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The Hand Lettering Workbook: Step-by-Step Instructions, Practice Pages, and DIY Projects
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 upper and lower cases of a variety of alphabet styles and hand-lettered fonts, as well as plenty of useful practice pages.
Then, you’ll pull it all together with a helpful chapter on connecting letters to form words and adding embellishments to create something inspirational and whimsical.
The Hand Lettering Workbook includes:
Pen to paper―Step-by-steps and fill-in practice sheets take you from A to Z through 7 different alphabet styles, including hand-lettered fonts.
Connect the dots―Practice connecting letters and making words, along with embellishments like bounces, ligatures, flourishes, and more.
Artist toolkit―Learn about the right tools for hand lettering with advice on the difference between monoline, brush, and water pens, and a dive into the types of markers, chalk, and pencils.
Add some elegance and creativity to your words with the unique and beautiful art of decorative hand lettering and calligraphy.
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 upper and lower cases of a variety of alphabet styles and hand-lettered fonts, as well as plenty of useful practice pages.
Then, you’ll pull it all together with a helpful chapter on connecting letters to form words and adding embellishments to create something inspirational and whimsical.
The Hand Lettering Workbook includes:
Pen to paper―Step-by-steps and fill-in practice sheets take you from A to Z through 7 different alphabet styles, including hand-lettered fonts.
Connect the dots―Practice connecting letters and making words, along with embellishments like bounces, ligatures, flourishes, and more.
Artist toolkit―Learn about the right tools for hand lettering with advice on the difference between monoline, brush, and water pens, and a dive into the types of markers, chalk, and pencils.
Add some elegance and creativity to your words with the unique and beautiful art of decorative hand lettering and calligraphy.
- GenresNonfiction
208 pages, Paperback
Published April 28, 2020
1 person is currently reading
65 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
December 8, 2020
In a world where everything is go, go, go, Amanda Kammarada found herself leaving behind her artistic hobbies in an attempt to keep up with her life and her kids.
Hand lettering is the art of drawing letters...This workbook will provide you with the foundation needed to support you on your lettering journey.
But, she missed it.
Lettering has a way of spreading kindness and joy.And after the initial days of motherhood, she began to pick up hand-lettering and quickly found it the hobby she was looking for.
But, even something so soothing as beautiful handwriting was intimidating at first.
Choosing the right tools can feel overwhelming. Different styles require different toolsAnd so, she's created this little guide to help us on your adventures too.
It begins with explaining the three main types of lettering:
Typography - like typing computer fonts
Calligraphy - beautiful writing, focusing on balance and proportion
Hand Lettering - letters drawn by hand, the person drawing it decides the style and look
Then the book goes into the types of tools to use (pens, brushes, etc), followed by sections on each type of lettering - including various tips, tricks and worksheets designed to help you learn.
Overall, I quite liked this little guide.
I was rather intrigued by the written portion (i.e. explaining the history of typography and calligraphy), and wished there was more information about that!
The letters are explained rather well and seem very do-able to me.
It felt weird to write something so large after so many years of cramming in notes in vastly over-stuffed college notebooks but after a bit, I was able to get used to it.
At first I really didn't want to practice - I hate writing in a book - but then I realized that I could scan the practice pages with my iPad and use the various brush tools to learn the skill.
It might not be quite the same as holding a real brush, but it was a lot of fun to figure out and start writing!
All in all, this is a handy-dandy little book and I'm happy to have a new quarantine hobby!
A huge thank you to Amanda Kammarada, Callisto Publisher's Club and Rockridge press for sending me a free copy in exchange for an honest review
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May 5, 2020
This is a huge, colorful workbook to learn about simple hand lettering and practice making letters of various basic types and some words. It's definitely geared towards beginners, as you learn and practice things like basic up and down strokes and one letter at a time for much of it (think of those handwriting homework pages we did in elementary school). The author shows how to join letters, make variations, alter pressure and so on in order to make variations. The end features a few very basic projects, but the main part of the book is composed of the practice pages and instructions on lettering. It's a big, helpful, fun book that I'm looking forward to practicing in.
Review copy provided by the publisher.
Review copy provided by the publisher.
May 6, 2020
I chose to read this book after receiving a free copy from the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
I’ve always admired those who could write fancy lettering, so I jumped at the chance to get this workbook to learn hand lettering. It was a good choice.
Before starting, chapter 1 explains the different types of lettering, writing tools to use, and definitions of different parts of letters. The Hand Lettering Workbook has step-by-step instructions and plenty of practice sheets to try the different letter styles. Once you learn the basics, you can add embellishments, many of which are here for you to practice on. Once you’re finished with the workbook, you should be able to make some amazing projects!
