What do you think?
Rate this book
Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy: Essential Reference for Novice and Expert Letterers and Calligraphers
Written by best-selling author and hand letterer Abbey Sy, The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraph y covers the basics and beyond for creative lettering techniques.
The book begins with an overview of tools and materials, both traditional (pointed pen and fountain pen) and modern (including brush markers and chalk), then presents a visual glossary of letterforms, highlights the unique characteristics of the featured alphabets, and demonstrates how to draw letterforms to foster an understanding of how they’re created. The core chapters explore traditional, modern, and special effects lettering using a variety of mark-making tools, with in-depth how-to on adding flourishes and other special details, plus creative projects. There’s also an introduction to modifying and creating letterforms digitally, as well as practice sheets for the featured alphabets.
So whether you’ve never tried lettering before or you’d like to develop your skills and consider all your creative options, The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraph y will guide and inspire you on your lettering journey.
The book begins with an overview of tools and materials, both traditional (pointed pen and fountain pen) and modern (including brush markers and chalk), then presents a visual glossary of letterforms, highlights the unique characteristics of the featured alphabets, and demonstrates how to draw letterforms to foster an understanding of how they’re created. The core chapters explore traditional, modern, and special effects lettering using a variety of mark-making tools, with in-depth how-to on adding flourishes and other special details, plus creative projects. There’s also an introduction to modifying and creating letterforms digitally, as well as practice sheets for the featured alphabets.
So whether you’ve never tried lettering before or you’d like to develop your skills and consider all your creative options, The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraph y will guide and inspire you on your lettering journey.
- GenresArtNonfictionDesign
192 pages, Paperback
Published June 12, 2018
25 people are currently reading
105 people want to read
About the author
Abbey Sy
11 books141 followersAbbey Sy is an artist, best-selling author and creative entrepreneur from Manila, Philippines. Her penchant for analog-style documenting, reading books, & exploring the world ignites her passion for making art and sharing stories.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
June 14, 2018
The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy is one of several books I have read in this 'complete photo guide' series, and, like the others, it is excellent. The information is beautifully presented, with careful instructions neatly interspersed between helpful illustrations. The book offers a wonderful approach for those new to hand lettering and calligraphy, or those seeking to improve current skills, with useful practice sheets in the back and plenty of examples to follow. The suggested projects are a nice touch to help get you crafting and writing. An excellent resource.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley.
July 5, 2018
An easy-to-follow guide for beginners who want to boost their calligraphy skills. It offers clear instructions and tips, tons of beautiful pictures, and many projects to inspire you.
The only (small) flaw in an otherwise great book: more (and more detailed) practice sheets would have got a little extra kick – especially to novices - to start with hand lettering and get the most of this book.
~ARC Kindly provided by Netgalley & the Publisher in exchange for my honest review~
The only (small) flaw in an otherwise great book: more (and more detailed) practice sheets would have got a little extra kick – especially to novices - to start with hand lettering and get the most of this book.
~ARC Kindly provided by Netgalley & the Publisher in exchange for my honest review~
January 30, 2019
I would like to thank netgalley and Quarto Publishing Group - Creative Publishing International for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This book is beautiful, filled with lots of tips and practice sheets. I would have liked to see more focused on complete beginners Thanks.
Booktubeathon book 3
Something you want to do
This book is beautiful, filled with lots of tips and practice sheets. I would have liked to see more focused on complete beginners Thanks.
Booktubeathon book 3
Something you want to do
July 2, 2018
The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy is a welcome addition to my library. Over the years I've played around with my own alphabet font, used calligraphy fountain pens, and looked up font suggestions online as I create bullet journal pages. My mother is the source of my creativity, and she once gave me her calligraphy nibs. I had no idea how their uses varied (they've sat in a small tin since I was gifted them due to my inexperience), but this book gave me detailed background information on the merits of each nib and holder type, as well as other modern tools.
The author and the various contributors are thorough in the information given. The sections are beautifully laid out in natural divisions. After detailing tools and paper and expanding on what to notice in the shapes of letters, there are sections on classic and modern calligraphy, decorative lettering, and even digital techniques. The history and recommendations for the best ways to use the script are provided, and I appreciated the detailed and thorough information in each section; for instance, I loved the simplicity and beauty of the cross-drill exercises in the Spencerian Script section.
Included are a variety of projects to inspire readers to be emboldened to create; there are name cards, bookmarks, decorative plates, wall art, and a personal favorite of mine were the embellished notebooks.
