One of the best workshops I've attended is the
Brush Lettering and Embossing Workshop. It was a 2.5 hour course run by Pixiedust Calligraphy. Luckily for me, no prior calligraphy or lettering experience was necessary as I was an absolute beginner. The only thing you need to bring is just some patience and enthusiasm. The class size is deliberately kept small to ensure personal attention for everyone.
Charlotte the talented tutor (image by May Cross)
The workshop tutor was the very talented Charlotte. It included some of her favourite tools and materials to take home and continue practising. Worksheets we used were developed by Pixiedust Calligraphy, especially for newbies like me. Also provided were special papers to record my progress. Light refreshments were much appreciated. I don't want to spoil the surprise, but there were some other special treats and gifts too.
Your lettering workbook (image by May Cross)
This is what I learnt in the workshop:
Introduction to Brush Calligraphy
Learning the alphabet and letter formation
How to use some of the tools
Basics of "faux calligraphy"
An introduction to Embossing
Calligraphy Notebooks (image by May Cross)
Who or what is Pixiedust? Charlotte told me that it started with her wedding. She wanted to capture all the wonderful bits of her relationship with her husband. That started her own journey in calligraphy. She now loves to work with others to bring more joy to weddings. She hand-makes place cards and beautifully addresses envelopes and seals them with wax. Something I have never seen before is her gorgeous lettering on agate slices. Besides weddings, she also supplies her artwork for new babies, anniversaries, birthday ideas, special events and hens' parties. See examples of Charlotte's stunning artwork on
Instagram
Calligraphy on Agate Slice (image courtesy of Pixiedust Calligraphy)
You are invited to a fun day of learning the art of Modern Calligraphy. You will explore and practice with the tools and proper techniques of modern pointed pen and ink calligraphy. The class covers everything from basic pen strokes to constructing and connecting letters, styling and composition. You will walk away with everything you need to develop your skill and own style. There will be some special treats and a complimentary beverage. Each student will receive a complete take-home calligraphy supply set, curated by Pixiedust Calligraphy which includes instructional guide notes with alphabet exemplars, pen and nibs. All inclusive cost for the workshop is $120.
2. Pixiedust Calligraphy Workshop 101This session is designed for beginners. The first 1.5 hours will be covering basic techniques such as how to assemble a calligraphy pen and ink tools, understanding basic brushstroke techniques, and how to write the alphabet in modern calligraphy style in pen. The second half of the session will be your turn to enjoy the beauty of calligraphy. You will receive personal one-to-one guidance during your practice. All supplies are provided as are light refreshments, all inclusive for $120. Anyone who misses out on the workshops can register their interest via the waiting list.
Lettering demonstration (image by May Cross)
You must have completed the Calligraphy 101 Workshop (or have experience with a dip pen and ink) to take this workshop as the basics will NOT be taught. During the 2 hour workshop, you will learn how to join letters using more flourishes with a stylish flow. You will also learn how to create flourish accents and embellish your writing and finally, you will practise writing a short quote to help you experience first-hand, how meditative and calming calligraphy writing can be. Keep your eye on the website for updates. You can sign up to be notified of future class dates. As soon as they have new dates available, the waiting list will be notified.
Embossed Tags (image by May Cross)
A Personalised Modern Calligraphy a workshop, either for you, colleagues, corporate events, birthday party, or a hens' party can be arranged. Send Charlotte an email or drop a note online to discuss.
5. Private Calligraphy ClassesWant to learn the art of calligraphy or brush up on your current skills? You can book private classes based on your needs and personal schedule. It would make a great gift idea for birthdays, anniversaries, Mother's Day or Christmas.
Practising letters (image by May Cross)
and sells through
Etsy. If you can't join Charlotte in person for a class, you can always buy a starter kit box for dip pen calligraphy. A brush lettering starter kit will be coming soon.
