Introduction to Copperplate Calligraphy for Beginners (Part 1)

This is an introduction to Copperplate calligraphy for beginners and intermediate students.
TOOLS I USE:
- Nib: Leonardt Principal EF
- Nib for beginners: Nikko G or Zebra G
- Holder: Oblique (for right and left handers)
- Ink: Walnut crystals
- Paper: Canson Marker 70gsm
FREE BLANK CALLIGRAPHY GUIDELINES
Follow the link below to download a free set of blank calligraphy guidelines. Once you subscribe to my email newsletters, you’ll receive an automatic message from Substack with a link to download the freebie. If you don’t see the email, please check your spam/junk folder:
mariamontes.substack.com/subs...
W- www.mariamontes.net
IG- @iamariamontes
COPPERPLATE CALLIGRAPHY MATERIALS
Follow the link below to download a PDF file with a visual list of materials I recommend in my Copperplate calligraphy courses. Introduce the coupon code KZbin for a free download!
mariamontes.gumroad.com/l/cop...
LEARN WITH ME!
You can support me by:
1) Liking this free tutorial;
2) Subscribing to my KZbin channel;
3) Learning with me via my pre-recorded courses:
www.mariamontes.online/courses
4) Booking a live course or private one-to-one tuitions:
mariamontes.bigcartel.com/
DONATE
Take what you need, give what you can! If my short videos on KZbin or my mentoring sessions are offering value to your type, calligraphy, and/or lettering journey, please consider supporting the important work of making education approachable and accessible.
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ABOUT ME
I am an independent lettering designer and illustrator specialised in branding assets and calligraphy education.
My creative practice is set by the principals of never stop learning, sharing knowledge and create emotion through my work.
In 2011 I studied a Postgraduate Course in Advanced Typography in Barcelona, and in 2012 a Typeface Design Condensed Program at Cooper Union in New York City.
Nowadays, I split my time between Melbourne and Barcelona working in partnership with brand design agencies helping them craft and develop their identity systems with emotionally charged visual elements including display type, logo design, monograms, wordmarks, lettering, illustration, patterning, packaging and digital assets.
#copperplate #calligraphy #copperplatecalligraphy

[@bill_jennings]

When I saw this in my search results, I was expecting to see someone just writing. But no, this great lady actually explains, in perfect detail, each and every aspect of how to do this art. I was captivated instantly and blown away by the details presented. This is by far and beyond the best introduction to copperplate calligraphy.

[@madhuragupta3853]

Absolutely! I found this even more detailed than Eleanor Winters. You just CAN'T go WRONG if you follow these instructions.

[@apscafe]

Great

[@crystaltigress]

I had been following along with practice, life happened. You don't know how much time I just spent finding this series again... PHEW. Absolutely stellar instruction, looking forward to watching more. I regard this as VERY constructive practice time. Thank you so much for sharing with the world. Very talented calligrapher, and a gifted teacher.

[@theressamurphy2996]

My grandmother wrote the most beautiful letters. She was taught calligraphy at a young age in Catholic school.

[@williampalmer4008]

My great grandmother was a lady who learned calligraphy at a young age. Because of you I can now continue with her family tradition, thank you so much.

[@apscafe]

Wow that's awesome

[@toodleding]

I'm about a year and a half into my copperplate journey, mainly using instructional books and youtube. I just found you, and have already learned several things not explained in other videos or books. Will definitely be watching them all; I can tell it will improve my calligraphy practice. Thanks sooo much for making this information available!

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for your feedback! Can I ask you a small favour? Could you add your comment above to my Google Business Profile as a review? That would help me a lot. Enjoy watching my beginner series! Link: g.page/r/CUMVPagpM3MnEBM/review

[@wolfitgood]

This is the BEST video I have found. Thank you soooo much for sharing. A great teacher with very detailed instructions!

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for watching!

[@adriandrake4208]

The best copperplate tuition I have seen, thorough.

[@apscafe]

Me too

[@elizabethpham8456]

I have always been interested in learning copper plate calligraphy but never find so details and tips video tutorials. Thank you for sharing your wonderful knowledge.

[@_sweet_brown_]

This is easily the most informative and valuable video I’ve seen so far on copperplate. I’m still a beginner, but the knowledge you’ve provided have improved my skills. I saw improvement almost immediately. Thank you for your work!

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for watching!

