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Hand Lettering , Live Class Replay ,

Nib Calligraphy Basics: Tools, Techniques, and Timeless Art

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Shelby Abrahamsen (Foxsy)

Class Description:

Curious about nib calligraphy but not sure where to start? This Nib Calligraphy for Newbies class is your perfect introduction. Learn about the essential supplies you'll need, how to properly prep your nib for its first use, and the basics of creating strokes that form the backbone of this elegant art form.

Ideal for beginners, this class is designed to demystify the process and provide you with the knowledge and confidence to start practicing your own calligraphy with ease. We'll explore the various tools and techniques in a friendly, supportive environment, ensuring you leave with a solid understanding of the basics.

Don't miss this opportunity to add a personal touch to your invitations, greeting cards, or simply to enjoy the art of beautiful writing. Register now using the button and you'll also receive access to a replay of the event to revisit the lessons whenever you want.

What You Will Learn:

  • Historical context and significance of nib calligraphy
  • Types of nib holders: straight and oblique
  • Selection and care of calligraphy nibs
  • Inks suitable for nib calligraphy
  • Ideal paper types for smooth writing
  • Preparation and maintenance of nibs
  • Proper technique for holding the pen
  • Basic calligraphy strokes: downstrokes and upstrokes
  • Techniques for consistent and smooth lettering
  • Practical demonstrations of name lettering
  • Cleaning tips for nibs after use

Supplies You'll Need:

  • Flexible calligraphy nib (I’m using Hiro Leonardt No. 41 and Brause Steno Nr. 361 Blue Pumpkin)
  • Black India Ink (I’m using Dr. Ph. Martin’s Bombay India Ink)
  • Oblique Pen Holder
  • HP Premium Paper (same one used for Letter Fest)
  • Dinky Dips or Small Inkwell
  • Dish soap & water
  • Paper towel or rag
  • Pencil & Ruler (for making grid lines)
  • Opt. Lightbox
  • Opt. Laser level
  • Opt. Pipette

About Instructor

Shelby Abrahamsen (Foxsy)

Shelby is the co-founder of Foxsy and the creator at Little Coffee Fox. She is a professional watercolorist, letterer, and artist with a passion for teaching others to reintroduce creativity back into their lives. Shelby lives in Chicago, IL with her husband Jon and her pets Summer, Basil, and Korra.

218 Classes

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Class Details:

  • 📊Level: Beginner
  • ⏰Time: 54 minutes

Class Pass includes:

  • ✓Lifetime Access To Class

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Access Everything Foxsy Has To Offer

Be Part of the Foxsy Revolution

Join a thriving community of over 2,300 students, all united by a shared love for creativity. Together, let's paint a brighter, more creative future.

  • Access [coursetotal] classes with 250+ hours of content.
  • Work through over 400 lessons and 70+ projects.
  • Access the Watercolor Academy, Drawing Bootcamp, & Modern Lettering Academies.
  • Join weekly live classes.
  • Get personalized feedback on all projects.
  • Get real answers to your questions with Creative Support.
Access Everything Foxsy Has To Offer

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  • “As a total beginner when I started, I’m amazed at the amount of skill and knowledge I gained. There’s a wide variety of courses so you can’t get bored.

    There’s always another challenge in the next class. Really appreciated the personal feedback when I submitted projects.
    Janet G
  • “I loved the Watercolor Academy I learned so much and have developed self-confidence in my ability as a budding "artist "

    (I 'm still getting used to this lol)”
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  • "This is excellent.

    As a chronic copier of other people's art, the tips offered here will help me with my own creative process and prevent the block that I feel with "what next"."
    Carol R
  • “The Watercolor Academy was a great experience. I learned so much and was able to get feedback on my projects along the way. I feel like I accomplished something when all was completed.

    I would recommend (and I have) the Foxsy Watercolor Academy to others wanting to try out watercolors or improve on their skills.”
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  • "This was so helpful! I loved the way Shelby broke down the basics in a succinct way and tips to use while practicing. Lastly, I appreciated Shelby mentioning that everyone is going to have a unique bounce lettering style.

    As someone who is new to brush lettering in general, I've been copying a lot of what I see. I need that consistent reminder to avoid potential frustration, especially as a beginner!"
    Kelsey
  • "I loved this course. I loved how it showed the lesson and then a project that corresponded with that project.

    The explanations were amazing and helpful and I really felt confident in doing the project. This was probably the best watercolor lesson I've ever taken and enjoyed."
    LG Woods
  • "I really enjoyed this course. Instructions and examples were clear and practical and the feedback was really kind and helpful.

    It has improved my lettering knowledge and given me confidence to keep practicing."
    Nic

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All Foxsy Memberships include:

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  • Access to exclusive weekly live classes
  • Fox Den Community Access
  • Project feedback from Foxsy Pros
  • Unlimited creative support

Monthly Membership

$29 / month
Go Monthly

All Foxsy Memberships include:

  • Access to the full 250+ class library
  • Access to The Watercolor Academy, The Modern Lettering Academy & Drawing Bootcamp
  • Access to exclusive weekly live classes
  • Fox Den Community Access
  • Project feedback from Foxsy Pros
  • Unlimited creative support

Yearly Membership

$164 / year
Go Yearly

All Foxsy Memberships include:

  • Access to the full 250+ class library
  • Access to The Watercolor Academy, The Modern Lettering Academy & Drawing Bootcamp
  • Access to exclusive weekly live classes
  • Fox Den Community Access
  • Project feedback from Foxsy Pros
  • Unlimited creative support

Lifetime Membership

$599 Never pay a subscription fee again.
Get Lifetime Access

All Foxsy Memberships include:

  • Access to the full 250+ class library
  • Access to The Watercolor Academy, The Modern Lettering Academy & Drawing Bootcamp
  • Access to exclusive weekly live classes
  • Fox Den Community Access
  • Project feedback from Foxsy Pros
  • Unlimited creative support
All plans come with a 30-day Money Back Guarantee.
Cancel anytime in your dashboard.
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Here at Foxsy, we are working to build a platform where you can have everything you need to give your creativity everything it needs to thrive.

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Ratings and Reviews

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What's your experience? We'd love to know!
foxsy-team
Posted 2 years ago
Awesome and informative! (Anonymous Student)

Awesome and informative!

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Darren
Posted 2 years ago
Shelby delivered a "perfect introduction" to nib calligraphy for newbies as promised.

Shelby delivered a "perfect introduction" to nib calligraphy for newbies as promised. She knows her stuff and engages with participants in a fun way. Her presentation and explanation of tools and techniques were refreshingly non-technical and geared for beginners. Great job!

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