

The unique feature of western handwritten calligraphy is that sizes, colors and styles have different connotations compared to typefaces that focused more on form. The characters also had specific forms and stroke orders to create consistent results.


There is a geometry followed and the rhythm of the text had to be observed. Nevertheless, strict rules applied when it came to Western Calligraphy.

There is an obvious need for ornamentation and letters, especially first letters of each chapter would tend to carry a more artistic flair. In the west, Sacred Western Calligraphy contained unique features as apparent with the illuminated manuscripts. Water based inks are preferred since they are not as viscous as oil-based inks. Other materials used for calligraphy include ballpoint pens as well as felt tip pens but since they produce only thin lines, they do not create fluid, angled lines and variations in strokes. These are characteristics that define handwritten fonts. If you would compare many fonts of today that are calligraphic, cursive or script, they resemble some qualities of being written either by pen or brush. Another important tool would be the brush. The pen can be round nibbed or flat-balled. The pen is an important tool for any calligrapher. Other fonts have emerged such as of transitional and modern as well as sans serif fonts as a reaction against more humanist styles connected to handwriting. Many other fonts have been based on handwriting and thus, can all be attributed as part of the handwriting influence. The history of handwriting is extensive and the handwriting fonts are not just limited to cursive or script fonts. It has become an important tool since a lot of people, especially from, advertising who wanted fonts that are personal and close to known forms especially if they did not have any lettering specialists. Handwriting fonts such as that of several cursive and script fonts have become very popular in the 19 th century onwards to the middle of the 20 th century. Nevertheless, it was an artistic, personal and quintessential method to translate ideas to a semi-permanent format such as paper or parchment, and be used for different ways, but more importantly, to serve as a communication tool, or historical document. Handwriting, penmanship, or calligraphy: they all have different meanings, and they all pertain to specific aspects of writing. Handwriting Fonts: Most Popular Typefaces, Best for Webfonts
