Need Help Easing My Death Grip On My Pen.

[liz4tin]

I've been working on my handwriting, and I just can't seem to write without having a death grip on my pen. I even have a huge callous on my middle finger, from my terrible grip.

 

I've tried writing with the pen between my first and second finger, where the pen rests on the Web. But it doesn't work well for me.

 

I've tried those exercises where you scribble barely holding the pen, and I just can't do it.

 

I need help!

[jar]

It really comes down to practice I fear.

 

Start by not using either your thumb or first finger, just let the pen sit on the second finger and the web of your hand. Don't try writing yet, just get used to having that second finger under the pen.

[smk]

You need a new pen!

 

I'm only half joking ... Its really hard to break an old habit but I think it can be done if you change what you are writing with. I would suggest getting a pen holder and some pointed flexible nibs and practicing exercises given for Palmer style writing (link to lessons on IAMPETH.com). These exercises are designed to develop a light touch and using a flexible nib enforces discipline. (Check out the exercises for Spencerian writing too.)

 

A holder and a few nibs will cost you less than $10.

 

Since you'll be using a totally different tool you'll be developing new habits instead of constantly fighting old ones - at least that's my theory. If nothing else, you'll have a lot of fun with dip pens :-)

 

Salman

[Jimmy Joe]

One trick to relax your hand that I got from Getty & Dubay is, while holding the pen, simply tap your index finger on the barrel a few times. It's bizarrely effective, at least for me.

[Sasha Royale]

You are using the ballpoint pen grip ?

The bp is held very vertical in a clenched "fist".

A fountain pen can be held at a 45 degree angle, with

the fingers relaxed and extended.

 

You will enjoy writing a lot more.

[liz4tin]

Here's a pic of my deformed Finger.

 

And a pic of my grip.

 

I'm have been trying to improve my writing for about 6 months now, but I can't seem to relax my hand.

[jar]

Here's a pic of my deformed Finger.

 

And a pic of my grip.

 

I'm have been trying to improve my writing for about 6 months now, but I can't seem to relax my hand.

 

Yup.

 

You need to get that index finger away from your thumb, they should not touch. Try the exercise I mentioned.

[liz4tin]

It really comes down to practice I fear.

 

Start by not using either your thumb or first finger, just let the pen sit on the second finger and the web of your hand. Don't try writing yet, just get used to having that second finger under the pen.

 

Where should it rest on the second finger? On the first knuckle or in front of the knuckle but before the nail?

[smk]

Here's an example of a relaxed hold by our very own Ken Fraser (caliken). It doesn't show where the pen rests on the second finger but gives you some idea of the ideal tripod grip. There have been discussions on the tripod grip on this forum but I can't find them at this time - will post a link when I do. (here it is: The Classic Tripod grip)

 

Here's the video of Ken's grip I mentioned:

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLOzQbspu34

 

Salman

Edited July 24, 2012 by smk

[andru]

One trick to relax your hand that I got from Getty & Dubay is, while holding the pen, simply tap your index finger on the barrel a few times. It's bizarrely effective, at least for me.

I agree. Bo Bo Olsen has been quite proactive (perhaps an understatement) in promoting the straightening of the index finger, and I must say, it really works for me. My grip relaxes in proportion to how much I extend that finger. My writing is still messier when I relax my grip, but I've got a huge lot of improper writing experience to unlearn.

[Earthdawn]

That video is so ANNOYING !!!

 

How on earth does he write so precise and neatly !!!

 

I am amazed at the level of writing skill shown....

 

Thanks for sharing that

[jar]

It really comes down to practice I fear.

 

Start by not using either your thumb or first finger, just let the pen sit on the second finger and the web of your hand. Don't try writing yet, just get used to having that second finger under the pen.

 

Where should it rest on the second finger? On the first knuckle or in front of the knuckle but before the nail?

 

Between knuckle and nail.

 

http://www.fototime.com/EBBE1AB39289EE1/medium800.jpg

 

The second finger underneath carries the pen, your thumb and first finger just barely touch the sides of the pen and not each other. Imagine you are holding a dim sum or soap bubble.

[professionaldilettante]

I know! you could get a Safari, with the tripod grip. Then, take three thumbtacs, of the flat topped variety, and glue them to each of the facets, where your finger tips are supposed to be, with the points facing out. Then, get a wire cutter and cut off everything of the points, leaving a 1/8th inch stump. The tripod shape will reinforce your three finger position, and the stumps will become very uncomfortable in a short while if you press too hard. Or find an oldschool Sister with a yardstick. I heard they used to walk up behind you and snatch your pen away when you were writing, just to check your grip. If they could steal your pen, you were safe, but if you gripped it too hard, and they weren't able to whisk it away, you'd get a beating.

[KrazyIvan]

My Safari is what finally helped me get rid of my death grip. Force choke is a different story.

[CDKeth]

"Uncial" is the script of the Irish gospel books. I don't know what unical is.

 

I'm fighting the same problem and I just have to remain conscious of my hand and it's relaxedness. When I find myself clenching down and less able to control it due to fatigue, I stop.

[koa]

There is one sure cure for the "death grip", but I can't really recommend it.

[FLZapped]

There is one sure cure for the "death grip", but I can't really recommend it.

 

Is that anything like the gag Daffy Duck said he could only do once?

[FLZapped]

Here's a pic of my deformed Finger.

 

And a pic of my grip.

 

I'm have been trying to improve my writing for about 6 months now, but I can't seem to relax my hand.

 

I had the same problem. Still have the bone bump there from years of the death grip, but the callus is gone. You will find what you need over at the IAMPETH website.

 

Here is a tile out of one of the old books they have in the public domain which shows the proper grip:

 

IAMPETH Book Tile

 

The biggest change is that you will need to make is to extend your fingers, especially your index finger, which is why the earlier suggestion of "tapping" on the top of the pen.

 

 

-Bruce

[zuku]

find the post by bobo, he talks a lot about this, and it is really helpful.

[jar]

Liz, also look for pens with a much wider section.