100 Best Calligraphy Books of All Time

We've researched and ranked the best calligraphy books in the world, based on recommendations from world experts, sales data, and millions of reader ratings. Learn more

Featuring recommendations from Jessica Hische, Fabio Sasso, Jason Santa Maria, and 6 other experts.
1
Developed by English handwriting masters in the 18th century, copperplate calligraphy is admired for its fluidity and beauty. It is the most popular style for social correspondence, invitations, and other communications requiring an elegant hand.
In this practical manual, a noted calligraphy teacher offers a comprehensive, step-by-step guide for the student. Beginning with a brief but fascinating history of copperplate, she moves quickly to an in-depth examination of the alphabet, numbers, and punctuation. Each letter is demonstrated stroke by stroke with a clear explanation.
more

See more recommendations for this book...

2
Learn script calligraphy from an in-demand calligrapher and wedding invitation designer


Calligraphy is about creating something uniquely beautiful, whether to celebrate a special occasion like marriage or to use every day in the form of stationery. Author Molly Suber Thorpe, an award-winning designer and calligrapher based in Los Angeles, works closely with her international clients to give them the distinctive products they're looking for. Now you can learn from this experienced expert how to master this fresh modern lettering style. The first book to teach this bold new...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

3
In an age of myriad computer fonts and instant communication, your handwriting style is increasingly a very personal creation. In this book, Margaret Shepherd, America's premier calligrapher, shows you that calligraphy is not simply a craft you can learn, but an elegant art form that you can make your own.

Calligraphy remains perennially popular, often adorning wedding invitations, diplomas, and commercial signs. Whether it is Roman, Gothic, Celtic, Bookhand, or Italic style, calligraphy conveys class and elegance. Margaret Shepherd makes this ancient art form accessible in a...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

5
Both hobbyists and students of design will value this easy-to-use self-teaching book. Each of its 100 sections shows a complete A-to-Z calligraphy alphabet, with lessons on correct pen strokes and advice on avoiding errors. Beginners will find sound basic instruction, while experienced calligraphers can extend their repertoire with letter styles that range from classic Roman to clean and elegant contemporary styles. In addition to analysis of each alphabet's features, the book's detailed instruction provides information on -- Tools and materials * Layout basics * Numerals and punctuation *... more

See more recommendations for this book...

6
This show-all romp through design-world darling Jessica Hische's sketchbook reveals the creative and technical process behind making award-winning hand lettering. See everything, from Hische's rough sketches to her polished finals for major clients such as Wes Anderson, NPR, and Starbucks. The result is a well of inspiration and brass tacks information for designers who want to sketch distinctive letterforms and hone their skills. With more than 250 images and metallic silver ink printed throughout to represent her penciled sketches, this highly visual book is an essential—and entirely... more
Recommended by Jessica Hische, Jason Santa Maria, and 4 others.

See more recommendations for this book...

7
"Vastly rewarding and illuminating." — American Artist
This comprehensive history and instruction manual contains, in one volume, thirteen significant medieval scripts, with a history of the evolution of the alphabets, and fascinating background material on the scribes, their world, and how writing styles changed over a thousand years. Moreover, it is the only modern book that provides clearly described, brilliantly photographed, and accurately reproduced examples of both major and minor hands along with explicit directions for writing them.
The author — a professional...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

8
Creative Lettering and Beyond combines the artistic talents, inspirational tips, and tutorials of four professional hand letterers and calligraphers for a dynamic and interactive learning experience.

After a brief introduction to the various tools and materials, artists and lettering enthusiasts will learn how to master the art of hand lettering and typography through easy-to-follow step-by-step projects, prompts, and exercises. From the basic shape and form of letters to cursive script, spacing, and alignment, artists will discover how to...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

10
The ancient art of illuminating manuscripts is currently attracting many new enthusiasts among artists, art students, and lovers of calligraphy. The Bible of Illuminated Letters is a volume they'll all want to add to their collections. It presents step-by-step instructions for recreating twelve illuminated alphabets. Among them are Celtic, Saxon, Gothic, Romanesque, Modern Revival, and seven more, including several modern scripts. Detailed diagrams instruct on creating upper- and lower-case letters, as well as on ways for designing borders and decorations. More ambitious students can also... more

See more recommendations for this book...

Don't have time to read the top Calligraphy books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
11
Say it with chalk! Learn the art of hand-drawn chalk lettering from an Etsy superstar in a book complete with chalkboards!

Ubiquitous at boutiques and cafés, on Etsy and Pinterest, in stationery and home decor, the art of chalk lettering is hotter than ever. Valerie McKeehan, an Etsy standout, teaches us everything we need to know to create gorgeous hand-drawn chalk designs.

