Oval Stroke

The oval stroke builds the core shape behind many lowercase Copperplate letters, including o, a, d, g, q, c, and e.

The goal is a smooth oval with a balanced inner space, a consistent slant, and a clean closure.

Start with a light hairline entrance, form the oval smoothly, apply pressure only on the shaded downstroke, then release back into a thin hairline.

The oval should feel controlled, not rushed, wide, or lopsided.

Practice slowly and watch the counter, the inner space inside the oval.

Focus on five details:

  1. Begin with a light hairline entrance.
  2. Keep the oval balanced.
  3. Shade only the downstroke portion.
  4. Release smoothly into the curve.
  5. Close the oval cleanly.

The oval should not lean too much, collapse inward, or become wide and uneven. Avoid heavy blobs at the closure.

Next: Descender Stroke