I've been a lover of letters since I can remember but in 2012 when I moved to the US I found an amazing culture on typography and lettering that was completely new to me; made from scratch letterforms with an incredible personal and expressional touch.

Now, if you like me, are at a point where you have found this amazing craft but you have no idea where to start here are a few things that will help you get going.

So, Where to Start?

1. Research
This is what I consider the main and one of the most essential steps in this learning process. You have to get to know the different classification of typefaces, their shape, how they work and all the basics.
By doing this you will acquire the fundamental principles of typography and it will help on your early process of letter building.

Research Tools:
Type Classification by Allan Haley.
Thinking with Type by Ellen Lupton

2. Sketch
Once you are familiar with letters start drawing whatever style you feel more comfortable with or attracted to.
Following the advice of Doyald Young, start small with your sketches. Quickly draw what you have in mind and see how letters interact with each other.
Sketch. Sketch and then sketch some more. After many attempts select the ones you consider the bests and go for a larger scale and start refining and get into details.

3. Share your work
Perhaps you are on several social media sites so use them to the fullest. Share what you have done and in this way you will be able to get feedback from fellow letterers. I know it's a little scary but this is the only way people will get to know what you do and it's the best way to get feedback. It's also a great way to keep track of your progress over the years.

If you find these tips useful or you have questions or comments email me at info@vanderbiest.us