Can I learn calligraphy on a tablet without traditional practice?

Yes, but traditional practice first is strongly recommended. Physical pen-on-paper teaches pressure control, ink flow management, and stroke muscle memory that transfers directly to digital. Calligraphers who start digitally often struggle with inconsistent pressure because digital tools are more forgiving — undo enables sloppy technique. Start with 1-2 months of traditional practice to build fundamentals, then transition to digital. The traditional skills make your digital calligraphy significantly better from day one.

Do I need a screen protector for calligraphy on a tablet?

A matte screen protector is highly recommended for calligraphy work. The glass screen of iPads and Android tablets is slippery — the stylus glides with zero friction, making controlled calligraphy strokes difficult. A matte protector (Paperlike, iCarez, or Bellemond) adds paper-like texture that slows the stylus slightly, providing the resistance needed for controlled thick-thin transitions. The tradeoff is slightly reduced display clarity — acceptable for calligraphy work. Budget $15-30 for a quality matte protector.

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