Types Of Lettering

A beautiful writing that uses embellishments and techniques to generate attractive, hand-lettered work of art is calligraphy. The derivation of the word calligraphy is synonymous to its end result - beautiful and innovative. It originates from two Greek words, ‘kallos’ meaning ‘beauty’ and ‘graphe’ symbolizing ‘writing’. With history dating back to as early as 3000 BC, calligraphy produced creative lettering styles using specialty pens, paper, and ink. Just as a musician uses musical notes to create a song, a true calligrapher or letterform designer uses letters to create an impressive and distinguished work of art. As such, every artist adds a hint of his own unique style in his work, though the letters may appear to look the same. So, whether you are planning to send invitations for a birthday party or wedding, or you want your magazine to be printed in a very different style, you have calligraphy lettering ready to serve your every purpose. Just like its creativity and uniqueness, there are different types of calligraphy lettering. Surf through the lines below to know them. Take a look!

 

 

A less formal kind of lettering, Roman style was developed by the Italian scholars in the 14^th century. It is characterized by the classic, clear and round letters. Roman lettering is further classified into two: Antique Roman and Roman Capitals. The capital letters are much taller than lower case letters in Antique Roman, while all letters are capitalized in Roman Capitals. Roman alphabets are confined to casual parties, weddings, and baby showers.

 

Also known as Gothic or Blackhand, Old English lettering is written with a wide-tipped pen creating even strokes and small serifs. This form of lettering is considered to be highly formal and is primarily used in books, magazines, and theme weddings. Popular examples of Old English lettering include Garamond, Bookman Old Style, and Goudy Old Style.

 

The Uncial style of writing dates back to the Latin and Greek eras of the 4^th and 8^th centuries. Thus, it is considered to be one of the oldest styles of handwritten letterings. It is one such lettering that does not have any lowercase; it is purely an uppercase writing with wide and tall letters. This kind of style is mostly used for informal works, since it is straightforward and contemporary yet it has flair and elegance. Uncial lettering is best used for brochure titles and Irish-themed affairs.

 

An extra fancy lettering, the Italic style is used for creative and non-formal works. It is one of the most popular and widely used types of lettering and hence, can be used to enhance any kind of paper. A five nib-width pen is used to create crisp and clean lines, forming letters that slant upward to the right. The letters form an oval shape, while the width of the letters is usually half their height. Italic lettering is best appropriate for semi-formal events, such as afternoon weddings, page decorations, and filling corners or a border. Chancery, Straight, Scroll and Flourished are some different Italic styles.

 

The Copperplate lettering style is used for creating thin and thick lines by applying the right pressure. A pointed pen is hand dipped into ink and then used on paper. This style is best used for setting romantic moods and atmosphere.