The Country Diary - Calligraphy product reviews

Many years ago I took up calligraphy in an attempt to improve my handwriting. It didn't make any noticable improvement in my day-to-day writing, but I tell you, the Christmas cards were never the same again.

Since then, I have moved house a few times, and along the way all my calligraphy quills have gone walkies, so it was a real treat to get this fine kit, complete with quill, ink and instructions. It was great to brush up on a few old skills, and learn a few new ones. With some practice, I hope to develop a style of my own and make it into a font I can use on the PC in Photoshop and Office.

I found the book to be very informative, and the snippets of history gave the styles some depths I would not have normally thought of. The included quill is a good beginner's tool, but the ink is prone to bleed in loose-weave papers, so if you want to use it and get a good effect, you should choose a paper with a tight weave and a smooth surface. Check your local art supplies dealer for something suitable.

Overall, for a beginners kit, this can't be overlooked. For thosse with a modicum of skill, you might find this a bit tame, but still worth a look, even if only as a gift for someone you know who wants to get into the art. If you can't find it at your local bookseller or art supply shop, you should be able to request it.