In over 60 lessons, learn the ABCs of lettering (literally) and basic styles: serif, sans serif, and script. Next, how to lay out a design, combine various styles into one cohesive piece,...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

12
Everything you need to know to get started: choosing quality tools, understanding the structure of letters, and learning the basic strokesIncludes alphabets, from classic Roman letters, to the intricate traditions of the Middle Ages, to the simple, creative styles of todayHundreds of photos of inspiring, beautiful samplesHow to embellish your calligraphy with decorative dropped capitals, celtic knotwork, scrollwork, flourishes, and moreLearn and master the beautiful and varied art of Western calligraphy. This lavishly illustrated guide includes all the information you need to get started in... more

See more recommendations for this book...

14
Master the art of beautiful brush pen lettering with the first book dedicated entirely to the use and mastery of modern brush pens.

Drawing gorgeous letters, words and phrases with a brush pen doesn’t have to be difficult! Brush Pen Lettering will show you how to create your own unique style. To help you on your lettering journey, this comprehensive how-to guide includes:

• DIY projects
• Tips and Tricks
• Color Photographs
• Inspiring Ideas
• Step-by-step instructions
• Practice sheets
less

See more recommendations for this book...

15

The Art of Whimsical Lettering

A -font- of information on lettering styles!

The Art of Whimsical Lettering is an artful instruction book on creating stylized fonts and expressive artwork with personal handwriting skills. Author Joanne Sharpe shows you how to create exuberant and personalized writing styles for your artwork-whether it be a journal, canvas art, or other projects that use text.

After an overview of Joanne's favorite tools and surfaces, take a peek into Joanne's personal lettering journal to discover how you too can collect inspiration, hone your lettering skills, and tap into your...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

16

The Universal Penman

"Very welcome . . . magnificent." — Graphis
"A valuable addition for art directors." — Advertising Age
This is the only complete edition available of one of the most famous and most useful books of commercial art ever printed. George Bickham, a noted engraver and calligrapher, first compiled this work back in the 1740’s, from the best specimens of 24 of the leading calligraphers of his day. Unfortunately, Bickham published his work in 52 separate parts, over a period of eight years. In Bickham’s own day it was difficult to get a complete set of the Universal Penman;...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

17
Hand-Lettering for Relaxation combines the best of both worlds from hand-lettering and adult coloring with 120 pages that teach readers simple lettering techniques based on motivational themes. Readers will love the opportunity to practice the creative art of hand-lettering in a way that inspires them and helps them relax.

As an example of what’s inside, Workshop 1 encourages readers to renew & recharge by writing, “It’s me time,” with the easiest technique for a scripted, calligraphy look. Workshop 2 builds on the theme as readers use their skills from Workshop 1 to...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

19
Provides a course in the art of beautiful writing and a resource featuring various images. This work helps you learn broad-pen alphabets, including classic uncial, Roman, and italic caps, as well as styles with added variations. Seventeen projects include a traditional certificate with decorative contrasts and flourishes, and more. less

See more recommendations for this book...

20
Flourishing covers the subject from A to Z. After a detailed discussion of the dynamics of moving the tool, (including the broad edged pen, pointed pen and brush) it proceeds to develop an alphabet of strokes used to build and analyze flourishes. A complete chapter on the design principles used to evaluate flourishes is followed by the application of the technique to different situations and to the basic calligraphic scripts. Special attention is paid to Italic and Gothic scripts, with the material on Fraktur leading to a detailed study of the cadel flourish. Numerous examples by leading... more

See more recommendations for this book...

Don't have time to read the top Calligraphy books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
21
Learn World Calligraphy has something for everyone. Whether you want scholarly insight, artistic inspiration, classroom projects, or a theme for your next party, this comprehensive, unparalleled full-color book will guide you on a virtual trip around the globe. Covering nearly all of the world's writing systems--from African to Arabic, Chinese to Greek, Hebrew to Russian, and beyond--Learn World Calligraphy offers a unique glimpse of scripts worldwide and the calligraphers who write them.

Lushly illustrated with gorgeous examples of both historical and modern...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

22
In recent years, calligraphy has evolved from an esoteric art form to an everyday pursuit for artists, students, and amateurs. This guide for novices with some experience offers the chance to advance to the next level. Well-illustrated, step-by-step instructions by an expert calligrapher explain every detail of the two most popular calligraphic alphabets.  Author Eleanor Winters introduces the Italic hand, which originated during the Renaissance, and the Copperplate style, which dominated European calligraphy during the eighteenth century. Her three-part approach begins with a review of the... more

See more recommendations for this book...

23
With just a few strokes of a calligraphy pen, London-based designer and illustrator Andrew Fox can help you to create a fun series of minimalistic animals.

