Mastering Calligraphy: Tips for Writing Letter S

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 11 min read

Diving into the world of calligraphy can be a rewarding journey, especially when you start to see your strokes and letters flow with grace and style. Today, let's focus on the elegant letter S. Whether you're a beginner just starting out or a seasoned artist looking for some new tips, this guide is designed to help you master the art of writing a calligraphy S.

1. Get Familiar with the Basics

Before you can create a beautiful calligraphy S, it's important to understand some fundamental concepts. From knowing your tools to understanding the letter S itself, let's start at the beginning.

Know Your Tools

Quality tools are the backbone of any calligraphy project. Here's a quick rundown:

Nibs: These are the metal points that you'll dip into ink. Nibs come in different shapes and sizes, each creating a unique stroke. For beginners, a medium nib is a good starting point.
Holders: This is where you insert the nib. Straight holders are best for beginners, but once you're comfortable, you might want to try oblique holders for more intricate calligraphy S styles.
Ink: The choice of ink can greatly affect your calligraphy. Black is the most common color, but don't be afraid to experiment with different shades!
Paper: Smooth, heavy paper is ideal for calligraphy. Avoid paper that's too thin or rough, as it can cause the ink to bleed or your nib to snag.

Understanding The Letter S

The letter S in calligraphy can be a bit tricky due to its curves. It's important to remember that regardless of the style, the S usually consists of two main parts: the upper curve and the lower curve. The key to a great calligraphy S lies in making these two curves appear balanced and symmetrical.

Basic Strokes

Mastering the basic strokes in calligraphy can be compared to learning the alphabet before starting to write words. Here are the three main strokes you'll need for the calligraphy S:

Upstroke: A light, thin stroke moving upwards.
Downstroke: A heavy, thick stroke moving downwards.
Curve stroke: A stroke that curves, like in the shape of the letter S.

Remember, patience is your friend in this initial learning process. It might take some time to get these strokes right, but once you do, you'll be well on your way to creating a beautiful calligraphy S.

2. Practice Basic Strokes

Now that we've covered the basics, it's time to get your hands dirty—well, not literally, but you get the gist. Let's start practicing those strokes! Remember, the key to mastering calligraphy is repetition and consistency.

Upstroke

The upstroke is all about lightness. Imagine your nib is a feather lightly gliding upwards on the paper. Starting from the bottom, gently pull your pen upwards. This thin, light stroke is the foundation of your calligraphy S. Practice this stroke until it feels natural and consistent.

Downstroke

Downstrokes are the opposite of upstrokes, requiring a bit more pressure for a thicker line. Starting from the top, press down on your pen as you move towards the bottom of the paper. Think of it like a weighted dance, where your nib is the dancer gracefully gliding down the dance floor. Practice this move until your downstrokes are consistently thick and smooth.

Curve Stroke

The curve stroke is the heart of the letter S. Start with a light upstroke, then apply pressure as you move downwards to create a downstroke. As you reach the bottom, lighten your pressure and curve your nib upwards to finish with an upstroke. This is your curve stroke, a combination of light and heavy pressure that gives the letter S its distinctive shape. Practice this stroke until your curves are symmetrical and fluid.

By now, you should be feeling more comfortable with your basic strokes. Remember, practice makes perfect! Dedicate time each day to practicing these strokes and before you know it, you'll be ready to start forming your calligraphy S.

3. Learn to Form The Letter S

Alright, you've mastered the basic strokes. Now let's put them to use and start forming the letter S. Don't be intimidated, you've got this!

Upper Case S

Creating an upper case "S" in calligraphy can seem complex, but remember it's all about combining the strokes you've been practicing. Start with a curve stroke, then add another curve stroke in the opposite direction. It's like creating a winding road or a zigzag—each curve leads beautifully into the next. Keep practicing until your upper case "S" has a consistent shape and flow.

Lower Case S

Lower case "s" is a bit simpler than its upper case counterpart, but it still requires practice. Begin with a light upstroke, then use a curve stroke to create the body of the "s". Finish with a short downstroke. It's like a mini roller coaster ride—up, down, and around. Keep practicing until your lower case "s" looks smooth and balanced.

Great job! Now you know how to form both the lower case and upper case calligraphy S. It may not be perfect just yet, but don't worry. Like all great artists, you'll refine your technique over time. So keep practicing!

