Friday, August 1, 2014

Reasons To Commission A Calligrapher

By Annabelle Holman


The art of calligraphy has a long history. Since the beginning of time, humans have expressed themselves in this way and there is definitely still a place for this form of art in the modern world. One is able to commission a calligrapher to personalize all types of items from invitations to certificates. The skills of these calligraphers vary and so choosing one has to be done wisely.

Some people may be inspired to produce their own calligraphy and rush off to buy a calligraphy set. However, this skill is definitely not acquired overnight and it is preferable to hire someone with experience, especially when expensive paper is involved. Asking the printer to use a particular font to produce the effect of calligraphy is possible but the effect does not approach that of using calligraphers with experience and artistic flair.

Calligraphers have to know many different things such as writing techniques, lettering skills, page design and decoration skills like gilding. They have to understand about varying the amount of space between different letter combinations and many other things. They create artistically subtle effects in a way that mechanical methods cannot capture.

If one does not know how to find a calligrapher, it is worth searching online. A surprising number of people are still pursuing this ancient craft and some of them reach great heights. The trick is to find someone who will be able to produce above and beyond what is required at a reasonable price.

Calligraphers use different materials too and this can also affect the quality of their work. Some materials may create inconsistencies in letter strokes or smudge easily. Many kinds of papers, pens and inks are used.

After making a choice of a specific individual to do a project, all the details need to be communicated and discussed. If a person has been selected online, this may involved sending emails back and forth. Some projects are larger than others such as producing artwork for a wedding involving addressing envelopes and designing and laying out invitations, place cards and thank you cards. The style and colors of the occasion have to be discussed as well as deadlines for completion.

An estimate of costs can then be provided and this is calculated by the word or by the hour. Negotiation can still occur at this point and once all the details are acceptable, both parties will usually sign a contract. Most calligraphers only start on a project once a deposit has been paid upfront and up to 50% of the total amount may be requested. The balance is paid when the work is finished.

A client will need to approve a working layout which usually includes a design showing colors. Once this is approved, work on the actual project commences. Some calligraphers also email scans of finished work for approval before final delivery takes place. If an experienced calligrapher with an innate sense of design and artistic flair is selected, the finished products will often exceed expectations.




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