[@nickrobinson2023]

With teachers like her, it's easier to find the motivation to follow the lessons. Magnificent tutorial to serve as an introduction. Thanks for the effort and the care you have put in to doing this lesson.🥰🥰

[@apscafe]

Great feedback though

[@sarahyates6055]

I’m completely new to Calligraphy and Copperplate is my favourite. Thank you for this wonderful instruction it’s the best one I’ve seen on here....and I’ve seen a lot!

[@sherrybaby4924]

I'm really new to calligraphy, but the details you are sharing are more than what I learned on a recent class. You are truly a master!

[@galemckiddy5120]

I have taken 3 Copperplate classes, and took this one as a review. It is by far the BEST class I have taken! Maria teaches details that most other teachers leave out, and my script improved more with this class than ever before.

[@apscafe]

Appreciated Lady

[@elysianfibres1642]

That was the clearest introduction to Copperplate I've seen so far on KZbin. Thank you so much!

[@iamariamontes]

Thank you very much for your comment, I'm glad to know my video has been helpful!

[@dharmaofdog7676]

Absolutely agree! Before even picking up my Pen, I watched Video after Video trying to just WATCH Instructors. Also to try to get some "Muscle Memory IN my Brain" first, before my Hand, figuring my Hand follows my Brain? but just soak it all in. Came back to Maria as clearly, these Instructions THE Best! Now that my Brain can't absorb one more thing, about to make my very FIRST Stroke try! (No idea why I'm so nervous! lol.) But Hands Down, if you're a Newbie & anxious to start, go no further than Maria !! START HERE!

[@aabhijitha8144]

Hey can you please send me the guide sheets plz

[@apscafe]

Well said

[@wayman29]

Thank You!!!! I came here as a scribbler left as a writer! LOVE your lessons and I have sent out 10 letters in old time fashion with a stamp practicing .

[@williamjeffersonjamalphill4389]

This is literally marvellous like witnessing actually magic! Please Keep posting as just simply memorising xxxxx

[@karenharrison9786]

I love the way you teach! It’s so clear and easy to follow. The best I’ve ever seen! Thank you.

[@anthonykirkendhall4344]

This is hands down the best explanation of this art form I have seen on KZbin. Awesome sauce to be sure!!!!!!!!

[@Chafalota]

👍🏻👍🏻💯💯 I AGREE

[@maihoangyen1]

Thank you for your great in detail instructions. Many who love and want to learn copperplate need this careful and considerate way of instructions. Thank you. We really appreciate 💗😇🍀

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for watching!

[@Persona_1398]

This video is seriously amazing. It was explained so clearly! And also, thank you for the grip help. My grip is a total mess (I lean it on my ring finger rather than my middle finger) but I’m now managing to hold it properly :) Thank you so much!!

[@D37TH]

I Write In Calligraphy And I Have To Say It Is Very Relaxing ❤

[@apscafe]

Very satisfying Art

[@trishaquinn7176]

Thank you so much for this brilliant tutorial and the guide sheets. Fantastic!

[@saritacamachodaencarnacao6900]

What a fantastic lesson!! Excellent!

[@ginaw8803]

Excellently detailed. Superior and well executed. THANK YOU very much, Maria.

[@Delta1Tango]

Wow her teaching is incredibly good!!! Thank you Maria!!!

[@debramoss2267]

Perfect instruction, so easy to follow and thoroughly described in every detail, thank you so much.

[@maggiemae987]

EXCELLENT tutorial!!! Thank you so much! Now I’m going to watch the second one❤️

[@michaelfourie345]

I hope and pray that you will be making the next in a series of copperplate calligraphy. I am sure it is a lot of work but please know there are many people who really appreciate your efforts.

[@user-pt8ol9iv1b]

How can I get calligraphy pen

[@michaelfourie345]

@@user-pt8ol9iv1b To avoid a disappointing start PLEASE watch a KZbin video on "prepping your nib". There are a number of ways people swear by a) running the nib through a flame for a couple of seconds b) sticking the tip into a potato (not joking) and c) dishwashing liquid. I personally wash mine in dishwashing liquid very carefully with an old toothbrush. But whichever works for you :)

[@sanjaydeshpande5695]

Excellent, detailed instructional video. Best I have seen yet. Thanks a ton.

[@sylwiapawelec3562]

Dziękuję. Bardzo dobrze Pani tłumaczy podstawowe zasady. Super 🙂

[@daphnewright5110]

Your instruction is so well explained. And the quality of the work is especially wonderful. Thank you for sharing your talent. You make it really easy to follow. I haven't touched my pen for a very long time. This is encouraging. Thanks again.

