Can calligraphy be self-taught?

This is one of the most common questions I’m asked — and the short answer is yes. But like most creative skills, the longer answer is more nuanced.

My own calligraphy journey began with self-teaching and later expanded into online and in-person learning. Because of this, I can honestly share the benefits — and limitations — of each approach.

How I started learning calligraphy

I began learning calligraphy on my own. At the time, there were no in-person workshops where I lived, so self-teaching was my only option. I was also a new mum, busy and overwhelmed. Committing to classes at a fixed time and place simply wasn’t realistic.

I explored Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube, collecting inspiration and tips wherever I could find them. I ordered almost every calligraphy book I came across and hoped that, between all the resources, I could figure things out.

There was a lot of trial and error — but also a lot of excitement.

How long does it take to learn calligraphy?

Looking back, it’s hard to put a clear timeframe on learning calligraphy. What I do know is that learning on your own usually takes longer.

Progress depends on your circumstances: how much time you can practise, how focused your learning is, and whether you have a clear structure. Growth isn’t linear. There are breakthroughs, plateaus, and moments of frustration — all completely normal.

Choosing calligraphy styles and tools

I started with brush pens and modern calligraphy styles. I loved how practical they were — no messy inks, and I could practise anywhere, anytime.

I experimented with many brush pen brands and sizes and was surprised by how different they all felt. Printable worksheets were incredibly helpful, giving my practice direction and helping me build muscle memory. Tracing letters became a relaxing ritual, a lovely way to unwind.

Later, I felt drawn to pointed pen calligraphy. This is when I enrolled in an online Copperplate course that included tutor feedback. This was a real turning point for me.

I could fit lessons around life as a mum of two, but I also received personalised guidance from an experienced calligrapher. There was a clear before and after in my work — and in my confidence.

From there, I explored Spencerian script and more recently broad-nib styles such as Italic and Fractur. One thing I’ve learned is that calligraphy skills transfer. Experience in one style makes learning others easier, and knowledge about paper, ink, spacing, and layout applies across all hands.

The biggest challenges of self-teaching

My biggest struggle was not having anyone to ask for help. Figuring things out alone took a long time — much longer than it would have with guidance.

I also lacked structure. I would see a beautiful piece of calligraphy and try to copy it, even if it was a completely different style, tool, or skill level. I jumped between styles and skipped foundational skills, which slowed my progress.

What works when you learn calligraphy at home

You can learn a great deal on your own. One of my first breakthroughs was discovering basic strokes — realising that every calligraphy style is built from a small number of simple shapes.

A good instruction book for your chosen style is invaluable. Read the advice, then apply it directly in practice. Worksheets that move gradually from strokes to letters help build muscle memory in a logical way.

Regular practice matters more than long practice. When learning solo, focus on improving one small thing per session. Accuracy matters more than speed.

Just as important is mindset. Learning on your own means accepting a slower pace — and learning to enjoy it.

Common mistakes and calligraphy myths

The biggest mistake beginners make is rushing. Slowing down is the single most effective way to improve your calligraphy.

Turn practice into a small ritual. Light a candle, make a hot drink, play soft music. You’ll improve your writing and your mental wellbeing.

Another common myth is that you can’t learn calligraphy if you have bad handwriting. This simply isn’t true. Calligraphy is slow and deliberate — completely different from handwriting. If you don’t believe me, you should see my handwriting.

When self-teaching isn’t enough

There are times when self-teaching reaches its limits. For me, this was when I wanted to learn a formal style like Copperplate.

Tutor-led classes and workshops save time and frustration. You gain access to experience, feedback, and answers to questions you might not even know how to ask yet.

Workshops also introduce you to a community of calligraphers at different stages, which is incredibly motivating.

From hobby to business

Over the years, calligraphy grew from a hobby into a side hustle and eventually into my own small business. Today, I use my experience for bespoke wedding stationery, official documents, event calligraphy, engraving, and teaching.

I now run my own workshops and design workbooks and worksheets to help new calligraphers learn with confidence and clarity — whether they prefer self-teaching or guided learning.

So, can you teach yourself calligraphy?

Yes — you absolutely can.

With patience, a simple plan, and regular practice, you can learn a great deal on your own. My top tips are:

• Choose a tool and style that fit your life

• Learn how your tool works before rushing into letters

• Start with basic strokes, then letters, then words

• Focus on spacing and consistency

• Learn by making creative projects

• Don’t compare yourself to others

• Stay open to workshops and courses when you’re ready

Calligraphy isn’t about rushing to the finish line. It’s about enjoying the process, one stroke at a time.

If you’re learning calligraphy on your own and would like a bit more structure, I offer carefully designed workshops, workbooks, and worksheets to guide you step by step — without taking away the joy of learning at your own pace.