If you’ve ever watched someone effortlessly create beautiful hand-lettered quotes on Instagram or TikTok, you’re not alone. Brush lettering is not just a hobby, but as a relaxing, therapeutic art form.
Whether you’re a total beginner or just curious, these beginner-friendly tips will help you start your journey into brush calligraphy.
1. Choose the Right Tools
Start with basic tools:
- A beginner brush pen like Tombow Fudenosuke or Pentel Fude Touch.
- Smooth, bleed-proof paper (you can find these at Cziplee, Stickerrific, Art Friends, Kinokuniya, or even Mr. DIY).
Want a ready-to-go starter kit? We provide one with our beginner classes!
2. Master the Pressure: Light Up, Heavy Down
This is the golden rule in brush lettering:
Light pressure on upstrokes, heavy pressure on downstrokes.
It takes time for your hand to get used to it—don’t worry if it feels awkward at first.
3. Practice Simple Drills First
Before jumping into writing words, start with basic strokes:
- Upstrokes
- Downstrokes
- Loops
- Ovals
These drills help build muscle memory—just 5–10 minutes a day works wonders.
4. Take It Slow
Speed ruins control. Brush lettering is more like dancing than writing—it’s all about rhythm.
So… slow it down. Breathe. Repeat.
5. Learn from Local Creators
There are plenty of Malaysian artists sharing brush lettering on social media.
Look for local hashtags like #malaysiacalligrapher or follow creators like @washilicious (that’s me!).
6. Don’t Compare Your Start to Someone’s Finish
We all start at zero. Comparing your Day 1 with someone’s Year 5 only adds pressure. Enjoy your progress—it’s part of the fun!
7. Consider Taking a Class
Self-learning is great, but a class can:
- Correct bad habits early
- Give you personalized feedback
- Boost your progress with hands-on demos
At Washilicious, our brush lettering classes in Setapak (or online) are designed to be beginner-safe, stress-free, and full of good vibes. You’ll leave with a finished piece, a brush pen, and loads of confidence.
Want a Free Starter Guide?
Download our free practice sheet for beginners by joining our email list!
Ready to Try Brush Lettering for Real?
Book your private class with us today – we’ve taught over 400 Malaysians how to turn words into art.