I am a fierce advocate for digital books, but I have some exceptions, because of the way I interact with certain genres: children's books, cookbooks, and craft books. This book, while demonstrating a beautiful layout in its digital form, would be so much more useful as a physical book, so I would encourage others to buy it in that medium. There are useful practice pages at the close of the book that, if it were in my possession, I would photocopy so I could practice repeatedly. Additionally, being able to have it open next to me while I practiced would be welcome (and would spare my tablet battery, given the amount of time I'd want to refer to specific alphabet or project suggestions).
This book gives you the resources and confidence to develop calligraphy and hand-lettering skills (I expect soon these fonts will make an appearance in my bullet journal, and I hope to create an original notebook cover with favorite literary quotations).
I was provided a digital advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The author and the various contributors are thorough in the information given. The sections are beautifully laid out in natural divisions. After detailing tools and paper and expanding on what to notice in the shapes of letters, there are sections on classic and modern calligraphy, decorative lettering, and even digital techniques. The history and recommendations for the best ways to use the script are provided, and I appreciated the detailed and thorough information in each section; for instance, I loved the simplicity and beauty of the cross-drill exercises in the Spencerian Script section.
Included are a variety of projects to inspire readers to be emboldened to create; there are name cards, bookmarks, decorative plates, wall art, and a personal favorite of mine were the embellished notebooks.
I am a fierce advocate for digital books, but I have some exceptions, because of the way I interact with certain genres: children's books, cookbooks, and craft books. This book, while demonstrating a beautiful layout in its digital form, would be so much more useful as a physical book, so I would encourage others to buy it in that medium. There are useful practice pages at the close of the book that, if it were in my possession, I would photocopy so I could practice repeatedly. Additionally, being able to have it open next to me while I practiced would be welcome (and would spare my tablet battery, given the amount of time I'd want to refer to specific alphabet or project suggestions).
This book gives you the resources and confidence to develop calligraphy and hand-lettering skills (I expect soon these fonts will make an appearance in my bullet journal, and I hope to create an original notebook cover with favorite literary quotations).
I was provided a digital advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2018
I always thought of calligraphy as old fashioned fonts in black ink. This book has completed changed the way I see it. It shows you how to change letters into art and how you can use these letters and put them into your artistic projects. I would never have thought in a million years of using calligraphy in things such as gift wrapping and decorating bags, but this book shows you how to do it!
It has helpful hints and tips and a useful Tools and Materials section showing that it’s not just the old fashioned nibs and ink that you associate with calligraphy, but also more modern tools such as brush pens, chalks and pencils. There is also a section on Digital Lettering, showing how you can use technology to transform your work further.
There is a lot of information about how to get started with hand lettering and calligraphy, beginning with classic calligraphy and moving onto more modern ways. The information is detailed with lots of clear photos along the way. There are examples and projects with clear instructions showing how you can use the things you’ve learnt in the book.
Personally for me on one hand, it’s a very comprehensive book which is quite detailed, to the point where at parts it was difficult to understand. I do think this book would be better suited for intermediate calligraphers. I would be a complete beginner and I think it is a bit too complex for me! On the other hand, it is a beautiful book which is filled with lots of useful information on how to create some beautiful projects which I would never have associated with calligraphy!
A definite thumbs up, but I do think you need to have had some experience to get the full benefit of this book!
Thank you to the author and Publisher for this free book.
It has helpful hints and tips and a useful Tools and Materials section showing that it’s not just the old fashioned nibs and ink that you associate with calligraphy, but also more modern tools such as brush pens, chalks and pencils. There is also a section on Digital Lettering, showing how you can use technology to transform your work further.
There is a lot of information about how to get started with hand lettering and calligraphy, beginning with classic calligraphy and moving onto more modern ways. The information is detailed with lots of clear photos along the way. There are examples and projects with clear instructions showing how you can use the things you’ve learnt in the book.
Personally for me on one hand, it’s a very comprehensive book which is quite detailed, to the point where at parts it was difficult to understand. I do think this book would be better suited for intermediate calligraphers. I would be a complete beginner and I think it is a bit too complex for me! On the other hand, it is a beautiful book which is filled with lots of useful information on how to create some beautiful projects which I would never have associated with calligraphy!
A definite thumbs up, but I do think you need to have had some experience to get the full benefit of this book!
Thank you to the author and Publisher for this free book.
July 25, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed flipping through the pages of this hand lettering book. I have loved the art of calligraphy since I was young and found a dreamy watercolor piece with a lyrical quote that fascinated me in my basement; it was an art project done by my dad when he was in high school,
Now, about ten years later, my younger sister has taken an interest in hand lettering. Modern calligraphy is full of thick brush strokes, but the sharp angles of flat-tip dip pens is striking in its own way.
