Basics of practicing Arabic calligraphy

A huge part of the process for me in learning calligraphy has been trial and error. I've tried multiple tools, papers, inks and I'm still continuing to learn new things. This blog post is about tips and tricks that I've learned over the years; hacks, and tools that only come by investing time and practice. All I can really show you is what I've done and what's worked best for me. And with that being said here are some tools that I recommend when starting Arabic calligrahy: 

Beginner Calligraphy Supplies: 

1. Pilot pen (HQ favorite) 

1a. Prismacolor chisel tip marker

2. Calligraphy Paper Pad

That's it! 

When learning Arabic calligraphy, I do the following: 

- Practice a few letters on regular 8.5 x 11 paper before I go to my nice calligraphy paper. 

- Practice straight lines, by repeating "Alifs" over and over again (This allows your hand to develop     muscle memory) 

- Always make sure that I have good lighting 

Before we practice some letters, here is the proper way of holding your pen, so the angle is always the same: 

Baah

Ay'n

Seen

Note: The two parts that make up the seen. The second dip is usually longer than the first

Haah

Note: Various forms of Haah. For best results, practice doing the loop in one motion

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