How to Create and Learn Modern Calligraphy - A Guide for Beginners + Free Worksheet

This video was filmed in 2018. There's an updated calligraphy tutorial available as of 2024, which has 30+ more minutes of instruction and practice plus a new free worksheet. Find it here: • Learn Calligraphy: A S...
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Here's where you can find the worksheet featured in this video (it's a free download!): thepostmansknock.com/catalog/...
This video is a beginner's guide detailing how to create and learn modern calligraphy. In it, you'll learn the basics of how to get started! I'll start by showing you some calligraphy inspiration (you can see more on my Instagram: / ); then I'll walk you through the best supplies to buy (yes, the right supplies make a huge difference!). After that, I'll show you how to properly hold you pen, then we'll fill out the "How to Create Calligraphy" worksheet together.
Here are some helpful links if you want to take your calligraphy learning up a notch:
The Beginner's Guide to Modern Calligraphy - thepostmansknock.com/beginner... (This is currently the #1 written pointed pen calligraphy guide on the internet.)
The Ultimate DIY Modern Calligraphy Starter Kit - thepostmansknock.com/the-ulti... (Visit this article for more information about the proper calligraphy supplies to start out with. The article includes links to the supplies you'll need!)
The Beginner's Modern Calligraphy Online Course - thepostmansknock.com/catalog/... (Learners absolutely LOVE this online course, which offers a way to learn modern calligraphy thoroughly and at your own pace! Take a look at the reviews!)
I'd love for you to visit me at thepostmansknock.com/! TPK is a website that's dedicated to teaching calligraphy and other creative techniques like watercolor, hand-lettering, and writing with brush pens/markers. Thanks very much for viewing!

[@Graceawakened]

Wonder why it is so relaxing to watch SOMEONE ELSE produce calligraphic art? I love it!

[@collese]

So happy to have found you on KZbin! Looking forward to seeing all of the videos.

[@courtneydowdy3077]

So excited to get started learning calligraphy! I’ve been wanting to get into it for a while but your videos will help immensely

[@joneawright7052]

This video is so awesome! I love how you are so thorough and I am able to follow along so easily. Thank you!

[@lgray0234]

I remember my grandpa used to write like this. I learned from him when I was much younger. I’ve pretty much forgotten everything. It’s so pretty!

[@melissakleiderer3461]

Thank you for making this video. I love that it's short and gives the basics while still showing the strokes for each of the letters and numbers, and bonus, a worksheet to practice!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

You are very, very welcome!

[@SW8.8]

I just order all the supplies to star your online course! I’m so glad that I found u website and KZbin channel!

[@krisp3588]

This is the year I actually use my supplies and dive in. I'm even on my second potato since the first one rotted. So much for procrastination. 😬Lindsey, love your vidoes and blog. Can't wait to get started!

[@beckyericsen4229]

Excellent video! Your instructions are clear and concise!

[@xiuhui3007]

I love that you are coming on KZbin!!! 😁 thank you for your resources!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I'm really enjoying making videos! My 2019 resolution is to post once per week ... and I'm determined to stick to it! :D

[@jennt284]

Your worksheets are amazing and beautiful! Thank you for helping to make calligraphy so much more accessible ♥

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

It's 100% my pleasure -- thanks, Jenn!

[@shehzadiakhan]

This lesson is so helpful for beginners! Thank you! xo

[@karenwilliams5952]

What an amazing guide for the complete beginner - with tips on the right supplies to use and a free worksheet to get you started. I can’t wait to have a go now!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I'm *so* happy you like this video! It's my favorite one on the TPK KZbin so far. :) Thanks, Karen!

[@plockh1]

Love your videos and your generous supply of offered workships. Thank you so much!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

So glad to hear that!

[@geniee95]

I love that you took the time to complete the worksheet with us, it makes it so much easier to follow along. This video’s made me want to sign up to The Beginner’s Modern Calligraphy course that much more! So good to see you on KZbin 😀

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thanks! It's good to be on KZbin ... videos are actually pretty fun to make. :)

[@wildwoodla7450]

Thank you so much for the free worksheet & video 💗! I love reading your newsletter, but the video format is very helpful. I watched this morning while eating breakfast.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Nothing better than a side of calligraphy with breakfast! ;) Thank you!

[@marlatorrado6397]

Always a good thing to review the basics. Thanks for sharing this!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Of course! Thanks for watching!

[@SadieSouix]

So glad your venturing into KZbin. As a visual learner, I learn better this way. Well done! And happy New Year!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thank you! I'm enjoying it! :)

[@e.e.v.5353]

I love the graphic explanation and the tools recommendation. I bought the Janet Style Calligraphy set, and now I see that this video complements the instruction fairly well. Thanks!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

You're welcome! (I'm almost done with the Janet video course!!)

