Although this post may appear to be similar to a previous post, it will be slightly different. In this post, I will describe the process of implementing embossing and drawings into a work of calligraphy.

Let’s start with embossing because it is one of my favorite aspects of calligraphy. Even though embossing is not required for calligraphy, it definitely adds an element of texture and shine to the words. In a previous post, I already described what embossing is and the tools needed to do it, so here I will describe how to emboss and give tips which are most relevant to those just starting off.

The first step in embossing is, of course, deciding what you want to emboss. Although embossing is usually used on words, it can also be used on drawings and patterns. The next step is the write/draw the image to be embossed. I would recommend that beginners first write in pencil, so they are able to erase any mistakes. Once one becomes more familiar with calligraphy, it is unnecessary to write in pencil. The next step is the trace or write the letters in embossing pen. This pen allows the embossing powder to stick to the paper so it will not scatter when being heated. I would recommend that beginners use a black embossing pen rather than a clear one. This is because the black ink is easier to see, so the writer has more control and is less likely to make a mistake, especially when tracing.

Sketching words in pencil then tracing with embossing pen

Once the letters are prepared, the next step is to apply the embossing powder. The embossing powder does not need to be applied precisely to each letter. In fact, I usually dump the whole jar out over the letters! This is to ensure full coverage. The excess powder should then be dumped onto a blank piece of paper and funneled back into the jar so that the powder is not wasted. Any excess powder can be dusted away with a paint brush. The next step is to place the calligraphy on a flat surface and heat it with a heat gun. Applying heat will reveal the beautiful embossing! Note that heat guns should be held at a 45 degree angle, should only be used in short intervals (maximum of 10 minutes at a time), and should be allowed to cool before storage to ensure safety.

Adding embossing powder, applying heat, and the final product!

Another way to enhance calligraphy is with drawings. This aspect is much more open to the imagination. Adding draws can emphasize words or add a focal point to the work. As a mentioned before, it is important to let the words speak to you when deciding what drawings to add. I tend to take inspiration from the words themselves or from the source where I got the words. For example, in one of my piece that was of song lyrics, the music video included a Ferris wheel. I used this image as the focal point of the piece and put the words around it. Another example is when writing a name, the picture could be of the person’s favor animal or object.

Ferris Wheel focal point

Implementing calligraphy enhancement may be hard at first, but when you let the creativity flow, the possibilities of what you can add are endless!