Friday, August 1, 2014

Reasons To Commission A Calligrapher

By Annabelle Holman


The art of calligraphy has a long history. Since the beginning of time, humans have expressed themselves in this way and there is definitely still a place for this form of art in the modern world. One is able to commission a calligrapher to personalize all types of items from invitations to certificates. The skills of these calligraphers vary and so choosing one has to be done wisely.

People may think the idea of spending money on calligraphy is a waste. They may think that they could do the job themselves or ask the designer to create the same effect by using specific fonts. This is definitely not the case. Such skills are not acquired quickly but come with much dedication and commitment. The effect can be imitated with typeset fonts but it will always be second best to the real thing.

Calligraphers have to know many different things such as writing techniques, lettering skills, page design and decoration skills like gilding. They have to understand about varying the amount of space between different letter combinations and many other things. They create artistically subtle effects in a way that mechanical methods cannot capture.

It is not difficult to find calligraphers as many of them offer their services online. When making a choice one has to consider factors such as level of expertise and what is charged. Examining a portfolio of working already completed is essential. Some may be fairly new to calligraphy while others may have spent many years perfecting their craft and take great pride in producing work of an extremely high caliber.

Examining samples of work already done is one of the best ways to go about making a decision. These portfolios show the level of expertise and type of work capable of being produced. Calligraphers have many different ways of going about their work. Their styles vary from modern and informal to formal and traditional with many offering a wide variety of styles. The materials used are also varied and the work should exhibit a harmony between paper, ink and nib.

After making a choice of a specific individual to do a project, all the details need to be communicated and discussed. If a person has been selected online, this may involved sending emails back and forth. Some projects are larger than others such as producing artwork for a wedding involving addressing envelopes and designing and laying out invitations, place cards and thank you cards. The style and colors of the occasion have to be discussed as well as deadlines for completion.

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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