Find joy in the simplicity as you draw cats, dinosaurs, crabs, horses, and birds! The animals in this kit are simple to create and easily recognizable. Each design effortlessly becomes a true character that you can use on greeting cards, posters, gifts, and more. Perfect for entry-level artists, this package includes:

- A hardcover book filled with techniques to draw 30 animals
- A high-quality calligraphy...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

24

Calligraphy For Dummies

You've always admired beautiful calligraphy, but you probably figured it was way too hard to master, right ? Calligraphy is actually much easier than you ever dreamed. All you need is the right guide and you'll be up to speed in no time "Calligraphy For Dummies" lets anyone discover the art and fun of lettering. With this hands-on guide, you'll be able to develop your craft and test it out in no time. Starting with the italic alphabet, you'll discover different types of strokes, how to angle your pen, and how to join letters. This easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide shows you: All the tools... more

See more recommendations for this book...

25
Drawing beautiful letters by hand may seem intimidating, but it doesn't have to be! Discover how to transform simple words into stunning works of art with this easy introduction to hand lettering for absolute beginners. "Kiley in Kentucky" hand lettering expert Kiley Bennett gets you started right away with twenty traceable alphabets. She guides you through five skill-building projects to let you practice drawing each upper and lower case letter. This interactive workbook also provides 20 pages of quality vellum tracing paper, along with four frameable pullout art prints. Super Simple... more

See more recommendations for this book...

27

Calligraphy school

A complete practical course for beginners -- a step-by-step guide to the fine art of lettering. Throughout the book, structured exercises and practical step-by-step demonstrations help you put your new skills into action. 8 projects. less

See more recommendations for this book...

29
From the artist behind the popular Pigeon Letters website, a complete guide to learning and perfecting brush lettering, a forgiving style of modern calligraphy that encourages creative expression and imprecision, including basic skills, flourishes, and project ideas.

The Ultimate Brush Lettering Guide has something for everyone--from beginners that have never used a brush pen, to seasoned letterers looking for a new style or ideas for creative flourishes. From choosing the best pens and paper and knowing the different styles of lettering, to adding color to...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

30
Top selling author and hand lettering expert Amy Latta is back with her third book, aimed at spreading happy vibes and providing more than a few giggles. With witty quotes—such as “My idea of clean eating is having pizza while taking a bubble bath”—Amy gives readers a new lease on lettering, featuring brand new techniques, fonts and embellishments.

After the incredible success of her first book, Hand Lettering for Relaxation, which sold 31,179 copies (her second book Express Yourself is geared toward kids with a fall 2018 release), Amy is answering the demand of her...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

Don't have time to read the top Calligraphy books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
31
UPDATE: We added Sarah's additional content in our latest print run!

If you follow Chalkfulloflove (also known as Sarah!) on social media, you and thousands of others already know how adorable her hand-lettered creations are. With Hand Lettering 101, Sarah brings her fabulous Hand Lettering 101 workshop right to you with this beginner workbook! In this book, you will go over the basics on how to learn Sarah's fun style of faux calligraphy. This book will guide you through each letter of the lower case alphabet, go over her technique behind connecting letters, give...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

33
The Book of Kells is a masterpiece of medieval art—a brilliantly decorated version of the four Gospels with full-page depictions of Christ, the Virgin and the Evangelists as well as a wealth of smaller decorative painting. The strange imagination displayed in the pages, the impeccable technique and the very fine state of preservation make The Book of Kells an object of endless fascination.



This edition reproduces the most important of the fully decorated pages plus a series of enlargements showing the almost unbelievable minuteness of the detail;...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

35
"The law of harmony in flourishing is the same as in love. As long as everything goes along smoothly, harmony prevails. But as soon as some rival crosses the pathway, especially in a diagonal way, there is likely to be trouble in camp. Therefore see that the lines run nearly parallel or cross nearly at right angles."
With the charm of words like these, this pleasantly old-fashioned manual inculcates a fine art that has been virtually lost: the art of ornate pictorial calligraphy, or "flourishing."
A good pen, this book, and practice are all you need to create your own magnificent...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

36
An authoritative resource for designers, typographers, signwriters, illustrators, pinstripers, and other creative professionals

Need to produce some flyers? Want to draw up a logo for a band? Does your local speed shop need a T-shirt design? Don't want to use the same old computer fonts? Well let graphic designer and typography teacher Ivan Castro show you The ABC of Custom Lettering. This practical and inspirational workbook features easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions for hand drawing a range of letterforms, from Modern Roman and Gothic through to Latin,...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

37

How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way

One of the first and still one of the best, Stan Lee’s How to Draw Comics the Marvel Way has been the primary resource for any and all who want to master the art of illustrating comic books and graphic novels.

