Melisasa

The water colour set was only $18 and the brushes were on discount, so I got a set of 4 for just $7. I started colouring the book and then went on to try brush lettering, when I discovered that I actually had a notebook of sketch paper material.

So I started painting and writing. And sometimes it feels like i'm making no progress. While at other times, I get such a deep sense of satisfaction and surprise from what I could produce. 

This was the first "artwork" I produced. I didn't trust myself enough to write across it, and it's still empty now. 

As time passed, I got more confident and looked to try new styles. I learnt that I'm better at painting than writing too. I had to spend so much time learning the strokes of each character and learning when to press down on the brush. The amount of water and paint to use was tricky too. 

Currently, I'm just working on improving my words and developing more confidence. I found these artist's works particularly inspiring, and it's a great place to start referencing if you're new like me. It's funny how both of them got the same name. 

Pinterest is a great place for inspiration and tips too. I currently rely on my "Brush lettering" and "Words of wisdom" board whenever I practicing. 

Well, too late to regret my purchase. And to be honest, I have no idea which is the best pen/brush to start with and whether I made the right choice. But this brush from Art Friend cost me almost $8, so I better put it to good use. 

I've been scribbling as and when I'm bored/free and it feels rather therapeutic. Here are some of my scribbles! 

It ain't the best, but I think I'm doing an okay job. I've learn that there is more to brush lettering than just forming words. It's alot of putting in your own style and creating your own font. 

For now, I'm still getting familiar with the brush and practicing with tumblr quotes. It's not easy given how untidy my handwriting is in real life. But the next step would be to practice a particular font, before developing my style. I'm looking forward to integrating water painting as well! 

For those of you out there that are also starting brush lettering, you might want to try these links out! 

http://calligrafikas.tumblr.com/

http://design.tutsplus.com/tutorials/hand-lettering-mastering-brush-script--cms-22948

http://handletteringtutorial.com/how-to-learn-to-use-a-brush-pen/

Searching for "brush lettering", "calligraphy" and related tags on tumblr, pinterest and instagram can help draw inspiration too. 

Do share with me your techniques and difficulties picking up this hobby, I would love to hear about them!