Not only do scripts and alphabets form bridges between cultures, but their history and the stories they tell are the perfect springboard for calligraphic experimentation. From India to Ethiopia, Tibet and beyond, Denise Lach has travelled widely in the world of script. Here, she documents complex and simple characters, playful shapes and vibrant colours, which she then translates into her own visual art. She demonstrates the exciting design possibilities offered by script: you can repeat, turn, mirror and rotate letters; you can also experiment with rhythms, contrasts, colours and line widths. In addition to calligraphic techniques, Lach introduces examples from printmaking, fabric printing, collage making and digital techniques. As illustrated by its beautifully photographed works of art - on paper, stone, fabric or ceramic material- Journeys in Calligraphy will take you to many surprising destinations.

The creative design potential of calligraphy is almost limitless: it can be a very personal pathway to explore an enormous array of sophisticated visual concepts. In this striking and original book, renowned calligrapher Denise Lach transforms images from nature into a rich source of inspiration for calligraphic compositions.

This is not a technical how-to guide, but an incitement to reinterpret our surroundings in infinitely varied lettering. Lach invites us to look closely at details and textures, expanding our powers of observation and finding ideas in the world around us. Using a range of writing tools and techniques, she takes a playful approach to written script, encouraging readers to look beyond legibility and use letterforms as building blocks to create beautiful calligraphic images.

Aimed at anyone wanting to learn more about the increasingly popular art of calligraphy and lettering, this practical introduction showcases many fine examples in the V&A's collection, and will give readers a new understanding and appreciation of letterforms. Fifteen beautiful step-by-step projects each take their cue from a different technique or tradition. Detailed instructions lead readers through the essentials of classic calligraphy styles such as Gothic and Italic lettering, on to vintage-inspired signwriting and chalkboard design and even into the elegant, image-led worlds of illuminated capitals and zoomorphic calligraphy. Designed by leading calligraphy teachers and practitioners, the projects include a handmade booklet, banner, menu, gift tags, a monogram stamp, greetings cards and more. Each project offers tips on how to take steps towards developing one's own designs. This book is packed with inspiration and practical advice to enable anyone to find new creative direction through the timeless arts of calligraphy and hand-lettering.