All About Techniques in Calligraphy: An Indispensable Manual for Artists and Hobbyists
Like others in the All about Techniques series, this book packs a lot of information into a very attractive package. Captioned photos and diagrams and blocks of concise text work beautifully together to introduce a wealth of information on the lettering art. An overview of writing and alphabets as they evolved in a few key areas around the globe precedes information on calligraphy materials, tools, and techniques. There are chapters on composition and design as well, along with step-by-step demonstrations of letter construction and generously sized samples, perfect for copying, of Gothic, Humanistic, Carolingian, Chancellery, and other scripts. The final sections of the book comprise an idea gallery that links the lettering to modern design opportunities. Unlike Annie Cicale’s The Art and Craft of Hand Lettering (2004), this book includes no projects but is, nonetheless, a first-rate introduction to hand-lettering, from practice to perfection. --Stephanie Zvirin