[@ArushiDoshi]

Thank you for the detailed demonstration. Love this format of learning :)

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I also love learning via video! :)

[@carolinehankins3408]

Thanks for making this video! Very informative, and I'm excited to try out the worksheets!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I hope you like the worksheet!

[@Artsixtyfour]

Hi thank you for sharing, I have just purchased the beginners course and so look forward to learning and mastering this wonderful art of writing 🙏🏻

[@lanii5267]

Love that you posted this helpful video here. Your website is truly Amazing!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thank you!

[@ChileanHands]

Thank you for wonderful easy to follow instructions and motivational video Lindsey!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

It's my pleasure, Mariella! Thank you for watching!

[@suegg7245]

Thanks so much for all your wonderful worksheets and also for your generosity with your knowledge.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Absolutely! You're welcome!

[@swarnadevi5119]

This introduction on how to prep nibs and what sort of paper to use is very useful. Thank you Lindsey

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Yay!! You are very welcome, Swarna!

[@krystelleannblanco7271]

Thank you for the tips!!

[@lemler00]

Thank you for the stroke and letter demonstration. It’s very helpful to see this and get a feel of how to begin.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I'm very happy that the video acted as a good introduction -- that was my goal!

[@sharyndavis2110]

You are wonderful! Thank you for sharing your talent. This video is so informative and can be viewed over and over. Love it! Thanks.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

So glad you enjoy it, Sharyn!

[@SueD.]

You make it look so easy--thanks for all the tips and encouragement.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

You are very welcome, Sue!

[@aileenlianasuwitro9236]

I have learned ALOT from the blog and purchased the worksheets. These videos are wonderful additions! Keep posting ;))

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

So happy that you enjoy them! They have been a great way to "spice things up" for me. :)

[@margaretmcgarity2991]

very pretty and nice to watch several times to refresh.

[@nennenartsyworld6823]

I love the tutorials, it is really helpful for me, this new year I wish I can improve my skills in calligraphy with the help of your tutorials.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

The New Year is the best time to start, I think! :)

[@chloelow001]

Your blog posts have taught me so much so that I have learnt calligraphy on my own!! :D

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Yay!!!

[@sherryhill2327]

You're so through and pleasant. Thank you for sharing your talent.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

It's my pleasure -- thanks, Sherry!

[@cleaveshomesteadmaine6342]

The supplies are top notch, high quality and the tutorials are very informative and easy to follow.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Glad to help!😊

[@SGPenn]

I'm glad to find you on You Tube. I love your website and have some of your worksheets are helping me be a better calligrapher!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Yay!! :)

[@truolson9083]

I love that you were in Flow! It's my favorite magazine.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Mine too!!

[@jennifershuler4224]

This video makes the concept of calligraphy so easy to understand.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Sooo happy to hear it! That was my goal!

[@graykai3561]

i love calligraphy and you do it so beautifully!!!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thanks, Gray!

[@laurieheyden6414]

Great video! I will download the worksheet and use as I start my daily practice...

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

No better time than the present to start, right! 1/1 is upon us!

[@lindseyland7425]

Great video! Love all your tutorials!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

:D Thank you!

[@asljewelry]

Great info for getting started!!

[@amypiche1149]

Great intro video! Love the free worksheet and how you guide us through it!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thank you! I'm so glad that you enjoy the video and the worksheet!

[@shaminderkaur863]

The video is so descriptive and informative. Thank you!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

No, thank you for watching it! :)

[@leesasomething5135]

I love these, I just need to buckle down and practice!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Go for it! Practice makes perfect!

[@aliciachao4549]

With all your tips and worksheets, I've successfully started my calligraphy journey - the right materials make all the difference! Your Beginner’s Modern Calligraphy Online Course was what made me finally commit, after following you for years!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

!!!

[@susanowens9224]

Thanks so much for this video and practice sheet. The more I practice the better I hope to be.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

You are so very welcome, Susan!

[@debiking6508]

I loved Her style and teachability for those of us who are beginners. I am looking forward to trying out the free worksheet. Thank you so much for your time and energy to help us newbies. Debi

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

[@phoenix6738]

This is such a great video with lots of good information. Thank you so much.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

You're so welcome!

