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Why an In-Person Calligraphy Class Is the Best Way to Learn Modern Calligraphy

  • Writer: Catherine Gunarso
    Catherine Gunarso
  • Sep 17, 2019
  • 2 min read

Updated: 5 days ago



Calligraphy instructor guiding a student through proper pen technique during a small group workshop

When I first started learning calligraphy, I did what many beginners do—I bought the prettiest workbooks I could find, stocked up on pens, and watched hours of YouTube tutorials. But no matter how much I practiced, something just didn’t feel right. I couldn’t figure out the proper pen angle, my letters felt stiff, and I started to get discouraged.


Eventually, I signed up for my very first in-person calligraphy class, and that experience changed everything.


Watching the instructor move the pen in real time—seeing the angles, the pressure, the rhythm—helped everything finally click. Having someone there to gently guide my hand and answer my questions gave me so much clarity and confidence.


That one workshop didn’t just improve my technique—it ignited my passion. I fell in love with calligraphy, kept practicing, and eventually turned it into the business I run today. ✨




Why In-Person Calligraphy Class Makes Such a Difference

Calligraphy instructor using a light blue pen to draw a slanted guideline for beginner lettering practice during an in-person workshop

If you’ve ever felt frustrated trying to teach yourself, trust me—you’re not alone. There are just some things that are hard to grasp through videos and PDFs. That’s why I believe an in-person calligraphy class is one of the best investments you can make as a beginner.


In a live setting, I can help you with the little things that make a big difference—like how you’re holding your pen, how to angle your strokes, and how to create more flow and balance in your lettering. In the photo above, for example, I was using my light blue pen to draw a slanted guideline—something that helps many beginners learn the right tilt for their letters.




Beyond Tracing: Learning to See Like a Calligrapher


Student practicing modern calligraphy with hands-on help in a beginner-friendly in-person class

While I do give all my students traceable workbooks to practice at home, the goal is to go beyond just copying shapes. I want you to learn how to see calligraphy—how to recognize spacing, rhythm, and consistency—so you can grow into your own style with confidence.


And that kind of learning is so much easier when you have someone by your side to show you the way.




A Supportive Space for Learning and Creating


Small group of students learning modern calligraphy together in a cozy in-person workshop setting

My workshops are intentionally small—just 7 students max—so you’ll get plenty of personalized guidance. I love creating a calm, encouraging space where you can slow down, ask questions, and enjoy the creative process.


It’s not just about writing pretty letters—it’s about taking time for yourself, building a skill you can be proud of, and maybe even discovering a new passion.




Modern calligraphy workshop kit with pens, practice sheets, and a workbook on a light background



You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know…


…and that’s exactly why an in-person modern calligraphy workshop can be such a game-changer.


If you’re in the Bay Area and want to build a strong foundation with support and expert guidance, I’d love to have you in class. Whether you’re brand new or looking to brush up on your skills, this experience could be the thing that reignites your creativity—just like it did for me.


🎨 Have questions? Send me a message—I’m always happy to chat.

🌸 Spots are limited, so I recommend registering early to save your seat!


Who knows? This might just be the beginning of something beautiful for you too. 🥰



Student practicing modern calligraphy with hands-on help in a beginner-friendly in-person class

Cheers,


Catherine

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