Reasons To Commission A Calligrapher

By Annabelle Holman


Calligraphy is an ancient and beautiful art that adds lasting value to any item. You can commission a calligrapher to create anything from a simple place card to a decorated scroll. Awards, certificates, invitations, menus and many other items can be personalized in this way.

You may feel that spending money on calligraphy is unnecessary as you can do your own work by using a calligraphy set or asking printers to use typeset fonts to produce the same effect. Attempting calligraphy unless you have experience will produce amateurish results and you are likely to waste expensive paper. Typeset fonts offer consistency but they do not offer the same artistic flair and personalization.

Learning the necessary skills such as understanding different typefaces and spacing between letters takes practice. Beautiful letters are only produced as a result of passion and dedication of an individual to their craft. Experienced calligraphers are also able to offer guidance on far more than just what style to use. They can often give advice on paper, colors and other details to create a pleasing end product.

As there are numerous calligraphers offering their services, including those who can be found online, making a choice can be daunting. One of the most helpful factors when making such a decision is to look at work already produced. Samples of different styles can be examined and the level of expertise is often easy to see.

The materials used for calligraphy can also affect the final result. Calligraphers learn how to harmonize the use of page, ink and nib to produce the best results. There are many different types of pens, inks and papers that can be used.

Once a decision has been made, various details need to be communicated in order for a quote to be given. The price will be affected by the size of the project and the materials used. Some calligraphers charge by the hour and others charge per word. Details like styles, color schemes, paper and deadlines all need to be discussed.

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.

If a calligrapher is found online, emails are often used to communicate. For example, a design layout in color may be emailed for approval and a scan of the actual finished work too before the final product is delivered. There is something very personal about having words hand written, and arranged in a way that enhances their importance.




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