Best Lettering and Calligraphy Books for All Levels: The Complete List

Before we quickly dive into the list of the best lettering and calligraphy books, I have a confession to make.

I prefer reading books on lettering and calligraphy instead of attending workshops.

You are reading: Hand lettering books amazon

simply because:

  • I can learn from the most trusted sources in the calligraphy and lettering industry through books. And that too, without spending a lot on a workshop.
  • Also, I’m the self-taught type who prefers to learn at my own pace with references to come and come back anytime

And if you relate to this too, I’m sure you’ll find this list of the best lettering and calligraphy books extremely useful.

so, who is this list for?

Certainly, this list of the best lettering and calligraphy books is for everyone. yes!

In case you are a beginner, you will find calligraphy and lettering book recommendations that will cover your basics. Plus, in the end, they’ll help you make products that sell.

As an intermediate calligrapher, you’ll find recommendations on the best lettering and calligraphy books that will take your calligraphy to the next level.

Finally, experienced calligraphers will find calligraphy and lettering books that will inspire them to add professional detail to their artwork. and then use it for commercial purposes.

yeah, it’s that promising.

also, although it is exhaustive, you can easily decide which is the best lettering and calligraphy book for you. that’s because I’ve only added books recommended by the best calligraphers in the industry. also, I mean these.

For your convenience, I have divided this article into sections based on scripting and skill level. therefore, you can quickly jump to any particular section if you wish. here they are:

  • traditional calligraphy books
  • modern calligraphy books
  • hand lettering books
  • calligraphy and lettering price books
  • books on handwriting

then, at the end of this blog article, you will be able to decide which is the best lettering and calligraphy book for you, based on your current skill level.

best traditional calligraphy books

First, let’s understand what is traditional calligraphy? Basically, calligraphy styles can be divided into: traditional and modern.

As the name suggests, traditional calligraphy resembles the styles of history. it’s like ‘old-fashioned’ calligraphy with specific rules for writing letterforms. unlike modern calligraphy, which is more fluid.

as mentioned, this style is very strict and disciplined. therefore, be prepared to put in long hours of practice to master these scripts.

For quick browsing, I’ve divided the section into popular traditional scripts along with recommendations on the best traditional calligraphy books:

  • broad edge script books
  • traditional pointed pen script books
  • pictorial calligraphy books

avant-garde screenplay books

First, let’s understand what is wide edge calligraphy? wide edge calligraphy supplies have a wide edge nib or flat tip. for example, this is what these tools look like.

also, the most commonly used broad border tools include:

  • mitchell pens
  • c-style speedball pens
  • parallel pilot pen
  • handwriting ribbon pens

For the most part, I use the parallel pilot pens. In case you want to know more, here is a complete beginner’s guide on how to use the Pilot Parallel Pen.

also, this is what calligraphy looks like with a wide edge tool. while you can use the wide edge to create thick strokes, the corners help you get thinner strokes.

Also, remember that this is just an example. In general, there are many scripts that you can practice with a state-of-the-art tool.

for example, all gothic calligraphy styles like fraktur, rotunda and more can be created with a state of the art calligraphy tool.

Now, let’s take a look at one of the best books on calligraphy and lettering for broad scripts:

calligraphy basics | sheila waters book

scores: amazon (4.5) | good reads (4.5)

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good for: beginners

In case you want to get started in broad edged or flat tip calligraphy scripts, this book is for you.

That’s because this book is a great resource for people who want to learn calligraphy on their own but also need detailed guidance.

for example, sheila waters explains good and bad letterforms with accurate illustrations. no doubt this is very helpful for beginners to train their eyes to spot mistakes at first. therefore, it is one of the best traditional calligraphy books out there for the wide edge.

although this book covers very selective hands (writing) compared to other calligraphy and lettering books, in maximum depth. covered hands are:

  • foundation hand
  • roman capitals
  • black letter
  • gothic cursive
  • uncial
  • uncial half
  • Carolingian
  • cursive (and its variations)

Another thing that sets this book apart is that the author has arranged the scripts in the order she thinks would be most beneficial for beginners to learn. while other calligraphy books organize the scripts in chronological order.

