Just some playing . . .

GOLD

Just got back from a delightful workshop in Atlanta at Binder's. Several of the folks knew all about Fine-tec from Germany and their wonderful gold pan set. After much contemplation, I decided to purchase the set. I had a little bit of time today to try them out and . . . they are indeed spectacular. I'm probably the last one to discover these. But I am truly tickled gold!


 These will be great on envelopes for some lucky client who wants to dazzle her guests from the get-go.

Letterpress Invitations

Just completed this job . . . very beautiful invitation suite by Lucky Luxe Couture Correspondence   (an internationally acclaimed event and wedding stationery boutique that has been featured by Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides Magazine, WellWed Magazine, Mississippi Magazine, and many of the most respected wedding and design industry blogs and websites)

The bride chose a contemporary style of lettering with a deep blue ink. I am sure her guests will be delighted to receive an invitation that shows a tremendous amount of thought went into how to include her family & friends.

I received a new book for Christmas - "The Art of Calligraphy & Lettering: Master techniques for traditional and contemporary handwritten styles." It is published by Walter Foster Publishing, Inc.
The section by John Stevens is very inspiring. I did this alphabet today while studying the hand John created called "Latina". I used a pointed pen instead of the recommended broadedge.

I was really struck by a remark by John, "But if you want to become a professional, you are better off with a recognizable style than with great technical ability." I'm not sure I have heard anyone say something like this even after all these years of study. But I like it! I know there are several calligraphers that I can see a piece and just know it is theirs. It is starting to make sense. Perhaps I can let go of perfection and try to discover my own hand. Time will tell.

Book of Memory

007, a photo by long village lettering on Flickr.

Uploaded some photos of a recent project. A large, Italian, hand-made book was purchased for a Book of Memory for a local non-profit. I put in several headers and then over 100 listings of donors.

GIFTS

I am working on a special commissioned piece for non-profit organization that wants to list names of individuals who have given contributions. There will be three sections of donors. The book is an incredible Italian hand made, leather bound book. Unfortunately, not made with a calligrapher in mind. The paper is not sized and very fiberous. But, I have worked out all those details.

Any way, I am very excited to take this opportunity to practice some techniques

 I learned  at the IAMPETH Conference in Milwaukee.

The image below, shows the layout design for one of the page headers but using type for part of it. The above image is the hand executed work that I have completed so far. And which I must get back to . . .

lake painting blog

lake painting blog, a photo by long village lettering on Flickr.

Another wedding painting on its way to a happy couple. This is just a small portion. The scene is a small gazebo on a lake. The couple's date is also hand lettered onto the painting. At the reception, guest will sign this keepsake for the couple.