they break easily or would ordering 1 be all I would need?
Julie says
They can break if you’re too aggressive. It definitely doesn’t hurt. I haven’t broken one to date, but then again, I’m usually enjoying a glass of wine while practicing!
Kate says
Thank you for the clarifications. 😉
Kiana says
Do you know where I can find the pens? I’ve looked in stores like A.C. Moore and the have a handful of fountain pens but I haven’t been too successful in finding more than one fairly sad looking dip pen. Where did you find your pen? Btw, the second one pictured is very pretty.
Julie says
Your best bet locally would be a craft/hobby store. Try Michaels.
Kate says
Oops one more question….do you mean Higgins Eternal Ink?
Julie says
Uh yes, & I’m so sorry! Thanks for bringing that to my attention Kate!
Kate says
Hi. So excited to start this. I’m getting supplies online and am wondering is a Zebra Comic G Nib what you have?
Julie says
It is Kate! Yay! It’s been a fun journey for me.
Y P says
Hi julie please tell me alternative for zebra G nib…
Unabke to find it .
Julie says
Google it, hundreds of sites carry it. Enjoy!
Maria says
Hi! I printed the practice grid but it is too small 🙁 Yours looks like a letter size. What am I doing wrong?
Julie says
Check your printer settings, chances are, you have it set to 50%, etc