Also, other calligraphy books share sample scripts (a to z) with minimal instructions. so even if you have the book, you may need to work with a teacher to understand the script.

whereas this book covers scripting in detail and clearly explains what to do and what not to do.

In conclusion, this book tells you all about the materials you need, how to set up your workspace, and the right way to practice scripting. and that is why it is the most recommended by calligraphers around the world.

where to buy?

Surprisingly, this book is not readily available in India. however, if you live outside of india, you can get your copy from these sellers:

  • john neal books
  • amazon.com
  • paper & ink arts

learn calligraphy: the complete book of lettering and design | book by margaret pastor

ratings: amazon (4.4) goodreads (3.9)

See Also: The Top 5 Business Books for Field Service Leaders

good for: beginners

Like the previous book, this one too has comparatively limited hands (scripts). but the author breaks down each script into its basics and variations in detail, which seems easy.

Covered hands are:

  • roman
  • celtic
  • gothic
  • notebook
  • cursive
  • numbers and punctuation

Although the book passes through these different hands, you don’t have to do everything in order. you can jump to any script you prefer and it will be easy for you to follow. this is a rare quality to find in calligraphy and lettering books.

Also, shares the history behind the development of font styles. also, lots of lessons and practical help.

also talks about how to see calligraphy. helps you train your eyes to learn about proportion, color and line, positive and negative space, depth perception and light.

Oddly enough, this book is a really amazing sample of calligraphy. the author wrote the entire book by hand. yes.

Overall, this book focuses on helping you learn the basic letter shapes of the extensive pen alphabet. and also organize them into beautiful and original calligraphy pieces.

where to buy?

You can buy your copy of the book from here:

  • amazon.in (for india)
  • amazon.com (outside india)

the calligrapher’s bible: 100 complete alphabets and how to draw them | book by david harris

ratings: amazon (4.5) goodreads (4.3)

good for: all calligraphers (from beginners to experienced calligraphers)

the calligrapher’s bible is an excellent resource for the beginning calligrapher, with

  • tips on tools and posture
  • historical summary of the development of writing
  • 100 complete alphabets from traditional hands to modern hands
  • proper instructions on drawing letters step by step
  • tips for left-handed calligraphers

In addition, this book helps experienced calligraphers increase their range of calligraphy styles. for example, from classic Roman style to clean and elegant contemporary styles. and that is why I have included it in the list of the best calligraphy and traditional lettering books.

In addition, this book also has a section on lighting and ornamentation. but, it only explains how to apply the gold leaf and is not that extensive. so if you’re looking for details on how to design lighting, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

Overall, this book is an indispensable resource for both the beginner and experienced calligrapher with clear instructions. If you are looking for a book that explains all calligraphy styles and their history, this book is for you!

where to buy?

You can buy your copy of the book from here:

  • amazon.in (for india)
  • amazon.com (outside india)
  • flipkart

the art of calligraphy | book by david harris

ratings: amazon (5) goodreads (4.4)

good for: all calligraphers (from beginners to experienced calligraphers)

also written by david harris, this book is a great reference for calligraphers. Compared to the previous book, this one doesn’t have 100 scripts, just the important ones arranged in chronological order.

starts with all the scripts displayed in a timeline along with their duration of existence.

The ductus of the scripts shown is easy to understand with clear formations of basic strokes. plus, they are clearly printed so larger examples can be used as models.

also, the alphabets shown are true to historical examples. unlike the modified variations in other books. so, it gives you an idea of ​​how the script was originally written. That is why it is faithful to the essence of the best traditional calligraphy books.

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In addition, it also has detailed information about the history of the script which is very interesting to read.

There is enough information to learn how to write a close resemblance to the historical script, but not too much to overload it. calligraphers who are good at capturing details on their own will need no more. especially with the excellent historical examples included. though, people in the middle may find they want more information.

