The daily post (at the office, that is)

Several months ago, I took an interest in calligraphy.  Considering my passion for pens and paper, I'm surprised it didn't happen earlier. It started here.  As I explored more on the web, I became so excited about possibilities!

So, this is my effort to share the love of handwriting/hand lettering/calligraphy or whatever my best describe what interests you.

Each day I post a fun or inspirational quote on my cube wall.  It started as a calligraphy practice as with the hopeful side benefit of brightening someone's day.  Occasionally I catch someone pausing to read the quote of the day - that brightens my day!

I start using a piece of used copy paper.  Trying to be responsible at the office here.

 Using the clean side, I fold the paper in half for a more manageable size.

I use a ruler to draw guidelines.  Writing level does not come naturally to me.

 

I lightly write the quote in pencil in a size appropriate for the pen I will be using.  This helps to get a feel for the layout and spacing.

I am using a Stampin'Up! dual tip marker.  I have had this pen for about 15 years from when I was a SU! demonstrator. A number of manufacturers make brush pens, many available on Amazon.

I use the brush end of the marker to write the quote.  The thick/thin lines are a product of applying pressure on the downstroke, very light pressure on the upstroke.

I use the pen tip end of the marker to give credit to the author.

Here is the completed quote. 

Using my favorite fire helmet eraser, I erase the guidelines and sketched writing.  Fortunately brush pens dry pretty quickly, so I did this within a minute of writing.

Controlling a brush pen can be a bit tricky.  On the thick to thin to thick transitions, the text can be a little shaky and hairy.

I use the pen tip end of the marker to tidy up the rough edges.

The completed project!

Posted!