How to Get Started in Calligraphy

Calligraphy is not only a way of writing, it is an ancient art form. Its roots are believed to go back as far as Egyptian hieroglyphics, which represent the first stylized method of pictorial communication. Calligraphy as we know it, however, originated with Middle Age monks, who used it to make copies of the Bible and other holy texts.

Just as those monks used fancy writing to indicate the beauty and importance of the words they were writing, calligraphers today use the writing style to evoke similar feelings. Calligraphy is often used in signs, menus and other business applications to lend an air of grace and sophistication. Other places you might find calligraphy are in pieces of artwork and on wedding invitations.

While many people are intrigued by calligraphy, comparatively few take it upon themselves to learn it. They often feel that they do not have the artistic ability that is required. What they don't realize is that calligraphy really doesn't require much of that. It's more about attention to detail.

For those who are looking for a hobby that doesn't require a large investment, calligraphy is great. You only need a few supplies and a willingness to learn to get started. Two very good resource you may want to have look at though is:

The Calligrapher's Bible as it gives you all the strokes and more
Sheaffer Calligraphy Maxi Kit that is a kit with everything you need to get started so you do not have to buy a huge amount of supplies to start with your calligraphy.

1. Paper for Calligraphy

Choosing the right paper for calligraphy is very important. You don't need the most expensive paper for practice, but you do need a paper that will not bleed much. Some beginners use graph paper to help them get accustomed to making their letters in the correct sizes and proportions. Others use bond paper and draw light lines in pencil to guide them.

For finished work, a higher quality paper of a heavier weight is needed. Many calligraphers use handmade papers. Some also use vellum, which is made of animal skin. Whatever type of paper you use, it should be smooth and acid-free.

2. Pens for Calligraphy

Cheap ballpoint pens simply won't do for calligraphy. You don't necessarily have to use quills like they did in the old days, but you will need a flat-edged pen that is specifically designed for calligraphy. Or even better, a set of pens in a variety of sizes.

Fountain pens and felt tip pens are easier to use than dip pens, but it's hard to get the same quality out of them. These types of pens are suitable for learning, but for long-term use, a reed, bamboo or quill pen is a better choice. These types of pens utilize nibs, or tips, of various sizes. You'll also need some quality ink, but it's probably best not to spring for the really expensive stuff until you get some practice in. Some inks have droppers built into the lid to make inking your pen easier.

3. Other Calligraphy Supplies

To start with, paper, pens and ink are all that you really need. As you learn the basics and begin to work on more complex projects, you might find that you need more tools. These may include rulers, compasses and line guides. You'll also find that an ultrasonic cleaner makes keeping your nibs clean much easier.

Calligraphy is a fun hobby, and it can also provide a source of income if you want to go that route. Learning takes practice, but it doesn't cost much to get started. And just about anyone who has a steady hand and plenty of patience can do it.

The Difference between Western and Chinese Calligraphy

Calligraphy is a beautiful type of writing that lends an air of sophistication to anything it's used on. To the casual observer, one piece of calligraphy might look much the same as any other. But each calligrapher has his own subtle differences in style, and there are also many different types of calligraphy that one may encounter. For all the info on Calligraphy you can have a look at a resource such as The Calligrapher's Bible. There you will find all the basics plus so much more.

The two most common types of calligraphy are Western and Chinese. Here are some facts and characteristics of each type.

Western Calligraphy

Western calligraphy dates back nearly as far as the Roman alphabet, which came into use around 600 BC. One of the first types of Western calligraphy that resembled the art as we know it today was called rustic capitals or canonized capitals. Rustic capitals were similar to their predecessors, Roman square capitals, but whereas square capitals were extremely uniform and intended for use in inscriptions, rustic capitals were more compressed, curvier, and better suited to pen and ink writing.

Uncial script developed in the second and third centuries AD. Like rustic capitals, it consisted entirely of capital letters, but it was more rounded in order to be more suitable for use on new, smoother papers such as parchment and vellum. Uncial was frequently used by monks to copy religious texts.

Western calligraphy underwent many more changes throughout the years, with the development of such styles as Semi-Uncial, Caroline and Gothic. The Gothic style was incorporated in to Johannes Gutenberg's original printing press, making it the world's first typeface.

Although the printing press made it much faster and easier to produce copies of scripts, Western calligraphy has stood the test of time. Modern Western calligraphy is done with pens and ink. Many calligraphers still use reed or quill pens, but fountain and felt-tip pens are also options.

Chinese Calligraphy

Also known as East Asian calligraphy, Chinese calligraphy is practiced in China, Japan, Korea and Vietnam. But true to its name, Chinese calligraphy originated and was developed in China. Although some Chinese scholars disagree, Chinese calligraphy is generally considered an art in the countries that practice it.

Chinese calligraphy has also undergone many transformations in its centuries of existence. The first known incarnation of the writing style was Jiaguwen, which has been found on carvings that date back to ancient China. Calligraphy was also done with brushes and ink in those times, but samples of such did not survive the test of time.

Until around 220 BC, each kingdom of China had a unique set of characters. But emperor Qin Shi Huang ordered that a set of standardized characters, called Xiaozhuan, be created. Lishu and Kaishu styles were subsequently created, and Kaishu is the style that is most often used today.

The most notable differences between Western and Chinese calligraphy are the alphabets and mediums used. But each style has its own colorful history. Have a look at The Calligrapher's Bible