Creative Spotlight: Anintran

Nina is the absolute sweetest! She's chock-full of talent and calligraphy know-how, and equipped with a heart-of-gold. That is the recipe for success, my friends! If you've ever been over on Nina's Instagram feed then you know what a gold mine it is! She is so incredibly forth-coming with what she's learned. She's constantly posting videos of her perfect Copperplate hand, sharing tid-bits of helpful advice and uplifting others through the Handlettered ABC's account that her and Sharisse started!

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Choosing a Nib Holder

There are so many different forces working together to make for a good calligraphy experience. Your paper, ink, nib, holder, grip and experience. As a beginner it can be overwhelming to try and get everything set up so that you can just focus on your strokes and letters! Using a holder that works for you is important. What length should you be using? What grip size? Oblique? Straight? Ergonomic? 

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Studio Life Lately

It's been a couple months since I've done a work re-cap. I'm still getting used to the ebb & flow of owning a small business. This summer was crazy with invitations for fall weddings, and now that it's the beginning of September I've had a nice bit of down-time before I have to start on all the day-of-details for those weddings, and then jump right into Christmas rush season. This extra time has provided me with the luxury of being able to brainstorm, launch new things, paint and practice!

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Creative Spotlight: Paper & Honey

Laura is the amazing force behind Paper & Honey, a  boutique wedding stationary studio based in Michigan. She's equal parts creative talent, humor and self-less encouragement! You know when you meet someone and you're like, 'she speaks my language.' That's how I felt when I met Laura at the Creative at Heart conference back in March. She's gritty, real, down-to-earth, and really freakin' funny, but also uplifting, positive, and has a style that exudes an amazing soft beauty. She cheers you on, sends work your way, gives really great advice and makes you feel like a true friend!

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Creative Spotlight: Yoke Pen Company

Chris has an amazing philosophy on business that just draws people to him. He's incredibly helpful and ready to answer even the most simple of questions! He even let's me text him whenever I want to, he may end up regretting that decision. His passion for his craft and the calligraphy community is not only contagious but encourages us all to give a greater purpose to our passion.

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Favorite Calligraphy Essentials

There is a steep learning curve when it comes to calligraphy, and everything effects each other! It can be so frustrating, and at least for me, it takes a couple years to really feel like you have a solid foundation established. I'm totally still building my foundation but these are some things I've learned along the way! A nib that fits your style, quality paper and good ink are the essential building blocks for your calligraphy journey!

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Creative Spotlight: Heber Miranda

Heebs' holders are some of the most beautifully crafted ones I've ever seen! They're hand-carved, with beautiful woods, maintaining and enhancing the natural beauty of the wood, and shaped in a thoughtful way as to keep your hand cramp-free. His sharp sense of design is so apparent in his style, it's a unique and modern spin on the traditional. And to top it all off he's incredibly likable, and forthcoming with his knowledge!

 

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Welcome to the Workshop

I love our workshop, despite it's obvious basement creepiness. Our house was built in the 40's which leaves it packed with character, and when Zach was gifted all the old workshop tools from my Aunt, they blended perfectly with the nostalgic charm thing we have going on. Take a look around!

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Creative Spotlight: Calligraphistic

Leila, or better known as Calligraphistic, oozes delicate calligraphy perfection. Her thin hairlines, and soft close-up shots of her work make you feel like you're looking at a tiny masterpiece, and you are! I think her style and ability really showcases and embodies the beautiful nature of the art of calligraphy. Her work makes you stop and appreciate the thought and care that went into each letterform, and keeps you in awe of every down stroke, squared end, perfectly balanced flourish. Take some time and soak in all the wisdom and inspiration she has to offer!

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