Overall, this is an excellent calligraphy guide that includes several hard-to-find Gothic variations and Gothic-derived scripts along with the more traditional scripts.

The book is beautiful, the exemplary scripts are easy to learn, and the scripts are attractive and rare.

where to buy?

You can buy your copy of the book from here:

  • amazon.in (for india)
  • amazon.com (outside india)
  • flipkart

calligraphy for children | eleanor winters book

ratings: amazon (4.5) goodreads (4)

good for: beginners (kids and adults)

is a good book for a beginner, regardless of age.

If this book can teach a child, it can teach you.

has attractive pages, full of bright color examples. It first gets kids started with simple zigzags and then moves on to small and large cursives, Gothic letters, uncials, and Roman calligraphy.

In addition, instructions include pen placement and strokes, uppercase, lowercase, and letter spacing. there are chapters on writing invitations and other applications of calligraphy.

Overall, this book is a great breakdown for a young reader. the instructions are pretty simple to follow and it’s a great starting point.

where to buy?

You can buy your copy of the book from here:

  • amazon.in (for india)
  • amazon.com (outside india)
  • flipkart

the speedball® textbook | 25th edition

scores: amazon (4.5)

good for: intermediate and higher calligraphers

This book is the celebration of the 105th anniversary of the debut of the first edition.

Features 120 pages of examples, contributor work, and groundbreaking technical insights.

Although it does not have detailed instructions, it serves as a collection of calligraphers’ works from all over the world and that is why it is more suitable for intermediate and higher calligraphers.

In addition, it is updated with recent work and covers modern variations on traditional scripts.

Overall, represents the vision of new co-editors suzanne cunningham, carl rohrs & sachin shah, which includes over 25 pages of content enhanced with a pointed pen.

where to buy?

You can buy your copy of the book from here:

  • worldwide
    • john neal books
    • paper & ink arts
    • ravi engraving press
    • raghunita.com
    • bombay lettering company

    traditional script books with pointed pen

    First, let’s understand a little more about traditional calligraphy with a pointed pen.

    To practice these scripts you need:

    • a pointed (flexible) nib
    • a nib holder (preferably oblique for traditional styles)
    • ink
    • paper

    These tips are flexible. As a result, when you apply pressure to the tip, the teeth split to create a thick downward stroke. instead, use the pointed part of the tip without pressure to create fine upward strokes.

    in my opinion, the nikko g nib is great for beginners. that’s because it has medium flexibility. this allows beginners to develop tip control faster.

    Along with that, it maintains a beautiful contrast between the thick and thin strokes.

    In addition, it is one of the most used nibs for traditional styles such as copper and Spencerian.

    In that sense, let’s take a look at the most recommended books for traditional writing with a pointed pen.

    copper

    here is a list of the best copper calligraphy books:

    master copper calligraphy | eleanor winters book

    scores: amazon (4.5) | good reads (4.3)

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    good for: beginners

    This book is a practical manual that offers a step-by-step introduction to copperplate calligraphy for beginners.

    begins with a brief history of the script. it then moves on to an in-depth examination of the alphabet, numbers, and punctuation.

    In addition, each letter is shown stroke by stroke with a clear explanation. and that is why this book is considered one of the best copper calligraphy books.

    Because it is very concise and clear, it is very easy for beginners to follow the instructions given by eleanor.

    You’ll also find in-depth discussions on writing in color, using the right paper, and learning how to retouch, correct, and crop.

    In addition, it also explains how to use the hyphen commercially. You can use it to address envelopes, write business cards, and write invitations.

    It is highly recommended by copper calligraphers all over the world and I had no choice but to include it in the list of best traditional calligraphy books.

    Overall, this book is perfect for beginners who want to learn copper calligraphy.

    where to buy?

