Handwriting is a beautiful art form that connects us to one another. No two people share the exact style of handwriting, so your handwriting is an irreplaceable extension of yourself, providing a window into your unique personality. That’s why handwriting is so important, even in our age of touchscreens and texting.
At this moment in history, we are fortunate to have both technology and the art of handwriting, with its many and varied implements, at our fingertips. We can appreciate the efficiencies and convenience that technological progress has brought us while still celebrating the fine art of penmanship. Besides, handwriting is not just a nostalgic nod to the past; it’s a joy-inspiring and useful tool for our future—it can help us connect as humans even as we use computers more and more often.
The value of handwriting in relation to our interactions with others is immense. Handwriting is a slowing down, a connection with ourselves, one another, and the history of our complex humanity. And because there is an inexhaustible craving within us for beauty and creative expression, handwriting is getting noticed in our fast-paced culture.
Handwriting is designed for both functionality and enjoyment, in the same way we cherish a stroll along the beach or an artfully cooked meal savored among friends. (We could walk on a treadmill in a windowless gym or eat fast food alone in the car, but that’s much less enjoyable, isn’t it?) As a calligrapher and hand-lettering artist, I have the privilege of witnessing the profound reactions of people when they see their wedding vows, a favorite poem, or other meaningful words scripted by hand. I hear stories of what those words mean to them in the context of their lives and how special it is to see them handwritten with care.
Maybe you’ve picked up this book because you’ve noticed the renewed interest in handwriting for home decor, business logos, and greeting cards. Perhaps you recall an era before email, when a cherished pen pal or loved one sent letters in their unmistakable penmanship. Or maybe you want an opportunity to relearn or improve upon the cursive you studied as a child, and need guidance to focus your practice time and form new habits. Whatever your reason for holding this book in your hands, you are certain to meet delight as you embark on your own personal journey with the limitless potential of the alphabet.
In this book, we will explore proper stroke technique, letter forms, and ideas for evaluating and improving your handwriting. You will discover how the astonishing variety of letter forms provide endless avenues for exploration and opportunities for making these alphabets your own, and how to choose alternatives that fit your preferences while retaining legibility and consistency. You will learn how to join letters in cursive writing to help you write more smoothly and, with practice, more efficiently. And we will discuss how to apply what you’ve learned to your everyday life, including tips for integrating handwriting into already jam-packed schedules.
You'll find blank lines throughout the book for practicing certain techniques. Photocopy the blank lined pages at the end of the book to use as extra practice pages.
In time, you will acquire a new love and appreciation for this gorgeous art form, which is available to anyone who puts pen or pencil to paper.