Italic Calligraphy Guide Sheet
Italic calligraphy practice guides sized by nib width, with a nib-width ladder, x-height, ascender lines and slant lines.
What it's for
Italic hand guidelines are measured in nib widths: the x-height is commonly about 5 nib widths, with ascenders and descenders of 3 to 5 more. Pick your nib size and the page draws the ladder and lines to match, with a gentle forward slant.
Which size to choose
A4 or US Letter suits most broad-edge pens. Use A3 for nibs of 5 mm or wider so each row still fits several words.
Printing tips
- Pick the paper size above first. The print dialog should then show the same size; if it doesn't, choose it there too.
- Set Scale to 100% or Actual size (not "Fit to page") so measurements stay true. Margins are already built into the sheet.
- Turn off "Headers and footers" in the print dialog for a clean edge.
- Choose Grey to save ink, or Black if you will photocopy the page.