4. Practice Consistently

Now that you've learned how to form the letter "S" in calligraphy, it's time to focus on consistent practice. Remember, even the most complex calligraphy designs start with basic strokes and letters. Practice is what transforms those strokes into art. So let's dive into how you can make practice part of your daily routine.

Daily Practice

Consistency is key in mastering calligraphy S or any other letter. Try to set aside a little time every day for practice. Even 15 minutes a day can make a huge difference over time. It's like watering a plant—you can't just dump a week's worth of water on it in one go, right? It needs regular, consistent care to grow. In the same way, your calligraphy skills will flourish with daily practice.

Use Practice Worksheets

Practice worksheets can be a great tool to help you refine your calligraphy S. They provide a clear path for your strokes and letters, and can help you ensure your form and spacing are just right. Think of them like a GPS for your calligraphy journey—they guide you on where to go and how to get there. Just remember, the goal isn't to trace perfectly, but to understand the shapes and movements needed to create the letter "S".

Well done! You're making great progress. Remember to be patient with yourself. Mastery doesn't happen overnight, but with consistent practice, you're on your way to creating beautiful calligraphy S's.

5. Explore Styles and Variations

Once you're comfortable with the basic strokes and forms of the calligraphy S, it's time to let your creativity shine. Calligraphy is an art form with countless styles and variations. Exploring these can not only enhance your skills but also allow you to develop a unique style of your own. Let's look at a few popular styles to get started.

Modern Calligraphy

Modern calligraphy is a fresh take on the traditional form. It's less rigid and more playful, allowing for variations in thickness and style. The modern calligraphy S can be curvier, bolder, or more streamlined—there's room for interpretation. This style is perfect if you want to express your personality through your calligraphy.

Traditional Calligraphy

Traditional calligraphy is all about precision and consistency, steeped in centuries of history. The traditional calligraphy S has a specific form, with uniform strokes and a distinct elegance. If you appreciate the classics and enjoy attention to detail, this might be the style for you.

Brush Calligraphy

Brush calligraphy uses flexible brush pens, creating a stunning contrast between thick and thin lines. The brush calligraphy S is dynamic and bold, with a certain artistic flair. If you enjoy painting or drawing, you might find this style particularly satisfying.

Remember, these are just a few of the multitude of styles out there. Feel free to explore and experiment until you find one that resonates with you. After all, calligraphy is about expressing yourself, and your calligraphy S should be as unique as you are.

6. Create Your Own Style

As you delve into the world of calligraphy and explore different styles, you may find yourself drawn to certain elements from each. This is the perfect opportunity to create your own unique style. Your calligraphy S doesn't have to fit neatly into a box—it can be a blend of everything you love about this art form.

Experiment with Different Tools

Every artist has their favorite tools, and calligraphers are no different. Whether you prefer the sharp lines of a dip pen or the softer strokes of a brush pen, your choice of tool can significantly influence your style. Don't be afraid to try something new—you might just discover a new favorite.

Practice with Purpose

Creating your own style doesn't happen overnight. It requires patience, practice, and a whole lot of trial and error. However, practicing with a clear goal in mind can make this process more enjoyable and rewarding. Whether you're refining your upstrokes or experimenting with a new tool, every bit of practice brings you one step closer to mastering your unique calligraphy S.

Remember, your style is a reflection of you. It's not about perfection—it's about expression. So let your personality shine through your calligraphy S and enjoy the journey of creating something uniquely yours.

7. Tips to Smoothen Your S

Let's be honest, the letter S can be a bit tricky to master in calligraphy. It's curvy and fluid, and can often feel like you're trying to capture a wave with a pen. But don't worry, I've got some tips that will help you smoothen out your calligraphy S and make it as graceful as a swan.

Maintaining Consistent Slant

Consistency is key in calligraphy. It's what gives your work that professional, polished look. And when it comes to the letter S, maintaining a consistent slant can be the difference between a shaky squiggle and a smooth, elegant curve. Keep an eye on your slant as you practice, and don't be afraid to adjust your grip or angle if you notice any inconsistencies.

Pressure Control

Pressure plays a pivotal role in calligraphy, especially when working on those tricky curves in the letter S. Applying the right amount of pressure at the right time can make your strokes look effortless and fluid. Remember, less pressure on the upstrokes, more on the downstrokes—like a graceful dance with your pen.

