An often overlooked ‘trick’ when trying to write plain or ornamental penmanship using muscular movement as described by the past masters is to use a few sheets of paper as cushion sheets (2-10 pages) to give the writing paper a little spring. This form of script requires a very flexible nib and a SUPERLIGHT touch. Writing on a hard surface with a single sheet of paper can work against you in OP. Past master Clinton C. Canan (1873-1904) commented on the importance of using cushion sheets (taken from The Canan Book): Use six or eight sheets of paper at a time, as this gives the proper surface to write upon. Another past master, Mary Champion in her book, ‘The Champion Method of Practical Business Writing” states: “Have at least ten sheets of paper under the one on which you am writing.” Brian Walker is quoted as saying (in reference to superfine hairlines) only the ink should touch the paper! And John DeCollibus once told me that the cushion sheets permit the paper to press against the nib RATHER than the nib pressing against the paper when executing the finest hairlines! Both men are current IAMPETH members. How many sheets are enough? If the paper becomes too soft/spring control will be lost. Therefore, use just enough sheets to give your paper some spring but not so many that you lose control.
Posted on: Sat, 26 Jul 2014 03:39:42 +0000
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