Calligraphy Courses

Classes are a mix of In-person and Online

I started teaching back in 2002 at the West Hartford Art League. I have focused on lettering styles and activities which build a strong understanding of the basic principles of calligraphy. In each of these classes, I’ve broken down the learning process into manageable steps and provided projects to reinforce the skills and importantly, to have fun with letters.

My classes are designed to be like in-person classes as much as possible. They are small, with less than 20 students. Conversation during class is welcome so we can all learn from each other. You won’t get lost in a huge sea of faces. I hope you’ll join us!

“Debby is an amazing instructor. I love her classes! She is patient, extremely knowledgeable and humble. She works really hard to make sure that her students are confident in whatever creative endeavor they take on. I highly recommend her classes.” JW 

“I just completed Debby’s Intro to Calligraphy class and loved every minute of it and the assignments in between classes. Debby is an inspired teacher who graciously shares what she has learned over years of practice. The class introduced me to so much more than was in the description and I have several small finished projects as a result!” review from Etsy

“I really enjoyed your class and learned a lot!  And you make your homework assignments more fun than anyone!” SS

Copperplate: Developing your pointed pen skills

4 evenings: Tuesdays
January 6, 13, 20, 27, 2026
7:00 to 9:00 pm EST
Live online course via Zoom

For those who have taken my Intro to Copperplate course or have experience with copperplate, this 4-week class will be project-oriented. We will continue to practice the Copperplate letterforms and…. Click for details. 

Intro to Broad Edge Calligraphy: Foundational Hand

6 evenings: Thursdays
Jan 22, 29; Feb 5, 12, 19, 26 2026
7:00 to 9:00 p.m. EST
Live online course via Zoom

The course will introduce the fundamentals of the foundational lettering style, writing with a metal nib, an introduction to goauche & more.

While the italic hand is very popular & most often identified with calligraphy, many, including the world-renowned Sheila Waters, are firm believers that calligraphers that start with the foundational hand will have greater control & experience faster development of their lettering skills. We will also create a Japanese-style book that…Click for details

Join our mailing list to stay informed about upcoming classes! Past classes have included:

Building Illumination Skill: African Inspirations
Layout and Design: Real World Projects
Making Friends with Gouache
Beginning/Intermediate Calligraphy Courses in Uncial, Foundational, Blackletter
Italic Calligraphy
Lettering on a circle, spiral or curve
Illumination: Beginners and Continuing
Modern Calligraphy
Classes for youth
And new ones are always in development!

Comments by Debby’s Students

“Honestly I was a little surprised at how much I was able to learn by just two hours…the class could’ve been 8 hours and I wouldn’t have minded.” Online student, 13 yo

“Super informative & fun experience–even for someone with little “artist”/creative background. So well-organized, well-spaced out, great practical tips!” -DK

“Debby is extremely knowledgeable and patient. She is quick to provide positive feedback. She has a keen eye for figuring out the best way to correct lettering to follow the style being taught.” -AM

“Very good instructor!” -RQ

“Debby, you are a delight to know. Your patience, your energy, your knowledge and experience are amazing. I learned a lot.” -IK

“The course was great! Well-constructed and executed. For such a short time, knowledge of lettering was improved and a great start to this practice. You’re a great teacher and artist. I look forward to the next class and practicing my new hobby!” -MS

“Your enthusiasm is infectious!” -GM

“You are a fine teacher, Debby and have a lovely gift in both your art and your ability to teach, and your kind, generous spirit makes the sessions an extraordinary experience. See you again soon!” -KD

“Thank you – it was a great introduction class – I am very excited about learning more.” -ME

“Thank you so much. You have truly opened my eyes to the artistic aspects of calligraphy. I really appreciate your teaching style.” -JM

“Debby is a well-organized, practiced teacher of calligraphy. She gives clear instructions and helpful tips throughout the course and demonstrates practical and creative uses for her art. She’s enthusiastic but also learned in her craft.” -PS

     

     

    What did you like most about the course?

    • “The sequence of learning step by step.” -JL
    • “I felt the pacing was perfect. I also liked the amount of time spent on modeling and then practicing.” -CL
    • “The amazing things you can do with calligraphy. I never knew–also my understanding of how difficult it is–I like how much I have learned in such a short time and it was not overwhelming–very relaxed and comfortable.” -AW
    • “Everything” -GJ
    • “Relaxed atmosphere-great way to forget about stresses. Loved that we end up with a  booklet.” -MK

    QUESTIONS

    Happy to answer:
    860-550-3002   debby@letteringdesign.com