Also, look at me knowing the names of hand lettering tools! All thanks to Abbey Sy's conversational tone. I loved the learning experience - I came into this book knowing nothing except that I like to look at pretty lettering!
Black letter and italic fonts remind me of my dad. Brush pens and chalk remind me of my sister. Sy covers the broad spectrum of lettering in this book, so I was able to learn more about the different styles.
The best part is that the book includes practice sheets that you could write directly on (or copy and print so that you can reuse) and also has many different projects for which to use your newfound lettering skills.
I may end up attempting a few of the projects because they're irresistible. The journals are so cute!
Definitely give this one a read, even if you are not an artsy person by nature. Sy will guide you through it!
Now, about ten years later, my younger sister has taken an interest in hand lettering. Modern calligraphy is full of thick brush strokes, but the sharp angles of flat-tip dip pens is striking in its own way.
Also, look at me knowing the names of hand lettering tools! All thanks to Abbey Sy's conversational tone. I loved the learning experience - I came into this book knowing nothing except that I like to look at pretty lettering!
Black letter and italic fonts remind me of my dad. Brush pens and chalk remind me of my sister. Sy covers the broad spectrum of lettering in this book, so I was able to learn more about the different styles.
The best part is that the book includes practice sheets that you could write directly on (or copy and print so that you can reuse) and also has many different projects for which to use your newfound lettering skills.
I may end up attempting a few of the projects because they're irresistible. The journals are so cute!
Definitely give this one a read, even if you are not an artsy person by nature. Sy will guide you through it!
July 20, 2018
'The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy: The Essential Reference for Novice and Expert Letterers and Calligraphers' by Abbey Sy is not exhaustively complete, but it is thorough enough to launch anyone interested in lettering.
Starting with an overview of tools, the book has tons of photos of completed works, and works in progress. There are lettering primers and chapters on the major styles. The book talks about digital lettering and decorative lettering. There are step by step projects at the end of chapters and the book ends with a bunch of practice sheets.
Understanding the basics and seeing how letters are formed is essential to learning lettering. The book builds nicely and the help is encouraging and friendly. There is also some really gorgeous lettering and calligraphy to look at along the way. This is a book I would gladly add to my library of books on calligraphy because of its approach to letterform.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Quarto Publishing Group - Creative Publishing International, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
Starting with an overview of tools, the book has tons of photos of completed works, and works in progress. There are lettering primers and chapters on the major styles. The book talks about digital lettering and decorative lettering. There are step by step projects at the end of chapters and the book ends with a bunch of practice sheets.
Understanding the basics and seeing how letters are formed is essential to learning lettering. The book builds nicely and the help is encouraging and friendly. There is also some really gorgeous lettering and calligraphy to look at along the way. This is a book I would gladly add to my library of books on calligraphy because of its approach to letterform.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Quarto Publishing Group - Creative Publishing International, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
July 23, 2018
The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy: The Essential Reference for Novice and Expert Letterers and Calligraphers by Abbey Sy is a must read for everyone who has thought about trying to learn hand lettering.
This book starts off by detailing the tools and materials needed in this creative process. Unlike other books about hand lettering Sy focuses all the entire variety of tools and materials and even helps you select your tools based on your creative goal. With the traditional tools, Sy outlines some of the history of hand lettering and calligraphy which is very interesting and provides a unique insight to the art. She even breaks down the differences in the types of calligraphy and shows their best use case.
This book encourages you to take notes and experiment on the book and on other paper while reading. The beautiful photos and typography on every page make it easy to follow along. This book will definitely spark your creativity. This would be the perfect gift for any creative or crafty person in your life.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Quarto Publishing Group - Creative Publishing International, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
This book starts off by detailing the tools and materials needed in this creative process. Unlike other books about hand lettering Sy focuses all the entire variety of tools and materials and even helps you select your tools based on your creative goal. With the traditional tools, Sy outlines some of the history of hand lettering and calligraphy which is very interesting and provides a unique insight to the art. She even breaks down the differences in the types of calligraphy and shows their best use case.
This book encourages you to take notes and experiment on the book and on other paper while reading. The beautiful photos and typography on every page make it easy to follow along. This book will definitely spark your creativity. This would be the perfect gift for any creative or crafty person in your life.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Quarto Publishing Group - Creative Publishing International, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
March 16, 2022
The author touches on so many topics that I wonder whether a disclaimer wouldn't be helpful, e.g., "Don't expect to be an expert (or even a half-decent novice) at ___ [choose one: Copperplate calligraphy, Spencerian script, Italics, flourishing, brush lettering...] after reading the 2-page intro contained herein. Each of these disciplines requires many, many hours (weeks, months, years) of dedicated practice to master, and involve much more technique than I can begin to touch on here."
So yes, in a way, this book is "complete" (as suggested by the title) because it offers a broad survey of hand lettering and calligraphy. But it is far from standalone!
The book is chock full of beautiful, full-color, and sometimes close-up examples of works in progress and finished work. Perhaps the book's best use for beginners like me is to show what projects are possible with which tools and techniques, so that I can find beginner-level how-to books on those specific topics.
One final thought: I wish this book (a large paperback) would lie flat.
So yes, in a way, this book is "complete" (as suggested by the title) because it offers a broad survey of hand lettering and calligraphy. But it is far from standalone!
The book is chock full of beautiful, full-color, and sometimes close-up examples of works in progress and finished work. Perhaps the book's best use for beginners like me is to show what projects are possible with which tools and techniques, so that I can find beginner-level how-to books on those specific topics.
One final thought: I wish this book (a large paperback) would lie flat.
July 16, 2018
Really lovely book about Hand Lettering and Calligraphy. I think that having illustrations like the large photos in this book are very helpful as is being able to see the different tools that you use for making these illustrations. I think that this would be a great introduction to hand letter, but if you want to really get into calligraphy you will quickly move onto something more focused solely on that.
I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for a fair review, all opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for a fair review, all opinions are my own.
June 17, 2018
Handletterig has become increasingly popular during the last years.
This book offers lots of pictures, as one would expect from a photo guide, starting with materials from traditional to modern, covering the topics of letter anatomy and how to draw the perfect calligraphy letter, up to digital lettering. There are exercises to get you started, including practice sheets, and project ideas using different tools and different media to letter on.
It's a book I'd recommend to the novice hand letterer as well as the more advanced hobby calligrapher.
This book offers lots of pictures, as one would expect from a photo guide, starting with materials from traditional to modern, covering the topics of letter anatomy and how to draw the perfect calligraphy letter, up to digital lettering. There are exercises to get you started, including practice sheets, and project ideas using different tools and different media to letter on.
It's a book I'd recommend to the novice hand letterer as well as the more advanced hobby calligrapher.
August 22, 2018
As someone with horrible handwriting and an interest in bettering it, this book was insightful. It shows the proper movements of the pen/paintbrush/stylus for a number of styles and provides practice sheets and helpful project guidelines to follow. An easy guidebook to follow with a diverse amount of styles to practice. Awesome!
June 19, 2018
From Netgalley for Review
This is a great introduction to hand lettering, which is all the rage these days! I really like how it covers a wide variety of tools, from classic calligraphy nibs to modern brush markers. It also gives a lot of examples and projects to try out. I recommend if you are wanting to learn hand lettering, especially those in the journaling culture.
This is a great introduction to hand lettering, which is all the rage these days! I really like how it covers a wide variety of tools, from classic calligraphy nibs to modern brush markers. It also gives a lot of examples and projects to try out. I recommend if you are wanting to learn hand lettering, especially those in the journaling culture.
June 21, 2018
This book has really helped me with my lettering. I was already trying and practicing but seeing all the tools and everything has really helped me learned what I was doing wrong and how to improve it. I also learned how to give my creations a little “umph” to jazz them up. I can’t wait to start posting more of my work up.
July 8, 2018
Thank you Quatro Publishing amd Netgalley for an ARC of this book in return for my Honest review.
This is a great, engaging book to get the reader enthused in lettering and calligraphy using different mediums. It has been decades since I enjoyed practicing different handwriting fonts as a child and after reading this book I am excited to start practicing again.
There are practice pages, helpful tips and lots of ideas for beginners and more advanced wishing to develop their skills.
.
This is a great, engaging book to get the reader enthused in lettering and calligraphy using different mediums. It has been decades since I enjoyed practicing different handwriting fonts as a child and after reading this book I am excited to start practicing again.
There are practice pages, helpful tips and lots of ideas for beginners and more advanced wishing to develop their skills.
.
July 13, 2018
I like this book as it is brimful of ideas, bright, inviting and has lots of advice on equipment along with plenty of examples and suggested projects. A great guide for a beginner, there are practice sheets to help you develop a regular script and plenty of fonts to choose from. Also useful to a more confident calligrapher. Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC.
August 18, 2018
Before I start this review can I say I LOVED THIS BOOK!!
I love calligraphy and wanted to know more about it. That's where this book comes in!
"The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy" tells about different pens, inks, tools, and styles. It tells different pen types and provide details about which pen type would be suitable for different styles. It also mentions inks and also tells which ink would be suitable for beginners. Details about different types of papers, paints, colours and fonts. It also teaches how to create your art and calligraphy on your notebook, tote bag and plates (just to name a few).
