We are now stocking books on Copperplate and Ornamental penmanship.The Universal Penman was originally published in the 1740′s compiled from the best specimens of 24 of the leading calligraphers of the day. This book is a treasury of alphabets, decorated pages etc.In our opinion, this is the best book available for studying the Copperplate style of writing especially the capital letters.Mastering Copperplate Calligraphy is a practical guide teaching students the alphabet, numbers and punctuation; how to write simple paragraphs, quotations, poems and more.This is the best book we know of for learning Copperplate minuscules.Ornate Pictorial Calligraphy teaches the traditional ornamental art of “flourishing.” Complete instructions and examples help you create your own magnificent swirls, shaded curves, crisscrossing lines, from which birds, rabbits, deer, ribbons, and other objects gracefully emerge. Over 150 illustrations.Visit our Copperplate Books

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As iron gall ink is chemically based rather than pigment based, its characteristics generally differ from other calligraphic inks. The darkening process to a warm black as the ink oxidises on the page is a natural phenomenon. It equally produces for the penman the most incredibly fine hairlines unsurpassed by virtually any other type of ink.Iron gall ink is also indelible, a major reason why it was made and used extensively throughout history. It was the most important ink during the whole of the Middle Ages, used in medieval manuscripts and by such famous artists as Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt. Vincent Van Gogh also used it for many of his pen and ink drawings. It was the traditional ink used by master penmen during the American Golden Age of Ornamental Penmanship (circa 1850 – 1930) and was an essential medium in the copy print process invented by James Watt of steam engine fame.Iron gall ink is now enjoying something of a calligraphic revival, but recipes can vary considerably.Iron Gall Ink at Scribblers

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The following are some comments I have recently received on the calligraphy correspondence courses from participants….’I recommend anyone with an interest in calligraphy to try your courses which are interesting, enjoyable and inspiring – great value both for beginners and improvers’.Dorothy B, Blackpool, UK

‘Thanks to Scribblers’ correspondence calligraphy courses with Gaynor Goffe I have the opportunity to learn calligraphy at home with help of a professional. Lessons are well prepared with lots of diagrams and clear explanations. Highly recommended’.Izabela P, Iceland‘

As an almost beginner, I have now completed two 4-lesson courses with Gaynor as well as working for a Calligraphy & Lettering Arts Society certificate and am currently wording for a CLAS Foundation Diploma. Gaynor is a wonderful tutor – she works at your pace, is entirely positive and encouraging and her courses are fantastic value for money and I highly recommend her.’Elisabeth O. Scotland

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