Margaret Shepherd Books

This book is a totally new concept in learning and improving calligraphy skills. It presents a new lettering challenge for each day of the year; 365 in all (plus a bonus for Leap Day), ranging from 'angular Italic' to 'turned Celtic.' These alphabets are the perfect program for beginners learning the art of beautiful writing. They also offer the best form of practice and improvement for experienced calligraphers. In addition to daily practice, a practical lettering project is presented for each week. There are 52 in all, ranging from wholly creative projects such as designing an award for a special person to such money-makers as lettering wedding invitations or greeting cards.

Exploring the art of calligraphy, Margaret Shepherd emphasizes the personal nature of handwriting in a digital age filled with uniform fonts. She encourages readers to view calligraphy not just as a skill but as a sophisticated art form that can be uniquely customized. Through her guidance, individuals can transform their handwriting into a distinctive expression of their identity.

This book is a celebration of tactile beauty and a tribute to human ingenuity. In-depth profiles tell the stories of 20 artisans who have devoted their lives to preserving traditional techniques. Gorgeous photographs reveal these craftspeople's studios, from Oaxaca to Kyoto and from Milan to Tennessee. Two essays explore the challenges and rewards of engaging deeply with the past. With an elegant three-piece case and foil stamping, this rich volume will be an inspiration to makers, collectors, and history lovers.