The guidelines
- Baseline (the heavier line): every letter sits on it.
- X-height line (dashed): the top of the small letters, like x, a and o.
- Ascender line: how high tall letters (b, d, h, k, l) and capitals reach.
- Descender line: how low the tails of g, j, p, q and y go.
- Slant lines: keep every letter at the same angle. Copperplate is traditionally written at about 55°.
Choosing the size
Match the x-height to your pen: small nibs and fine brush pens work well at 5 to 7 mm, large brush pens and markers at 10 to 15 mm. Taller ascenders and descenders (the ratio setting) give an elegant, flowing look; equal heights suit modern brush lettering.
Printing tips
- Print at 100% (Actual size), not Fit to page, so squares and line spacing keep their exact size.
- Light lines (gray or light blue) are easy to write over and fade into the background of a scan or photo; use darker lines for drawing practice or when the paper will be photocopied.
- Need a stack? Set the number of pages and print the PDF once, or print one page and photocopy it.
- Thicker paper (24 to 32 lb or 90 to 120 gsm) takes ink pens and markers without bleeding through.