This one-day, onsite workshop is suitable for complete beginners as well as those looking to refresh their skills. Italic is the most popular calligraphic script, valued for its flowing nature and adaptability for expressive work. You’ll start from scratch or revise if you’re rusty, using traditional broad-edged dip pens to create beautiful writing.

 

We’ll begin with pen pattern-making to get the pens working and flowing smoothly, followed by regular stroke practice to develop a writing rhythm. Italic letterforms rely on a ‘family resemblance’, so there will be plenty of emphasis on good arch formation — how strokes join together, a distinctive feature underpinning most letters.

 

To put your writing skills to practical use, we’ll make labels, signage, or arrange a short quotation. If you already have some experience, this workshop is a great opportunity to break bad habits, improve technique, and complete a piece to be proud of.

 

Pens, ink, and paper will be provided for use, with the option to purchase a pen if you wish.

Please let us know if you are left-handed, as left-oblique pens are available.

 

Skills & Techniques Covered

• Familiarity with dip pens

• Pattern-making for rhythm

• Writing letters in family groups

• Achieving good arch forms

• Letter and word spacing

• Page layout and arrangement

 

Materials

Materials are not included in the booking fee. Some will be provided by the tutor at an approximate cost of £5, payable on the day. Any additional items you need to bring will be listed below.