Seven Tips to Improve your Handwriting
Impress your Friends.
In the days before Christmas 2012, when I decided to encourage my four grandchildren to do better handwriting. I have learned that it is something that is not taught as much in schools as it was in my day, but of course then we had no computers, or mobile phones that enabled one to send messages using a mini keyboard. Use really is less opportunities to use handwriting these days, unless of course, you set out to do more handwriting.
As I did my research I was rather horrified that so many teachers and others believed that handwriting is a ‘dying skill’ that will not be used much in future. It is destined to be an ‘art’ like many of the other ‘arts’ that are taught as a ‘hobby’.
I was amused to read in one article that the only way to write a “HELP!” sign on a deserted beach, island or desert is with hand writing (in BIG letters)! I also spoke with people who couldn’t remember the last time they wrote more than a few words by hand. Write letters? People admitted that they no longer did this – their only communication was with mobile phone or internet.
I purchased a Sheaffer Calligraphy Set from Officeworks, which included three pens with three different nibs, and a collection of different coloured inks, an instruction booklet and a blank practice pad. I started to practice. I was surprised that despite my school days being over half a century ago, my writing is still quite good. I guess I have had many years of practice before I started to use computers.
In the new year I will post a number of letters and cards which I will write after Christmas, all ready to be posted soon after the New Year festivities have subsided. I’m on a roll. All fired up and ready to go.
During my short research I have discovered that folk love a handwritten letter, or indeed a letter that comes through the post, so I am hoping that in 2013 I will put a few smiles on faces.
So here are my tips to improve your handwriting skills:
1.Make a decision to do more handwriting
2.Purchase a good pen/pencil to use for your handwriting. (I recommend a good inexpensive fountain pen)
3.Get yourself some lined practice books
4.Find some handwriting examples, e.g. books, free instructions on line
5.Practice, Practice, Practice
6. Attend Calligraphy or Handwriting Classes.
7.Use your new handwriting skills at every opportunity; writing letters, cards, notes, journal etc.
