Full-Pressure Stroke
The full-pressure stroke is the first essential pressure drill in Copperplate calligraphy.
This stroke stays thick and evenly weighted from start to finish. The goal is not speed. The goal is consistent pressure, steady slant, and clean contact between both tines of the nib.
Place your nib at the top of the ascender area, align it with the slant guideline, apply firm controlled pressure, then pull straight down toward the baseline.
Pause briefly at the start and at the end of the stroke. These small pauses help create cleaner edges and more controlled shaded strokes.
Watch the video first, then practice slowly on your guideline sheet.
Focus on five things:
- Start at the top of the guideline.
- Set your pressure before moving.
- Pull straight down along the slant.
- Keep both tines touching the paper evenly.
- Finish cleanly at the baseline.
If the stroke looks shaky, reduce tension in your hand. If one side scratches, adjust your nib angle.