[@melmilford1859]

I have purchased several of Lindsey's calligraphy worksheet sets in different styles as well as some printables and the modern calligraphy video course from The Postman's Knock website and I have been thrilled with all of them. My only problem is that I can't find nearly enough time to actually fill them all out and practice consistently! But I can't help myself from treating myself to something from her catalog every few months because everything is so organized and fun and appealing to look at and very reasonably priced. Thanks for all you do to share your art, Lindsey! It is so appreciated!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I can so relate to the time thing now that I have an infant ... gosh, I thought I didn't have time *before*, and now, well, you can imagine! The time I do have to devote to art and calligraphy is absolute gold. :) This was a gorgeous and kind review ... thanks so much, Mary Ellen!

[@helenmcnair4284]

@@LindseyBugbeeTPK Off of???? What is 'off of' in English? Please stop this ear-bleedingly awful misuse of English.

[@melindarubin8070]

I have purchased and used several of Lindsey's practice packages, including the Amy font and the "Learn Hand Lettering for aLatte." All of her printable worksheets are beautiful and fun to use. I had not appreciated how useful the videos would be before watching this introduction. It makes a world of difference to see how to hold, angle and pressure the pen.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I'm so glad you find it helpful!

[@melissabenito1376]

Thank you for the video, it was very inspiring and the tips are very useful!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

It's my pleasure!

[@nurfurqana]

This is so helpful especially now when I'm really trying to master modern calligraphy !! :)) Thank you so much!! :)))

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

What better time to start than the New Year? :D

[@aayushi_mehta]

Lovely! Always inspiring ❤

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Aw, thanks, Aayushi!

[@junearceri8652]

This is going to help so much! Thank you!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I hope that it does! Thanks!

[@jeffreyburke560]

Beautiful!

[@bryanstanton]

Great video. Very easy to follow and so informative. Especially good when you provide a FREE download worksheet. Very much appreciated. :)

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Of course! Enjoy!

[@soulcomfort1]

So glad to see you in youtube! :)

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I'm trying to post a video every Thursday -- New Year's resolution! :D

[@erinmanley136]

I haven't had a chance to take the full online course yet, but this is a super helpful demo! I especially love that you showed us each letter. I wouldn't know where to start on some of them!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

:D Love to hear that!

[@DXNewington]

Hi there, thanks for your very helpful website and videos. I'm gathering supplies and can't wait to get started. My handwriting suffered since I learned to touch-type years ago. It's a use-it-or-lose-it skill, handwriting. And now I'm doing something about it by writing more. At least it no longer looks like a drunken crab sidled across the page when I write. Cheers!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Ha! "At least it no longer looks like a drunken crab sidled across the page when I write" < -- I *love* this! Keep up the good work; I'm so glad you're re-vamping your writing!

[@janwaller3585]

Beautiful and fancy ❤️

[@MiekaKitty]

I enjoyed the video and downloaded the worksheet. Thank you!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

You're so welcome!

[@lmdlinda1]

so love your work!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thank you so much!

[@mygreatestdayever]

Thanks Lindsey! I thought this video was well done. It gives me confidence to give calligraphy a try!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thank you! It took a fair amount of time to make, so that's absolutely fantastic to hear!

[@jodiemoss3468]

Thankyou so mich, this was great and easy to follow.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

That's what I love to hear -- thank you!

[@carolynfong2573]

You are an amazing teacher!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Glad you think so! Thank you! 😄

[@sondoskhaled6680]

Woow awesome i realy like it😍

[@faithfinfrock9783]

I can't wait to get started! I got a custom pen for Christmas and I am so excited to start using it

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Best Christmas gift ever!

[@faithfinfrock9783]

My boyfriend made it himself with 6 different kinds of wood so it’s very special as well

[@wanderleischardosim9490]

wonderful.. thank´s

[@emmalynb.2873]

Great video! Happy New Year!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thanks, Emmalyn!

[@seekr8pal101]

This is a great visual. Thank you!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

You're very welcome!

[@launiemcdevitt1964]

This is AWESOME! Thank you!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

[@jonespaperemporium4930]

I happened upon your blog a while ago and have purchased some of your worksheets as well as the online beginners course. But, for whatever reason I had no idea you had a YT channel. Glad to know you are going to be posting here occasionally as it will help us visual learners. (Now if only you were a lefty - hahahaha :)

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I haven't been very active on KZbin up until the past couple of months, so you weren't missing much! :) It is a little bit strange, actually, that I'm not a lefty, because my dad is -- as well as my maternal grandmother! Alas ... ;)

[@Edward-eq6fy]

Love your blog! I follow your FB, IG, and of course your channel here. I plan to take some classes in Jan and buying some practice sheets.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

!!! :D Thanks, Edward!

[@Yk55555]

Just started out and I'm inspired!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

*LOVE* hearing (well, reading) this!

