[via tolovephotography.com]
One goal I've set for myself this year is to learn calligraphy.
I'm always drawn to beautiful packaging, and the addition of modern calligraphy makes it even more alluring.
[via blissinimages.com]
The first example of modern calligraphy I came across was in a quaint little floral shop, Coriander Girl in downtown Toronto, quite a few years ago now.
Maybelle Imasa-Stukuls, a calligrapher and artist from California, had designed everything from her business cards, to her store window lettering, to her website graphics.
For years I've wanted to master this art, and while I've attempted it with generic calligraphy sets, I haven't been able to.
That is, hopefully, until now.
While browsing through Anthropologie, looking for some unique Christmas gifts this year, I came across a calligraphy set and immediately recognized the script.
Maybelle has created a kit for learning modern calligraphy.
I ordered one for my sister, and one for myself.
All of the basics are included -
a pen and nib
bottle of black ink
instructional booklet
A-Z exemplar
decorative labels
vellum tracing sheets
lined guide sheet
Today I finally opened it and started acquainting myself with the basics.
I know it will take a great deal of time and practise, but I think it's a beautiful art. I was inspired after reading Pride and Prejudice, again, and being reminded of the beauty of properly penned letter.
Another goal? The first photo is from an event Maybelle did, teaching calligraphy. Doesn't it look like a wonderful way to spend an evening? You can view the evening here.
And for a peek into Alison Westlake of Coriander Girl's charming converted church, which is also lovely, you can view an article from Chatelaine Magazine here.
And now to practise, practise, practise.
My neighbor practised calligraphy while sitting at her mother's hospital bedside over 40 years ago and to this day, she has one of the prettiest handwritings that I have ever seen. I also have been looking for a good set per her promptings. Thank you for the information, I will look into buying a set. Warm wishes, Deni
ReplyDeleteMy sister in-law would create the most beautiful event cards, invitations, and announcements one could imagine and still does....I dabbled I. It for awhile, but with my doctors script I just gave I to my scribble... Perhaps I could give it a try again. It sure is a beautiful art, stay with it.
ReplyDeleteSee you and your beautiful home soon.
The church home is amazing... Would love to live there.
Xx
Dore
I too have wanted to learn and at various times tried it with a kit that you can buy at Michaels Craft store here in the states. The oblique pen and nib were not to my liking and were difficult to use. This past Christmas I discovered The Postman's Knock on instagram and went to her website and was entranced. She gave a list of good supplies, such as a brand of ink (Sumi), nib size for starting (Brause Extra Fine 66 nib is absolutely wonderful!), and beginner's hints to start off. I followed her recommendation to start with faux calligraphy and it worked beautifully. She has a font titled "Amy's" that I purchased and it was so easy! I bought Rhodes paper from Amazon and it works so well at not catching paper threads. I can't recommend her enough. My interest stems from reading novels from the 1800's and the use of Copperplate which I would like to learn. Good luck on your journey in this fine art of lettering! There's a whole other world out there I discovered!
ReplyDeleteKaren,
DeleteThis is great information. The name The Postman's Knock is so familiar to me. I think maybe through Pinterest.
Have a great day.
Maria
Karen,
DeleteThis is great information. The name The Postman's Knock is so familiar to me. I think maybe through Pinterest.
Have a great day.
Maria
Thanks for the info, I just ordered this kit from Amazon. I had no idea they ship to Italy! i cannot wait to start... Best regards, Robin in Umbria
ReplyDeleteWhat a good blog you have here. Keep Your Work Up....
ReplyDelete