How long does it take to learn calligraphy?

Basic readable calligraphy: 2-4 weeks of daily 20-minute practice. Your letters will be recognizable and consistent. Intermediate skill: 3-6 months of regular practice. You can complete addressed envelopes, cards, and simple pieces confidently. Advanced skill: 1-2 years of dedicated practice. You develop a personal style, handle complex compositions, and produce work suitable for professional commissions. The learning curve is steepest in the first two weeks — push through the frustration and results accelerate dramatically.

What paper should I use for calligraphy practice?

For practice: HP Premium32 laser paper is the favorite of calligraphy communities worldwide — smooth, ink-resistant, cheap in 500-sheet reams. For finished pieces: Rhodia dot pad (smooth, fountain pen friendly), Canson Marker paper (bleed-proof), or Strathmore 400 series Drawing paper (cotton content for archival permanence). Avoid regular copy paper — it is too absorbent, causing ink feathering and fuzzy lines. The paper matters as much as the pen — rough or absorbent paper makes even the best nib perform poorly.

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