A 4-Point Overview in Hand-Lettering

I’ve been wanting for some time to write a post or two on hand-lettering, but as you can tell, that hasn’t happened.  I didn’t want to go much longer without writing about lettering since I already took photos and all for a few lettering posts.  So seeing it’s about time I get another blog post out for y’all anyway, I figured that today I’d pull something together that I could include some of those photos in. So here is a super quick, 4-point overview in hand lettering!

And FYI: I honestly had no clue what to call this post, since basically all I wanted to do was gab about 4 different aspects of lettering.  So if you think this post is terribly misnamed, you’re probably right :)

1

Supplies

Scrap paper and any kind of writing utensil is really all you need to get started.  I used colored pencils for a couple of things.  As you improve, however, you may want to look for double sided pens (one with a fine point and one wider) and pens that don’t bleed {much}.  I have some Callicreative Duotip Manuscript pens that I LOVE!  If you have a tendency for your words to slant, a ruler may be helpful for you.  I personally would much rather not use a ruler though, so I just focus harder on making my words not slant as much :)  A notebook with graph paper may also be helpful.  I used one when I first got started, although it isn't necessary.

 2

Inspiration

One word: Pinterest.

I use Pinterest ALL THE TIME for lettering inspiration.  It’s the best!  There’s so many examples and ideas that are sure to inspire lettering creativity.

 3

The Lettering Secret

The secret to letters that look like calligraphy is to thicken your down-stroke.  Its super-duper simple, really!  That’s my only secret to share, so all other ways of lettering are dependent on your creativity and inspiration :)

4

How to Use It

Scrap paper and blank notebooks are great for practice, but when you’ve got it down pat, there’s lots of ways to display your lettering!  I mainly use my lettering on cards, but you can it for lettering “welcome” on chalkboards and whiteboards, lettering Bible verses to frame, addressing envelopes, journaling, creating pendant jewelry, and more!

Here are a couple of photos of fairly recent random lettering projects I’ve done…

I didn't really "letter" on this one,
but I've had this in my photo folder for quite a while and wanted to share it