The Jotted Line

Let's take a walk through 35 handwriting styles —with pen collection from Dayspring Pens — that will inspire your own writing journey. In this list of handwriting examples, the first writing style will both surprise and — I hope — inspire you. 1. Meghan Markle’s Handwriting Style You may be surprised to learn that Meghan Markle is quite the dab hand at calligraphy. Not just an actress, and married to a British Prince, she also has creative flair when it comes to writing letters. In the below letter she is remarking on her guest editorship of the September issue of British Vogue. How did she get her gorgeous writing talent? Before she became a successful actor, she supported herself by crafting invitations for Robin Thicke, Dolce & Gabbana, amongst others. (1) Want the same look? Try Dayspring Pens Alexandria Fountain Pen    SHOP OUR FOUNTAIN PEN COLLECTION 2. Architect-Style Handwriting on Grid Paper Calm. Smooth. Thin, yet precise. Just how does he get those angles into each letter? Yes, you guessed it. Writing on grid paper can help with the cadence of your letter spacing. Note how the starting 'N' is twice the height as every other letter that follows. This instantly creates a sense of balance from the beginning of the phrase "Now is the ...". You can get the same pen style with a Cross Calais Rollerball Pen (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 18 reviews). The Cross Calais Pen is a marvelous gift. We have given it to many people for many different occasions. Everyone seems to love it and they always tell us later what a great pen it is. Mary F. USA Verified Buyer 3. Futuristic Handwriting Style It’s moving day. Everything’s packed up and you’re ready to go. But you live on the 6th floor so you’ll probably tie up the elevators all day. Imagine how easily a quick note can calm your neighbors? This thoughtful note was written with a blue gel pen, namely the Waterloo Blue Parker Jotter. The gel ink has a smoother, more even flow than a ballpoint or fountain so you can achieve this same look. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐37+ USA Customer Reviews for Most Affordable Personalized Pens SHOP OUR FOUNTAIN PEN COLLECTION 4. Typefaces the Numerals Ever wonder what a seven’s face would look like? To me, the digit seven hasn’t brought me the best of luck—this attitude face by Capador seems to describe it well. This should probably be among my “handwriting styles to learn” list just in case someone asks about my weekdays. 5. Eminem Writes a Letter to Tupac’s Mom When composing a thank you letter to someone you admire, you want to show respect in every way possible. Eminem managed to scribble down the best handwriting style. While he may have other different types of handwriting, his letter to Tupac’s mom isn't just neat. It also shows humbleness, respect, and discipline and is definitely slower than his rap speed. 6. A Cousin Caught Me off Guard With His Handwriting Ever wonder why some people develop decent styles of handwriting after being behind for a while? Well, with enough time and having written hundreds of letters to their loved ones, their cursive styles are bound to get stupid good. Big Mac daddy effortlessly shared his beautiful handwriting via a heartfelt note. 7. Check Out This Coworker's Handwriting When Taking A Lunch Order A hungry stomach means the face is probably grumpy. But nothing can ease the grumpiness of a co-worker who not only requests to take your order but also scribbles it down with the most amazing and unique handwriting you have ever seen. 8. Possibly The Neatest Writing No Guidelines or Templates Used There is always a special feeling when someone calls your name before they address you. And aadamblanco knew exactly how to melt Brandon’s heart with joy. An eight-word Christmas note, written in one of those clean types of handwriting, was all he needed to lift Brandon’s Christmas spirit. 9. Found a Thrift Store The last thing you would expect in a store that only deals with second-hand items is a well-written, natural handwriting style. But imagine coming across a gratitude note handwritten, perfectly and equally spaced. You not only want to read their other notes but also enjoy the eye-appealing, stylish handwriting.  Improve Your Writing: Handwriting Practice for Meditation 10. Me Being Me Do you ever read a poem and certain words stick out? Instead of letting them stay in your head, jot them down poetically with one of your best English handwriting styles. It not only makes them beautiful but also adds depth to their meaning—something you want to glare and connect with all day. 11. The Building I’m Staying in This Weekend Had This Posted in the Elevator This Morning You are probably used to seeing printed notices posted in our hotels. But what lengths would you go to ensure your package is perfectly placed at your door? Besides foregoing the printer, Patrick Bateman’s cousin (my immediate thought when I saw this cool handwriting) decided to handwrite a well-punctuated note that begins with please and ends with thanks—something every other hotel guest would come closer to read. 12. Silence There are hundreds of ways to emphasize your message. But instead of saying out your stance, imagine scribbling it down carefully. Definitely one of the best handwriting styles to copy, especially if you prefer the silence language, too. 13. Wet Pen Look Careful, you will smudge it. I’ve always admired how ancient people used quill pens to write letters without smudging ink all over the paper. Their penmanship styles not only portrays it as a noble act, but it’s obvious the letter carries an important message. 