Calligraphy: modern copperplate variations

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This course explores modern variations of copperplate form while retaining the elegance and clarity of the original. Working with a pointed pen, you will develop your copperplate writing by refining contrast, rhythm, spacing. This course is suitable for students who already have who have completed a basic calligraphy course or who have prior experience with broad-edge or pointed-pen scripts. Open to both left- and right-handed...

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Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.

  • Start Date: 13 Jan 2027
    End Date: 10 Feb 2027
    Wed (Evening): 18:00 - 21:00
    In Person
    Location: Keeley Street
    Duration: 5 sessions (over 5 weeks)
    Course Code: VE247
    Full fee £249.00 Senior fee £199.00 Concession £162.00
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  • Start Date: 09 Jun 2027
    End Date: 07 Jul 2027
    Wed (Evening): 18:00 - 21:00
    In Person
    Location: Keeley Street
    Duration: 5 sessions (over 5 weeks)
    Course Code: VE221
    Full fee £249.00 Senior fee £199.00 Concession £162.00
    Add to Wish List

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In stock
SKU
248293
Full fee £249.00 Senior fee £199.00 Concession £162.00

What is the course about?

Modern calligraphy - also known as Copperplate or English Roundhand - is enjoying renewed interest, particularly among calligraphers who wish to deepen their technical skill and expressive range. This course is aimed at students who already have a foundation in calligraphy and would like to refine and extend their pointed-pen writing. Through tutor demonstrations, historical exemplars and contemporary interpretations, you will study the construction, rhythm and layout of copperplate and Spencerian letterforms. The course focuses on developing fluency, consistency and confidence, enabling you to write with greater control and expressive clarity.

What will we cover?

You will:

  • Study historical and contemporary examples of copperplate and related scripts
  • Make detailed script analysis to understand structure, proportion and movement
  • Practise targeted exercises to refine rhythm, spacing, contrast and writing speed
  • Explore modern variations of copperplate while maintaining clarity and elegance
  • Receive individual feedback and guidance from the tutor
  • Work on a personal or professional calligraphy project developed with tutor support. Projects are tailored to individual skill levels, allowing you to focus on an area that best supports your creative or professional goals.
  • consider the wider contemporary calligraphy world, with consideration of how historical scripts can be thoughtfully adapted for modern practice.

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

  • Identify and confidently use the key characteristics of modern calligraphy or copperplate scripts
  • Control line weight, spacing, rhythm and writing speed
  • Select appropriate tools and materials for different calligraphy outcomes
  • Correct mistakes neatly and confidently
  • Produce a finished piece of work demonstrating a developed level of pointed-pen writing

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

This course is not suitable for complete beginners. It is intended for students who have completed a basic calligraphy course or who already have experience with broad-edge or pointed-pen scripts. You should be able to follow written and verbal instructions in English, understand demonstrations and participate in optional group discussions.

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

No preparation is required before the course begins. Teaching will take place through a combination of group demonstrations, individual guidance, worksheets and supported practice. Students are encouraged to practise between sessions to consolidate skills and develop their project, at a pace suited to individual needs.

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

Some materials will be provided, including cartridge paper, pencil erasers and inks. Please bring:

  • Speedball 2968 oblique pen set (pointed nibs)
  • HB pencil and layout paper (A4)
  • A notebook for notes and sketches

If you are unsure about materials, please don’t purchase anything in advance. Tools will be demonstrated in class, and guidance will be given. From the second session onwards, students are expected to bring their own materials. If you forget anything, support is always available.


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

Other courses in calligraphy and lettering are available - please see the website for more details.
Suitable courses may be:
VE258 Calligraphy: modern copperplate
VE350 Calligraphy: modern copperplate
VE257 Modern calligraphy
VE221 Calligraphy: modern copperplate variations

Veiko Kespersaks

Veiko Kespersaks is a Fellow of CLAS (The Calligraphy and Lettering Arts Society) and a Fellow of SSI (Society of Scribes and Illuminators). He currently runs a successful calligraphy studio in Central London. Veiko was Programme Leader for the Calligraphy Degree course at Satakunta University of Applied Sciences in Finland and his book, ‘Calligraphy in 24 1h lessons’ was published in 2011. He has an MA with Distinction from Roehampton University London, A BA (First class) in Calligraphy and Art History from University of Surrey Roehampton and a BA in Printmaking from the Art Institute of Kankaanpää, Finland. Veiko’s classes are usually mixed levels, and his passion in teaching is to create an atmosphere in which each student can increase their skill proficiency and learn new, sometimes unexpected, skills. www.calligraphystudio.co.uk

Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.