I am not artistic at all but I’m slowly going through this workbook. I’m learning to relax and let the letters flow. If you’re a beginner looking for something to help you learn fancy lettering, this is a good place to start.
I’ve always admired those who could write fancy lettering, so I jumped at the chance to get this workbook to learn hand lettering. It was a good choice.
Before starting, chapter 1 explains the different types of lettering, writing tools to use, and definitions of different parts of letters. The Hand Lettering Workbook has step-by-step instructions and plenty of practice sheets to try the different letter styles. Once you learn the basics, you can add embellishments, many of which are here for you to practice on. Once you’re finished with the workbook, you should be able to make some amazing projects!
I am not artistic at all but I’m slowly going through this workbook. I’m learning to relax and let the letters flow. If you’re a beginner looking for something to help you learn fancy lettering, this is a good place to start.
May 7, 2020
My teenager daughter and I fight over this one! 😂 I have always wanted to get better at my writing when journaling and hand written letters. When I saw this it was perfect! It is great to work on in the evenings.
Thank you to Callisto Publisher’s Club for my copy for a honest review.
Thank you to Callisto Publisher’s Club for my copy for a honest review.
May 11, 2020
I received a complimentary print copy of this book from the publisher. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
This book is visually appealing and as well as extremely useful. I’ve been reading a lot of hand lettering books recently and this is one of the best books. It is well-organized which is not a surprise given the author is a former elementary school teacher.
Each chapter is set up to teach the basics of a particular style. There are step by step instructions and a place to practice the lessons learned. Once all those introductory basics are learned it moves on to “putting it all together”. This last part helps with connecting letters, making words and embellishing your work. There are also fun alternatives to add some extra style. The resource page completes the book with suggestions for everything need to start learning now.
I recommend this to anyone who loves to try new things or is interested in increasing their knowledge of hand lettering.
This book is visually appealing and as well as extremely useful. I’ve been reading a lot of hand lettering books recently and this is one of the best books. It is well-organized which is not a surprise given the author is a former elementary school teacher.
Each chapter is set up to teach the basics of a particular style. There are step by step instructions and a place to practice the lessons learned. Once all those introductory basics are learned it moves on to “putting it all together”. This last part helps with connecting letters, making words and embellishing your work. There are also fun alternatives to add some extra style. The resource page completes the book with suggestions for everything need to start learning now.
I recommend this to anyone who loves to try new things or is interested in increasing their knowledge of hand lettering.
May 5, 2020
This book is perfect for lettering beginners who want to be more creative and artistic! The instructions are clear and everything is demonstrated step by step. I really love that all the different elements of handwriting are analysed and explained in detail. They explain each component like down-strokes and up-strokes, letter height, the weight of pressure on the pen, and those little brackets that stick out from the ends of the letters (which are called "serifs"). There is also an extensive list of materials that are good to use, like types of pens and markers, paper thickness, and watercolors.
I love that there are so many practice pages in this book! They really break down each lettering style into simple components and then give you a chance to practice each pen stroke separately before putting it all together. The book teaches both blocked and calligraphy styles, and then you can get creative with making the style into your own unique handwriting.
Once you have put together all your individual pen strokes and had a chance to practice pen weight, then the book guides you into adding flourishes and extra details to your lettering. You can start playing around with your style, adding thicker lines or thinner script. There are dozens of different styles to choose from, or create one of your own.
There are also further embellishments like shadows that appear to lay behind your letters, outlines in different colors, dots, stripes, stars, flowers, and ombre blends of color. There are tutorials about drawing banners, borders, wreaths, and other lines and shapes. The book finishes with some ideas for lettering projects that you can use, like greeting cards, chalkboard designs, and others.
I am so inspired by all the ideas in this book! The whole design of the book is colorful and clear. It's the perfect place to start learning lettering and get a creative boost!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
I love that there are so many practice pages in this book! They really break down each lettering style into simple components and then give you a chance to practice each pen stroke separately before putting it all together. The book teaches both blocked and calligraphy styles, and then you can get creative with making the style into your own unique handwriting.
Once you have put together all your individual pen strokes and had a chance to practice pen weight, then the book guides you into adding flourishes and extra details to your lettering. You can start playing around with your style, adding thicker lines or thinner script. There are dozens of different styles to choose from, or create one of your own.
There are also further embellishments like shadows that appear to lay behind your letters, outlines in different colors, dots, stripes, stars, flowers, and ombre blends of color. There are tutorials about drawing banners, borders, wreaths, and other lines and shapes. The book finishes with some ideas for lettering projects that you can use, like greeting cards, chalkboard designs, and others.
