Reviewed by Quirky Cat on
I’ve been reading a lot of calligraphy books lately – there’s something oddly soothing about them, while I also enjoying learning more about the subject itself. Plus there’s the constant attempt to better myself at calligraphy as well. My point is – when I say that a calligraphy book is extremely comprehensive, I really do mean it. The Complete Book of Calligraphy is exactly what is it boasting to be – a complete book of the medium.
This book covers everything I could have hoped for. From the history of calligraphy, to the basic supplies and techniques, and onward to inspirations and even other techniques you could bring into the fold.
The book itself is split into three sections. The history section isn’t included in any of these though, so keep that in mind. The first section focuses on traditional calligraphy. This is where the basics are covered, everything from tools to the terms used for font types and parts. It also includes chapters in illuminated and contemporary calligraphy, which may a bit of a surprise.
The second section covers modern hand lettering. You know the type – the lettering used in those inspirational signs we see all over the place. So it’s here we learn about embellishments and illustrating by hand. There’s even a chapter on using chalk as a tool – which is a brilliant thing to include here. I would never have considered it.
Finally the third section is mostly project assignments and ideas. Here they really want to teach you how to push everything you’ve learned and do something with it. To make the art form your own, so to speak. I love it when art books take the extra step to try and help the readers form their own styles. It’s a wonderful touch.
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Reading updates
- Started reading
- 30 December, 2018: Finished reading
- 30 December, 2018: Reviewed