Stroke Order

The order in which you make your strokes can greatly impact the smoothness of your calligraphy S. Typically, most calligraphers start with the upstroke, followed by the curve, and finally the downstroke. However, feel free to experiment with different stroke orders and see what works best for you. You might be surprised by what you discover!

With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to mastering the smooth, elegant calligraphy S you've been dreaming of. Remember, it's all about practice and finding what works best for you. So keep practicing, stay patient, and most importantly, have fun!

8. Avoiding Common Mistakes

Creating the perfect calligraphy S is a bit like baking a cake: it requires precision, patience, and the right ingredients. But just like in baking, there are common mistakes that can turn your beautiful calligraphy S into a bit of a mess. But fear not, I'm here to help you navigate these potential pitfalls.

Incorrect Slant

Just as a cake can topple over if it's not level, your calligraphy S can look a bit off if the slant isn't consistent. This is a common issue, especially for beginners. The trick is to keep your pen at the same angle for each stroke. It's a bit like making sure all your cake layers are the same size—takes a bit of practice, but it's worth it!

Uneven Spacing

Another common mistake is uneven spacing. If your strokes are too close together or too far apart, your calligraphy S can look cramped or stretched. Imagine if you put too much or too little icing between your cake layers—it just wouldn't look or taste right. The same goes for your calligraphy S. Keep your strokes evenly spaced for a balanced, pleasing look.

Rushed Strokes

Rushing your strokes is like taking your cake out of the oven too early—it can ruin the whole thing. In calligraphy, slow and steady wins the race. Take your time with each stroke. Let the ink flow smoothly from your pen, and enjoy the process. After all, creating beautiful calligraphy is as much about the journey as the end result.

By avoiding these common mistakes, your calligraphy S will improve in no time. Remember, every master was once a beginner, so don't get discouraged if things don't turn out perfect right away. Keep practicing, learning, and most importantly, enjoying the art of calligraphy.

9. Step Up Your Calligraphy Game

Just like a baker constantly trying out new recipes, a calligrapher is always looking for ways to refine their skills and learn new techniques. Here are a few ways you can step up your calligraphy S game.

Join a Calligraphy Workshop

Just as you might join a cooking class to learn new baking techniques, joining a calligraphy workshop can significantly improve your calligraphy skills. You can learn from experts, practice new techniques, and get instant feedback on your work. It's like having a master baker by your side, guiding you to make the perfect cake.

Take Online Courses

If you prefer to learn at your own pace or can't find a local workshop, online courses are a great option. They offer flexibility, allowing you to learn whenever and wherever you want. It's like having a baking show on-demand, ready to teach you new recipes whenever you're ready.

Follow Calligraphy Artists

Just as bakers follow other bakers for inspiration, following calligraphy artists can give you new ideas and inspiration for your own work. You can learn from their style, see how they handle different letters and scripts, and maybe even pick up a few tips and tricks along the way.

Stepping up your calligraphy S game is all about learning, practicing, and finding inspiration wherever you can. So don't be afraid to try new things, make mistakes, and most importantly, have fun with it. Because in the end, that's what calligraphy—and baking—is all about.

10. Conclusion

Just like a baker takes a step back to admire their beautifully baked cake, it's important for a calligrapher to reflect on their journey and keep exploring new possibilities. Let's wrap up our guide on mastering the art of calligraphy S.

Reflect on Your Journey

Mastering calligraphy, especially a tricky letter like the calligraphy S, can be a journey full of ups and downs. But remember, every stroke you make, every curve you perfect, is a step towards becoming a better artist. So take a moment to look back at your progress, admire your work, and give yourself a pat on the back. You've earned it.

Keep Exploring

Just like a baker is always looking for new recipes to try, a calligrapher should always be looking for new techniques, styles, and scripts to explore. The world of calligraphy is vast and the possibilities are endless. So keep your curiosity alive, keep exploring, and who knows, you might just create a calligraphy S that's uniquely yours.

In conclusion, mastering the calligraphy S is a journey of practice, patience, and exploration. But with the right tools, techniques, and a dash of creativity, you can conquer it and make your mark in the world of calligraphy.

If you're looking to elevate your calligraphy skills even further, don't miss out on the workshop 'Using Watercolours to Create Colourful Calligraphy' by BlinkLettering. This workshop will teach you how to incorporate watercolours into your calligraphy, adding a vibrant and mesmerizing touch to your lettering.