Basic Strokes Videos

The Basic Strokes section contains the first movement videos for Copperplate calligraphy.

Before writing full letters, study how the pen moves through pressure, release, curves, ovals, descenders, and light hairlines.

Watch one video at a time, then practice the same movement slowly on your guideline sheet. These strokes are the foundation for lowercase letters, uppercase letters, connections, and flourishing.

Video Order

Follow the videos in this order:

  1. Full-Pressure Stroke
  2. Pressure Release + Exit Hairline
  3. Entrance Stroke + Downstroke
  4. Pressure-and-Release Stroke
  5. Oval Stroke
  6. Descender Stroke

Start with the full-pressure stroke, then continue step by step. Each movement prepares the next one.

Practice Focus

Use these videos to train the basic mechanics of Copperplate.

Focus on:

  • Steady pressure
  • Clean pressure release
  • Light hairlines
  • Balanced ovals
  • Narrow descender loops
  • Consistent slant
  • Relaxed movement

If a later letter feels unstable, return to the stroke that builds it.

Full-Pressure Stroke Pressure Release + Exit Hairline Entrance Stroke + Downstroke Pressure-and-Release Stroke Oval Stroke Descender Stroke
Open Lowercase Letters