Creative Lettering: How to Get Started with Brush Lettering
Writing with style (and with the right marker)
Brush lettering is an art form that combines writing and design. It's like doing gymnastics with letters, but with an elegant twist. If you're fascinated by the breathtakingly beautiful lettering you see on Instagram, you can do it too. Just start with the right materials and a little practice.
Brush pen: choose the right weapon
To get started, all you need is a soft-tipped marker, also known as a "brush pen." There are thousands of types: flexible, rigid, fine, or extra-large. For your first few exercises, choose a medium-tip pen that's not too soft. Which are the most popular among beginners? Tombow, Pentel Fude, and Faber-Castell.
The secret of the stretch: pressure and release
In brush lettering, it's all about pressure. When you go down, you press down and get a thick line. When you go up, you lighten your hand for a thin line. It's a dance between strength and delicacy. Practice with simple "u"s and "o"s to get started.
The alphabet of exercises
Don't rush into elaborate sentences and phrases. Start with individual letters, then combine them into syllables. The words will come later. Be consistent: 10 minutes a day is worth more than an hour every now and then. And yes, your workbook can be beautiful too.
Layout and Composition: More Than Just Beautiful Writing
Lettering isn't just about writing well: it's about arranging words harmoniously. Play with spacing, alignment, and decorations. Start with simple quotes, play with letter height, and try adding small graphic elements. Your imagination knows no bounds.
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