Julie Wildman - Alphabet Book - Jan 25, 26; Feb 1, 2, 2025

We will spend the first part of the class analyzing other alphabets to find out what features determine a cohesive look. Studying the letter parts will help the students understand not only the structure of the letters, but the nuances that go into developing hands or fonts. Students will then be led through a series of exercises—using both traditional and nontraditional tools—that will result in all sorts of creative ways to make letters. We will gradually work our way to finding a style that works for each person. Students will then have the option of creating either a cohesive alphabet OR doing an alphabet with a different style for each letter. The second half of this workshop will be spent on refining the alphabets and deciding whether to use color or black and white. The final portion of the class will be to assemble a simple, but elegantly designed accordion-fold book with an origami type cover. (There is no gluing or sewing involved.) Students may choose to write their letters directly on the book paper, or paste in their letters. You will have fun exploring letterforms and you will have an Alphabet Book to show for it! For this workshop, the Washington Calligraphers Guild is bringing back the popular format of an online workshop consisting of partial days over two successive weekends. The workshop is suitable for students at all levels and backgrounds, whether using monoline, broad edge and/or pointed pen tools. The class size is limited to 30 people and will be held on the zoom platform. Between class sessions, Julie will review student work posted on Padlet. It is recommended that each student use two devices for this workshop -- a phone set up to show your desk and what you are working on so that Julie can see each student’s work and advise accordingly, and a laptop so that you can log in to the Zoom meeting and see the instructor and fellow students. A Zoom Basics document is provided for more information. A tech session will be offered prior to the workshop to help students set up your devices and workspaces, and position you for success in the workshop. Full supply list is posted on registration link. About the Instructor Julie Wildman has expertise in the fields of graphic design, commercial lettering, calligraphy and workshops. Her studio is in northwest Indiana, only 30 minutes from downtown Chicago. With over 25 years of experience, she loves using both sides of her brain to bring a creative spark and superb organizational skills to every project or workshop. Julie infuses her workshops with creative energy and discoveries she has made through art and life. Her classes encourage participants to think about lettering in new ways and to work with new tools. This workshop promises to help students of all levels expand your knowledge of “what is an alphabet?”

Alphabet Book
Julie Wildman, Hosted By Washington Calligraphers Guild

Jan. 25 and 26, Feb. 1 and 2

9:00 AM - 1:30 PM Eastern