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5 Misconceptions about Hand Lettering

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These are 5 myths or misconceptions I’ve heard about hand lettering that I wanted to set straight.

5 Common Misconceptions about Hand Lettering

You need good handwriting to start with

As Dwight Schrute would yell–FALSE! You do not need to have beautiful, perfect hand writing to learn how to letter!

Yes, the concepts of writing and hand lettering are similar, however, writing is a more fluid movement while hand lettering is a series of marks or strokes that come together to define letters and words.

hand writing vs hand lettering vs brush lettering example on paper

Hand Lettering and Calligraphy are the same thing

I can definitely see the idea behind this, as hand lettering and brush lettering is often referred to as modern calligraphy. But traditional calligraphy achieves the thick downstrokes and thin upstrokes by generating different pressure to the nib.

Hand lettering is typically done using any type of pen, marker, or even brush pen to create the look of traditional calligraphy. You achieve this with different strokes to create a letter. Think of calligraphy as the art of writing words while hand lettering is the art of drawing words.

I don’t have enough time to learn

It will always feel like you don’t have enough time to learn a new skill. It doesn’t matter how much or how little free time you have, you will never think you have enough to invest in something new. I hear you!

You don’t NEED a ton of time every day to learn. Start with these basic practice sheets. Take 10 minutes a day, or 20 minutes every other day to sit down and practice. That’s it. You can find 10 minutes to practice!

hand lettered grocery list on desk

Another great way to get some practice in is by writing your grocery list or to-do list out with some fun lettering. This is literally how I found time to practice!

The tools are too expensive to invest in

Here’s a tip. Start with what you already have to learn the basics. I’m sure you have a pencil, pen or even a Crayola marker lying around right? Grab that pencil, these basic sheets (or these faux lettering ones), and start.

You don’t NEED to invest in any tools until you’ve developed the muscle memory and passion. Just start with what you have and grow from there.

Assorted brush pens on desk

You need a lot of patience

Sure, you need to have patience, but patience with yourself. You want to give yourself time to develop, and not just expect to get it down the first time around.

Otherwise, you’ll find that you actually find lettering very relaxing! It can be a great way to de-stress, and clear your mind!

If you are interested in learning more, check out these posts:

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