Stan Lee, the Mighty Man from Marvel, and John Buscema, active and adventuresome artist behind the Silver Surfer, Conan the Barbarian, the Mighty Thor and Spider-Man, have collaborated on this comics compendium: an encyclopedia of information for creating your own superhero comic strips. Using artwork from Marvel comics as primary examples, Buscema graphically...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

38

Calligraphy

A Course in Hand Lettering

For anyone who’s ever been wowed by the writing on a wedding invitation rather than the reception...for anyone who’s ever studied the calligraphy on a wine list rather than the chianti...this is the ideal book! It’s a comprehensive calligraphy course between covers, taught by a distinguished calligrapher. From ninth-century Uncial to fifteenth-century Gothic to nineteenth-century Script, the book explains the development of the major “hands” and shows how to master the basics. Topics include supplies, strokes, pen angles, spacing, design and layout, italic lettering, Carolingian lettering,... more

See more recommendations for this book...

39
Transform ordinary handwritten pieces into unique, artistic keepsakes, Calligraphy Magic makes the art of decorative lettering fun and achievable--even if you're a beginner.

Take it one simple pen-stroke at a time. Following Cari Buziak's clear visual instruction, you'll learn how to embellish every project with beautifully hand-lettered words, logos and decorative illustrations. Detailed demonstrations include:


A precise list of the tools and materials you'll need
Colorful illustrations that show how to form every stroke
15 complete...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

40
Hand-lettering techniques are a popular and visually dynamic way to add textual elements to crafts, from journals to mixed-media art. Sixteen accomplished contributors—including calligraphers, painters, collagists, card makers, fiber artists, and graphic designers—give their personal perspectives on lettering. They all offer their favorite tools, how they use them, their signature technique with step-by-step instructions and photos, and an alphabet sampler of their own font. Gorgeous gallery images of each contributor's work are also included.
 
Contributors...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

Don't have time to read the top Calligraphy books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
42
Choose from a variety of imaginative projects and alphabets to create countless designs - everything you need to know is here! less

See more recommendations for this book...

43
Calligraphy can be a very personal pathway to explore a multiplicity of design concepts. In this original book, images of the natural world are turned into a rich source of inspiration for a variety of calligraphy projects. less

See more recommendations for this book...

44
The Golden Secrets of Lettering is a comprehensive, beautifully illustrated guide to hand lettering. With easy-to-understand instructions and guidelines, plenty of inspirational examples, and hundreds of hand sketches and illustrations, Martina Flor shows readers how to transform their initial lettering concepts and handdrawn sketches into a well-shaped, exquisite piece of digital lettering that can be sold and published.

Readers learn how to train their "typographic eye" by studying lettering samples and the anatomy of letters; explore concepts of hierarchy, composition,...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

47
Calligraphy is both an art and a skill. Unlike with many other crafts, a person cannot develop good calligraphy skills simply by picking up the pen and practicing. There are many details about how to load the pen, how to hold it at an exact angle to the paper, even how to form each letter of each alphabet style one stroke at a time. Without proper training, the crafter will soon give up and consider it too hard to learn. This book starts at the very beginning, teaching all the fine points about calligraphy with practice drills and easy projects to begin with. Then, new and more difficult... more

See more recommendations for this book...

48
If you feel like your busy schedule is preventing you from becoming the next Monet or Van Gogh, let us introduce you to Alli. Alli has mastered the art of turning simple doodles into beautifully designed floral illustrations, and she is giving you her expertise in her book How To Draw Modern Florals. In this book, Alli will teach you everything you need to know about modern florals: tools of the trade, where to find inspiration, the anatomy of a flower, and the basic shapes for drawing a flower. You'll feel as though you're sitting down with Alli at a coffeeshop as she walks you... more

See more recommendations for this book...

49
Personalize Your School Supplies, Room Décor, Note Cards & More!

Decorate your life with fun fonts and beautiful quotes made your way. Amy Latta will show you the basics of hand lettering and beyond. Learn fancy cursive and watercolor lettering. Add adorable details like flowers and animals. In the craft bonus section, you’ll find ideas on how to turn your finished work into fabulous DIY projects. Embellish pillows, notebooks and wall art with your own unique writing. It’s easy to share your art online, and make one-of-a-kind cards and invitations for friends and...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

50

Spencerian Penmanship Theory +5 Copybooks

In the mid-1800s, when elegant handwriting was much prized, the Spencerian form of penmanship became a standard. Today in our computer age, a fine, beautiful, and legible handwriting brings a warm personal touch to our correspondence. These books may be used to introduce cursive writing to second or third graders or to improve the handwriting of older students or adults. They may also be used to teach calligraphy or as part of an art class. Individual Spencerian Copybooks 1-5 are also available. less

See more recommendations for this book...

Don't have time to read the top Calligraphy books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
51

Calligraphy Book

Discover the timeless art of beautiful writing! This introduction to creating calligraphy combines beginner-friendly clarity with thorough guidance and, of course, gorgeous examples. Written and illustrated by master calligrapher Jane Sullivan, this book introduces nine major calligraphic styles, with detailed diagrams and tips for writing each letter. Sub-sections include histories of each alphabet; step-by-step tutorials for embellishing your calligraphy; and ways to showcase your elegant lettering, from a hand-made envelope to a decorative dinner menu. Printed in full color, its a pleasure... more

See more recommendations for this book...

