Introduction to Copperplate Calligraphy

About This Workshop

In this StationeryFest workshop, we will learn and practice copperplate calligraphy.

Copperplate, a pointed-pen hand, was developed in 16th century England and has retained its popularity since. A variation of copperplate calligraphy can be seen in the body of the US Declaration of Independence.

We will work with an oblique pen holder, pointed pen nib, ink, t-square, and printed practice paper with slant lines. Our main focus will be applying varying amounts of pressure to our pens to produce thick (shaded) and thin (hairline) strokes and we'll learn how each letter is constructed. We will begin our practice with minuscule letters and then majuscule letters; in the order of similar letterforms and not alphabetically.

Skills & Techniques You'll Develop

• Learn elements of your tools - pointed pen nib, oblique pen holder, liquid sumi ink & t-square - and how to use them to inscribe copperplate calligraphy
• Letter with varying amounts of pressure to produce hairline and bold strokes
• Learn and practice the construction of each copperplate letterforms stroke by stroke
• Instruction on how to create guidelines to assist in keeping your lettering slant uniform and baseline leveled

Workshop Details

Materials Provided

The materials are included with the workshop tuition and the instructor will provide the following materials:

• Oblique pen holder
• Pointed pen nib
• Ink
• Ink jar
• T-square
• Pencil
• Practice sheets
• Cup & water (for cleaning pen nib)
• Paper towels (for cleaning pen nib)

What to Bring

• Nothing required — all materials and tools provided

What You'll Take Home

• Better understanding of how to use specialized calligraphy tools
• Knowledge of how copperplate letters are formed
• Basic spacing and layout principles
• Practice sheets with your work

Past Workshops