Other than traditional tools and mediums, the book also provide details about electronic devices and software where you can work for digital calligraphy. The book has all this and much more!
Worksheets are also given in the end.
Honestly, I just LOVED THE PHOTOGRAPHY IN THIS BOOK!!! AND I MEAN IT!!
This book was amazing and had everything I could want in a book like this.
Love calligraphy or want to know about it or love the books in genres Arts and Photography, Crafts and Hobbies? Then this book is just for you!
Thank you to Netgalley for providing ARC of this book to me in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
For more reviews, visit https://missshanza.wordpress.com and https://shanzawrites.blogspot.com
I love calligraphy and wanted to know more about it. That's where this book comes in!
"The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy" tells about different pens, inks, tools, and styles. It tells different pen types and provide details about which pen type would be suitable for different styles. It also mentions inks and also tells which ink would be suitable for beginners. Details about different types of papers, paints, colours and fonts. It also teaches how to create your art and calligraphy on your notebook, tote bag and plates (just to name a few).
Other than traditional tools and mediums, the book also provide details about electronic devices and software where you can work for digital calligraphy. The book has all this and much more!
Worksheets are also given in the end.
Honestly, I just LOVED THE PHOTOGRAPHY IN THIS BOOK!!! AND I MEAN IT!!
This book was amazing and had everything I could want in a book like this.
Love calligraphy or want to know about it or love the books in genres Arts and Photography, Crafts and Hobbies? Then this book is just for you!
Thank you to Netgalley for providing ARC of this book to me in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
For more reviews, visit https://missshanza.wordpress.com and https://shanzawrites.blogspot.com
June 23, 2018
I received a free digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is such a great resource! It goes into calligraphy detail covering tools and actual hand lettering formation and practice. There are even practice sheets and some creative projects that I am excited to try! This is an awesome book if you would like to improve your calligraphy and learn how to make your hand writing look like printed font.
This book is such a great resource! It goes into calligraphy detail covering tools and actual hand lettering formation and practice. There are even practice sheets and some creative projects that I am excited to try! This is an awesome book if you would like to improve your calligraphy and learn how to make your hand writing look like printed font.
June 13, 2021
تمرین های تهش رو دوست داشتم.
یکم کمکم کرد و یکم اجرا میکنم
ولی کم:)))
یکم کمکم کرد و یکم اجرا میکنم
ولی کم:)))
July 2, 2018
Beautifully done, and very current with lots of people (like me) jumping on the bullet journal bandwagon. I like the addition of the crafts section. Can't wait to make cards and bookmarks...oh...and spruce up my new bullet journal!
July 2, 2018
The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy by Abbey Sy is a lovely book. It has indepth explanations of all types of tools and terms. The photographs are clear and well done.
Unfortunately, I kept turning the pages looking for practice insturctions. While there were some, I feel there weren't near enough. While the idea of practice, practice and more practice leads to great hand lettering and calligraphy I feel this book fell short in guiding the reader through the process. There are beautiful examples of the author's work but not explanation of how to get there. It was like being driven in a bus and left on the side of the road prior to your destination.
This can be used as a reference book regarding tools and terms however I was disappointed in the execution and encouragement for the reader.
I received and ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I kept turning the pages looking for practice insturctions. While there were some, I feel there weren't near enough. While the idea of practice, practice and more practice leads to great hand lettering and calligraphy I feel this book fell short in guiding the reader through the process. There are beautiful examples of the author's work but not explanation of how to get there. It was like being driven in a bus and left on the side of the road prior to your destination.
This can be used as a reference book regarding tools and terms however I was disappointed in the execution and encouragement for the reader.
I received and ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 16, 2019
What a wonderful guide to calligraphy and artistic hand lettering, skills I look forward to becoming more adept at by studying this beautiful book. Instagram star Abbey Sy developed this handbook to cover everything you’d need to know to practice this fine art. There are chapters on needed tools and material, as well as exercise sheets to practice lettering the alphabet. Styles such as modern and traditional plus special effects and digital are also covered. Highly recommended for newbies and experienced artists.
Grateful to Quarto Publishing Group - Creative Publishing International and NetGalley for the ARC, in exchange for my honest opinion.
#TheCompletePhotoGuideToHandLetteringAndCalligraphy #NetGalley
Grateful to Quarto Publishing Group - Creative Publishing International and NetGalley for the ARC, in exchange for my honest opinion.
#TheCompletePhotoGuideToHandLetteringAndCalligraphy #NetGalley
August 23, 2018
This is the second hand lettering book that I've reviewed here on my blog. The other was Lettering with Purpose.
