Calligraphy and Illumination: Learn the Art of Beautiful Writing (How to Draw and Paint Series: Beginner's Guides) - Tapa blanda

clearly laid out. The instructions for the calculation of 'X' height, using nib widths is also clear and an extremely important inclusion. The arrowed instructions for correct order letter formation is essential for those trying to teach themselves. I particularly liked the inclusion of Runic and Lombardic Versals and the Gothicised Batarde book hand, these are all good ones to see, although quite unsusual in a beginners book. The obvious Foundation hand shown is an essential stepping stone for those wishing to go on to use Carolingian and italic lettering. Letter spacing is important to demonstrate and it was good to see that described in the book. Layout and design arrangements, together with the colour pictures and examples of borders is excellent. Generally a good guide book for beginners. --Pen People Magazine, October 2008

Discover the art of beautiful writing as Cari Ferraro invites you into her artistic world and teaches you the timeless arts of calligraphy and illumination. In this book, Cari introduces you to this thriving art form by giving you a firm grounding in traditional styles of broad pen calligraphy, which will serve as a springboard for your own exploration of letterforms and expressive writing. She defines several historical alphabet styles that are made with the broad penùfrom the stately blackletter hand to the graceful italic style. And she provides the sequence and direction of each letter stroke, as well as helpful notes and the suggested nib type for each hand. Guiding you stroke by stroke through a variety of calligraphic hands, from the stately blackletter to the elegant italic, this book also provides step-by-step instruction on the centuries-old art of illumination. Inside, youÆll find all the information you need to embark on an exciting exploration of this elegant art form!