52

Foundations of Calligraphy

A compilation of a series of thirteen articles published from 1995 to 2000 in Letter Arts Review.

List of Contents:
Foreword to the book by Rose Folsom
Introduction to the book by Sheila Waters
Chapter 1: Basics & Beyond
Chapter 2: Roman Minuscule: Foundational Hand
Chapter 3: Capitals
Chapter 4: Narrow Hands: From Roman Minuscule to Blackletter
Chapter 5: Gothic Cursives
Chapter 6: Uncial & Half Uncial
Chapter 7: Carolingian
Chapter 8: Italic
Chapter 9: Italic Variations
Chapter 10: Analysis &...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

53
Learn how to create beautiful, hand-lettered stationery, art, and other decorations with Modern Calligraphy, a sophisticated, interactive book full of exquisite sample alphabets, fun exercises, and simple step-by-step projects. From modern calligraphy in ink to hand lettering in chalk on blackboard and brush lettering in paint, you will discover a variety of ingenious and unique ways to turn words and letters into projects that can be given as gifts, sent as snail mail, or used within your home decor. Among other things, you will learn to create eyecatching letterforms, embellish with swirls... more

See more recommendations for this book...

54

MAKOTO (Makoto, #1)

Illustrations dans le style sumi-e et calligraphie japonaise (kanji).
Thème basé sur l'époque des samurai.
less

See more recommendations for this book...

55

Cute Hand Lettering

Make your journal pages shine!
 

With this book, readers can learn to hand letter as beautifully as the experts in the planner and journaling communities. Inspirational teacher and sticker designer Cindy Guentert-Baldo shows you how. Tutorials and example pages will have you creating amazing journal pages and art projects in no time. The book includes plenty of practice space and prompts to inspire daily drills and experimentation. Decorate letters, learn different styles, and add to your toolbox of journal-lettering ideas!
less

See more recommendations for this book...

56
From the simple representative shapes used to record transactions of goods and services in ancient Mesopotamia, to the sophisticated typographical resources available to the twenty-first-century users of desktop computers, the story of writing is the story of human civilization itself.

Calligraphy expert Ewan Clayton traces the history of an invention which—ever since our ancestors made the transition from a nomadic to an agrarian way of life in the eighth century BC—has been the method of codification and dissemination of ideas in every field of human endeavour, and a motor of...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

57
A hands-on workbook for the art of hand lettering

From original wall hangings to ornate invitations, hand lettering―or the art of drawing letters―allows you to slow down and get creative by crafting elegant works of art with your own hands. Perfect for letterers of any level, The Hand Lettering Workbook is your how-to guide to hand draw letters, showing you how simple and calming lettering can be.

An easy-to-follow overview explores the core principles of hand lettering, including some need-to-know typography terms. Each section takes you step-by-step through forming...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

58
'Calligraffiti - The Graphic Art of Niels "SHOE" Meulman' is an impressive publication that presents a large selection of typographic works by Niels Shoe Meulman arranged in a uniquely simplistic manner; every spread presents two interacting visuals on its opposing pages. This repeating duality makes this book much more than just a collection of the artists best work; it unveils the basis of all graphic art. The idea of universal harmony, sometimes described as yin and yang, is translated to the 21st century. Like black and white or even less and more. Throughout the book there will be... more

See more recommendations for this book...

60
Revisit the lost art of writing with these fun prompts, worksheets, exercises—and more!—and experience the many benefits of writing by hand, including increased focus and memory, relaxation, and creative expression.

Writing by hand may seem passé in the digital age, but it shouldn’t be dismissed as simply an activity for grade schoolers—it offers countless benefits that have been studied by researchers, brain neurologists, therapists, educators, and others who are invested in helping handwriting thrive in an age of advancing technology. Handwriting may be slower than...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

Don't have time to read the top Calligraphy books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
62

Left-Handed Calligraphy

The art of beautiful handwriting is no more difficult to master for the left-handed than for the right-handed student. But the left-handed writer requires a special orientation which most guidebooks on the subject do not provide. This excellent study remedies that situation handsomely. Generously illustrated, it offers full, intensive coverage of the art of calligraphy from the left-handed writer's point of view.
Vance Studley, an award-winning calligrapher and well-known arts educator and author, shows left-handers how to select appropriate tools and materials, learn correct hand, pen...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

63
Mastering Modern Calligraphy is a comprehensive guide to taking your pointed pen calligraphy skills to the next level and developing your very own modern style. Following up and building on Molly's popular beginner's guide, Modern Calligraphy, Mastering Modern Calligraphy is the perfect companion for pointed pen and digital calligraphers alike. It is aimed at those with some calligraphy experience, presenting more than 2,700 letterforms and ligatures, targeted exercises, stroke drills, flourishes, and phrases, which emphasize experimentation and fun, rather than rigid... more

See more recommendations for this book...