14. Common Surnames Around the World Written With Pencil Imagine being able to write numerous languages perfectly; you wonder if they are really written or drawn. If I had such a talent, I would definitely walk around asking strangers for their surnames just to impress them with my hand writing. 15. My Everyday Writing You can’t convince me she is not neat, organized, punctual, and a perfectionist. If Chesydn was my friend, I would probably nickname her “the perfect copywriter.” And while I might wish for her to teach me this nice handwriting, I really wonder how patient I have to be to ace it. 16. My 3 Casual Writing Fonts Architecture isn’t a course for the weak-hearted. As you begin your classes, you might practice architectural lettering where you may end up having different handwriting styles for every mood. And when the mood is right, you might just scribble down something like number 3—the proper architect's handwriting style. 17. Some Classic Microbiology, Anyone? Microbiology classes are stressful. But I would pay to read notes written with such neat, relaxing, and pretty handwriting. Maybe all you need is a different handwriting to ace that subject. 18. Aesthetically Pleasing Handwriting Styles Surprisingly, you never quite expect to think about penmanship at your favorite restaurant. I mean, you’re there to eat, right? This waitress at Blue’s Egg made quite an impression on her customer. The different shapes of her “e” had him questioning her Greek influence. Now that’s something you don’t experience every day! Make an impression: take a look at some quality Cross pens. 19. Pretty Punchy Handwriting If you had a sister who wrote like this, wouldn’t you want to show it off? (Or get her to write a nice valentine card on your behalf?). It took 'baby girl' six months to get a handwriting styles sample she could share with the world. A Dayspring pen is the perfect gift for such a talented sibling. Learn how to choose a luxury gift pen. 20. Former President Barack Obama’s Beautiful Stylish Handwriting Encouragingly, it’s good to know the thoughtful art of letter writing is still alive. Retired President Barack Obama couldn’t contain his appreciation for Yann Martel’s book, Life of Pi. His neat cursive penmanship says it all. It’s all in the choice of pen. Related: What Pen Does the President Use?: From Roosevelt to Biden 21. Simply Gorgeous Handwriting In the age of typing, who even asks for handwritten assignments? This annoyed teacher did. Although he explicitly said there would be no extra marks for handwriting, such beautiful penmanship should change his mind, right? And if school doesn’t work out for the writer, they can make a living making wedding invitation cards. Because that capital “T” is a poem in itself! 22. Johnny Cash love letter to June Carter Cash When you’re so used to seeing each other, a thoughtful letter can go a really long way in recreating the original spark between a couple. That’s what Johnny Cash did. Wouldn’t you want to receive this? Or better still, write one? Get started with a customized pen from Dayspring Pens. 23. Beautifully Handwritten in 1903 A thrift store is the perfect hiding place for little gems like this 117-year-old book with its extraordinary showcase of handwritin styles. Teaching cursive to a group of eager students will be a lot more interesting for this teacher. 24. Amazing Cursive Handwriting Styles Imagine receiving such a beautiful note about your child’s epic performance. Not only are you thrilled but you’re also uber-confident in her teacher. Get your little girl a customized ballpoint pen from Dayspring pens so she could be just as good (if not better). 25. Clean Cursive Handwriting Imagine reading history notes written in this beautiful font? You wouldn’t forget a thing! The bold cursive really jumps out at you. Boring facts about the sun never looked so good. 26. A Good Pen, a Paper, and Fruits Fruit never tasted, I mean, looked so yummy! This cursive handwriting brings out the flavor in the fruits’ names. The slow deliberate movements give you just enough time to imagine and salivate. 27. Exquisite Handwriting in a Beautiful Sheen Monteverde California Teal never looked so brilliant! It’s a dual-color like dark teal and red sheen. The writer uses a very special pen to achieve the light color at the top and a dark sheening at the bottom where the ink collects. He writes names of places and animals in alphabetical order in an exclusive journal for handwriting styles practice. Such dedication!  Related: What Are the Types of Fountain Pens 28. Absolutely Amazing Handwriting To achieve this, the writer used a special felt tip pen but mastered his cursive writing using regular ballpoint pens. Well, Dayspring Pens promises you customized quality ballpoint pens. 29. Neat Cursive Handwriting It takes quite a bit of focus to write these words along an imaginary straight line. If a regular pen can achieve such beautiful cursive penmanship, just imagine what you can do with a fountain pen from Dayspring Pens? 30. Impressive Cursive Written Backwards In just two weeks, this cursive wizard taught himself how to write backward (mirror writing). Do you think you have what it takes? Give it a try. 31. Elegant Bedtime Handwriting Styles Ink makes a huge difference in any piece of writing. It’s the right kind of ink that produced this breathtaking iridescent deep blue hue. The basic properties to look for in fountain pen ink are: feathering, show through, bleeding, water resistance, pigment, flow, lubrication, dry time, iron gall, shading, sheen, and shimmer. 32. Honeymoon Handwriting Imagine starting your honeymoon with such a gorgeous welcome? That’s the recipient’s story and she’s thinking about gifting Juanita, the writer. We think a lovely customized fountain pen is the perfect gift. Of all the handwriting styles this one has a gorgeous flourish in the letters H and W. Shop Dayspring Pens. 33. Attractive Plant Watering Instructions If you’re going to get something done right, you might as well leave crystal clear instructions. And she left nothing to chance. Who includes illustrations and cursive writing? This roommate does, so she must really love her plants. 34. A Neat Handwritten Invoice Who achieves such neat penmanship on cheap receipt paper? This store owner does. He took his time with this invoice and it really shows. The recipient still can’t figure out which pen he used. 35. Lastly, Vintage 'Automatic' Lettering Good handwriting doesn't always mean you spend hours practicing. Sometimes, to craft those neat handwriting styles, you just need the right tool. You might consider it if you wish to learn more than two types of handwriting styles. So many wonderful ways to immortalize lovely messages. Get started on your handwriting journey today. Don’t go it alone, can you think of anyone who’d also love a good pen? Is your brother graduating or finally getting married? Executive pens are the perfect addition to their suits. Or perhaps it’s Father’s day is around the corner and you’d like your old man to feel special. What do you give the man who already has everything? The right engraved pen should do the trick. We specialize in luxury and personalized gifts. With over 25 years of experience in the gift-giving business, we offer excellence. Our variety of executive gift pens says it all. Let us help you choose the best-customized pens. Shop Dayspring Pens today. Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.   Sources: Handwriting Matters

With the sheer variety of beautiful pen designs, you may be wondering: “How could I ever choose the perfect pen?” But not to worry! To find the perfect pen for you and your handwriting, we are going to look at how you write and exactly which writing style will be perfect for you.  Just because no two people on the planet that have identical handwriting, doesn't mean we can't find the similarities that will get you everything you need from a pen. What Is Your Handwriting Style? Let's consider a few examples of the techniques used to differentiate handwriting styles. Forensics investigators sometimes use handwriting analysis to identify a person from written documents or signatures. There are 12 characteristics used in forensic handwriting analysis that are quite interesting examples to observe in your own handwriting style: What is the thickness, strength, and flow of your letters? What is the amount of space you put between letters? Do you tend to connect or space them? Are the letters in proportion? Do you lift the nib or even your hand before writing a new letter, or do you connect them? Do you separate the capital letter from the lowercase letter, and are your words connected? Do your words begin or end with a curl, and on an upstroke or a downstroke? Do you add any extra loops or curls to your capital letter or lowercase letters? Do you apply pressure with your hand on the upstroke or the downstroke? Do your letters slant to the left, right, or is there no slant? Do you write on, below, or above the line? Are there swirls and loops in your handwriting?  How do you cross your t’s and dot your j’s and i’s? With so many characteristics to consider, it’s no wonder there’s a study called “graphology” dedicated to handwriting and analyzing its connection to psychology. (Want to learn more about what your handwriting says about you? Check out this simple Handwriting Personality Test.) Now that we have had a good look at what your own style is, let's talk about inks, penmanship styles, and the good ol' pen. What's the Deal With Ink? First up is ink. Not all ink is made the same, and they all have different strengths and weakness. There are three basic ink styles: Ballpoint — Uses oil-based ink that writes on anything and will never dry out Fountain — Harnesses liquid ink for a smooth, uninterrupted writing line Gel — Uses fast-drying gel ink as the perfect melding of the fountain pen and ballpoint ink styles. Hand dominance, how closely you group your letters together, and how much pressure you apply when writing are all impacted by the type of ink used.  