The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy had short chapters and sections dedicated to more than just hand lettering. There were sections on the history and different types of calligraphy, fonts and font types, and even a section for digital lettering. The history bits were actually interesting to me where history isn't always my favorite subject.
I particularly think the section about digital lettering will be helpful in the future. Although I love the look of hand created art, I'm also quite a perfectionist. Digital renderings allow you to take art you've hand drawn and perfect it. Unfortunately this requires Adobe Illustrator which is quite expensive. This is likely not something you'd want to pay for a hobby alone, but if you were hoping to sell your art pieces then it might be worth the investment. Personally, I'm not quite there yet.
I didn't have some of the tools needed in order to actually practice some of the calligraphy styles, but that's okay with me for now. I can see myself investing in them in the future. For now, I'm practicing brush lettering. The book highly suggests that you use practice and drills to acquire muscle memory, but I didn't feel like this was emphasized quite enough. When I first got interested in hand lettering, I jumped right in trying to create hand lettered quotes or pieces of art, but I just didn't have the fundamentals down. I'm still very much learning, but I've taken to doing drills every day and I can actually feel the difference in the muscle memory that I'm creating even if my drawings aren't anything I'd want to share yet. All of this to say that once I feel a bit more accomplished in the style I'm working on now, I'd like to branch out to some of the other styles and fonts featured in this book.
Even though I said drills weren't emphasized, approximately 40 pages of this book are actually practice sheets. In my opinion, that is quite a lot of practice sheets included. This is a pro in my opinion for those looking to purchase this book. For me, they weren't as helpful as they could be because my review copy was an Adobe Digital Editions version with the function to print turned off. Sure, I can mimic the drills as best as possible simply by looking at my computer screen and trying to copy on my own paper, but a bit of the purpose and functionality of the practice sheets is lost in doing so. I will say that even with 40 practice sheets, that's basically one sheet per style...this isn't a book that has pages upon pages for you to practice one style. The book just covers so many styles and fonts that each style taking up one-two pages is this long.
In the section for hand lettering (or brush lettering), I didn't find any real new information for me. But that's okay. This book covered so many other styles and fonts that I found plenty new (to me) information in the other chapters. The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy gets 4 Stars. Have you read The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy? What did you think? Let me know!
The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy had short chapters and sections dedicated to more than just hand lettering. There were sections on the history and different types of calligraphy, fonts and font types, and even a section for digital lettering. The history bits were actually interesting to me where history isn't always my favorite subject.
I particularly think the section about digital lettering will be helpful in the future. Although I love the look of hand created art, I'm also quite a perfectionist. Digital renderings allow you to take art you've hand drawn and perfect it. Unfortunately this requires Adobe Illustrator which is quite expensive. This is likely not something you'd want to pay for a hobby alone, but if you were hoping to sell your art pieces then it might be worth the investment. Personally, I'm not quite there yet.
I didn't have some of the tools needed in order to actually practice some of the calligraphy styles, but that's okay with me for now. I can see myself investing in them in the future. For now, I'm practicing brush lettering. The book highly suggests that you use practice and drills to acquire muscle memory, but I didn't feel like this was emphasized quite enough. When I first got interested in hand lettering, I jumped right in trying to create hand lettered quotes or pieces of art, but I just didn't have the fundamentals down. I'm still very much learning, but I've taken to doing drills every day and I can actually feel the difference in the muscle memory that I'm creating even if my drawings aren't anything I'd want to share yet. All of this to say that once I feel a bit more accomplished in the style I'm working on now, I'd like to branch out to some of the other styles and fonts featured in this book.
Even though I said drills weren't emphasized, approximately 40 pages of this book are actually practice sheets. In my opinion, that is quite a lot of practice sheets included. This is a pro in my opinion for those looking to purchase this book. For me, they weren't as helpful as they could be because my review copy was an Adobe Digital Editions version with the function to print turned off. Sure, I can mimic the drills as best as possible simply by looking at my computer screen and trying to copy on my own paper, but a bit of the purpose and functionality of the practice sheets is lost in doing so. I will say that even with 40 practice sheets, that's basically one sheet per style...this isn't a book that has pages upon pages for you to practice one style. The book just covers so many styles and fonts that each style taking up one-two pages is this long.
In the section for hand lettering (or brush lettering), I didn't find any real new information for me. But that's okay. This book covered so many other styles and fonts that I found plenty new (to me) information in the other chapters. The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy gets 4 Stars. Have you read The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy? What did you think? Let me know!
July 5, 2018
I received a copy of The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I feel like many people would happily say that they’ve at one point in their life wanted to learn how to write calligraphy. There are certainly a shocking number of uses for it, even if it doesn’t appear to at first. I’m among those people that have always wanted to learn, so naturally I jumped at the opportunity to read this book.