I am so inspired by all the ideas in this book! The whole design of the book is colorful and clear. It's the perfect place to start learning lettering and get a creative boost!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
May 3, 2020
“In this book, I’ll walk you through the basics and all the way through to designing a complete piece of lettering,” Amanda Kammarada explains in the introduction of her book, The Hand Lettering Workbook: Step-by-Step Instructions, Practice Pages, and DIY Projects.
~ What ~
This two-hundred-and-eight-page paperback targets those who want to learn how to have beautiful letter handwriting. After an introduction, there are five chapters covering the topic and ending with resources, an index, acknowledgments, and the author’s biography.
This book begins with an explanation of hand lettering, guidelines, styles, tools, and supplies as well as sans serif, serif, and monoline script practice pages. It has complete chapters on brush lettering discussing pressure, strokes, and connection and the basics of faux calligraphy. The final chapter includes practicing connections, making words, bouncing, flourishing, ligatures, embellishing, expressing, developing one’s style, and DIY projects.
~ Why ~
Having a degree in art, I like having a hands-on book that explains how to write cursive including both upper and lower case letters. I appreciate that it not only has practice sheets with examples but also need-to-know terms, different techniques, and various writing instrument options.
~ Why Not ~
Some may have no interest in hand lettering or the art of drawing letters, but it can be a calming, stress-free activity. Others may wish there were more practice pages as there is limited space for writing a single letter repeatedly.
~ Wish ~
Mainly focusing on sans serif, serif, and script lettering along with brush lettering and faux calligraphy, the book is limited on fonts. I wish it contained more style or design options.
~ Want ~
If you are looking for a way to learn how to write letters by hand beautifully, this workbook is a great beginner’s source that is full of information, but it is limited to mainly three styles.
Thanks to Callisto Publisher’s Club and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
~ What ~
This two-hundred-and-eight-page paperback targets those who want to learn how to have beautiful letter handwriting. After an introduction, there are five chapters covering the topic and ending with resources, an index, acknowledgments, and the author’s biography.
This book begins with an explanation of hand lettering, guidelines, styles, tools, and supplies as well as sans serif, serif, and monoline script practice pages. It has complete chapters on brush lettering discussing pressure, strokes, and connection and the basics of faux calligraphy. The final chapter includes practicing connections, making words, bouncing, flourishing, ligatures, embellishing, expressing, developing one’s style, and DIY projects.
~ Why ~
Having a degree in art, I like having a hands-on book that explains how to write cursive including both upper and lower case letters. I appreciate that it not only has practice sheets with examples but also need-to-know terms, different techniques, and various writing instrument options.
~ Why Not ~
Some may have no interest in hand lettering or the art of drawing letters, but it can be a calming, stress-free activity. Others may wish there were more practice pages as there is limited space for writing a single letter repeatedly.
~ Wish ~
Mainly focusing on sans serif, serif, and script lettering along with brush lettering and faux calligraphy, the book is limited on fonts. I wish it contained more style or design options.
~ Want ~
If you are looking for a way to learn how to write letters by hand beautifully, this workbook is a great beginner’s source that is full of information, but it is limited to mainly three styles.
Thanks to Callisto Publisher’s Club and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
May 13, 2020
Beautiful handwriting is so refreshing in the age of technology. I personally don’t have beautiful handwriting but I keep at it to make it look like I wrote something with such grace and ease.
This is the perfect beginner’s hand lettering workbook. This is a full page workbook that is the perfect size for those learning the art.
The first part goes over some of the different types of lettering from typography, calligraphy, and lettering. I had no idea that there was a difference. It goes into some different hand lettering styles.
Writing tools and supplies goes over the different medians and what they are best used for. You are learning about pens, markets, watercolors, and paper types. This was very informative and new information to me.
I liked that it had step by step examples. You learn things like down-strokes, up-strokes, letter height, serifs, and a lot more information. Then it goes into to pen pressure while writing. There are a lot of pages to practice free-style and to trace the letters. I like that the lines are large. The steps start out small and you start combining the strokes to create several styles. I loved the flourishing part.
This is perfect for the beginner and would make a great gift for someone wanting to learn hand lettering.
I received a copy of this product in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
This is the perfect beginner’s hand lettering workbook. This is a full page workbook that is the perfect size for those learning the art.
The first part goes over some of the different types of lettering from typography, calligraphy, and lettering. I had no idea that there was a difference. It goes into some different hand lettering styles.
