Beyond the Letters

Calligraphic Flourishing with FOC - Fall2025

One of the many projects from the class. Learn how the masters of the past flourished.

Learn how your tool effects the outcome of the flourish. This is the same flourish in a pencil, pointed pen and broadedge.
A two-day in-person workshop
Saturday & Sunday, October 25 − 26, 2025
Time: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM PDT
Letterform Archive, 2325 3rd Street, #4R, San Francisco

Cost: $200 (FOC members) and $240 (non-members)
Sign up now!

Calligraphic flourishing is the art of embellishing writing. It is the accessories that enhance calligraphy’s elegance and expressive-ness. In this class, we will explore how to extend letter strokes with flourishes and create balanced designs. We will focus on practicing and planning flourishes with a pencil, while also experimenting with our favorite tools.

Calligraphers are often advised to master a lettering style before attempting flourishing. But, flourishing itself improves pen control, increases writing fluidity, and encourages creativity. By studying and practicing flourishing, students will gain confidence in their movements and discover new ways to enhance their calligraphy compositions.