65
Would you like to learn calligraphy or hand lettering the easy way? Calligraphy is a hobby that can bring you so much joy, but it can also be very frustrating to learn in the beginning.

I know from experience. In the summer of 2016, I decided to learn hand lettering to create coloring pages for my book, Broken Crayons Still Color. I watched every video I could find and tried all the recommended techniques. However, no matter what I did, even with the best of pens, my lettering looked horrible.

Let's admit it: Learning calligraphy is not as easy as some of the artists...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

66
Calligraphy is enjoying a resurgence in popularity, especially as many people now choose to create their own wedding invitations, birth announcements, and other cards, and to give them a special, personal touch. This is the ideal how-to guide for the beginner or intermediate calligrapher interested in expanding his or her repertoire with more than 50 drawing techniques. The lavishly illustrated book is a comprehensive manual that covers essential tools and materials, basic penmanship, hand position, and illumination. Each technique is illustrated by clear, full-color photographs. An extensive... more

See more recommendations for this book...

67
A practical guide that explores the history of calligraphy and illumination. The author provides step-by-step instructions and ideas for creating letter shapes, page layouts and illuminated designs. less

See more recommendations for this book...

69
The Complete Book of Calligraphy & Lettering provides expert instruction on the intricacies of traditional lettering techniques, as well as an introduction to contemporary hand-lettering formats.

From selecting the appropriate tools, such as pens, nibs, brushes, inks, and papers, to learning optimal hand positioning and understanding the intricacies of lettering angles, heights, spacing, and strokes, The Complete Book of Calligraphy & Lettering will help lettering enthusiasts swiftly master their craft. 
more

See more recommendations for this book...

70
Far and away the most popular, most authoritative book in the field, this little volume takes the reader through every stage in the study of Italic handwriting and calligraphy. Separate sections on Roman capitals as well as page and book design make this a complete course. less

See more recommendations for this book...

Don't have time to read the top Calligraphy books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
71

Little Book of Lettering

Typography is always one of the designer's first considerations when it comes to making a statement, and in recent years the world of lettering and type has exploded in an unprecedented wave of creative discovery. Contemporary artists, typesetters, and designers of all kinds are exploring new horizons in illustrated and hand-drawn lettering, digitally rendered lettering, and 3D lettering. This collection—large in scope but petite in size—surveys the recent lettering renaissance, showcasing a diverse range of talent in gorgeous, eye-catching examples and profiling today's innovators. In a... more
Recommended by Fabio Sasso, and 1 others.

See more recommendations for this book...

72
Hand lettering is the art of drawing customized letterforms by hand. In this volume the focus is on friendship and the pages feature four alphabets and illustration elements readers can master. More than a craft, hand lettering is an art form-a skill that one can use almost every day.A detailed description of the art of hand lettering includes a basic education plus information on the various types of pens and paper. Pages are provided for practice and finished images. Discover English cursive, blackletter, calligram, and cartoon modern as you letter heartwarming quotes from your favorite... more

See more recommendations for this book...

73
Calligraphic Drawing, written and illustrated by artist Schin Loong, is a step-by-step guide to the pictorial side of calligraphy. Learn how to make calligraphic flourishes, then apply the technique to draw 15 different  flourished animals. You'll also find instructions for embellishing letters and drawing ornamental cartouches.

In the past, masters of penmanship advertised their copperplate skills by shaping their calligraphy and flourishes into elaborate pictorial designs. Now the art of the flourish is back! With her fresh approach to this age-old art form, Schin...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

75
Gothic or black-letter script, practiced by many medieval scribes, was a principal model for printer's type when printing was first invented. Characteristic thick strokes and stress on points and angles give the style a power and dignity that transcends the temporal.
Noted typographer and printing historian Dan X. Solo presents an impressive collection of 100 complete fonts of Old English and Gothic typefaces, derived from the immensely influential black-letter style. Choose from such classic type styles as: Abbey English, Alte Schwabacher, Blackstone, Caxton Initials, Dolbey,...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

77
The ABCs of Hand Lettering is a comprehensive guidebook for beginners in hand lettering. Inside you’ll find a repository of styles you can explore with drawing letters. Learn the basics – from the rundown of art materials, font styles, and the process of turning letters into visual art. Get to see the work of some of your favorite local letterers and type artists. And lastly, check out tips on finding your own style and making your mark as a creative individual in the book. less

See more recommendations for this book...

78

Hand Lettering

Simple, Creative Styles for Cards, Scrapbooks More

If you think creating beautiful and graceful calligraphy requires years of training and a closet full of fancy pens and exotic inks, think again! Here, the authors explain how anyone can use simple tools and materials found in ordinary craft stores, as well as Q-tips, sponges, and other common items, to produce outstanding results. They provide examples of a dozen alphabet styles, as well as many decorative details. Color photography reveals more than merely the necessary brush and pen techniques—it also shows a vast range of ideas for using calligraphy in new and surprising ways.  
more

See more recommendations for this book...

