Calligraphic Drawing: A How-To Guide and Gallery Exploring the Art of the Flourish, Paperback

Calligraphic Drawing, written and illustrated by artist Schin Loong, is a step-by-step guide to the pictorial side of calligraphy. Learn how to make calligraphic flourishes, then apply the technique to draw 15 different flourished animals. You'll also find instructions for embellishing letters and drawing ornamental cartouches.

In the past, masters of penmanship advertised their copperplate skills by shaping their calligraphy and flourishes into elaborate pictorial designs. Now the art of the flourish is back With her fresh approach to this age-old art form, Schin will take you confidently through each step, from choosing your pen, nib, and ink, to creating calligraphic animals that express your own imagination and artistry. The basic steps for the strokes are simple, but as you learn each new pattern and stroke, you'll watch your drawings develop into ever more complex and beautiful compositions.

By following the step-by-step instructions, you can create stunning drawings of a pigeon, swan, crane, rooster, jellyfish, goldfish, peacock, parrot, owl, raccoon, elephant, puppy, rabbit, fox, and zebra. Each exercise includes a photo of the animal, followed by an illustration and written guidance for each numbered step. You'll find helpful tips and encouragement throughout. At the back, a gallery showcase provides examples of Schin's own artwork to inspire you in your own flourishing pursuits.

Whether you're a designer, calligrapher, doodler, or just picked up a pen, this guide to drawing with flourishes will enlighten and inspire.

Schin Loong is the calligrapher and artist for Open Ink Stand Studio in Las Vegas, Nevada. She has studied with numerous master penmen, including Michael Sull and Rosemary Buczek, and received her Fine Arts degree from the Ringling College of Art & Design. Her work has been featured in Martha Stewart Weddings, BRIDES, Southern Weddings Magazine, 100 Layer Cake, Pen World Magazine, Dasherie, HBO's Game of Thrones Compendium and Photoshop Creative. As a member of IAMPETH (The International Association of Master Penmen, Engrossers and Teachers of Handwriting) and The Fabulous Las Vegas Scribes, Schin has taught and presented at the College of Southern Nevada, Twig & Fig, Berkeley and Sahara West Library, Las Vegas. Her recent clients include: Louis Vuitton, Montblanc, Chloé, Couture Design Awards, Casa Dragones, Remy Martin Louis XIII, Art Institute of Chicago and Mohawk Fine Papers.