Printable modern calligraphy guide sheet (PDF)

In modern calligraphy proportions are free: this guide gives the x-height, ascenders and descenders the same height.

Tool

Width, in mm

In nib widths

Nib widths above the x-height

Nib widths below the baseline

Nib widths from the baseline; 0, no line

Degrees; one mark on each line. 0, no mark

Degrees from horizontal; 90, upright

mm between slant lines

mm between lines

Model to trace

With “A single letter”, the one that is repeated; with “Random words”, optionally, only words that contain it.

Regenerate

In light grey, at the x-height of the guide; whatever doesn't fit continues on the next line.

Reset values

Print it at actual size (100%, without “fit to page”) so the measurements are exact.

neografo · Modern calligraphy · nib 3.8 mm · x: 5 nib widths (19 mm) · ascenders: 3 · descenders: 3 · nib at 40° · uprightneografo.com/en/guidesThe QR code opens this guide on neografo, with everything as it is here.authorize

Model in Gista Danes, by Aqeela Studio · Free For Commercial Use License (FFC) · where to get it

Suggest something about this font

This font's ascenders or descenders are longer than the guide's: the model is drawn smaller so it fits, and its x doesn't reach the x-height line.

5 lines per sheet · Modern calligraphy · nib 3.8 mm · x: 5 nib widths (19 mm) · ascenders: 3 · descenders: 3 · nib at 40° · upright

How to read the guide sheet

  • The strongest line is the baseline; the one above it is the x-height (the shaded band).
  • The dashed lines mark how far ascenders and descenders reach; the dotted one, the capitals.
  • The ladder in the margin is made of squares the width of your nib: use it to check the size matches yours.
  • The stroke at the start of each line marks the angle to hold the nib at.
  • The slant lines help you keep the same angle in every letter.
  • The QR code at the bottom opens this same guide on neografo, with all its values: to print it again or change something. If the model's font is no longer available, another one of the style is used.

Want to learn the style? Check the tutorials or share your practice in resources.

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