79
Fall in love with watercolors, and create beautiful expressive paintings that you can be proud of! Positive, inspiring messages and quotations are the perfect subject for watercolor lettering. This skill-building portfolio book for absolute beginners will teach you everything you need to know to get started with watercolor art. Talented artist Robin Pickens introduces you to all the basics of paint, brushes, palette, and water, with easy-to-follow advice on opacity, blending, shading, and mixing colors. She then guides you step-by-step through eight complete inspirational watercolor... more

See more recommendations for this book...

80
Get inspired by 60 hand-lettered alphabets and the artists who draw them! This beautiful follow-up to 100 Days of Lettering helps you master the techniques so you can use them in your own designs.
 
In his latest hand-lettering guide, designer and illustrator Jay Roeder has compiled a vibrant collection of alphabets that will have you racing for your pens, markers, and sketchbooks. He explains everything you need to know to create each set of letters, from the required pen strokes to fun embellishments. The alphabets are divided by typographical approach for easy...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

Don't have time to read the top Calligraphy books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
81
Discover the Joy of Doodle Arts and Lettering and Create Your Own Exuberant Art!

Energize your soul and soothe your spirit with the fun and colorful doodle and lettering techniques inside Doodle Arts and Lettering With Joanne Sharpe. Using her popular, playful style, Joanne is back with lessons, techniques and ideas all devised to help you incorporate and elevate the humble doodle. Not only will you learn how to doodle, you will learn how to incorporate these simple techniques into your art and lettering styles. Get ready to create inspiring art no matter what your...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

82

Calligraphies of Love

“Let there be spaces in your togetherness.
And let the winds of the heavens dance between you.” Khalil Gibran


Inspired by love poems from the Arab and Muslim world, Hassan Massoudy’s elegant, swirling compositions capture in calligraphy what countless poets have wrought with words. Through broad strokes and vibrant colours, the artist conveys the essence and meaning of love as captured by Rumi, Khalil Gibran, Ibn Zaydoun and Paul Eluard among others.

With over one hundred colour illustrations, Calligraphies of Love is a unique gift book bringing...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

83
Calligraphy, the art of elegant, beautiful lettering, has increased in popularity over the last several years. From brides who want to address their wedding invitations to do-it-yourselfers who want to prepare certificates or make a family tree, and even for art journalers and scrapbookers who like creative text in their works, calligraphy books and classes are hot.



This new-in-paperback book will spark the interest of the calligraphy novice by introducing a new approach to lettering, one that combines a lively combination of traditional lettering...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

84
Creative Lettering was so popular that crafters wanted MORE. Welcome this fabulous follow-up to that bestselling book, featuring 15 entirely new contributors. Jenny Doh has gathered a variety of big names and talented up-and-coming artists, who all provide tips on their favorite forms on hand lettering and tools, along with complete alphabets and how-to projects based on their signature styles. With everything from posters and cards to signs, collages, and journals, this eye-catching collection will inspire readers as they create their own, personalized work. less

See more recommendations for this book...

86

Shodo

The Quiet Art of Japanese Zen Calligraphy

In this beautiful and extraordinary zen calligraphy book, Shozo Sato, an internationally recognized master of traditional Zen arts, teaches the art of Japanese calligraphy through the power and wisdom of Zen poetry.

Single-line Zen Buddhist koan aphorisms, or zengo, are one of the most common subjects for the traditional Japanese brush calligraphy known as shodo. Regarded as one of the key disciplines in fostering the focused, meditative state of mind so essential to Zen, shodo calligraphy is practiced regularly by all students of Zen Buddhism in Japan....
more

See more recommendations for this book...

87
Create Pretty and Inspirational Hand Lettering Projects for Your Family, Friends, and Yourself!


Hand lettering is making a comeback, spurred by platforms like Instagram and Pinterest. And not just adults are getting into hand lettering and calligraphy. Kids, too, can find relaxation as well as enjoyment in using hand lettering to create handmade projects for themselves and their families. The Kids' Book of Hand Lettering will introduce young crafters to the joys of hand lettering through 20 fun and inspired DIY projects that are easy to create at...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

88

Calligraphy Alphabets Made Easy

This book is a totally new concept in learning and improving calligraphy skills. It presents a new lettering challenge for each day of the year; 365 in all (plus a bonus for Leap Day), ranging from 'angular Italic' to 'turned Celtic.' These alphabets are the perfect program for beginners learning the art of beautiful writing. They also offer the best form of practice and improvement for experienced calligraphers.In addition to daily practice, a practical lettering project is presented for each week. There are 52 in all, ranging from wholly creative projects such as designing an award for a... more

See more recommendations for this book...

