Flourishes to frames is an approach of creating simple, yet striking frames and borders from basic practice flourishes, enhancing calligraphic pieces. On the basis of studying historic examples, students will learn how to design and layout a frame. Which flourishes to choose and how to create one’s own catalog of elements to choose from, matching the hand written, will be discussed in class.

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In the first week, the tradition of using easy practice flourishes will be explored by studying historic exemplars. Students will get an overview of different flourishes and decorative elements suitable to building frames. The interplay of the calligraphic hand and fitting flourishes will be discussed, as well as different possible designs.

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In the second week, students will learn how to transform the single flourishes explored in week one into frames, what to take into consideration and how to make the overall design cohesive. The whole process of designing and creating a calligraphed piece with a frame consisting of flourishes will be walked through. Lastly, tips and tricks to create neat looking frames, executed with accuracy, will be

shared.

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This class is open to students of various levels of experience, however, to fully enjoy this class, it is advised that you are familiar with a classic hand such as Copperplate or Spencerian.