Vellum and Gothic Cursive - Cheryl Jacobsen
CLASS DESCRIPTION: Join us for an immersive calligraphy workshop where we explore writing on animal skin, known as parchment or vellum, and learn Cheryl’s Gothic Cursive.
In this workshop, we will talk about the techniques required to transform raw animal skin into a surface for calligraphy and learn how to tailor that surface to your own needs. You will also learn Cheryl’s graceful gothic cursive hand, which lends itself to fun, flowing expressive writing. Hopefully we’ll incorporate the vellum, the cursive and your other favorite hands and images into a guided-by-chance book.
Vellum is often intimidating because of its price, but unlike paper, it has a tough reusable surface which erases easily allowing for a total redo or a palimpsest where the traces of previous letters can be seen layered behind your writing creating a unique depth in your art.
Cheryl has spent years working with Vellum in both historic and modern forms.
This is a class where tradition meets innovation, allowing you to discover the beauty and versatility of this
remarkable material and make it more approachable.
SKILL LEVEL: Basic knowledge of pen angle and pen use needed but any level welcome
Supplies:
1 calfskin prepared for writing on one side. (Work with the instructor to get your skin ordered)
Speedball C-2 nib or L C-2 nib to start with and your favorite smaller broad-edged nibs.
Nib holder
Other favorite writing tools, grid pad or practice paper & writing fluid
A sheet each of 200 grit and 400 grit Sandpaper
HB pencil (& sharpener if needed).
Ruler
Exacto knife and blades
Scissors
A text or texts you’d like to put in a book.
Basic calligraphy stuff, paper towels,
water cup, paint/ink containers, white eraser
Any kind of mark making tools you like;
usual or unusual
Watercolors if you like to use them
If you like putting gold on things,
bring some gold and size.