89
Practiced for over 5,000 years, Chinese calligraphy is arguably the most revered art form in the East. The Simple Art of Chinese Calligraphy is the complete, step-by-step beginner’s guide to creating the sacred characters of Chinese script—the fragile motifs of fruit and flowers that have deep meaning in Eastern philosophy, and the symbols of happiness and fulfillment.

In this unique guide, renowned calligraphy artist Qui Lei Lei teaches the philosophy of this ancient art and demonstrates how to create the most important symbols of Chinese folklore—Luck, Love, Happiness, and...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

90
One of the delights of life is the discovery and rediscovery of patterns of order and beauty in nature—designs revealed by slicing through a head of cabbage or an orange, the forms of shells and butterfly wings. These images are awesome not just for their beauty alone, but because they suggest an order underlying their growth, a harmony existing in nature. What does it mean that such an order exists; how far does it extend?

The Power of Limits was inspired by those simple discoveries of harmony. The author went on to investigate and measure hundreds of patterns—ancient and...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

Don't have time to read the top Calligraphy books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.
91
Brightly-illustrated and pocket-sized, this valuable resource is packed with advice from choosing pens and inks to mastering special techniques. less

See more recommendations for this book...

92
For many a deep and lasting interest in Japanese culture, its people and its language, begins with a fascination for beautifully drawn characters produced by a master calligrapher. Compared with the squarish, regular representation of Chinese characters reproduced in books, newspapers, and magazines by modern printing techniques, the appealing brush strokes of a handwritten Japanese scroll, letter, or menu is often considered a work of art, and associated with the aesthetic and mystical. Brush Writing is dedicated to such enthusiasts of Japanese calligraphy who have searched for a basic and... more

See more recommendations for this book...

94

Decorative Alphabets and Initials

This unusual Dover publication presents a singular opportunity to the artist, crafter, designer, illustrator, printer, or other user of letter designs to have always at hand a rich store of inspiration and a swipe-file. More important, you may reproduce any initial or alphabet in this volume free of charge, without asking permission. The work is all royalty-free; when you buy the book, you buy the reproduction rights to any individual part of it. The price is less than you would pay to professional archives for one copy of the letter.
There are 123 full-page plates including 91 complete...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

95

By Hand

The Art of Modern Lettering

Learn the beauty and joy of modern lettering with By Hand, a thoughtful collection of projects and lessons to bring unique, handmade designs into your life, home, and gatherings.

In a world of screens and social media, people are constantly searching for ways to reconnect to the handmade and the authentic-to add a personal spark and a beautiful look to everyday objects and occasions. The art of modern lettering is a point of connection, a way of crafting letters and words into something that delights the eyes and feeds the soul. With unique projects, a gorgeous...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

96
Welcome to the wonderful world of hand lettering! Prepare to be inspired by this collection of over 50 alphabets in a wide range of styles. Designer, illustrator, and hand-letterer Thy Doan will guide you through each alphabet with easy-to-follow steps so you can capture all the charm of each design. This is everything you need to know to create your own lettering designs, from sketching it out to inking it up—and using a variety of materials from brush pens to Sharpies.

After you’ve mastered the techniques, you can use the alphabets and lettering to add a unique personal touch to...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

98
DESIGNS AND TECHNIQUES FOR ORNAMENTAL FONTS AND FLOURISHES THAT CREATE EXQUISITE HAND-LETTERED WORKS OF ART

Learn the art of hand-lettering. This step-by-step workbook teaches you how to craft pretty letters and flowers of all sorts. Use your newfound botanical lettering skills to make cards, wedding invitations, banners, tags, paper bouquets and other fun projects.
less

See more recommendations for this book...

99
Draw Closer to God by Lettering His Word

Follow along with Amy Latta’s Bible verse hand lettering tutorials to nurture your relationship with God. If you are new to lettering, Amy’s down-to-earth approach will give you the courage to jump in and create. And if you’ve already discovered your artistic connection to God, you’ll learn new skills for your Bible journaling. Each chapter includes Amy’s design for a verse, a few words of reflection and step-by-step instructions for a new lettering font, technique or embellishment. The thick, smooth art paper and beautifully bordered...
more

See more recommendations for this book...

100
Fat, striped, cheshire, or grumpy, this books offers more than 300 embroidery stitch patters for cat lovers. Each set of patterns offers a range of ideas in different styles, shapes, genres from simple to more complex. A purrfect book for embroidery beginners or those looking for fun and simple patterns. Original designs and clear instructions make this book a must have for any embroidery enthusiasts library. less

See more recommendations for this book...

Don't have time to read the top Calligraphy books of all time? Read Shortform summaries.

Shortform summaries help you learn 10x faster by:

  • Being comprehensive: you learn the most important points in the book
  • Cutting out the fluff: you focus your time on what's important to know
  • Interactive exercises: apply the book's ideas to your own life with our educators' guidance.