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for watching!

[@alenakane3189]

Great video about copperplate calligraphy, so helpful and well eplained. Thank you so much to provide it for free.

[@dharmaofdog7676]

Those little details that you take care to go over and point out make all the difference in the outcome! thank you for such precise and thorough instruction.

[@federicaalbarello6197]

very clear and nicely done ! Thanks a lot!

[@ingefallang6762]

This is so incredibly helpful!

[@TT-fn1xb]

This was fantastic. Thank you so much. I'm going to recommend this video to others. The tip about taking the entrance stroke right to the top of the start of the next letter was brilliant. Thank you.🙌🙌

[@sulagracehenrichsen6682]

Yes, yes, yes!

[@hkureshi3221]

Great tutorial. You explained everything very clearly.

[@julesmonteith1613]

You are an exceptional teacher! Thank you. ❤

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for watching Jules!

[@donnaleiber6214]

Very nicely done! I have not watched many calligraphy tutorials but this was very clear, interesting, and informative. I like the way you broke down all the pieces and demonstrated both the right ways and wrong ways. Thank you.

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for watching Donna!

[@parthsavyasachi9348]

This is such a wonderful tutorial. Thank you

[@eileenmcgroarty2463]

Thank you so much for your excellent tutorials. Havimg such detailed instructions makes all the difference. You are a wonderful teacher.

[@iamariamontes]

Thank you very much Eileen.

[@zahrafahd172]

Very well explained, really helps, thank you ❤️

[@antoniov9117]

Felicidades María, estas en otro nivel, agradecer infinitamente tus valiosas e INDEPENDIENTES recomendaciones. Para quienes no dominamos el inglés, trasladarte que somos muchos los que no podemos exprimir 100% tu canal. Rezamos todos los días para que algún día compartas tu sabiduría en español o al menos lo mas relevante para quienes empezamos a conocer el fascinante arte de la escritura COPPERPLATE Saludos cordiales

[@ckunert1]

I've been practicing Copperplate for about a year now. I love your videos. You have become my go-to source. Thanks.

[@sulagracehenrichsen6682]

Loved every minute of it! Thank you.

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for watching!!

[@r.mercado9737]

Outstanding!

[@GeneArts]

Wow, this is a great channel for me, i was doing it when i was young but from my own style

[@beryelle]

Great. Helpful. Thank you.

[@robinmarwick1982]

This is an excellent video very clear and helpful thanks...you also have a lovely voice / accent.

[@HKMENTORHabibkhan]

Nice sharing i love calligraphy

[@phuongthaohuynhnguyen8074]

This is the most details introduction i've seen. Thank you so much! Could you supply us the guidline sheet to write? Thank you!

[@ThomasSuetterle]

WOW - Thank you so much!!!!

[@arunkpatra]

Very nice introduction !

[@harmeshart806]

So valuable video thanks for sharing 🙏

[@demon0rg]

You are a blessing in disguise... One of the most detailed tutorials ever related to this topic... Right from the tools used to techniques to focus on... God bless you... Just this one video made me subscribe to your channel...

[@iamariamontes]

Thank you so much for your feedback and for your support, it means a lot to me.

[@claudiaschweiner25]

Excellent tutorial! I have taken many formal calligraphy classes in the Italic hand and am wanting to learn Copperplate hand. Love that she is very specific in showing the tenants of the strokes, empty spaces, ovals and consistency of the overall look. She explains it very well!

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for watching Claudia!

[@indyjones1970]

Beautiful, thank you

[@magicrofichannel1126]

I have bought many expensive books on calligraphy, but what really worked was the John Rubeus method. 3 bucks on amazon...before I knew it I was writing like I was from the 18th century. Cool..

[@Chafalota]

THANK YOU FOR TEACHING US IN A VERY EXPLICIT AND SLOW MANNER👍🏻👍🏻💯💯

[@arvindkaur5039]

Amazing!!!! Thank you so much❤ you are such a good teacher explains every little detail which is making the difference. Are you going to make another video for the rest of the letters?? I'm very happy for found you❤

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for watching Arvind. If you are interested in learning more I do offer online courses on my website.

[@Kaligrafist]

Beautiful 👏

[@ShipraStJohn]

I have NEVER left a review on KZbin before but I had to for this series of videos! It is absolutely fantastic and I cannot express enough my gratitude for you, Maria, and your excellent videos on Copperplate. Your instructions are detailed and thorough and easy to understand. You walk us through each step carefully and it incredibly helpful. Plus you make it look like a dance that I want to learn. Thank you for your inspiration and your generosity in sharing your knowledge. THANK YOU!!!!! Do you think you will finish the lower case alphabet? I couldn't find anything from you to learn the r, s, b, c, e, f, g, k, l, and x. I know there are a lot of other videos but I would love to learn this from you.

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for your feedback, I'm glad to hear that my series have provided plenty of value. If you want to learn the complete upper and lowercase introductory set, here is the link to my next online course: mariamontes.bigcartel.com/product/calligraphy-workshops

[@TheSmoochy2]

This is the clearest instruction I have ever saw. I love how you analyze each character and show what is needed with the ovals and widths. Where Can. I GET MORE of this instruction. Bo

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks Bob, I very much appreciate it. I'm starting a new online Intro to Copperplate calligraphy course this weekend. More details here: mariamontes.bigcartel.com/product/calligraphy-workshops

[@michaelfourie345]

OMG, that was fantastic. I was literally on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Bravo! Thank you very much.

[@alibagheri3773]

U are really good 😊😘 Of all the trainings, your training was legal And you are great

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks Ali!

[@massoodn9410]

You are so good😊

[@cambiaralmundoyoutub]

Por su nombre, supuse que la explicación estaría en español... A pesar de que no he estudiado inglés ni lo hablo, comprendo someramente lo que dice usted, pero, la explicación es TAN EFECTIVA, que bien podría haber sido un video "mudo". Es usted una pedagoga extraordinaria. Gracias por la particular atención a los detalles "finos", muy valiosos para una aficionada como yo. Saludos cordiales desde la Ciudad de México.

[@iamariamontes]

Muchas gracias por tus comentarios Ana, te lo agradezco mucho. Y gracias por mirar mi video educativo!

[@KatherineMH]

Thank you SO MUCH!

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for watching!

[@ItzoTinchev]

Takk for trinnvise instruksjoner for å kjenne kalibreringen

[@iamariamontes]

You are welcome!

[@lavanyaannavena3701]

I really like it

[@tmhaines1963]

Thank you so much!

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for watching!

[@user-xf9hb8zo5c]

Hey! I got a problem. My writing style has some characters some lines of which going upward have to be broader than just a thin line. Does it mean I wont be able to use a fountain pen? Are there any nibs that let you make broad lines even when you make upgoing lines?

[@calliwithsayma95]

Nice tutorial

[@dontwannabefound]

Wow master teacher

[@moodieslog]

Great tutorial Maria, thank you. I bought all the other supplies you recommend, but I cannot find those flat metal paper clips to hold the pages together. Any recommendation where I can find them?

[@iamariamontes]

Read the comments

[@yappytown]

Excellent teaching! Absolutely incredible video :) Do you have any exemplar / practice stroke sheets at all?

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for watching!

[@apscafe]

Very useful for learning

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for watching!

[@needleandpaper]

Gracias María, in this short tutorial I learned things about calligraphy that I was never told before. Do you offer online courses?

[@iamariamontes]

Gracias Mónica. Yes, I do offer online courses. My next Copperplate calligraphy one starts on April 11. You can find all details about it here: www.mariamontes.net/online-calligraphy-workshops/

[@fionafearnley7795]

Brilliant tutorial! Thank you. Can I ask where I can buy some similar paper clips from please?

[@iamariamontes]

Read the comments as other people asked the same question and I provided a link previously. Thanks for watching!

[@bobroast7015]

Awsome

[@undefined1490]

So clear. Have ordered the beginner kit. Not a IG person. How can i find the calligraphy guidelines?

[@iamariamontes]

You can subscribe to my mailing list. Once you do, you’ll receive an automatic email with a link to download the guidelines. Check your spam/junk folder if you don’t find it. Thanks for watching!

[@enaljain]

What type of nib holder to be used for left handed people? .I am new to copperplatr calligraphy?

[@iamariamontes]

I would recommend a straight holder instead of an oblique holder.

[@madridxiomara]

Maria, apenas hoy emopece a ver tu video, me ha encantado. estoy empezando con la caligrafia desde apenas comienzos de octubre, pero tu video esta aclarando mis dudas; se que es un largo camino para poder hacer las maravillas que haces. Tienes alguna escuela en USA? Feliz dia y muchas gracias!!!!

[@iamariamontes]

Gracias por mirar mis videos! Doy clases online independientemente desde 2014. Mi próximo curso online empieza el 7 de noviembre. Puedes reservar tu plaza aquí: mariamontes.bigcartel.com/product/calligraphy-workshops

[@cocriadorsemlimites]

Gratidão 🙏☺️🥰💎

[@adriandrake4208]

Hi Maria, how can I get your copperplate worksheets please. Thanks, Adrian

[@MH15poseidon]

what are the name of those fasteners you placed on the top of the page and where can I get them from?

[@iamariamontes]

Read through the comments and you'll find the link as a couple of people already asked the same question. Thanks!

[@acousticsourav2902]

Could you help me with a this type of dip pen , so i can do calligraphy.

[@Alpha_DTF_Print]

✨ Dive into the world of UV DTF Printing with @‌AlphaDTFPrint! 🌈 Have you explored Santa designs on glass jars? Share your festive prints and check out their latest masterpiece! #DTFArt #PrintingMagic

[@LuvsSno]

Where could we find the small paper clips you have at the top of your calligraphy paper? thanks!

[@iamariamontes]

www.pinterest.com/pin/552324341797672885/

[@LuvsSno]

@@iamariamontes thank you.. I found them and ordered a box!

[@monicazanotti5514]

Uauuuu como é difícil, são muitos detalhes eu só consigo ver o erro quando você risca com a caneta vermelha, pra mim está tudo perfeito kkkkkk precisa de muito treino realmente estudar bastante

[@iamariamontes]

Sí, esta profesión requiere mucha dedicación y mucha práctica. Gracias por tu atención Monica.

[@fje042]

Where do you buy the paper guidelines/flat paper clips?

[@iamariamontes]

www.pinterest.com.au/pin/552324341797672885/

[@fje042]

@@iamariamontes Thank you!

[@dorothy9014]

Where can I get those paper clips?

[@iamariamontes]

www.pinterest.com.au/pin/552324341797672885/

[@jebikurian6922]

Hii Can u pls mention what kind of paper is it

[@iamariamontes]

Hi! Thanks for watching my video. The paper I’m using is an Australian brand called Arttec Layout Pad. If you can’t find it, you can also purchase Canson Marker or Canson Bleedproof paper 70gsm.

[@vippjaswal5265]

Such amazing talent!! Do you do work specially commissioned as a freelancer?

[@iamariamontes]

Thanks for watching Vipp. I do private lettering commissions, you can find several examples on my website.

[@vippjaswal5265]

@@iamariamontes can you give me your website as I would like to enquirer about commissioning your work ?

[@reitei1756]

My nikko g nib cannot get a thin hair line. I already tried to have light pressure as possible. But still the line so thick. Why is that? 😭

[@Chafalota]

MAYBE THERE IS WET PAPER CAUGHT ON THE VERY TIP OF THE NIB WHERE IT WRITES

[@catherinedetty4658]

I love your video :) do you have a copperplate book you could recommend for a beginner level? Thank you

[@iamariamontes]

I would recommend this one from Sarah Script: www.amazon.com/Copperplate-Calligraphy-Step-Step-Pointed-Pen/dp/1612438636/ref=sr_1_1?crid=9Y0VR29LRZX3&keywords=copperplate%20calligraphy%20workbook&qid=1659922436&sprefix=Copperplate%2Caps%2C98&sr=8-1

[@iamariamontes]

Additionally, I haven't purchased this book yet, but I'm planning to do it very soon: www.logoscalligraphy.com/classic-calligraphy-book

[@catherinedetty4658]

I greatly appreciate your response and book recommendations 😊 I will definitely check these books out. Thank you very much.

[@Chafalota]

THERE IS ALSO A GOOD BEGINNER BOOK BY ELEANOR WINTERS. MASTERING COPPERPLATE CALLIGRAPHY FOR BEGINNERS. STEP BY STEP

[@CayoBuay]

Good video, had to turn the volume way up tho.

[@anuragpalei4623]

im not able to download Practice sheets ma'am please help . i have followed all the instructions carefully.

[@iamariamontes]

Check your spam/junk folder and look for an automatic response from Substack with the link to download a PDF file.

[@miguelotero1511]

Master

[@vincentfaure4472]

Thank you very much for sharing. Please, could you tel me the brand of your sheet clips?

[@iamariamontes]

www.pinterest.com.au/pin/552324341797672885/

[@vincentfaure4472]

@@iamariamontes thank you very much

[@tressaronis515]

What are the names of the nibs you use?

[@iamariamontes]

You’ll find the info in the tutorial’s description.