    You can buy your copy of the book from here:

    • amazon.in (for India)
    • amazon.com (outside India)
    • paper & ink arts
    • john neal books
    copperwriting – a yin yang approach | pa write book

    scores: amazon (4)

    good for: all calligraphers (from beginners to experienced calligraphers)

    This book is written by Paul Antonio. here, he has explained the historical writing on copper with geometry instead of the conventional teaching approach.

    immediately, it changes the perspective to understand the script and makes it much easier to follow.

    according to paul’s yin yang theory, the line of universal beauty is a sloping straight line. and following the ellipse around it, we end up dividing the ellipse in half, which gives us the focus of yin and yang.

    From here on, all other letters are built using straight lines. and curves are added later. uses geometry and physics to explain how a curve works and where it is located relative to the baseline.

    Overall, this manual offers an extensive and in-depth study of copperwriting suitable for any skill level, from beginners to advanced calligraphers, as well as type designers, letterers and lettering enthusiasts. .

    where to buy?

    You can buy your copy of the book from here:

    • pa scribes website (available in pdf format)
    • art by jackson
    • amazon.com
    free interactive book on screenwriting | by dr joseph m vitolo

    scores: apple books (4.6)

    good for: all calligraphers (from beginners to experienced calligraphers)

    dr. vitolo is one of the authorities on copperplate calligraphy and his free booklets are very useful for calligraphers.

    and this book is no exception. is an interactive book of 86 pages with instructional text, images and more than 35 videos available only on the ipad.

    This book focuses on thefundamentals of copperplate calligraphywith an emphasis on letterforms. In addition, advanced concepts including needlepoint scripts and golden scripts are examined.

    how to get this book?

    If you have an iPad, you can download this book for free from Apple Books here: https://books.apple.com/us/book/script-in-the-copperplate-style/id547108521?ls=1

    >

    spencerian

    here is a list of the best spencer calligraphy books:

    learning to write spencerian script by michael r sull

    scores: amazon (5)

    good for: all calligraphers (from beginners to experienced calligraphers)

    This book is written by master calligrapher michael r sull, who is largely responsible for the resurgence of interest in this traditional American form of calligraphy.

    This book explains Spencerian calligraphy in detail with easy-to-understand instructions.

    Also, it’s a great resource for someone who wants to perfect their letterforms. It provides all the letterforms you could possibly need with full step-by-step instructions.

    where to buy?

    Surprisingly, this book is not readily available in India. however, if you live outside of india, you can get your copy from these sellers:

    • john neal books
    • amazon.com
    • paper & ink arts
    new spencerian compendium by iampeth

    scores: not available

    good for: all calligraphers (from beginners to experienced calligraphers)

    iampeth stands for the international association of master draughtsmen, engravers and teachers of handwriting. is an international association to practice and preserve the arts of calligraphy, writing and calligraphy.

    First published in 1857, this book is a very detailed resource on screenwriting. is available for free reading on the iampeth site. In addition, you can also listen to the audio version of the book.

    This new compendium from Spencerian has examples and instructions suitable for use by beginners and advanced professionals.

    In this book, all the plates that were first published in eight parts are progressively rearranged with full typographical instructions and illustrations.

    how to get this book?

    you can read or listen to the new spencerian compendium on the iampeth website here: https://www.iampeth.com/pdf/new-spencerian-compendium

    pictorial calligraphy

    first, what is pictorial calligraphy?

    You may have seen calligraphers using illustrations around their calligraphy to enhance it. these are called flourishes.

    and if you want to do the same, you can use traditional and modern ways to do it.

    By harmoniously combining simple strokes, you can create beautiful illustrations such as feathers, birds, snowflakes and more.

    In case you want to illustrate your scripts in a traditional way, using story drawings, you can use the same pointed pen setup to do so.

    I mainly use micron pens to create illustration elements around my calligraphy.

    However, both methods have unique visual appeal.

    Although there are no specific books for modern illustrations, you can refer to the following books for traditional illustrations with a pointed pen.

    ornate pictorial calligraphy | e.a. book loupfer

    scores: amazon (4.5) | good reads (4.2)

    good for: intermediate and above

    This is an old manual that attempts to revive the lost art of ornate, or flourishing pictorial calligraphy with ample examples.