Writing tools and supplies goes over the different medians and what they are best used for. You are learning about pens, markets, watercolors, and paper types. This was very informative and new information to me.
I liked that it had step by step examples. You learn things like down-strokes, up-strokes, letter height, serifs, and a lot more information. Then it goes into to pen pressure while writing. There are a lot of pages to practice free-style and to trace the letters. I like that the lines are large. The steps start out small and you start combining the strokes to create several styles. I loved the flourishing part.
This is perfect for the beginner and would make a great gift for someone wanting to learn hand lettering.
I received a copy of this product in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
May 12, 2020
I was given an opportunity via the publisher to read The Hand Lettering Workbook: Step-by-Step Instructions, Practice Pages, and DIY Projects. I voluntarily chose to review this craft guide and my opinion is freely given.
Hand lettering can be used in a myriad of ways, like keepsakes, correspondence, and scrapbooking. As lettering is a lost art, this workbook is a great way for crafters to practice before completing their projects. Practice pages are included, though I had a hard time writing in the book. Not only do I not like to write in books, but it also made me feel like I was back in elementary school. In any case, tear-out pages would have been easier to use.
The book goes through different lettering styles, as well as tools and supplies for success. Each type has practice pages for every letter of the alphabet. I definitely can see a practical use of this book for scrapbooking, as it is nice to use different lettering on subsequent pages.
I wish the DIY project section was more developed, as it would have been nice to see the potential uses for lettering. Overall, The Hand Lettering Workbook: Step-by-Step Instructions, Practice Pages, and DIY Projects is great for crafters or anyone desiring to "pretty up" their handwriting.
Hand lettering can be used in a myriad of ways, like keepsakes, correspondence, and scrapbooking. As lettering is a lost art, this workbook is a great way for crafters to practice before completing their projects. Practice pages are included, though I had a hard time writing in the book. Not only do I not like to write in books, but it also made me feel like I was back in elementary school. In any case, tear-out pages would have been easier to use.
The book goes through different lettering styles, as well as tools and supplies for success. Each type has practice pages for every letter of the alphabet. I definitely can see a practical use of this book for scrapbooking, as it is nice to use different lettering on subsequent pages.
I wish the DIY project section was more developed, as it would have been nice to see the potential uses for lettering. Overall, The Hand Lettering Workbook: Step-by-Step Instructions, Practice Pages, and DIY Projects is great for crafters or anyone desiring to "pretty up" their handwriting.
May 13, 2020
Amanda Kammarada has written a very comprehensive, informative, easy to follow, visually appealing and fun Hand Lettering Workbook for those looking to learn or practice this skill/craft. This is definitely my go-to book now on this craft!
I really like that she gives basic informati0n about terminology and tools used in each technique, step-by-step instructions for each style covered (in both upper and lower case - YAY!) with plenty of practice pages throughout. I also appreciate the tips, trouble-shooting advice, resource list and index.
Techniques and styles covered:
Hand lettering - serif, sans serif and script
Brush lettering - basic strokes, traditional, whimsical and elegant
Faux calligraphy - script
After practicing the techniques and styles, the author shows how to put it all together, connecting the letters, adding embellishments, flourishes, changing up the styles a bit.
I am so impressed by this book! The author really knows her stuff and imparts both her knowledge and enthusiasm well. I definitely came away from the read feeling that "I can DO this!!" A rare 5 star review from me.
My thanks to RockRidgePress who gave me a complimentary copy of the book. My review is voluntary and unbiased. The opinions expressed here are my own.
I really like that she gives basic informati0n about terminology and tools used in each technique, step-by-step instructions for each style covered (in both upper and lower case - YAY!) with plenty of practice pages throughout. I also appreciate the tips, trouble-shooting advice, resource list and index.
Techniques and styles covered:
Hand lettering - serif, sans serif and script
Brush lettering - basic strokes, traditional, whimsical and elegant
Faux calligraphy - script
After practicing the techniques and styles, the author shows how to put it all together, connecting the letters, adding embellishments, flourishes, changing up the styles a bit.
I am so impressed by this book! The author really knows her stuff and imparts both her knowledge and enthusiasm well. I definitely came away from the read feeling that "I can DO this!!" A rare 5 star review from me.
My thanks to RockRidgePress who gave me a complimentary copy of the book. My review is voluntary and unbiased. The opinions expressed here are my own.
May 6, 2020
This is an awesome workbook!
I love that it includes product recommendations; I really didn't have any idea where to begin and appreciated the direction on how to get started and what to purchase.
The worksheets are easy to use and replicate; you could even use tracing paper to maintain the original and come back to it later. There are also some great suggestions for how to use each type of lettering, and DIY projects too. The author even includes tips for lefties!
