FAQs

I have been teaching calligraphy independently since 2014. Below, I am answering some questions many of my students have previously enquired about.

Which calligraphy styles do you teach?

I’m currently teaching the following styles: Copperplate, Script Brush Pen Calligraphy, Italic Calligraphy, Modern Carolingian, Broad-Pen Roman Capitals, and Neuland.

If you’re unsure where to start, here are three recommendations:

• Begin with a calligraphy style that personally appeals to you. This will keep you highly interested and motivated. The more you learn, the more you’ll realise that all alphabets are connected. Eventually, you’ll start branching out into other styles that will deepen your understanding.

• If you don’t have a preference for a particular calligraphy style, another approach is to learn in chronological order. This way, you'll understand the historical evolution of letterforms. In this case, I recommend starting with my Foundational Hand Course, which covers Broad-Pen Roman Capitals and Modern Carolingian (also called the Humanistic Letter).

• If you’re interested in learning a style similar to cursive and connected handwriting, I recommend starting with Copperplate Calligraphy.
  

What materials do I need for the course?

The materials needed are specific to each calligraphy style. Once you sign up for the course, you’ll have access to a PDF file with a visual list of materials, plus a video explaining with the ins and outs of how to use them.

If you want to check the materials beforehand, follow the steps below:

1) Go the homepage
2) Introduce your email and press ‘I want this!’
3) Download it for free!

What dates and times are you available for private one-on-one tuitions?

I work with your schedule, time zone, and availability. We can schedule sessions during the week or on weekends if that’s more convenient for you.

I provide one-to-one private calligraphy and lettering tuitions, whether for an introduction to calligraphy or to deepen your knowledge of a particular style. These private coaching sessions are conducted online via Zoom.

I specialise in Copperplate calligraphy, Script brush lettering, vector-based lettering using Illustrator and/or Glyphs App, and illustrated lettering.

I teach broad-edged pen Roman Capitals, Modern Carolingian, Italic calligraphy, Neuland, and Blackletter for beginners and intermediate students.

Do I need prior experience in calligraphy to join?

My Level 1 Courses are designed for total beginner and you don’t need any prior experience at all!

Are the calligraphy courses in English?

Yes, and I am more than happy to answer questions and offer feedback in English, Spanish and Catalan.

Can I take the course at my own pace?

You have life-time access to my pre-recorded calligraphy courses. This means, you complete these courses in your own schedule and with your own agenda!

I personally recommend you to focus on one practical lesson per week, but in the end, it is totally up to you how you do the course!

Are live sessions included in the course?

No, there are no live sessions included in my pre-recorded calligraphy courses unless you book private one-to-one tuitions with me. In that case, I work with your calendar, timezone and availability —week days or weekends— for a calligraphy introduction or to deepen in one particular style.

These private coaching sessions are conducted online via Zoom, and you can book your spot here.

What styles of calligraphy will be covered?

Each course is focused on one particular calligraphy style mostly. Currently, you can learn with me the following styles:

• Intro to Copperplate calligraphy (Level 1)
• Pump Up Your Copperplate (Level 2)
• Copperplate Variations (Level 3)
  
• Intro to Foundational Hand (Level 1)

This course includes broad-edge pen Roman Capitals and modern Carolingian also called The Humanistic Minuscule.

• Intro to Italic Calligraphy (Level 1)
• Intro to Script Brush Pen Calligraphy (Level 1)
• Intro to Neuland Calligraphy (Level 1)
  

How long will I have access to the course materials?

Foreverrrrrrr

Can I get feedback on my work?

Yes, if you send me your work by email, I’ll get back to you with my feedback. I may publish the feedback on my course so other students can benefit from it!

Are the courses suitable for left-handed students?

Absolutely yes! In fact, left handers are great calligraphers and you may find easier to follow the angle of the writing in comparison to right handers. Check this video about left hander positioning.

What if I have trouble with a particular lesson?

You can watch the lessons as many times as you want! Additionally, you have access to my personal class notes plus a guidebook of the calligraphy style you are learning to support you along the way.

AND, you can send me your work by email, and I’ll get back to you with my feedback.

Is there a refund policy if I'm not satisfied with the course?

There is a 30-day money-back guarantee. After that time, you’ll be part of my community for.eh.verrr!

Can I gift a course to someone else?

Absolutely yes! Purchase one of my courses and email me the person’s details, and I will create an account and a digital gift voucher for them!

How long does each lesson take to complete?

And here is the magic answers again: It depends!. Each course is structured differently. Some lessons are 2 hour-long with a ten minute break in between; and some lessons are 20-to-30 minute long. Because you have lifetime access, you get to design your own learning experience!

What payment methods are accepted?

Payments are made through PayPal either using your own PP account, or via your credit or debit card.

Can I redo the course if I want to improve?

Absolutely yes. You can redo the course as many times as you want!

Do I need a specific type of paper or ink?

The materials needed are specific to each calligraphy style. Once you sign up for the course, you’ll have access to a PDF file with a visual list of materials, plus a video explaining with the ins and outs of how to use them.

If you want to check the materials beforehand, follow the steps below:

1) Go the homepage
2) Introduce your email and press ‘I want this!’
3) Download it for free!

How do I submit my work for review?

You can submit your work directly through the course portal, or you can email me at info(at)mariamontes(dot)net.

What’s the difference between the beginner and advanced courses?

• My Level 1 Courses are designed for total beginners. This means I explain the solid foundations of each alphabet style in detail assuming you don’t have any previous knowledge.

• My Level 2 Courses are for intermediate students with exisiting knwoledge on the foundations of the particular calligraphy style.

• My Level 3 Courses are for intermediate and advanced students. In this courses, I’m introducing more concepts, longer movements, variations and I'm starting to bend the rules!
  

Is there a discount for enrolling in multiple courses?

I offer a 10% discount to students who have already enrolled in one of my courses. You'll enjoy a life-time access, plus I’m adding additional content every year!

Still have questions?

Get in touch and I’ll happily answer any additional questions you may still have!