    If you’re comfortable with a pointed pen, this book will help you create beautiful flourishes. talks about shading techniques and flourishes to create birds, rabbits, deer, ribbons and other elegant illustrations.

    Like I said, it’s an outdated manual, so you won’t find very detailed instructions. In that case, if you’re not used to a pointed pen, this book may not be for you.

    however, if you’re adept at using the nib, you can use this book as a reference for creating flourishes.

    also, although this book has more than 150 examples, most of them are illustrations of birds.

    where to buy?

    You can buy your copy of the book from here:

    • worldwide
      • john neal books
      • paper and ink arts
      • amazon.com
      • amazon.in
      • flipkart

      the universal writer | george bickham book

      scores: amazon (4.5) | good reads (4.4)

      good for: experienced calligraphers

      First engraved by George Bickham in the 1740s, this edition contains all plates engraved by Bickham. and each is reproduced from an original so remarkably clear that these modern plates are better than most eighteenth-century originals.

      This book contains over 210 full-page illustrations, including:

      • over 125 pictorial scenes, transparent copper plates of drinking scenes, family scenes, commerce, country parties, duels, more.
      • over 200 script frames, male heads and female, busts, cherubs, griffins, birds, fish, etc.
      • 19 complete alphabets: round hand, round text, Old English, florid, foliate and others
      • 275 copies with letters , overlaid with fine flourishes, swirls, whorls, feathers, scrolls, etc.
      • over 100 panels, frames, cartouches and other effects
      • over 950 lettered samples, with thousands of words that can be picked up immediately for playback.

      This book is useful for professional calligraphers, commercial artists, advertising directors, and designers.

      where to buy?

      You can buy your copy of the book from here:

      • amazon.es

      best modern calligraphy books

      As I mentioned before, calligraphy styles are generally divided into two parts: traditional and modern.

      we just saw the first and best traditional calligraphy books for the same thing.

      now, let’s understand

      • what is modern calligraphy?
      • and the best modern calligraphy books

      unlike traditional styles, you can modify the rules of modern calligraphy to create multiple unique styles. for example, you can change the baseline and create bouncy letters or you can increase the space and make wavy letters.

      Basically, modern calligraphy is more informal and fun. that’s why it’s easy to learn and therefore very trendy.

      Now, let’s take a look at the best modern calligraphy books out there:

      modern calligraphy books with pointed pen

      first, what is modern calligraphy with a pointed pen?

      As shared in the previous section, pointed pen calligraphy gets its name from the pointed nib used to create calligraphy. the only difference here would be that you will create more free- fluid modern styles rather than rule-specific traditional styles of calligraphy.

      so while you’ll be creating modern lettering, the materials will be the same as traditional pointed pen styles. and they are:

      • a pointed (flexible) nib
      • a nib holder (straight or oblique, both are fine)
      • ink
      • paper

      As with other forms of calligraphy, you need to try different combinations of tips, paper, and ink to discover the style you want.

      If you’re just starting out and need to be held by the hand, you can check out my ultimate guide to modern calligraphy.

      is for those for whom calligraphy has always been a mystery. I have broken down the letters into the most basic and simplest strokes.

      Also, if you are someone who is always busy with work and looking for a short break every day, this is for you. just practice these simple strokes and shapes for 15 minutes and it will help you relax and unwind.

      Moving on, let’s take a look at the Best Modern Pointed Pen Calligraphy Books:

      modern calligraphy: everything you need to know to get started with script calligraphy | molly suber thorpe book

      scores: amazon (4.2) | good reads (4.2)

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      good for: beginners

      Author Molly Suber Thorpe is an award-winning wedding invitation designer and calligrapher based in Los Angeles.

      and with his book, you can learn how to master this new style of calligraphy step by step.

      If you’re an absolute beginner, you’ll find the instructions easy to follow. and at the end, you will create your wedding invitations, thank you cards, gift tags and more.

      That’s because this book has over twenty hands-on projects with lots of hands-on exercises. these projects are grouped into three sections: weddings, entertainment, and personal stationery.

      On top of that, this book shows multiple variations of a single alphabet. this gives you inspiration to create your modern calligraphy style. Not only that, it also includes tips for left-handed calligraphers.

      Overall, this book is packed with instruction and inspiration for beginners, making it one of the best books on modern calligraphy.

      where to buy?

      You can buy your copy of the book from here:

      • amazon.in
      • amazon.com
      • paper and ink arts
      • john neal books

      Advanced: Mastering Modern Calligraphy: Beyond the Basics: Over 2,700 Pointed Pen Examples and Exercises to Develop Your Style | molly suber thorpe book

      scores: amazon (4.7) | good reads (4.6)

      good for: intermediate and above

      again, this book is written by molly suber thorpe. And by now, you may have realized that she is one of the authorities when it comes to modern calligraphy.

      This book is the continuation of the previous book. and aims to push your limits as a calligrapher with specific exercises and lessons. and that is why I have included this in the list of the best modern calligraphy books.

      See Also: Joe Abercrombie Books in Order (The Blade Itself, The Trouble With Peace, The Wisdom of Crowds) – How To Read Me

      has over2,700 letter forms and ligatures, tracing exercises, warm-up exercises, flourishes, simple words and phrases. also, a full appendix of grid sheets, emphasizing experimentation and fun, rather than rigid uniformity.

      and that’s why this book is the perfect companion for both digital and sharp calligraphers.

      In conclusion, this book is the best option for those who want to experiment and create multiple styles of calligraphy.

      where to buy?

      You can buy your copy of the book from here:

      • amazon.in
      • amazon.com
      • paper and ink arts
      • john neal books

      best brush calligraphy books

      first, what is brush calligraphy?

      Brush calligraphy, as its name suggests, is done with a brush. now, the brush can be:

      • a round bristle brush
      • or a flexible tip marker, popularly known as a brush pen

      works on the same principle as the pointed pen: apply pressure to create strong downward strokes and release pressure to create fine upward strokes.

      And just as different tips have different flexibility, brush pens also come in a variety of options, from medium flexibility to very soft.

      In my recommendation, I suggest beginners start with medium flex brush pens. this helps them develop control over the pen faster.

      sometimes, as a beginner, you can use a very soft marker. Unfortunately, this creates a lot of frustration for beginners. That’s because soft brush pens take a lot of practice to develop control over which, as a beginner, you might currently be lacking.

      so do some research on medium flex pens before you invest in a brush pen set. In addition, you can also check out these points on what to look for in a low-priced brush pen (and see a full comparison on B/W Add Gel, Camlin, and Doms)

      Also, if you are looking for beginner brush calligraphy practice sheets, you can check out my 48 page pdf brush calligraphy practice sheet. It has traceable guides to help you with your strokes.

      Now, let’s take a look at the best brush calligraphy and lettering books:

      pen lettering | grace song book

      scores: amazon (4.6) | good reads (4.2)

      See Also: The Top 5 Business Books for Field Service Leaders

      good for: beginners

      This book is the most complete step-by-step guide to brush calligraphy.

      The best part of this book is that it covers the basics like strokes, exercises, and hand movements in detail before quickly jumping into the letters. this is very important as basics are the building blocks of letters.

      In addition, it guides you on how to develop your brush calligraphy style. Furthermore, devise new ones according to customers’ requirements. In addition to that, it also explains the correct methods to practice calligraphy and motivates you to be regular with it.

      also, covers false calligraphy and techniques for writing on surfaces such as chalk and glass. now, that’s a robbery.

      lastly, it has DIY projects where you can create:

      • gift tags (also layered)
      • wrapping paper
      • place cards
      • watercolor splash greeting cards
      • elegant mail snail

      Overall, this book is a complete package for anyone who wants to learn brush calligraphy. and that is why it is considered one of the best brush calligraphy and lettering books.

      where to buy?

      You can buy your copy of the book from here:

      • Worldwide
        • amazon.com
        • barnes & noble
        • amazon.es

        The Ultimate Guide to Brush Lettering: A Comprehensive Step-by-Step Creative Workbook to Jumpstart Modern Calligraphy Skills | peggy dean book

        scores: amazon (4.4) | good reads (4.1)

        good for: beginners and intermediate students

        Packed with detailed information on calligraphy tools, techniques, and styles, this book also offers a great starting point for beginners and intermediate students looking to experiment with different styles.

        then come the letter guides where the author shows you twenty different ways to write letters, all unique.

        These are loaded with flourishes, flourishes and ligature guides as well. so whenever you run out of ideas, you can quickly refer to these cards for inspiration.

        Finally, you have plenty of room to practice with a small tip marker. I recommend getting some tracing paper so you can use the sheets again.

        In terms of information, this book is excellent. however, if you request the physical copy, the paper will be very thin. although you will not have problems to practice. just a heads up!

        To be on the safe side, I recommend using a small tip marker that is the perfect size for the letters shown in the book. You can use Tombow Fudenosuke or Pentel Sign Brush Pens.

        where to buy?

        You can buy your copy of the book from here:

        • Worldwide
          • amazon.com
          • barnes & noble
          • amazon.es

          best lettering books

          first, let’s understand what is hand lettering?

          Hand lettering is the art of drawing letters by hand with simple tools like a pencil or marker. you can hand-letter with just about anything that can be turned into a writing tool.

          In fact, I’ve seen people infuse vegetables with ink to create hand lettering pieces. even yogurt, sand and much more. therefore, there is no limit to your creativity when it comes to hand lettering.

          but, if we talk about the most basic tools, you will need these to start writing by hand:

          • pencil
          • black marker
          • paper
          • ruler
          • eraser

          that’s it!

          In contrast, calligraphy is the art of writing beautiful letters with specialized tools like a broad-tipped nib or brush.

          Hand lettering and calligraphy are often used interchangeably, but as you can see, they are quite different. however, remember that the key difference between calligraphy and hand lettering is the process and not the end result.

          Anyway, let’s see which are the best books for handwriting below:

          in progress: see inside the sketchbook and the process of a lettering artist, from pencil to vector | jessica hische book

          scores: amazon (4.8) | good reads (4.5)

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          good for: beginners

          In this book, Jessica shares the creative process behind her work, from rough sketches to polished deliverables, for major clients like Wes Anderson, NPR, and Starbucks.

          starts with basic information about hand lettering and tools, easy to learn for absolute beginners.

          then gives an honest look behind the scenes of jessica’s work. from brainstorming to sketching and polishing the final piece in vector form. Furthermore, she has openly discussed the challenges he will face at every step of the process and how to overcome them.

          The quality of the paper, printing and illustrations is top notch.

          Above all else, this book is the story of an ordinary person’s journey into the world of hand lettering. along with practical advice on how you handle everyday design challenges.

          where to buy?

          You can buy your copy of the book from here:

          • Worldwide
            • amazon.com
            • barnes & noble
            • amazon.es

            the golden secrets of lettering: letter design from the first sketch to the final art | Martina Flor’s book

            scores: amazon (4.7) | good reads (4.4)

            Good For: All hand lettering artists (from beginners to hobbyists to experienced hand lettering artists)

            With this book, Martina Flor explains the process of creating a lettering project step by step, from start to finish. she takes you from analog to digital and gives you valuable tips on how to make a career as a lettering artist.

            It does this by providing easy-to-understand instructions and guidelines, inspiring examples, and hand-drawn sketches and illustrations.

            in addition, it also teaches how to train your “typographic eye”; studying letter samples; concepts of hierarchy, composition, and flourishes; and different ways to create letterforms.

            In conclusion, this book is an excellent overview of the world of hand lettering. teaches you how to analyze your hand lettering pieces and equips you with techniques to prepare them for the client.

            where to buy?

            You can buy your copy of the book from here:

            • Worldwide
              • amazon.com
              • barnes & noble
              • amazon.es

              the abc of personalized letters: a practical guide to drawing letters | book by ivan castro

              scores: amazon (4.7) | good reads (4.5)

              Good For: All hand lettering artists (from beginners to hobbyists to experienced hand lettering artists)

              The ABC Of Custom Lettering: A Practical Guide to Drawing Letters | Book by Ivan Castro

              If you’re an aspiring lettering artist or a logo designer who wants to work with custom type, then this book is for you.

              The book begins with the basics of calligraphy. and then walk through the most important historical European calligraphy styles from which our modern typeface has developed.

              this helps to understand letter formation and is useful when trying to create the type from scratch.

              Because the author has a lot of teaching experience, he has devoted a section to “common mistakes.” this helps beginners to evaluate his work. especially useful when you are in the process of developing “the eye” for your work. if compared to jessica hische’s “in progress” book, this book is deeper. that’s because hische’s book is more of a personal account of her lettering process. considering that this book is written with the general reader in mind.

              Finally, Castro offers several case studies in different styles to help you develop a custom signmaking process. is insightful.

              This is easily one of the best hand lettering books and it won’t let you down.

              where to buy?

              surprisingly, this book is extremely expensive in india. and i couldn’t find any other way to buy it in india or worldwide. let me know in the comments if you have any resources. you can take a look here:

              • amazon.es

              calligraphy and lettering price books

              the calligrapher’s business manual: prices & policies for lettering artists | molly suber thorpe book

              scores: amazon (4.8)

              good for: calligraphy and lettering business owners

              Are you an owner of a calligraphy business and having trouble pricing your services? If so, then you should get this book.

              As I’ve shared before, Molly is one of the most commercially experienced and leading calligraphers of modern times. and, with this book, she has cleared away the most common misconceptions around the calligraphy business.

              In fact, he has created a guide to the best practices and pricing strategies of successful professional signmakers. therefore, it answers the most important question: how much do other people get paid for their work?

              So, whether you’re a new lettering artist planning to start out or an expert calligrapher, you can use this book to refine your business techniques.

              Although calligraphy services are highly personalized and finding the right price every time is a challenge, this book gives you the framework and confidence to charge correctly for your services.

              Overall, if you’re planning to start a business or have pricing issues in your current business, you should get this book right away.

              where to buy?

              You can buy your copy of the book from here:

              • worldwide
                • amazon.com
                • john neal books
                • barnes & noble
                • amazon.es

                books on writing

                the lost art of handwriting | brenna jordan book

                scores: amazon (4.6) | good reads (4.3)

                good for: for all levels

                You must be wondering why I have included a book on handwriting in this list of calligraphy and lettering books. Well, this book shares the history of handwriting which was calligraphic scripts in those days like Spencerian, copperplate and more.

                In this book, the author reintroduces proper stroke sequences, letterforms, and techniques to assess and improve your handwriting, which in turn has a positive impact on your calligraphy skills and letters.

                To use this book, you only need a regular pen or pencil. So even if you are not interested in calligraphy, but just want to improve your handwriting, this book will come in handy.

                In addition, it presents you with a variety of letterforms that push you to create your own unique styles. also teaches beautiful blooming techniques to enhance your letterforms.

                In addition, you will learn to write slowly, which will also help you relax your mind.

                where to buy?

                You can buy your copy of the book from here:

                • Worldwide
                  • amazon.com
                  • barnes & noble
                  • amazon.es

                  in conclusion

                  I hope this list of the best lettering and calligraphy books has been useful to you.

                  and by now you should have some books in your cart. let me know which one you’re buying or referring to from the list in the comments.

                  Were there any books on calligraphy and lettering that you already had on your list?

                  Also, if you think I’ve missed any good tips, I’d love to hear from you.

                  and if you think you have any comments about the included calligraphy and lettering books, let me know in the comments.

                  until then,

                  goodbye!

                  See Also: 2020 Highlights — William Kent Krueger

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