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Modern Calligraphy and Hand Lettering: A Mark-Making Workbook for Crafters, Cardmakers, and Journal Artists

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The book demonstrates the uses of traditional and cutting edge lettering tools, from classic calligraphy pens to bling-producing metallic foils and glue pens. It introduces a wide array of lettering styles with complete alphabets sample artworks that show an application. Fully stepped-out illustrations break down each letterform, taking the reader through each stroke and a large collection of gallery images provides further inspiration for how to use creative lettering in artwork. Calligraphy, the art of elegant, beautiful lettering, has increased in popularity over the last several years. From brides who want to address their wedding invitations to do-it-yourselfers who want to prepare certificates or make a family tree, and even for art journalers and scrapbookers who like creative text in their works, calligraphy books and classes are hot. This new-in-paperback book will spark the interest of the calligraphy novice by introducing a new approach to lettering, one that combines a lively combination of traditional lettering styles, fun and scripty modern styles, and artsy street-style lettering, along with project ideas that incorporate creative lettering.

230 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 1, 2008

55 people are currently reading
636 people want to read

About the author

Lisa Engelbrecht

4 books3 followers

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5 stars
53 (33%)
4 stars
55 (34%)
3 stars
37 (23%)
2 stars
9 (5%)
1 star
4 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
Profile Image for Haley Mathiot.
397 reviews17 followers
July 15, 2011
Modern Calligraphy and Hand Lettering by Lisa Engelbrecht
Genre: Calligraphy and craft
ISBN: 9781592536443
Published: September 1st 2010 by Quarry Books
Rating: 5

This book was absolutely amazing. I have loved calligraphy since I was eleven.

This book had everything: information on supplies and tools and instructions on how to build your own tools. There are chapters on different calligraphy styles, like classic calligraphy, vintage styled alphabets, raw dry-brush techniques, funky fun letters, calligraphy on fabric, urban-styled graffiti, flourishes, gothic, and mixed media pieces. Every chapter is exciting and inspiring, and each chapter will speak to a different person and hit on their personal style. I have to say the fabric section really made me want to dance and get out my sewing machine. There were example pieces, full alphabets, photographs, stroke-by-stroke instructions on certain alphabets, and ideas beyond belief. This book is enough to keep me busy for at least the next two decades…

I recommend this book to anyone interested in calligraphy, collage, mixed media, or anyone who loves hand-writing pieces of art (Yes there are still some of us who love hand-writing letters and love poems and posters. We're awesome.).
Profile Image for ANg.
81 reviews1 follower
August 23, 2014
One of my go to books, inspiring, full of ideas , clear instructions but also leaves open areas for your own interpretations and inspirations. I own a copy and i bought it right from the author, she signed it in beautiful calligraphy, signing it as i asked her to ( can't remember off the top of my mind) but it was something like "Art on ANg"
This book is all about mark making, fonts, techniques, and how to do neat awesome fun graffitti/writing
Profile Image for Ann L..
669 reviews25 followers
June 9, 2016
This book features beautiful, interesting ideas and projects you can make; but it is lacking in regards to the classical calligraphy instruction. There is some instruction on the classical "old school" calligraphy, but it mostly focuses on "hip and urban" stuff which is just as good to learn about. I recommend getting an additional book on classical calligraphy that has more worksheets in it if you want to broaden your skills in learning the basic lettering.

This book features some mixed media lettering project ideas, and it lists some helpful resources in the back of the book, along with featuring work from other artists. Overall, a very beautiful, resourceful book!
Profile Image for Shannon Binegar-Foster.
2,859 reviews19 followers
January 4, 2016
Really loved this book.

I really loved this book. Particularly the parts on brush lettering. I am sure some day I may revisit calligraphy but for now I am having way to much fun Werth brush lettering and hand lettering. I especially liked the chapter on DIY tools.
Profile Image for Juliana Es.
254 reviews30 followers
October 13, 2012
A very enjoyable book on hand lettering and modern calligraphy. The examples shown are very inspiring, too.
Profile Image for Rebekah.
267 reviews2 followers
January 7, 2016
I appreciated that the author illustrated the strokes which was really helpful when I tried to mimic the fonts.
Profile Image for Liz P.
63 reviews
November 23, 2016
Great resource for calligraphy information! The author covers everything from the supplies needed to the types of calligraphy.

There are plenty of pictures included that are super helpful as well.
Profile Image for Sadia Mansoor.
554 reviews110 followers
May 9, 2017
This is the best book for teaching the basics of calligraphy. It has everything from the type of supplies (special paper & pens) needed to start calligraphy as a profession, basic strokes to start practicing & types of calligraphy too for introducing to calligraphic students. Also, how certain letters are more roundish or edgy depending on which type of calligraphy style you want to learn. . There is much much more to get your pens moving smoothly on the paper. You have to read it to know :)
After going thru this book, I am not even scared to begin practicing.. I am sure you would agree with me when you study this book also. Here, check it out by yourself.. ^_^

http://down.ebook777.com/001/97815925...
74 reviews9 followers
October 14, 2017
This is one of my "go to" books for lettering. Engelbrecht enthusiastically shares advice for both materials and design, encouraging letterers to have fun with the process. Lots of pictures, font ideas, and simple tips for individualizing a lettering project.
Profile Image for Kristine.
326 reviews5 followers
April 1, 2019
This book is less about how to create lettering and more about supplies and mediums one can use. It would have been beneficial for the author to spend more time on instruction and less on creating a book that is nice to look at.
Profile Image for Agnès.
89 reviews
June 11, 2019
Feels already a bit outdated, but is ok for simple starting.
Profile Image for Abby Epplett.
276 reviews1 follower
January 26, 2022
This book is a great overview of hand lettering and gives art supplies advice
77 reviews
April 1, 2025
perused through. more for old school calligraphy. great for that.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews

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