How I got started in calligraphy

Knowing my love for letters, my husband gifted me a university calligraphy course for our 18th anniversary. 

But ...

• It was intimidating - so many angles and rules!

• It was lonely - I couldn't find anyone at the hobby store who knew what a B-nib was.

So, it would be YEARS before I picked up a pen holder again.

Then, Covid-Time came along. No more 'I'm too busy' excuses. Also, modern calligraphy scripts — on packaging, on wall art, in logos. The styles were more relaxed, organic. Surely, I can do THAT.

I was especially mesmerized by videos online — only to be shocked and dismayed when my first attempts looked like a Kindergartener's scrawl. (You too?! Yep, we're normal.)

Though, with time, I discovered top-notch, in-person learning sources - including the Utah Calligraphic Artists and the IAMPETH international association.

Since then, I've completed workshops with renowned artists including the former chief calligrapher at the White House and several master penmen. 

I've connected to the inclusive and generous calligraphy community. And joined so many others with a fierce growth mindset. Learning. Always learning.

(That B-Nib? It has a rounded tip. Think Disney logo.)

And though I'm still intimidated at times, it's part of the fun. For now, my specialty is modern and traditional pointed pen calligraphy founded in Copperplate script and foundational hand. While I love a good flourish, I also offer print letter styles. 

When I'm not playing with new pens and inks, you'll find me hiking the Cache Valley mountains near Logan, Utah, and carpooling kids to water polo or concerts.