Copperplate Handwriting Tips & Techniques for Beginners

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 13 min read

Ever admired those elegant, swirling words on a wedding invitation or an old document and wished you could create such beauty with a pen? Well, you're in the right place to start your journey into the world of copperplate handwriting. This art form goes beyond mere writing—it's about creating visual poetry, and with practice, you can master it too.

1. Get to Know Copperplate

Before we dive into the techniques, let's take a moment to appreciate the rich history and significance of copperplate handwriting. Knowing where it comes from and how it compares to other scripts can give you a deeper understanding of the art form and fuel your passion for mastering it.

History of Copperplate

Originating in the 16th century, copperplate handwriting takes its name from the copper plates on which it was engraved for reproduction. This elegant, flowing script was popular in Europe and America, especially for formal documents and correspondence. It was considered a mark of refinement and education. Now, it's not just a relic of the past — copperplate handwriting is experiencing a renaissance among calligraphy enthusiasts and design professionals, adding a touch of vintage charm to everything from wedding invitations to logos.

Copperplate Vs. Other Scripts

So, what sets copperplate handwriting apart? Unlike print or cursive, copperplate is written with a pointed pen, which creates a unique combination of thick and thin strokes. The letters have a distinct roundness and a slightly slanted alignment. While scripts like Gothic or Italic have a rigid and angular look, copperplate feels more fluid and organic. It's this balance of formality and elegance that makes copperplate so captivating.

Significance of Copperplate

Copperplate handwriting isn't just about pretty writing — it's a skill that can open up new creative avenues for you. Whether you're a graphic designer looking to offer a unique service to clients, a hobby artist seeking a new medium, or someone who simply loves the idea of creating beautiful handwritten notes, mastering copperplate can be a rewarding pursuit. Plus, in a world dominated by digital communication, a hand-written copperplate note can add a personal touch that stands out.

2. Master the Basics

Now that we have a better understanding of the background and significance of copperplate handwriting, let's focus on the basics. The beauty of this script lies in its precision and consistency, and that starts with using the right tools and techniques.

Pen Holding Techniques

The first step to mastering copperplate handwriting is holding your pen correctly. Unlike regular writing, where you might hold the pen between your thumb and index finger, copperplate requires a different grip. Hold the pen between your thumb, index, and middle fingers. Keep your grip relaxed, and let the pen rest on the knuckle of your ring finger. This grip will give you better control over the pen's movement, allowing you to create the characteristic thick and thin lines of copperplate handwriting.

Ink Selection

Choosing the right ink for copperplate handwriting is crucial. The ink should flow smoothly and consistently from your pen, without blotting or feathering on the paper. Some popular choices among copperplate artists are sumi ink, iron gall ink, and walnut ink. Each of these inks has its own characteristics — for example, sumi ink offers a rich, deep black color, while walnut ink creates a beautiful, warm brown tone. Experiment with different inks to find the one that suits your style and preference.

Paper Choice

Lastly, let's discuss the canvas for your copperplate handwriting: the paper. The paper should be smooth and thick enough to prevent the ink from bleeding through. Marker paper, Bristol board, and Rhodia paper are some good options. Also, consider using guide sheets or grid paper in the beginning — they can help you maintain the correct slant and letter height, which are key to the uniform look of copperplate handwriting.

3. Learn Copperplate Terminology

As with any specialized craft, copperplate handwriting has its own unique language. Understanding the lingo will not only make learning easier but will also deepen your appreciation for this art form. So, let's dig into some commonly used terms, strokes, and glossary specific to copperplate handwriting.

Commonly Used Terms

Here are some terms you'll frequently encounter in copperplate handwriting:

Baseline: The line on which the letters rest.
X-height: The height of a lowercase letter, excluding any ascenders or descenders.
Ascender: The part of a letter that extends above the x-height, as in 'b' or 'd'.
Descender: The part of a letter that extends below the baseline, as in 'p' or 'q'.
Slant: The angle at which the letters are written. In copperplate handwriting, this is usually around 55 degrees.

