A Guide to Calligraphy for Weddings, Invitations, and More
Last Edited by: Kellie Miller
Calligraphy is the art of writing with brush-like strokes, and it dates back at least as far as 600 B.C. This style of writing became popular in Rome and was used to write the Latin alphabet. As the Roman Empire grew and spread through Europe, so did the art of writing in calligraphy. People would practice writing letters and copying passages from the Bible in this beautifully crafted lettering. Over time, different styles were developed that led to the fonts seen today.
In today's world, calligraphy is often seen on wedding invitations, baby announcements, and other formal items. Most of these designs are created on computers with multiple choices of calligraphy fonts. However, as beautiful as these pre-made calligraphy fonts are, there is something much more attractive about a card or invitation that has hand-written calligraphy crafted on it; the lettering is no longer just a pretty font but a work of art.
Creating a few invitations or pieces of art with calligraphy is a doable project, but the task of hand-writing a large number of wedding invitations, baby announcements, or other cards may be overwhelming. However, in a situation where many copies are needed, the actual cards can be generated with computer fonts. Ideally, the envelopes should then all be hand-written in calligraphy. By hand-writing the envelopes, the sender provides an individual touch of beauty and art for each card.
Although many wedding planners and other professionals in the printing business are well-trained in calligraphy and can be paid to address envelopes or create other works of art, calligraphy is a skill that can be learned by anyone. With a small investment in the right tools, a few lessons either in person or online, and some practice, calligraphy skills can be cultivated.
Once the art of calligraphy is mastered, projects such as addressing cards, making signs, or personalizing decor become easy and fun to do. Calligraphers often find themselves adding hand-written lettering to their projects and turning simple objects into pieces of art.
The following resources offer historical information, DIY tips, and project ideas for those wanting to learn more about calligraphy: