#6 Side-Writing Lefty Seeking Attractive Cursive Script

[vossad01]

I just got my first fountain pen (Visionnaire Noir [yes, I am aware of the controversy]) which I wanted because I had taken to hand writing letters. Having the pen, I want to tackle my handwriting. My current is an abysmal print (chicken scratch), and I would like to develop a respectable cursive. I currently I do not even know how to produce all of the cursive capitals.

 

My goal from this endeavor is to be able to pick up "any old pen" (ballpoint, gel, standard-nib fountain) and be able to write a nice cursive for "everyday" writing. I intend all my practicing to be with a fountain pen. I just do not want spend a lot of time learning to write nicely but require a special pen (flex nib, oblique holder, etc.) to be able to do it.

 

I considered just acquiring some primary school cursive guide sheets and figuring it out; however, I am thinking that formal resources on how to write and try to learn a 'proper' method would give give better results. I know it will be slower and more work; though, as I understand it, side-writing is the worst configuration for left-handed FP so the effort is likely worthwhile. I am willing to put in the effort of relearning how to hold a pen so long as the method had clear instructions how to do it. I would even be willing to change writing hands if that is strongly recommended. Switching hands would not be high on my priorities (I like being recognized as a lefty), but I am ambidextrous so switching to right-handed writing would not be too great of sin. I write exclusively with my left because a primary school teacher needed me to not switch hands to be able to teach me how to hold my pencil properly [with a little grip thingy added to the pencil].

 

Before I properly did research, I picked up Platt Rogers Spencer's Spencerian Penmanship (Theory Book & Copybooks) thinking I would just work through that. I now realize that would best be done with a flex nib but I would prefer not to buy a new pen right now to get a flex nib. If it is a a strong recommendation I would. (I figure Spencerian would still look nice written without a flex nib once learned.)

 

Ideally I would be looking for a recommended resource that I could work through. I spent a good portion of the day looking through posts and linked resources, but there end up being a lot of options. A common message was "do what works for you" and there are "ways to make it work." If I am going to try to learn a new writing form I would prefer proven guidance on something that works; or at least a good list of pros and cons so I can make an informed decision. Much of what I was finding just recognizes "different" options with the choice having been natural then adapted to work. The Spencerian book has instructions on how to orient the paper, and hold the pen, but only for right-handed use.

 

I am looking for any advice or wisdom the community has. Your input will be greatly appreciated.

 

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What I currently have for this undertaking:

• Visionnaire Noir Pen, Medium Round Standard Nib

• Visionnaire Noir Black Ink (not especially saturated, seems to dry fairly quickly)

• Mohawk Strathmore Writing 24lb, Wove, Natural White Paper

• Spencerian Penmanship (Theory Book plus five copybooks) by Platt Rogers Spencer

 

[New_Falcon]

I'm a left handed underwriter if I angle the paper to 60+ degrees to my body. Any less than that I become a side writer.

 

I struggle with my writing too but think that I have improved. You can see some samples of my writing at https://www.fountainpennetwork.com/forum/index.php/topic/256317-writing-looks-tentative-and-slope-difficulties/ . I hope that link worked.

 

One of the recommendations made and one that is simple, but true. Is have a look around for a script that you like and then folks can help on how to get there. There's also a bunch of threads in this forum on people learning a particular script together, it might be worth having a look at those. Also the stickies and links they point to are valuable too.

 

Good luck and I hope that helps somewhat.