Understanding Strokes

The beauty of copperplate handwriting lies in its strokes. Here's a quick rundown:

Downstroke: A stroke made in the downward direction. This is typically a thick line in copperplate handwriting.
Upstroke: A stroke made in the upward direction. This is typically a thin line.
Oval: An elliptical shape that forms the basis of many copperplate letters.
Loop: The rounded part of a letter that extends above the x-height (ascender loop) or below the baseline (descender loop).

Copperplate Calligraphy Glossary

Beyond these basic terms, there’s a world of vocabulary related to the intricacies of copperplate handwriting. This can include everything from the names of specific letter formations to the techniques used to create certain effects. A glossary can be a handy reference as you delve deeper into your copperplate handwriting journey.

4. Practice Basic Strokes

Now that you are familiar with the lingo, it's time to pick up your pen and start practicing the basic strokes of copperplate handwriting. Remember, these are the foundation of all your future letter formations, so take your time and don't rush through this stage.

Upward Strokes

Your copperplate handwriting journey begins with upward strokes. These are light, thin lines drawn from the bottom to the top at a slant. The secret to a perfect upward stroke is to apply minimal pressure on the pen. Here are the steps:

Position your pen at a 55-degree angle.
Start at the baseline.
Pull the pen upward and to the right, following the slant.
End the stroke at the x-height line.

Downward Strokes

Downward strokes are the opposite of upward strokes. They are drawn from the top to the bottom at a slant, with a heavier pressure applied to the pen to create a thick line. Here's how:

Place your pen on the x-height line, maintaining the 55-degree angle.
Apply pressure and pull the pen down and to the right.
End the stroke at the baseline, easing off the pressure towards the end to create a nice taper.

Ovals and Loops

Ovals and loops are the finishing touches to your copperplate handwriting strokes. For an oval, start at the top and draw a downward stroke. When you reach the baseline, continue the stroke in an upward direction to meet the starting point. As for loops, they are similar to ovals but with an extension either above the x-height (ascender loop) or below the baseline (descender loop).

Mastering these basic strokes is your ticket to the beautiful world of copperplate handwriting. So, keep your pen moving and happy practicing!

5. Start Forming Letters

With the basic strokes under your belt, it's time to assemble them into letters. Let's start with lowercase letters, as they form the bulk of any text in copperplate handwriting, then move on to uppercase letters, and finally, learn how to combine letters to create words.

Lowercase Letters

Lowercase letters in copperplate handwriting are smaller and simpler compared to uppercase letters. They are all based on a few basic shapes: the oval, the loop, and the stem. If you've mastered the basic strokes, you've already learned 80% of what you need to form lowercase letters. For example:

The letter 'a' is essentially an oval.
The letter 'i' is a simple upward stroke with a dot above it.
The letter 'h' is a downward stroke (or stem) followed by a loop.

These are just a few examples, but you can see how the basic strokes you've learned are the building blocks of all lowercase letters.

Uppercase Letters

Uppercase letters in copperplate handwriting are more complex and varied than lowercase letters, and they often extend above the x-height or below the baseline. But don't be intimidated—you've already learned all the strokes you need to form them. The key here is to go slow and practice each letter individually until you're comfortable with it.

The letter 'A' starts with a downward stroke, then a loop on the right side, and finally a crossbar to connect them.
The letter 'B' begins with a downward stroke, followed by two loops—one small and one large.
The letter 'C' is essentially a large, open oval.

Remember, it's not about speed—it's about precision and consistency. So take your time and enjoy the process.

Combining Letters

Now that you can form individual letters, it's time to combine them into words. This is where the real magic of copperplate handwriting happens. The key here is to maintain consistent spacing between your letters and to ensure that your letters connect smoothly. It might feel a bit awkward at first, but with practice, you'll get the hang of it. Remember, the beauty of copperplate handwriting lies in its elegance and fluidity, so let your letters flow naturally from one to the next.

6. Create Words and Sentences

Now that we've learned how to form letters, we can begin to create words and sentences. This is when copperplate handwriting really starts to come alive. Let's explore how to properly space letters and words, and how to form sentences in copperplate handwriting.

