Putting on the Ritz: Decorative Hand Lettering

Do you want to add something unique to your layout? How about a little pizzazz that is distinctively your own? The same papers and embellishments are available to almost anyone, but you possess one thing that is as unique to you as your own fingerprint: your handwriting. While I try to encourage everyone to use it occasionally throughout their scrapbooks for journaling, I also love to see people use handwriting to create their own titles.

Though it may seem like a huge challenge for you, getting results that you can be satisfied with are really not that hard. Remember when you went to kindergarten and your teacher showed you how to write your name? It was mainly a study in letter formation and proficient hand movements. The same is true here. Once you establish a comfortable grip and flow to your writing, it will not take long before you are mastering the technique. As with anything, the first step is simply to practice.

To get you started, I would suggest that you look at other layouts that utilize handwriting to identify what style appeals to you. Then, get some scratch paper and try to mimic it by either tracing over the writing or doing it freehand. Try to apply even pressure as you move your hand. Keep practicing with different letters, words and sizes until you feel comfortable.

Here are a few examples of layouts using handwriting:

Expressive by Andrea Steed

Enchanted by Dreamweaver

My Love by yazbelle

This Little Light of Mine by Trish Dykes

When you are ready to attempt handwriting on your layout, there are a few things to consider. Textured cardstock and paper will be harder to write on than a smooth surface. If you are persnickety about it being straight, lightly draw a pencil line to keep your letters even. Also, you will have to be more conscious of your letter spacing if you use a wide pen or marker. For the best results when writing directly onto the layout (as opposed to using a separate piece of cardstock), you may want to draw your lettering with a pencil and then finalize it with your pen when you are pleased with it.

Lastly, don't be too hard on yourself. It won't be perfect, but that's the best thing about it - it doesn't have to be. The goal is to capture our own personalities and penmanship in our scrapbooks, along with the photos that tell the story. My hope is that you will see the value of adding a unique ‘signature' to your pages with your handwriting. Just think of it as another little part of you that you are leaving for your grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

*If you are still not getting the look that you are after with your own hand, pick yourself up a copy of Heidi Swapp's "Love your Handwriting" book. It is chock full of useful information to build your confidence.

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