Introduction to Hand-Lettering – Composing Colorful Letters (French, Eng sub)

Learn hand-lettering techniques step-by-step and give incredible visual strength to your words The art of lettering lies somewhere between typography and calligraphy. It is a dance of letters, colors, and textures that contribute unique nuances to the words. Explore all this and more in the capable hands of Paris-based lettering artist Stephane Lopes. His exquisitely vibrant urban style has led him to work with brands like Pierre Hermé, Faber-Castell, and Unibet.

In this course, discover the main hand-lettering techniques step by step and learn how to illustrate a quote of your choice. Through a series of practical exercises, Stephane teaches you how to unlock your creativity by sketching inspiring words and how to digitize you work to share on social media. Get ready to master the art of hand-lettering!

What will you learn in this online course? Begin the course by getting to know a little about Stephane and his professional career. He shares his main influences and a selection of his most prominent pieces.

To give you some background, Stephane tells you the inspiring story of lettering and its most iconic works of art. Who are its defining artists? What are the most popular tools and techniques? Stephane also delves into these questions to offer you a broader understanding of visual culture and the role of lettering. Next, familiarize yourself with different typefaces, particularly script, and the main rules for balancing typography.

Once this is all clear, it’s time for you to get creating! Start by choosing a quote that inspires you and, through a series of practical exercises, learn how to sketch the first few words highlighting the ones you feel are most significant. Gradually hone your sketch and decide on the best composition.

Now comes the best part! Discover how to use decorative elements in your final design and how to create effects and textures to add volume to your piece. Stephane also introduces you to the brush pen and how to use it, as well as how to bring your creation alive with colors using a light table.

As a final step, see how to digitize your work and how to embed your design in a Photoshop image. Stephane also offers some final tips for publishing and promoting your work on social media.

What is this course’s project? Illustrate an inspiring quote using hand-lettering techniques to digitize and share on social media.

Who is this online course for?

Anyone interested in exploring the art of hand-lettering.

Although this is a beginner course, there’s also something for those who are already familiar with lettering.

Requirements and materials

To take this course you need an HB pencil, a ruler, some felt-tips, colored pencils, or watercolors, and a good dose of humor!

Access to Photoshop and a light table are also recommended, but not essential.