Spacing Between Letters

Proper spacing between letters is crucial in copperplate handwriting. Too close, and the letters may blend together. Too far, and the word loses its cohesiveness. A good rule of thumb is to leave a space equivalent to the width of a lowercase 'o' between letters. However, this isn't a strict rule—different letters will require different spacing. For example, a 'w' and an 'a' will need more space than two 'i's. The key is consistency. Make sure the spacing between your letters is consistent within the same word.

Spacing Between Words

Just as important as the spacing between letters is the spacing between words. A standard guideline is to leave a space equivalent to the width of a lowercase 'm' between words. This allows each word to stand out clearly without disrupting the fluidity of the sentence. Again, consistency is key. Keep your word spacing consistent across your entire piece of copperplate handwriting.

Sentence Formation

When creating sentences in copperplate handwriting, remember to keep your letterforms and spacing consistent. But also pay attention to the larger structure of your sentence. Make sure your ascenders (the tall parts of letters like 'b' and 'd') and descenders (the parts that dip below the baseline like 'p' and 'y') don't collide with adjacent lines of text. Also, consider how your sentence looks as a whole. Is it balanced? Does it flow naturally? If not, you might need to adjust your letterforms or spacing. Remember, copperplate handwriting is not just about the individual letters, but how they come together to create a harmonious whole.

7. Polish Your Skills

Just like any other skill, mastering copperplate handwriting takes practice. But practice doesn't have to be tedious. In fact, the more fun you have with it, the more likely you are to stick with it. Let's look at some common mistakes to avoid, how to use practice sheets effectively, and why continual learning is the key to copperplate handwriting success.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When practicing copperplate handwriting, you might find yourself making some common mistakes. One such error is not maintaining consistent slant angles. Copperplate handwriting typically has a slant angle of about 55 degrees, so keep a check on this. Another common mistake is inconsistent letter height which can break the uniformity of your script. Also, remember that the pressure applied while making strokes varies. A heavier pressure is required while making downward strokes and a lighter pressure for upward strokes. Being aware of these common mistakes can help you avoid them and improve your copperplate handwriting skills.

Practice Sheets

Practice sheets are a great resource for improving your copperplate handwriting. They typically provide guidelines for slant angle, letter height, and spacing. Some sheets even include sample strokes and letters for you to trace. The beauty of practice sheets is that they offer a structured way to practice and improve. You can find copperplate handwriting practice sheets online from various calligraphy stores like John Neal Bookseller, or you can create your own using grid paper.

Continual Learning

One of the most exciting things about copperplate handwriting is that there's always more to learn. As you continue to practice and refine your skills, you may start to develop your own unique style. You might find inspiration in the work of contemporary copperplate handwriting artists, or you might discover new techniques through calligraphy classes in your local community center or art school. Whether you're learning new scripts, experimenting with different inks and papers, or simply practicing your strokes, continual learning is a rewarding part of the copperplate handwriting journey.

8. Explore Copperplate Variations

Once you've got the hang of the basics, it's time to venture out and explore the world of copperplate variations. This is where you get to put your own spin on the traditional script and make it uniquely yours. Flourishing, modern copperplate, and ornamental penmanship are just a few styles you might consider. Let’s dive in!

Flourishing

For those who want to add a bit more flair to their copperplate handwriting, flourishing is the way to go. This involves adding decorative swirls, curves, and other embellishments to your letters. These flourishes can appear at the beginning, middle, or end of a letter, giving your script an elegant and artistic appearance. Meticulous attention is needed to ensure the flourishes don't overcrowd the piece and maintain legibility. Remember, flourishing is like the icing on the cake — too much can be overwhelming, but just the right amount can make your copperplate handwriting truly stand out.

Modern Copperplate

Modern copperplate is a more relaxed, playful version of traditional copperplate handwriting. This style allows for more flexibility in terms of letter shapes, slant angles, and baseline. You might want to vary your letter sizes, mix and match your stroke thickness, or even incorporate different scripts into your writing. The key to modern copperplate is creativity, so feel free to experiment and let your personality shine through your script.

