more calligraphy and gouache

I would have to admit that technology has been taking sort of a passenger's seat lately, in favor of my vintage flexible nibs (the set I previously blogged about).  I've been studying Copperplate script and flourishing, as an addition to the modern style that I used to do.  Though it seems that I'm mixing in some hints of Spencerian... more practice needed!

Below are writing samples using an Esterbrook 556 nib and a variation between blue and dark pink gouache.  I didn't have my poetic brain screwed on, so I just borrowed lyrics from James Morrison, Keane and some Alicia Keys (in a light coffee color mix).  

I cannot express how much I love writing.  And I do hope that people never forget the rawness of a hand-written note.  It has so much emotion within the lines, and I think it's what makes them extra pretty.

Spread the Love.

pink gouache and a flexible nib

Months ago, I purchased 10 vintage nibs over at the Fountain Pen Network.  It came with a simple plastic nib holder, and this Christmas, my sister gave me this lovely wooden holder.  It even had this pretty marble-like paint of blue and green.  The slim wood rests well against the hand, and it feels so much better than plastic.  It is totally and undescribably thrilling!

I mixed up some pink gouache and brushed a good amount on the nib to start writing.  The nibs are not as smooth as my flexible fountain pens, and I really need to be careful not to puncture the paper.  Or let the paper get too wet that fibers come loose and snag onto the tip.  Which reminds me, perhaps I will need to find more suitable paper.

Nibs and holders are available from Scribe Writing Essentials.  The gouache I got from National Bookstore.  They have some in tubes and as well as in plates (ala watercolor).  Scribe also has calligraphy inks available.  There are also metallic inks that can be purchased as well from Fully Booked High Street.  Perhaps that would be my next project.

In the meantime, spread the Love.  Happy New Year!