IAMPETH 2026 - Weaver Writing Style - Bill Kemp

ALL SKILL LEVELS | POINTED PEN

This script was developed by the late Gwen Weaver (1950 – 2013). Gwen loved the pointed pen and just wanted another script to be associated with the pointed pen. That is one of the reasons why she developed it. Gwen taught this script at several IAMPETH conferences, and used the script on hundreds of commission pieces. I am honored to have worked with Gwen, and am proud to teach this script and pass it along to new calligraphers.

CLASS SUPPLIES

• Pointed pen holder: the holder can be straight or oblique; since this is a very vertical script, you must determine which will be more comfortable. I will be using an oblique holder, as that is what I am most comfortable with.
• Nib: because I do not know whether you are a heavy-handed calligrapher, I recommend beginners use a Nikko G. The Nikko G is a stiff nib and allows beginners to use it with ease. I particularly like using the Nikko for Weaver Writing Style, as its stiffness helps keep shades thin or in a normal stroke. A more flexible nib can produce heavier shades, but if you are accustomed to flexibility, controlling thick and thin strokes may be challenging.
• Paper: I will provide guide sheets for the lettering and typically copy them onto paper that works well with the pointed pen and most inks. I use Rhodia and Mnemosyne blank paper for pointed pen work, as this smooth paper accepts the pointed pen and most inks well. If you have paper that you prefer and that works well with the pointed pen, you may use it.
• Ink: use an ink you like, ensuring it works with your chosen pen and paper. I will be using Norton Walnut ink during class, as I find it works very well with the pointed pen and performs well in Weaver Writing Style.