Ornamental Penmanship

If you're up for a challenge, ornamental penmanship could be your next stop in your copperplate handwriting journey. This style is characterized by its intricate loops and flourishes, making it look more like a piece of art than a piece of writing. It requires a high level of skill and precision, as well as a deep understanding of letter forms. The Zanerian Manual is a well-known resource for learning ornamental penmanship, offering detailed instructions and examples. But remember, the beauty of copperplate handwriting lies in the journey, not just the destination. So take your time, savor the process, and most importantly, have fun!

9. Seek Inspiration

As you continue to hone your copperplate handwriting skills, seeking inspiration can be a helpful and enjoyable part of your journey. There's a world of beautiful scripts out there, created by both historical masters and contemporary artists. Let's see how you can tap into these resources to fuel your creativity.

Study Historical Examples

History is rich with stunning examples of copperplate handwriting. Studying these pieces can give you a deeper understanding of the art and its evolution over the years. For instance, George Bickham's "The Universal Penman" is a wonderful collection of 18th-century English roundhand scripts. Another worthwhile resource is "The Zanerian Manual," a treasure trove of American ornamental penmanship. These historical works can offer you not only artistic inspiration but also valuable insights into the techniques and styles of the masters.

Follow Contemporary Artists

While historical examples provide a solid foundation, contemporary copperplate handwriting artists bring fresh perspectives and modern twists to the art. Following these artists can keep you updated on the latest trends and techniques in the field. For example, Eleanor Winters, a calligrapher based in New York, NY, is renowned for her modern take on copperplate handwriting. Check out her works for a smart blend of tradition and innovation. But remember, while it's great to learn from others, always strive to develop your own unique style.

Visit Calligraphy Exhibits in New York, NY

Nothing beats seeing copperplate handwriting in person. If you're in or near New York, NY, consider visiting calligraphy exhibits. This can be an excellent way to appreciate the details and craftsmanship that go into each piece. Plus, it's a chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts, exchange ideas, and even get feedback on your own work. The Society of Scribes in New York, for instance, regularly hosts exhibitions and workshops, making it a great place to immerse yourself in the world of copperplate handwriting.

Once you've got a grip on copperplate handwriting, it's time to let your creations see the light of day. Sharing your work with others can be a rewarding experience. It opens up avenues for constructive feedback, appreciation, and even opportunities to learn from others. Let's explore how you can begin this exciting phase of your copperplate handwriting journey.

Join Calligraphy Groups in San Francisco, CA

Joining a local calligraphy group is a fantastic way to share your work and mingle with like-minded people. If you're in or around San Francisco, CA, consider joining a group like the Friends of Calligraphy. This is a vibrant community where you can showcase your copperplate handwriting, participate in workshops, and get valuable advice from seasoned calligraphers. Remember, every piece you share adds to your confidence and motivates you to keep improving.

Social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook have thriving calligraphy communities. Sharing your copperplate handwriting on these platforms allows you to reach a global audience. It's also a great way to document your progress, interact with other calligraphy enthusiasts, and gain inspiration from artists worldwide. Just snap a picture of your work, upload it with a thoughtful caption—maybe share a bit about your process or inspiration—and you're good to go!

Participate in Exhibitions in Chicago, IL

Participating in exhibitions is a significant step forward in your copperplate handwriting journey. If you're in or near Chicago, IL, look into local calligraphy exhibitions. The Chicago Calligraphy Collective, for example, hosts an annual exhibition showcasing the works of calligraphers from all over the country. This could be your chance to have your copperplate handwriting admired by a larger audience and even receive professional recognition for your skill. So why wait? Start preparing your best works for display.

If you're excited to dive deeper into the world of copperplate handwriting, don't miss the workshop 'Getting Started with Hand Lettering' by Shannon Layne. This workshop offers a comprehensive introduction to hand lettering techniques and tips, perfect for beginners looking to enhance their skills in this beautiful art form.