Calligraphy Paper For The Calligraphy Enthusiast

Isn't it amazing that despite modernization, globalization and automation, calligraphy still continues to impress? It's not surprising. There's no better way to create the warmth and sentiment found in hand lettering. Whether you're just dabbling in letter writing or looking to expand upon your calligraphy interests, knowing how paper will help you is essential to your hand lettering mastery. Below, we'll delve into some choices and which ones will make your calligraphy shine.

Types Of Calligraphy Paper

As you may have already discovered, not all calligraphy paper is created equal nor made for the same applications. What types of paper you choose will depend on the lettering implement (pencil, pen or brush) as well as if you are pursuing lettering versus true calligraphy.

If you are using a brush pen, or felt-tip, for your calligraphy, you want to make sure that your paper is as smooth and bleed-proof as possible. This will improve the quality of your lettering as well as extend the life of your pen. It's also a concern when using nibs, as you want to make sure that the paper does not fray and get stuck.

If you're venturing into watercolors, you are interested in thickness over smoothness given the need for absorbency. Here, thicker and more textured paper is desired.

If lettering is more of your goal, or your preferred utensil is a pencil, then you are fine using regular copy paper. No need to worry about absorbency or friction with graphite.

Types Of Calligraphy Paper For Practice

Practice makes perfect, and there are a variety of materials at your disposal.

If you're working with a brush pen or a pointed nib, printing paper is exceptionally smooth and will ensure that your ink does not bleed.

Rhodia pads are exceptional for their convenience and efficiency for calligraphy practice. Their smooth texture is a great asset if you are working with a brush pen, nib or even pencil. 

For watercolor practitioners seeking practice paper, watercolor sketchbooks are an outstanding option given their texture, absorbency and affordability.

Best Types Of Calligraphy Paper For Projects

What if I want to move from practice to projects? Once again, there are abundant options for your hand lettering needs.

Bristol Board is an excellent option for a calligraphy project given its smoothness and versatility. 

Naturally, watercolor paper offers the absorbency and texture you need for your watercolor projects. If you choose to use ink on this paper, care is needed given the possibility of tearing. 

Knowing What You Want Out Of Your Paper

Just as each letter in a calligraphy project is unique, so are the types of papers upon which you wish to decorate. Having a scope of your skill level, style, utensil and project scope will help you choose the right paper. Options range from grid notebooks and paper to parchment and Chinese paper for the ambitious calligrapher. The choices are almost endless, and especially if you consult Thunderbolt paper's varying arrays of printing, crafting and textured paper including linen and parchment. Calligraphy paper is a welcoming surface for any lettering endeavor, so we hope that your only question now is: what paper will bring out the best from my hand lettering?