[@maryshackelford3105]

Thanks for the great videos!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

You are so welcome, Mary!

[@LauraLodderBeeby]

Going back to calligraphy after 40 years of, erm, life! Things (mostly products!) sure have changed since my high school night class. But so has what one can learn! So much more beautiful than the medieval script with a #C3 Shaeffer nib! Thanks for the inspiration. Now, to work!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I also prefer the pointed pen to medieval styles! :) So glad that you are inspired ... I've done my job! ;)

[@teresanovakovich1252]

So helpful--thank you!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

You are so welcome!

[@katherinetaylor6943]

Thank you for the tutorial!!!!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

You are so welcome! 😄

[@maniyaongpauco5710]

Thank you for this! Very useful!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

You're very welcome, Maniya!

[@jimmygoldenjr8946]

This was the video that really made learning Modern Calligraphy possible!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

:D

[@priscillaburczynski236]

I love mail art too!!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Best utilization of beautiful lettering ever, right? :)

[@ddgottron]

Lindsey, I'm so glad you've made videos available. All of your work is lovely, but to see your lettering in action is even more inspiring. Its stunningly beautiful! Thank you so much for sharing!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

It's absolutely my pleasure! Thanks, Dianne!

[@jillmarshall7448]

Thank you for the video. I am going to download the sheets.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Yay!!

[@susanringler9570]

Your hand is so very beautifully done!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thanks, Susan!

[@lWandattl]

Thank you

[@angelaschramm8480]

Wonderful video!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thanks so much, Angela!

[@fathipereira]

Thank you for this share

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

It's my pleasure, Fathi!

[@tinabirk5254]

I'm a complete newbie in calligraphy, so this was very aspiring to me. Thank you! :)

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I'm so happy to read that -- thanks, Tina!

[@tinabirk5254]

@@LindseyBugbeeTPK ahh Thank You for sharing your knowledge with the rest of us! :D best wishes. :)

[@sarahpeters2016]

I enjoy your videos

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Aw, thanks, Sarah! I'm planning to make/post many more!

[@dearlydeciduous]

I need to remember patience! Thank you :-)

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Patience and calligraphy are practically one and the same -- you're very welcome!

[@LadyAlleria]

This is so pretty!

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thank you!!

[@1Pacorio]

Lindsey I am so thankful for your talent and that you share it with us. The Modern Calligraphy course is beautiful and I hope I can get it down with practice. It seems like my own calligraphy constantly leaks into what I want to learn. I'd like to learn all the styles and I am wondering how you keep them straight.

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

I keep the exemplars handy! I don't think it's ever cheating to take a look at one. :)

[@1Pacorio]

@@LindseyBugbeeTPK Thanks Lindsey

[@bluegreenyellowme]

Helpful

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Yay!!

[@jennief2108]

Good Morning to you Lindsey ! Happy New Year Lindsey and Family ) Jennie and family xxx Vimeo is very popular with Artists too ) I think the success is due to visual learning, most people are high visual learners. Conferences work also, I attend some but here a lot of people do not focus as well. Multi tasking they say is basically out.( Neuro Science ) Congratulations on your views ! Way to go )

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Hi Jennie, and thanks! I actually have hosted all of my videos on Vimeo for the past few years! While I prefer Vimeo as a platform (more user-friendly, I think) it just doesn't seem to get the same traffic as KZbin. :-/ You can find my Vimeo page here: vimeo.com/thepostmansknock

[@jennief2108]

@@LindseyBugbeeTPK oh really ) Yes is true it does not have the same traffic ! I will go and add you ) Thanks ! You have good views there * Bravo, I do not think even Pierre has that many ! He does ad's ...... his showreel for this year is fantastic ! Very creative designer !

[@jennief2108]

@@LindseyBugbeeTPK Thanks, I added you ) great views ! I know Calligraphy Masters recommend you too, they are a great group ! I added to your list here also ! Thank you ! I like Vimeo also ~ * ~

[@chimamandaeze5640]

Lindsey, can I use a fountain pen as well?

[@luzmariarojas7437]

the great video

[@LindseyBugbeeTPK]

Thank you so much!

[@dinyardalal]

Hi Lindsey, I am very much interested in learning calligraphy but don't know anything about it. I have a lot to learn and hope I can accomplish my goal with your help. I have downloaded the worksheet. I will appreciate if you could guide me to getting pens that are easiest to use and maintain pen, type of paper to use and where to buy them. Thank you.

[@daisyhappykitty2875]

Hi Lindsey I will like to learn more calligraphy using fountain pen I will like to buy your course I just have a question how meany times can I be able to repeat the videos or is just one time video