Calligraphy with the Pelikan Script - Part 2

New series:

We take pleasure in presenting the new Pelikan Script. The colour of this fountain pen has been revised, but the tried-and-trusted quality has not been changed. Teacher Info is presenting various ways of using the Script pen and practical tips for the handling of this unusual writing instrument. In the Teacher Info "Winter 2002" we presented an exercise guide for the practise of handwriting; perhaps you remember this contribution or possibly this subject is not entirely new to you? In the next issues we shall be presenting a few new ideas on the subject calligraphy with Pelikan Script.

In this issue the following topics will be dealt with:

• Introduction:
  • Calligraphy with the Pelikan Script
  • Various nib angles - exercises for downloading
  • Loosening-up exercises - the first strokes

Introduction

Calligraphy with the Pelikan Script

Calligraphy means fine handwriting and is a traditional handicraft that was carried out in the Middle Ages by scribes. The scribes were mostly monks who worked in a so-called scriptorium in monasteries. The fruit of their labours has been handed down in the form of beautifully written and illustrated books, manuscripts and deeds etc. In the 13th and 14th centuries writing was taught at the universities but later a broader spectrum of the population was involved in the drawing up and distribution of scripts. In the Middle Ages the scribes mastered a hand that was not only legible but also aesthetically beautiful and, of course, demanded the maximum on concentration, discipline and practise. They wrote on parchment (a specially prepared animal skin) and used goose feathers as quills. In a complicated process, they made their own writing inks from materials obtained from animals and plants combined with minerals and metal.

Our intension at the moment is not to impress you with the fine art of calligraphy but to awaken enjoyment in the performance of this traditional handicraft. The Pelikan Script is the ideal writing instrument for this purpose being a cartridge pen with a calligraphy nib. The Script is available with nibs in width 1,0, 1,5 and 2,0 mm and ink cartridges are available in a range of colours. For beginners, all papers with a smooth surface are suitable.

Various nib angles

For a better understanding of the lessons to follow, we would like to show you briefly the various nib angles. You can print this page and use it as a template. This way you will achieve a better command of your Script fountain pen. Sit comfortably, take your Script in your hand and place it at the angle shown on the sheet and try to memorise it

Loosening up exercises

In the second stage, hold the pen constantly at an angle of 45°. Place the Script on the respective base line and pull the pen in the direction of the arrow copying the practise strokes. Repeat the exercise several times.

Exercise Sheet Nib Angles:

Seat yourself comfortably for writing. Place the Script on the respective base line and try to memorise the angle. The second step is to hold the pen constantly at an angle of 45° and pull the pen in the direction of the arrow, copying the exercise strokes.

Loosening-up Exercises:

As in the previous exercise, hold the pen constantly at an angle of 45° and pull the pen in the direction of the arrows copying the exercise strokes.

Exercises 1 2 3:

Nib angle
flat nib angle
steep nib angle
combination of nib direction and angle