The Art of Beautiful Writing Trivia Quiz

Answer: Graph paper

Graph paper works the easiest because it already has little blocks wherein you can practice the height and width of your letters. It also saves a lot of time when you don't have to rule up practice papers. The size of a letter in a given alphabet dictates the space between each letter and every word.

It also helps you decide how much space to leave between every line of text. An important aspect of calligraphy is the interplay between positive and negative space.

Answer: Thumbnail

The thumbnail is a miniature sketch of what you plan to put on your final project. Many times the ideas in your head is not practical, and the only way to test practicality is to sketch it up before you waste time, ink and paper on a project that is not feasible. Use layout paper for rough drafts and complete the project on sketch or cartridge paper.

Answer: Dipping pens

Also called nib pens, the nibs usually slot into the pen and come in many sizes and even shapes. Dipping pens are classical tools in the art of calligraphy, but they can be messy to work with. Some beginners choose to first learn a new script using a calligraphy pen that works like a koki pen before perfecting the technique of a dipping pen.

A calligraphy pen needs to write both thin and thick strokes.

Answer: Justified

The margins you use with the text often depends on the message of the text. For example, justified margins may be better suited to more formal text than placing the text in a triangle on the page. For more informal and fun calligraphy, you can use asymmetrical margins. You also need to choose a portrait or landscape orientation.

Answer: Bottom

The bottom margin is often slightly wider than the other three margins. Top, left and right are traditionally the same width, but the bottom is up to 50% wider. It helps to balance out the page, however subtle the difference may seem.

Answer: T-square

The human eye finds it difficult to perceive a straight line and no amount of practice seems to better it! Save yourself a lot of trouble and line up the T-square to the edge of your paper to draw straight margins and straight lines. Rule your pencil lines as light as possible and wait until the ink of the text is completely dry before erasing the pencil lines.

Answer: Topaz

Topaz is not a script.

Beginners in calligraphy may well start off learning uncial script and Gothic capitals. Uncial has rounded letters and Gothic is very angular and square. Once you know the basics, you can move on to scripts such as Italic majuscules (sloping capitals) or copperplate, also called English round hand. The number of scripts available, both informal and formal, traditional and modern, are sure to keep you learning and writing for many years.

Answer: The ink bleeds

The eraser breaks up the surface of the paper and any ink used on that spot will bleed into the minuscule cracks, ruining the outline of your letters. The calligrapher must thoroughly prepare the project and then carefully concentrate on not making mistakes.

Answer: Felt tip

Wen you write on an envelope that is destined to be thrown away, you can use something like a felt tip pen, but the card inside that will be treasured needs ink that will not fade so easily. Most inks fade when exposed to sunlight but some inks are more durable than others. Keep it in mind when making a poster that will be displayed, as opposed to a letter or card kept in a drawer.

Answer: Waterproof ink

Waterproof inks are inks such as India, acrylic and drawing. Ordinary pens usually use non-waterproof inks that do not clog up their nibs. Many of the formal calligraphy texts use black ink, with capitals in red if you prefer. But you can also use black paper and white ink for impact. In fact, the creative possibilities are endless!