After having read it, I can tell you with complete honestly that I’m going to buy this book. I want to be able to drag it along with me to my desk as I practice, to have it with me as a guide while I slowly learn what I’m doing. I haven’t tried any of the exercises yet (as a rule I don’t allow my art supplies by my computer, for fairly obvious reasons), but I did read through them all and they seem nicely laid out and not at all overwhelming.
I have to say that I love how much material this book managed to cover. Starting from the suggested tools and materials (which varies depending on which method you choose to use), then moving on to cover the basics of lettering, classic calligraphy, modern hand lettering, decorative lettering (you know, the beautiful calligraphy with the extra swirls or even sometimes botanical elements around it), and finally digital lettering. They’ve also included practice sheets in the back, which was a nice touch.
For more reviews, check out Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
I feel like many people would happily say that they’ve at one point in their life wanted to learn how to write calligraphy. There are certainly a shocking number of uses for it, even if it doesn’t appear to at first. I’m among those people that have always wanted to learn, so naturally I jumped at the opportunity to read this book.
After having read it, I can tell you with complete honestly that I’m going to buy this book. I want to be able to drag it along with me to my desk as I practice, to have it with me as a guide while I slowly learn what I’m doing. I haven’t tried any of the exercises yet (as a rule I don’t allow my art supplies by my computer, for fairly obvious reasons), but I did read through them all and they seem nicely laid out and not at all overwhelming.
I have to say that I love how much material this book managed to cover. Starting from the suggested tools and materials (which varies depending on which method you choose to use), then moving on to cover the basics of lettering, classic calligraphy, modern hand lettering, decorative lettering (you know, the beautiful calligraphy with the extra swirls or even sometimes botanical elements around it), and finally digital lettering. They’ve also included practice sheets in the back, which was a nice touch.
For more reviews, check out Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
July 2, 2018
Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy from NetGalley in exchange for a review.
I can't wait to give this a try! Unfortunately, I'll have to, since I'm still recovering from carpal tunnel surgery. This looks like a really good intro to lettering, though I remain skeptical that you can learn it all from a book. If any book can help master such techniques, this is probably it. Each major chapter has at least one project at the end to help you put what you've learned into practice.
There's a very thorough explanation of different tools available. If you're like me and never knew what all the different types of markers, pens, and pencils in an art supply store are actually intended to be used for, that's very handy info.
Then there's a whole section on the anatomy of letters, really, and all the forms they can take. Lots of instruction here on how to get certain shapes for your descenders and other squiggly bits. Next is classic calligraphy, which I found interesting even if it's not what drew me to this book. I probably will never try it, though. The attraction of this book for me is the modern hand lettering info, and it doesn't disappoint. Once the hands heal up, I look forward to trying some of the techniques out.
I can't wait to give this a try! Unfortunately, I'll have to, since I'm still recovering from carpal tunnel surgery. This looks like a really good intro to lettering, though I remain skeptical that you can learn it all from a book. If any book can help master such techniques, this is probably it. Each major chapter has at least one project at the end to help you put what you've learned into practice.
There's a very thorough explanation of different tools available. If you're like me and never knew what all the different types of markers, pens, and pencils in an art supply store are actually intended to be used for, that's very handy info.
Then there's a whole section on the anatomy of letters, really, and all the forms they can take. Lots of instruction here on how to get certain shapes for your descenders and other squiggly bits. Next is classic calligraphy, which I found interesting even if it's not what drew me to this book. I probably will never try it, though. The attraction of this book for me is the modern hand lettering info, and it doesn't disappoint. Once the hands heal up, I look forward to trying some of the techniques out.
November 28, 2018
The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy By Abbey Sy is the ultimate reference for lettering and calligraphy!
I love how simply this book breaks down how to hand letter and create beautiful calligraphy.
Handwriting seems to be a dying art. Many schools no longer teach or encourage cursive writing. I think penmanship and lettering is important and a necessary art form.
I purchases some supplies to get started:
The lovely color pages make it look easy and completely possible so even I can create lovely letters.
Chapters:
Tools and Materials
Lettering Primer
Classic Calligraphy
Modern Hand Lettering
Decorative Lettering
Digital Lettering
I love the information about styles and forming letters.
Illustrations remind me of illuminated manuscripts.
Flourishes make it fancy.
Step-by-step projects make great gifts!
Digital lettering is ever so popular now.
Super useful practice sheets at the end!
My kids and I look forward to learning calligraphy and practicing our lettering and making fun projects.
The essential reference for novice and expert letterers and calligraphers!
