Week 1: Introduction to Modern Calligraphy
- History and evolution of calligraphy
- Understanding the basic tools: pen holders, nibs, and ink
- Learning how to assemble and use your calligraphy tools
- Practising basic strokes: thin upstrokes and thick down strokes
- Introduction to letterforms: uppercase and lowercase
- Learning the basic lettering structure
- Drilling alphabets: practising individual letters
- Using Metallic Paint
Week 2: Word Formation
- Exploring different lettering styles
- How to connect letters to form words
- Understanding letter spacing and consistency
- Practising common words and phrases
- Using coloured inks and blending between them
Week 3: Bounce and Composition
- ‘Bounce’ your calligraphy
- Using lettering size within a composition
- Adding flourishes and embellishments
Week 4: Final Project and Refinement
- Layout and design principles for calligraphy projects
- Analysis and refining of your work
- Creating simple greeting card designs using all the skills covered in the course
Throughout the course, it's useful to practice regularly, possibly dedicating a set amount of time each day to help improve your skills.
Included
On this course the tutor will supply all/most/some of the materials including worksheets, templates, paintbrush, pipette, straight penholder, pencils, inks, nibs and blank cards/envelopes.
Additional information
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
Evening Timetable
Course teaching 6-9pm
Students arrive between 5.30pm-6pm
Teaching finishes 9pm
Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.
Refreshments
Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.
Access
If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected]
This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.
Safety
Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.
Refunds and cancellations
Please refer to our terms & conditions below.
Disclaimer
The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.