Puzzle Purses, also known as Victorian folded letters, are a lovely, yet mainly forgotten way of presenting texts and calligraphy in an unusual and playful setting, often combined with illustrative elements.

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By folding a sheet of paper of paper in a specific way, a purse is created, offering nearly endless possibilities both of designs as well as of applications.

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In the first week, we will briefly explore the history of the folded letters and their areas of use, both historically and today, before learning the folding technique itself. Then, we will discuss various design options offered by this unique form of presenting text and will subsequently dive into different ideas of layout. With everything we went over so far, we will work out a first design, focusing on text.

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In the second week, we will take the design options a step further by exploring how to add simple, yet effective illustrative elements to the Puzzle Purses.

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Students will learn different approaches of adding illustrations, using both brushes and nibs. After having a broad look at different design ideas and possible illustrative additions, we will work on and finish a Holiday themed Puzzle Purse, just in time for the festive season.

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Whether you are looking for a unique way of sharing your calligraphy or of combining illustrations and text, whether you are interested in designing very special cards of offering individual gift cards, this a fun and hands-on class you will leave with a lovely new technique to elevate your calligraphy.

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Students are encouraged to work along during class and if possible to take time to do some exercises as homework.