How To Introduce Your Child To Calligraphy

Children simply love to create! Whether they’re drawing, painting, sculpting or writing; there’s no greater sense of achievement for a child than when they are creative and end up with a finished “product” that they can proudly show their parents.

But what about calligraphy?

Although calligraphy might not be the first port of call when it comes to introducing your child into a new creative zone, there is nothing better than getting them ready for the rigours of the real world than having them play and practice their handwriting in a fun and creative way. In fact, in the United States they are totally phasing out the teaching of cursive handwriting, so it’s best to give them a head start now!

It can also help adults

These days it is actually very rare that we get the opportunity to put pen to paper, which is why it’s also very handy for parents to get involved too! What’s more, if we take a look at the odd dinner menu or a few fonts on Pinterest it is clear to see that we are simply yearning to go back to a different way of writing.

So, how to teach your kids?

• Firstly you need a large, empty and clean table (we don’t want any jam sticking to our calligraphy paper do we?)
• Once that small task is sorted, ensure that you have everything you need, including calligraphy pens, ink and paper. It’s also probably an idea to get some kitchen paper ready for any potential spills.
• Before you begin, show your child some good examples of calligraphy – introduce them to the idea that writing well is fun.
• You don’t have to get them started on writing straight away, as they need to get accustomed to using a calligraphy pen. Instead, give them free reign over a few sheets of paper; letting them draw and write simply whatever comes into their mind.

Although the calligraphy pen is quite different from a normal pen, it is important to realise that unlike a fountain pen, for example, there is no right or wrong way to hold one. It simply comes down to what technique is the most comfortable and produces the best results – for both you and your child.

Learncalligraphy.com gives us a great tip for writing with a calligraphy pen:

“Rather than rotating your wrist as you write, try pulling and pushing the pen from the elbow. There will be some wrist movement but you will get used to what you are doing as you practise.

“Excessive movements of your wrist as you write changes the angle of the nib in relation to the writing line and the uniformity of your letters will be affected.”

Here at The Pen Company we have a range of beautiful calligraphy pens for you to try. If you are in need of some great practice material that will help you with your strokes, try out this page, here.

Alternatively, Maybelle Imasa-Stukuls is a great calligrapher and you can check out a few things on her blog if you are looking for some expert tips.