Society of Scribes

Italic, or Chancery Cursive, is the handwriting of the scribes of the Renaissance, and remains an ever-popular introduction to calligraphy. In this beginner class, students will learn this elegant, graceful alphabet in a step-by-step approach covering basic strokes, minuscules (lower-case letters), capitals, numbers and spacing. Italic is a modern, legible alphabet, frequently used for invitations, envelopes, placecards and other commercial calligraphy, as well as for calligraphic art, such as poetry and prose pieces.

Copperplate is the elegant, ornate script of the eighteenth century English writing masters. In this detailed introduction, students learn to use the flexible pointed pen and follow a step-by-step sequence covering basic strokes, minuscules, spacing, capitals, numbers and punctuation. Copperplate, also known as English Roundhand, is one of the most popular styles of calligraphy for addressing envelopes and writing placecards and escort cards for weddings and other events.

This is a class for those who have taken beginning Copperplate and wish to continue practicing their hand. Please only take this course if you have taken at least one copperplate class and have continued practicing. We will work on reducing the size of our writing while maintaining even line weight and spacing; we will practice a variety of alternative capital forms and review basic concepts of layout. Email the instructor at nycalligrapher@gmail.com for guidelines and copy for a lettering sample to bring for the first class.

One of the defining characteristics of Italic is its versatility. Italic can be serious and formal, san serif and minimal, thin and spiky, broad and pudgy, or joined and classic or cursive and contemporary. A world of different textures and characters can be generated from basic italic. The majuscules can take on their classic Roman look or can be flowing and elegant. In this workshop we will start with reviewing and brushing up our basic italic minuscule and majuscules. Covering all the classic italic fundamentals, we will then dive into the deep end learning how varying branching, pen angle, letter proportions, weight, serifs, etc., create vastly different italic looks.

Of course, the trick is learning how to write these variations in a consistent manner - so that you do not accidentally switch to another italic mid-paragraph. Like musicians, who practice their scales, calligraphers can practice specific exercises to hone different aspects of consistent lettering. We will learn some of these "calligraphic scales" and apply them to a few varieties of italic. Come ready to work and play with italic while stretching your understanding of this staple of 21st century calligraphy.

NOTE: Please bring samples of your italic to the first session. If you do not bring a sample, then at the beginning of the first day you will be asked to write an alphabetic list capitalizing the first letter of each word.

The accordion is perhaps the most versatile structure in the world of bookbinding. As a full-page spread, or as a minutely-pleated piece of paper, it displays both pictures and words in an immediate and Zen-like game of mountains and valleys. We will spend 2 days folding and sewing, and occasionally dipping into the glue bowl, as we construct a set of 4 small models. An all-paper slipcase will be built to hold a finished binding, or two.

We are often asked to design certificates and awards and occasionally the formal, illuminated resolution. The different natures of these awards and the institutions conferring them require objective decision-making separated from our calligraphic impulse. This workshop takes us through the step-by-step process of determining appropriate format and lettering styles, designing headings and names, planning several layouts quickly and efficiently, and final presentation. Some time will be devoted to simple techniques of illumination that can elevate an award from the mundane to the eye-catching. Due consideration is given to client/designer responsibilities, reading copy, printing, framing, and, oh yes, pricing. Prospective students can feel free to call Barry's studio directly with any questions at 646-559-1638.

Victorian pointed pen flourishing, also called “off-hand flourishing”, is the shining star of 19th century pen work. In this workshop, students will first learn basic strokes and simple techniques, and then combine them into delicate vines, leaves, berries, wheat sheaves, and floral bouquets. If time allows, we will flourish our own names. Known for its repertoire of graceful curves and gentle ovals, this visually beautiful art form is both rewarding and relevant today.

Please note: A basic knowledge of pointed pen calligraphy is necessary in order to fully benefit from this workshop.

Deriving its name from the Lombardic region of Italy these capitals were widely used in scriptoriums that Charlemagne set up throughout Europe. This alphabet of beautiful, decorative capitals dates back many centuries but is best known for its use in the Psalters, the song books used in churches during the Middle Ages. But don't think that these glorious capitals are best left in the past! Lombardic Capitals are every bit as useful today as they were 800 years ago.

This 2 day class is designed to teach you the delights of this drawn letter form. From the most formal resolution or monogram to the most informal card, Lombardic Capitals will fit the bill every time. First, the formal. By looking at historical samples we can see the variety of shapes and uses that are handed down to us. We will begin with the basic drawn shapes that make up the alphabet.

We will cover painting techniques, step by step, to build up roundness and depth of form along with shading, and highlights. There will be a section on filigree and simple gilding. You will even learn how to make your own shell gold. And this is just the first day & a half!

Then...we'll funk it up. Time to twist and turn, modernize and make them your own. We will cover all the tips and tricks for beautiful, fast and fabulous Lombardics perfect for a multitude of applications. We'll play with colored pencils, markers and other fun applications that complement these shapes.

This is a fun and fast paced class designed for all levels. Each student will have a finished formal Lombardic Capital with gilding and a modern Lombardic capital that are suitable for framing, as well as a complete book of handouts and samples to take home.

What does success look like to you? Here’s a hint: It’s different for everyone! Whatever your level of success right now, this workshop is designed for calligraphers and artists who want to grow their business.

Do you wish you were better at business? What you believe about yourself and your abilities affects what you create. In this workshop, you will first explore your beliefs as an artist, affirm your positive thought patterns, and gain clarity in defining your goals. Also, learn five things you might be doing to sabotage your business growth.

Then, you will learn how to identify and reach your customers, get organized and create an action plan. You will also learn both practical and “out of the box” free marketing tools and tips that every calligrapher needs to know to help you become a better business person!

This is a fast-paced, lively, interactive and informative workshop, delivered with passion and humor. Kathy Milici knows and understands what it’s like to run a successful calligraphy business. This year, her studio, 24 Karat Designs, celebrates 32 years in business.