Dots and Lines

The first problem is learning how to hold the pen and use the pen. This isn't just grabbing a special pen and writing like you always do as you must learn how to keep the nib flat on the paper. It's not difficult but it requires a little bit of practice.

In this lesson you will:

make dots
make lines
make patterns with dots and lines

Things to concentrate on:

keep the pen flat on the paper
consistent pen angle
feeling the paper through the pen
having fun

The dot:

Before one can make letters one must first be able to make consistent marks on the page. Start with a diamond shape that I call the dot. Place the dot on the guide line (graph paper or lined paper, remember) so that the left and right corners of the dot line up with the guide line.

The dot can be done at an angle, which is actually better for doing most calligraphic hands. This sample is done at about 33º angle rather than the 45º degree of the "square" dot.

NOTE: The 33º angle is the one to practice the most. It will give the best results when you actually start writing the various hands.

Practice with a few dots. Draw some patterns.

Add a flourish.

Notice that the flourish stroke just touches the guideline and starts at starts (or ends) moving at the pen angle so that there is no corner.

The line:

The line is a vertical stroke that does not cross the guide lines!

Practice making a row of lines. Keep the space between each line the same width as the line itself.

Next...by combining dots with lines...Your First Alphabet