Basic strokes for getting started with calligraphy

The basic strokes for getting started with calligraphy are: dot, horizontal, vertical, left, back, hook, pick, and fold.

1. Click.

2. Horizontal.

3. Vertical.

4. Skip.

5. Na.

6. Hook.

7. Pick.

8. Discount.

The writing brush is a traditional writing tool used to write Chinese characters. It is characterized by rich changes in the strokes and smooth and beautiful lines. The writing brush consists of two parts: the pen barrel and the brush bristles. The pen barrel is usually made of bamboo or wood, with moderate thickness and comfortable grip. The bristles are the key part of the brush, which determines the change of the pen edge and the writing effect. The bristles of brushes are usually made of animal hair such as wool, wolf hair, and horse hair.

Precautions for writing with a brush

1. Preparation of pen and ink: Make sure the ink used is of good quality and suitable for writing with a brush. The ink should be fluid and even in color, not too thick or too thin. Before you start writing, dilute the ink to the appropriate consistency and rub the ink in an inkstone or cartridge to ensure an even color.

2. Maintenance of brush bristles: The bristles of the brush are very fine and easily damaged, so they need to be maintained with care. After use, the brush bristles should be washed thoroughly with clean water, gently dried with a paper towel, and then rearranged into their original shape. Avoid bending or excessively damaging the bristles. It is best to use a pen cover or cardboard box for protection when storing.

3. Writing posture: Maintaining correct posture and gestures helps to write smoothly and accurately. Hold the pen barrel in the middle position, do not tightly grasp the tip or tail of the pen; move your arms, wrists and fingers in a coordinated manner to provide sufficient strength and flexibility.

4. Control the stroke: The charm of brush calligraphy lies in the variable stroke. Control the strength and angle of your fingers. Press the pen lightly to make the pen edge thin, and press the pen harder to make the pen edge thicker. Gradually master the appropriate pen pressure during practice to achieve the line changes required for your written work.

5. Stroke order: Follow the correct stroke order and write strokes according to the standard writing method. The correct stroke order not only makes the lettering neat, but also contributes to natural and smooth writing.

6. Practice and imitation: Brush calligraphy requires continuous practice and accumulation. Learn and master calligraphy techniques and writing styles by imitating classic brush calligraphy. At the same time, you must also have the courage to create and express your own style and personality.