Rachel Yallop - Copperplate Variations - Dec. 2-9

Learning copperplate variations is a way to break free from a formal, more restrictive style, and try an alternative. In this workshop we will look at the essential components of the copperplate style and explore a new way of looking at letters. Many of the ‘rules’ are the same, but stroke terminals, joins, spacing and letter shapes can all be altered to make a style which is individual, fine and elegant, but with a definite personality.

Pen handling. The correct angle to the page and the correct position in the hand to achieve the perfect line.
Looking at two different, but interchangeable variations in style, and analysing the characteristics and key elements of both.
Practicing the subtle variations in letter height and experimenting with a varying x-height.
Looking at letter spacing and how it can vary yet still achieve a balanced piece.
Experimenting with placing words together and how to make a successful design.