I love how simply this book breaks down how to hand letter and create beautiful calligraphy.
Handwriting seems to be a dying art. Many schools no longer teach or encourage cursive writing. I think penmanship and lettering is important and a necessary art form.
I purchases some supplies to get started:
The lovely color pages make it look easy and completely possible so even I can create lovely letters.
Chapters:
Tools and Materials
Lettering Primer
Classic Calligraphy
Modern Hand Lettering
Decorative Lettering
Digital Lettering
I love the information about styles and forming letters.
Illustrations remind me of illuminated manuscripts.
Flourishes make it fancy.
Step-by-step projects make great gifts!
Digital lettering is ever so popular now.
Super useful practice sheets at the end!
My kids and I look forward to learning calligraphy and practicing our lettering and making fun projects.
The essential reference for novice and expert letterers and calligraphers!
August 7, 2018
I was sent a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
When I first got this book I did not expect it to be "complete", but guess what? IT IS! And it is not that complicated.
The first part of the book focuses mainly on theory of lettering and calligraphy, but also features great exercises to get the strokes right and learn proper calligraphy. Then you have a part of the book that focuses on decorative calligraphy, featuring a lot of awesome projects - really inspired by those projects and they will make such awesome gifts.
There is also digital calligraphy and lettering, offering all the tips you need as a beginner, plus some easy projects to do digitally, and turn into gifts for someone or wrapping paper (I AM SO MAKING MY OWN WRAPPING PAPER THIS CHRISTMAS). And the book ends with a practice space where the reader can get the most out of his lettering, strokes, curves and so on.
This book is complete, but without feeling like too much for someone who never did calligraphy in their life. Really recommend!
When I first got this book I did not expect it to be "complete", but guess what? IT IS! And it is not that complicated.
The first part of the book focuses mainly on theory of lettering and calligraphy, but also features great exercises to get the strokes right and learn proper calligraphy. Then you have a part of the book that focuses on decorative calligraphy, featuring a lot of awesome projects - really inspired by those projects and they will make such awesome gifts.
There is also digital calligraphy and lettering, offering all the tips you need as a beginner, plus some easy projects to do digitally, and turn into gifts for someone or wrapping paper (I AM SO MAKING MY OWN WRAPPING PAPER THIS CHRISTMAS). And the book ends with a practice space where the reader can get the most out of his lettering, strokes, curves and so on.
This book is complete, but without feeling like too much for someone who never did calligraphy in their life. Really recommend!
September 5, 2018
*Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review*
SUCH A BEAUTIFUL BOOK!!
The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy is one of the best lettering books I've read(and seen). I can't think in another lettering book so complete like this one. Whether you are a newbie or an expert in calligraphy and lettering and want to improve your skills, this book will surely help you. Not only has practice sheets and teaches you alphabets and techniques, but gives you examples to add special details to your creations, whether you like hand or digital lettering, and boost your creativity.
The book is really easy to follow, it has clear steps, many pictures and gives you inspiration with projects of other artists(like Risa Rodil, I love her). Really, really awesome and practical if you are a beginner(I was so bad at lettering but reading this book and putting in practice some things helped me T-T) <3.
SUCH A BEAUTIFUL BOOK!!
The Complete Photo Guide to Hand Lettering and Calligraphy is one of the best lettering books I've read(and seen). I can't think in another lettering book so complete like this one. Whether you are a newbie or an expert in calligraphy and lettering and want to improve your skills, this book will surely help you. Not only has practice sheets and teaches you alphabets and techniques, but gives you examples to add special details to your creations, whether you like hand or digital lettering, and boost your creativity.
The book is really easy to follow, it has clear steps, many pictures and gives you inspiration with projects of other artists(like Risa Rodil, I love her). Really, really awesome and practical if you are a beginner(I was so bad at lettering but reading this book and putting in practice some things helped me T-T) <3.
July 1, 2018
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review. I have been into lettering and calligraphy since it was introduced to me in a seventh grade art class. I even have a kit of my own. This book showed me new ways to use my kit and that there is not a digital way of doing this. My favorite part of the whole book is the practice sheets that were included in the back of the book. I did not know some the tools or some of the terminology, but this book helped with me with that. It definitely made me feel that I could do this and feel very creative.
June 28, 2018
Thank you to the publisher and net galley for the opportunity to read this book. This is my honest review.
I would especially recommend this book to beginners. It has a lot of information on tools and supplies as well as basics on typography itself. Many lettering examples and many photos! Plenty to get a novice started.
I would especially recommend this book to beginners. It has a lot of information on tools and supplies as well as basics on typography itself. Many lettering examples and many photos! Plenty to get a novice started.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews