Basteltechnik: Handlettering

Instructions No. 1521

Instructions No. 1521

Handlettering are artistically painted letters that give each message a particularly personal touch. These are not written only on greeting cards but also on Stretched Canvas, lamps, watches and even cups.

Handlettering - the art of writing
In handlettering, letters and messages are not written by PC, but artistically by hand. In addition, the message is supported by small squiggles, lines and banners.

On small furniture

or cups

Introduction to Hand Lettering: Your Creative Start

Whether on postcards, in advertisements, or on book covers - decorative scripts are currently found everywhere! This art, known as "Lettering," has fascinated me as well. Do you feel the same way? Then discover everything you need to know for your creative journey into the world of hand lettering. Have fun!

What is Hand Lettering?

On social platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, the topic of lettering comes up again and again. The term can best be described as the art of letters. Hand lettering involves drawing letters and words by hand - with great care and attention. Unlike traditional calligraphy, which uses a quill and ink, in hand lettering, you use fineliners or felt-tip pens. Ideal for emphasizing words with different sizes. And now for the practice!

Hand Lettering - What do I need to start?

To start, you don't need much: a pencil, a good eraser, and fineliners are essential. Make sure the fineliners come in various thicknesses and use waterproof ink, so nothing smudges when you add accents with felt-tip pens.

For brush lettering, you'll additionally need a brush pen. We recommend the brush pens by edding. They have high-quality tips and don't fray. Don't forget: paper choice is important! Start with a writing learning book (Lineatur 1) and a papier-mâché notebook for sketches.

Gathering Fonts

To keep the inspiration flowing, you should build a repertoire of different fonts. Experiment suggestion: vary the width and height of regular print letters. Keep your eyes open in daily life; beautiful fonts are easy to sketch. Especially Pinterest and Instagram offer plenty of hand lettering examples. Start with sketching letters to get a feel for pen handling.

One method for collecting fonts and design ideas is jotting down various designs of a word in your notebook. Experiment with different pens. Bear in mind: practice makes perfect!

"Fake" Calligraphy - Quill Effect Made Easy

Calligraphy can be challenging, which is why there's the "fake" calligraphy technique. Write a word in a font with a fineliner. Then, thicken all downward lines. Fill in the areas, and your word will look like it was written with a quill.

Brush Lettering - Penmanship

Brush lettering captivates with artistically curved letters. Before letting your wrist loose, practice how the brush pen reacts. Apply pressure for downward strokes, draw lightly for upward strokes. Important: the transition should be smooth. Practice individual letters before moving to words. Over time, you'll get a feel for pen handling.