a "brighter white"

Back when I started my calligraphy studio, I admit that I would often get frustrated when a client asked for white lettering on dark envelopes. I would drag myself to the art supply store, and purchase a bottle of white ink that I knew would ultimately clog and ruin the metal nib of my calligraphy pen. That is, until recently...

Via Twitter, I "met" a Utah-based calligrapher who mentioned that he uses white gouache paint by Winsor and Newton (UK) to create an ink that works on dark envelopes. (You can see some of his work on his website...he is also very talented. :)) So I decided to try the same medium, and voila! White lettering has become one of my favorites to do. Thanks, Ashantai!

Of course, one of my very next orders would be for white lettering on navy blue envelopes, so here is a sneak peek:

In talking with my English husband Stephen, I also found out that his grandfather was a graphic artist back when all the work was done by hand rather than by computer. Stephen had grown up watching him use gouache paint, which was all he used for his art!  Interesting story...

So gouache will now be used at Calligraphia by Melissa for your artistic needs. Enjoy!

Calligraphia by Melissa lettering styles...and their usefulness

Since several clients have been asking about the latest updates to my online Portfolio, I figured I'd break down the differences among the lettering styles, explain which styles I use for which events, and generally give potential clients an idea of what they can expect (in addition to outstanding service and professionalism! ;)

"Angeline" script: this is a classic handwritten script, much like the cursive script of Catholic school teachers. I named this style of handwriting after my mom, who has impeccable penmanship and taught the same to me as a girl when I begged her. Useful for: addressing greeting cards, announcements, and place cards. Currently available in black ink only.

Flourished italic: a broad-pen style that is versatile, legible, classic and elegant. It will also not confuse the USPS with too many "loops". Over the years I have taken my training in the italic alphabet and enhanced it with personal touches. It is done with a smaller pointed nib, so it blends well with either print or script fonts.  This lettering style is available in your choice of a variety of ink colors. Useful for: basically anything, and my most popular for weddings. This is what you will probably get if you book me for an event.

Celtic scroll: also a broad-pen calligraphy style (uncial), this hand can be seen on maps of Middle Earth and at most Renaissance faires. It's fun to do and is also available in your choice of ink color. Useful for: themed events.

"Utterly Dotty": a fun lettering style that consists of a dotted print. Currently available in black ink only. Useful for: birth announcements, birthday parties, and other events involving children or where a cute effect is desired.

To see pictures of these lettering styles, be sure to visit my Portfolio page at calligraphiabymelissa.com!

give your holiday cards some flair

How's your penmanship?

If it's not that great, and you know it (or even if it's beautiful!), make your holiday cards stand out by addressing them in calligraphy. A beautiful handwritten script or holiday color ink will delight your greeting card recipients this year.

I'm also making a shameless plug for one of my favorite stationery brands, Crane and Co... Martha Stewart calligraphy holiday cards are lovely and engraved flourishes add a special touch.

Check out my updated online Portfolio of lettering styles and be sure to contact me with any questions!