Calligraphy for beginners

What is the course about?

This is a step-by-step guide on how to construct and write historical scripts using a 3.8mm Pilot parallel calligraphy pen. You will be given a logical sequence of practical exercises starting with simple pen patterns and progressing to letterforms.

What will we cover?

You will be shown how to construct and write historical scripts using a parallel calligraphy pen. You will be given a logical sequence of practical exercises starting with simple pen patterns and progressing to letterforms.
• How to set up your work station
• An introduction to the principles of calligraphy
• How to use a broad edged pen
• How to write lowercase and capital letterforms
• How to write numerals and punctuation
• How to space letters and words correctly
• How to rule up your own guidelines.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Use basic calligraphy equipment and understand the difference in tools and materials
- Set up your work space
- Demonstrate how to write with a pen held at a specific pen angle
- Write an alphabet with unified letterforms
- Write capital letterforms
- Write a short quotation
For improvers or more advanced students:
- Write and use various sizes of lettering, word spacing and layouts.
- Write a longer piece of text using a variety of nib sizes.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is suitable for left and right handers, the complete beginner or those who wish to refresh their calligraphy skills. You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions to support demonstrations, hand-outs and for health and safety information, and you will be invited to take part in group discussion.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

During the class there will be group and individual demonstrations. You will be given examples and worksheets which enable you to develop at your own pace. It will be beneficial if you can do some practise between sessions.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

You will need to purchase an A3 folder for handouts and worksheets, a 3.8mm Parallel Pilot pen, a pencil and notebook. Advice will be given about tools and materials you can purchase to enable practise between sessions or when embarking on further study.
Need art supplies? Our partner London Graphic Centre has everything you need from pencils to printing services, at 15% off.To get an LGC discount card, students will need to show proof/ confirmation of enrolment of them being a student at City Lit. You can apply for our card in-store or by simply emailing info@londongraphics.co.uk with a scan or photo of relevant confirmation. The student discount does not apply to products that are already discounted or on offer. More information can be found here- https://www.londongraphics.co.uk/student-discounts/.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

The following courses may be of interest:
VE280 Calligraphy for beginners and improvers
VE279 Calligraphy and brush lettering
VE228 Calligraphy and illumination
VE267 Calligraphy: modern copperplate.