Author(s): Alfred Fairbank

Reference

"This famous manual . . . should be read by all those professing the slightest interest in lettering, writing, or the graphic arts." -- Printing World
"Despite the spate of publications on this subject, this one remains far and away the best." -- Society of Industrial Artists Journal
This classic introduction presents the fundamentals behind every aspect of the art of penmanship, from the necessary equipment to the best techniques. Written by an expert calligrapher whose books were widely used in schools, it offers an essential guide to those who practice or teach lettering and graphic design.
Clearly illustrated with numerous examples and diagrams, the text begins with the development and characteristics of italic and the essentials of good penmanship: legibility, beauty, unity, speed, expedience, freedom, and control. Subsequent chapters explain the tools of penmanship and their use: pens and penholders, pencils, felt-tipped pens, chalks, paper, and ink as well as hand movements, pressure, and touch. Discussions and examples of technique focus on strokes, joins, rhythms, angularity slant, and spacing in addition to how to write capitals, minuscules, numerals, stops, and contractions.