In 2012, I officially became a calligraphy beginner. Filled with the unique type of excitement that results from a Pinterest binge, I lit off to a big box store, and I bought a random calligraphy kit and some ink. Like most calligraphy beginners, I expected to pick up a pen and immediately be able to create cool things! When I got home, though, I tried writing on some printer paper. Surprise! My “calligraphy” looked terrible.
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A couple of months ago, I resolved to be more active on YouTube. Calligraphy is such a visual thing, after all, and I love to watch it come to life via video! My favorite types of videos to make are “musical calligraphy” videos. Basically, I find a classical piece of music and create calligraphy to it. These types of videos are helpful for two reasons. First, you get an idea of what a realistic writing pace looks like! Second, any calligraphy video can help you glean visual tips. For example, you might feel inspired to re-evaluate your grip or try out some flourishes! Today, I’m writing to Bizet’s “Habanera”, which is an aria from the opera Carmen.
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A friend recently gave me Last Chance to See, which is a book written by Douglas Adams. The novel details Adams’ adventures as he travels to various remote locations to find endangered species. I initially prepared myself for a dry, educational read. Instead, I’ve found adventure and comedy! In short, lush and exotic locations have been on my mind; and when I came across this motif by illustrator Viktoria on Pinterest, I was inspired to create some watercolor mail art! Today, I’ll show you how to whip up an envelope like this one. Of course, you can modify the concept to use it on bullet journals, sketchbooks, invitations, or whatever else you feel like making!
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