A century ago, there were several abilities in penmanship that when performed spontaneously and consistently to a very high degree of skill, were considered to be defining qualities by which a person was generally regarded as a “Master Penman”.

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When considering these qualities, one of the most unique, attractive, and visually creative examples took the form of Superscription, or as it was more commonly known by the title of Signature Writing. It was this novel style of ornamental handwriting, together with the Penman’s own sense of artistic design in producing a singular form of a person’s name, that captivated and inspired others with the unmatched beauty that could be performed with a pen. Many of the Master’s signatures became challenges for aspiring students, and often there were contests to see who could write an iconic name as accurately as the Master himself. Signatures of Louis Madarasz, C.P.Zaner, E.W.Bloser, and A.D.Taylor, among many others, were often the focus of such competition.

 

The methods of Signature Writing aren’t difficult, but do take practice to appear smooth, graceful, and well-balanced. Capital Writing is often involved in the process, where capital letters are written and joined side by side with overlapping entry and exit ovals, and frequently the signature is completed with various ending flourishes that extend from the ending stroke of the last lowercase letter of the person’s surname.

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The techniques of Signature Writing are seldom taught or practiced today; in a very real way, this singular form of what was often referred to as “personal display writing” has become somewhat of a lost chapter in today’s renaissance of Spencerian Penmanship. Our program, however, will turn back the clock of time and once again bring this specialized form of ornamental handwriting to light.

 

The methods themselves can be quite simple or complex, and because of this, students of all skill levels, from Beginning to Advanced, are welcome to participate in this program. A beautifully-written name is always a compliment to the receiver, and presents an aura of sophistication, self pride, and a personalized form of beauty to everyone who sees it. I hope you will join us in this very special learning experience!

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Lesson 1

• Superscription and Signature Writing: Basic Concepts

• Joining Capitals: Overlapping, Natural Joins, Direct Joins

• Capital Writing, Part One

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Lesson 2

• Capital Writing, Part Two

• Signature Writing: Shade Control, Natural, Retouched, and False Shades, Ending Flourishes

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Lesson 3

• Flourishing Techniques: Plumes, Quills, Cartouches, Title Flourishing, Birds

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Lesson 4

• Flourished Signatures: Achieving Balance, Completing the Design