books about calligraphy
Friday, February 11, 2011 at 7:57AM In a discussion this week with Brian of the great Goulet Pen Company, he asked what books, if any, I've used to learn about calligraphy. I pointed him to The Calligrapher's Bible, by David Harris.
It contains instructions for how to write 100 different alphabets. He also discusses the tools of the craft, including pens, brushes, and paper; and gives solid advice on paying attention to composition and layout.
Each alphabet contains an example of each letter, complete with stroke order, as well as instructions for pen angle and how to handle other, specific nuances. The book is organized chronologically and the author makes sure to point out the evolution of western scripts throughout time.
One thing to be aware of is that, in the more modern alphabets, he presents some scripts that are intended to be used with brushes or drafting pens, but the majority of the book is dedicated to those alphabets created with pen and nib.
I consider it an extremely valuable resource, and continue to refer to it time and time again as I try my hand at new scripts.
The other book I've started to use is The Bible of Illuminated Letters. This presents examples and patterns for the wonderful illuminated capital letters that one sees in illuminated manuscripts. The author, Margaret Morgan, begins by explaining the techniques used to create illuminated manuscripts, including a discussion of the specific tools and media used.
Then she breaks down the characteristics of lettering by time period and letter shape. She provides an in-depth example of one letter in each group, and then provides patterns for each of the others. She also points out which scripts are appropriate to use with the letters from each time period.
The result is a great reference for practicing the art of illuminated lettering. I can heartily recommend both books - they've provided valuable instruction and inspiration for me, and hopefully will for you, too.
calligraphy 
Reader Comments (4)
I bought the Calligrapher's Bible the last time that you mentioned it. It's awesome. I still need to pick one "font" and stick with it until I got it down somewhat. So many to choose from!
I have the Calligrapher's Bible in my wish list but the question is, does it teach actual technique or does it just list the 100 different alphabets and leaves it to you to figure out how they are done?
Apparently "The Italic Way to Beautiful Handwriting, Cursive and Calligraphic" is another big classic, must-own book on calligraphy but unfortunately it is out of print and the used copies are fairly expensive. I could kick myself for missing out on buying a copy at about $3 when I had the chance.
Hi Peninkcillin,
Yes, the Calligrapher's Bible has a intro section which details all the tools for calligraphy, and then has instructions on how to get started. Once you read through the basics, then the entry on each hand has tips on specific points of interest within each hand (nib angle, how to make serifs, etc...).
Additionally, each letter in each hand is marked up with the stroke order, so that you can see how the letter is made. It's a pretty well put together book, overall.
Hi Peninkcillin,
Yes, the Calligrapher's Bible has a intro section which details all the tools for calligraphy, and then has instructions on how to get started. Once you read through the basics, then the entry on each hand has tips on specific points of interest within each hand (nib angle, how to make serifs, etc...).
Additionally, each letter in each hand is marked up with the stroke order, so that you can see how the letter is made. It's a pretty well put together book, overall.