Definitely a resource I could come back to repeatedly for a variety of lettering styles and activities.
Helpful for a wide range of ages; kids and adults a like can use and learn.
I received a copy of the book from Callisto Publishers. All opinions are my own.
I love that it includes product recommendations; I really didn't have any idea where to begin and appreciated the direction on how to get started and what to purchase.
The worksheets are easy to use and replicate; you could even use tracing paper to maintain the original and come back to it later. There are also some great suggestions for how to use each type of lettering, and DIY projects too. The author even includes tips for lefties!
Definitely a resource I could come back to repeatedly for a variety of lettering styles and activities.
Helpful for a wide range of ages; kids and adults a like can use and learn.
I received a copy of the book from Callisto Publishers. All opinions are my own.
May 15, 2020
This is a good basic beginners guide to brush lettering if you have at least some experience. It has helpful tips and suggestions to get you started and goes over basic tools needed to do lettering.
I don't know if I'd recommend it for true beginners because it does not have very in-depth tutorials but this book points you in the right direction and helps give you a feel for how the lettering should be done. It also gives great inspiration and ideas for imbellishing your lettering so overall I think this is a very handy reference guide.
I recieved this book form Calisto Publishing and Rockridge press for an honest review.
#ModernBrushLettering
#NetGalley
I don't know if I'd recommend it for true beginners because it does not have very in-depth tutorials but this book points you in the right direction and helps give you a feel for how the lettering should be done. It also gives great inspiration and ideas for imbellishing your lettering so overall I think this is a very handy reference guide.
I recieved this book form Calisto Publishing and Rockridge press for an honest review.
#ModernBrushLettering
#NetGalley
May 6, 2020
Well, I've gotta say, sheltering in place during this pandemic offers plenty of time to get creative. The Hand Lettering Workbook offers just what the title suggests. It provides step-by-step instructions to help you create different hand drawn letters and alphabet styles.
I am surprised that with just a bit of instruction, I can hand letter fairly well! It's fun practice and keeps my creative juices flowing even when I'm in a weird world lockdown.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher
I am surprised that with just a bit of instruction, I can hand letter fairly well! It's fun practice and keeps my creative juices flowing even when I'm in a weird world lockdown.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher
March 21, 2021
I received an advance publishers copy.
The global pandemic has introduced me, rather quickly, to bullet journaling. When The Hand Lettering Workbook became available, I was thrilled. The book does a great job explaining terminology off the bat, and recommendations on materials based on skills. Most of the book was practice, which I completed on separate worksheets in order to practice more and allow me to pass along the book to a friend. It’s a great beginners book for hand lettering, I’ve been using it weekly.
The global pandemic has introduced me, rather quickly, to bullet journaling. When The Hand Lettering Workbook became available, I was thrilled. The book does a great job explaining terminology off the bat, and recommendations on materials based on skills. Most of the book was practice, which I completed on separate worksheets in order to practice more and allow me to pass along the book to a friend. It’s a great beginners book for hand lettering, I’ve been using it weekly.
May 8, 2020
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
If you want to better your hand lettering skills, this book is a great option! It contains practice sheets interspersed with information pertaining to the skills & terminology within the hand lettering realm, including advice on what paper to use with which pen, what pens or markers work for which project, and more. I'm having fun with it!
If you want to better your hand lettering skills, this book is a great option! It contains practice sheets interspersed with information pertaining to the skills & terminology within the hand lettering realm, including advice on what paper to use with which pen, what pens or markers work for which project, and more. I'm having fun with it!
August 18, 2020
This workbook is simple and easy to follow. The author includes a breakdown of all the tools you need, shows you how to use them, and shows you how to hand letter with things you probably already have. I’ve been wanting to learn more about hand lettering for awhile now and this book is a great tool. I’m looking forward to being able to put it to use!
I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2020
Fun book to help learn some of those fun handwriting strokes we see in journals online!
Nice lessons to help get them just right. I like that their are practice pages with the letters right there so you can compare your attempt.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the publisher with no expectation in return. The thoughts and words above are my own.
Nice lessons to help get them just right. I like that their are practice pages with the letters right there so you can compare your attempt.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the publisher with no expectation in return. The thoughts and words above are my own.
May 5, 2020
I received a complimentary copy.
Perfect for practicing and learning about handwriting styles. It can be a great way to pass time while improving a beatufil skill.
Perfect for practicing and learning about handwriting styles. It can be a great way to pass time while improving a beatufil skill.
June 12, 2020
Fun book! Nice and thick with lots of room for practice.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews