Best Calligraphy Classes Online
Calligraphy is a visual art form that uses a paintbrush, pen, or other writing instrument to create memorable messages on a variety of mediums. The art of calligraphy is often a beloved hobby among crafters and artists. You can create handmade gifts for loved ones or you can transform your passion for design and self-expression into a profitable business.
The practice dates much further back than you may think. Calligraphy has been around for over 3,000 years and first appeared in English between 1590 and 1610. A revival of the practice then occurred throughout Europe in the 19th century, thanks to British calligrapher Edward Johnston, who started teaching writing, illuminating, and lettering at the Central School of Arts and Crafts in London in 1899.
Even the word itself has ancient roots. Derived from the Greek “kallos” which means “beauty” and “graphein” which translates to “to write,” calligraphy can be found throughout most major cultures and languages throughout the world, using artistic expression to transform individual letters, whole words, and entire phrases into bespoke masterpieces.
From eye-catching signs to intricately-designed wedding invitations, the art of calligraphy can open so many new doors for those artisans dedicated to mastering the craft. Whether your intention is to begin a new hobby, create intentionally-made gifts for those you love, or start a potentially lucrative side hustle or business, you’ll enjoy the feeling that comes from mastering a new skill and creating something that is all your own.
Why You Should Learn Calligraphy Online
Often described as a meditative practice, calligraphy forces practitioners to slow down, focus, and breathe, making it an excellent way to relieve stress. It can also be a low-cost new endeavor; all you need to get started is a pen, nib, paper, and ink. With a little time and minimal supplies, calligraphers can create unique presents to suit any loved one or occasion.
Because of its specificity, calligraphy as a hobby offers so many outlets for forming a community and making friends. From the Society of Scribes & Illuminators in the UK to the Society of Calligraphers in Southern California, there are countless groups ready to welcome passionate new calligraphers!
Looking to level up, professionally? Learning calligraphy can be the catalyst for a small business that designs invitations, name cards, and signs for weddings. It can also lead to a side hustle making greeting card designs. From thank-you notes to birthday cards, there is no limit to what can be created. Experts can even launch a small business teaching others calligraphy, broadening their community and encouraging others to follow their passions.
Virtual Calligraphy Classes
Unsure how to choose between an online course and one that is in person? There are definitely positives and negatives to both. In-person classes offer the obvious benefit of face-to-face time with an instructor, but they also offer other perks like meeting other people with the same interests, learning in an interactive group environment, having your questions answered in real-time, and (typically) providing the space and materials for you.
Online calligraphy courses, whether live or on-demand, offer more flexibility for students with busy schedules or long commutes. Worried about traffic and the cost of gas? Not with virtual courses. Students simply log in from the comfort of their own homes (or wherever they choose) with access to expert instructors and a virtual community of fellow artisans. Generally, online courses require students to purchase their supplies and make sure they have an appropriate workspace.
Virtual Beginner’s Calligraphy (Part 1 & 2) helps students learn the more freeform style of modern calligraphy. A mixture of both traditional calligraphy and self-expression, students will learn the techniques needed to make thick and thin lines with a brush, pen, or even a marker. You’ll focus on mastering the basics of lettering, making this class ideal for beginners.
Intro to Copperplate Calligraphy is hosted by Design KOUS and is a four-hour course where students will learn the alphabets of casual script calligraphy. You’ll gain a better understanding of the correct lines, shapes, and proportions of the letters, as well as develop better control over your calligraphy tools of choice.
Continuing Contemplative Calligraphy is a course available for those who are slightly more experienced with the art of calligraphy. Offered on Zoom, this class embraces the practice of calligraphy as both an art form and a stress-relieving skill. Students meet once per week for calligraphy practice and guided meditation. The class also includes an interactive Q&A for things like design, layout, and how to develop an artistic eye.
Private Online Group Calligraphy Classes
Are you wanting to provide a private group calligraphy class for your organization or business? Private group classes can be a great team-building exercise, offering benefits like face-to-face time with an expert instructor, hands-on experience, and the opportunity to cater a class to your group’s specific needs.
You and your chosen group of participants can practice making all the thick and thin lines needed to create beautiful letter forms, and prior experience isn’t necessary! This Virtual Calligraphy Workshop is a two-hour course with a professional artist and calligraphy expert. Your group will master the eight basic strokes of modern brush lettering, tips and tricks for perfecting your lettering practice, and the fundamentals for bouncing and flourishes.
Plus, you don’t need to worry about pens, paper, and ink, since all supplies are shipped to participants. Before class, each student will receive calligraphy pens and markers, stationery for practicing, and worksheets for developing their skills.
The minimum group size for this course is 10 and you can even adjust your headcount after booking and can cancel your event for free with a two-week notice. If you decide to add more participants, it’s only an additional $65 for each additional person.
You can even opt to customize your event, for a $150 customization fee, with things like combining different games, requesting specific questions or a themed game, or adding something to an event with materials included. With no booking fees and confirmation sent within 24 hours, scheduling a private group class has never been easier.
Interested in learning more before registering? You can request a 20-minute demo of this event for $100 to ensure it’s the right fit for your organization or business, or you can reach out through the contact form on Coursehorse’s site.
CourseHorse recommends Zoom for virtual group classes, but they can easily accommodate Google Meets, Microsoft Teams, and WebEx. It’s even possible to have courses come to your office or home space, as well.
Online vs. In-Person Calligraphy Classes
As previously stated, online and in-person classes each have their respective benefits. Do you find your focus waning in a virtual class setting and engage easier when you’re in the same room with your instructor? Do you value maximizing your time by eliminating unnecessary traveling? Are you a self-proclaimed homebody?
Answering these questions will help you choose which option is right for you. If you decide that online classes are the best fit, the next step is to decide between live or on-demand. Is being able to ask questions of your instructor (and have them answer immediately) important to you? Do you like to work at your own pace, pausing tutorials while you master a skill and resuming when you’re ready to move on? Do you have children that may interrupt you from time to time, requiring you to stop your course to care for their needs?
Knowing your preferred learning method and what will fit your lifestyle will lead you to the appropriate course options. But, no matter which option you choose, you’ll be able to explore a new creative hobby and expand your artistic horizons.
Can I Learn Calligraphy for Free Online?
Of course, it is possible to learn calligraphy for free online. Online tutorials and videos can be very helpful places to start. There are also plenty of calligraphy blogs that novice hobbyists can read at their leisure for helpful tips and tricks. While these options can be extremely helpful while you’re exploring if calligraphy is the right art form for you, formal training from an expert offers a more in-depth study and will often help you learn at a faster pace.
