THE STRAIGHT AND NARROW "SCRIPT" PEN

The "straight" pen point probably dates back decades ago to desks with built-in ink wells! This pen to the unfamiliar, looks "broken" as it has a split tip. That feature makes it a very versatile instrument.

These pen points can draw "even thickness" strokes like their Poster pen cousins, or when pressed down, produce "thick and thin" strokes as Roman style letters. Of course, in both cases, lines will be thin and delicate.

The left animation shows how the pen point produces varied thickness by "pressing" quite firmly, on all down strokes and "letting up" on the pressure moving the pen upwards. In downward pressure, the point "opens" wider (see it?) and more ink flows through the crevice widening the stroke.

That, in a nutshell, is the essence of Script Lettering. Here's how it works.....

  A "closed" pen means no pressure is applied. Press down on the point only where the wider thickness is to begin and end. The split pen obliges by opening and closing as needed. The example to the right shows red where pressure was applied.

The straight pen, used for Script lettering, is a good friend to know.

AGAIN, PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT....

Not only are "up" and "down" strokes important, but smooth sideways movements are a necessity in Script Lettering as many decorative "flourishes" are often added to the basic strokes---to be shown later. Below are some basic movements and a few applications. The "thick" areas are easily defined. Are you're wondering why pressure is only applied to downward strokes? Well, pushing on the pen upwards can cause the pen (1.) to jab into the paper and (2.) splatter the ink.