For instance, lefties will have better luck with oil-based ink that dries on contact to prevent smearing. And if you write with your letters close together, a gel ink will add definition to each line. Learn More: The Ultimate Guide to Pen Refills: How to Find the Right Ink for Your Pen   What are the Different Styles of Handwriting? There are three main types of handwriting styles: Cursive Print D’Nealian Now, let’s see what makes different handwriting styles unique and how to choose a perfect pen accordingly. Cursive Handwriting Style Cursive handwriting, also known as the running hand, longhand, or script, is one of the more beautiful penmanship forms characterized by joined letters written in a fluid hand motion. Writing in cursive is visually impressive and functional. It makes writing faster and more efficient by minimizing the lifts and separations of each letter and word. It requires some practice to learn as it’s more of an artistic handwriting style. We differentiate Casual and Formal Cursive; the main difference being that the former encompasses a combination of joins and lifts while the latter is all conjoined. If we dig through the history of this beautiful penmanship style a bit, we’ll find three more subclasses of cursive writing: Looped Cursive Handwriting — Best recognized by loops that some ascenders and descenders have. The loops provide a way to join letters together with more ease. This style is the one we most commonly associate with Cursive in general. Italic Cursive — Uses non-looped joins and discourages joins from letters such as g, j, q, or y. This style is not to be confused with the “italic typed” where letters slant forward, as Italic Cursive letters slant backward. Connected Cursive / Ligature — A predecessor of both types mentioned above. It was developed for practical advantages of speed to prevent fragile quills from breaking due to frequent lifting. Fountain Pens: True Companions to Elegance   Cross Bailey Fountain Pen - Medalist   As you might have guessed, cursive handwriting and a fountain pen make the perfect match. This iconic writing instrument (a modern-day quill) is a must-have for any writing enthusiast and penmanship aficionado — especially if you wish to write or improve your cursive. Cursive may well be a “dying art”, but using a fountain pen could be the exact thing you need to be that “analog guy (or a gal) in the digital world,” as Hank Moody of Californication says. Writing in cursive while using a proper tool is much more enjoyable than the usual simple act — it’s a perfect way to slow down and reconnect with yourself and your thoughts, and sign documents with class. Get your Fountain Pen today.  Related Topic: Handwriting Practice for Meditation   Print Handwriting Style On the opposite side of cursive, there is a simpler and more usual everyday handwriting style. Known as block letters, ball & stick, print script, or manuscript — children learn print handwriting at the earliest age in most English speaking countries. Sometimes the terms print or block letters are used to describe block capitals — both small and large capital letters that imitate the typeset of capital letters. Print letters are disconnected and much easier to read, which is why this type of penmanship is perfect for, and is often a requirement of filling out official forms. Ballpoint Pens: Trusty Everyday Heroes   Cross Classic Century Medalist Ballpoint Pen   Ballpoint pens are the epitome of reliability and function to be used for a lifetime. There is a reason for them being so popular, as we use them for everyday writing purposes. Being reliable and consistent, they are probably the safest bet as a beautiful and thoughtful gift — especially if you’re not sure which pen style the person you wish to gift it to uses. Get one at Dayspring Pens. D’Nealian Handwriting Style Image from: wikimedia The final style of handwriting is a “best of both worlds” sort of a thing — D’Nealian penmanship. This handwriting style incorporates both print and cursive handwriting, and has emerged out of practical need. The early 20th century — with its technical revolutions — affected the growth of bureaucratic paperwork. And cursive fell short, trying to keep up. To add to that, cursive handwriting is more difficult for children to learn due to the finger movements necessary that often left their hands cramped. In answer, a change happened to the cursive style — it was originally Austin Palmer, a handwriting analyst, that thought of eliminating all the loops and unnecessary flourishes. There have been many instances of this “new and simpler cursive” style, but D’Nealian became the most popular thanks to Donald Thurber who came up with it to help children learn more easily when going from print to cursive. Rollerball Pens: Skillful and Versatile Flair Cross Century II Medalist Selectip Rollerball Pen What better way to compliment a combination of cursive and print than with a writing instrument that itself is a medium between ballpoints and fountain pens? Rollerball pens use water-based ink, but have mechanics that are similar to a ballpoint pen. This means they are great at creating clear lines for the constant pick up and put down of print or creating a smooth line for the connections of cursive.  Further Reading: What Is a Rollerball Pen?   Gel Pens: Sign Anything with Panache   Parker Jotter Gel Pen   And if you like bold coloring in your handwriting, then you can’t go wrong with a fine Gel pen. The ink takes a little longer to dry, but it won’t bleed through the page when you sign important documents. It enables you to keep that smooth writing feel while not worrying about refilling the ink. Shop Today, So You Can Sign in Style Tomorrow If you’ve read this far, then you are probably a true writing enthusiast and know what a difference a good writing tool makes. We hope this article has helped you determine the perfect pen that will make your handwriting pop. If you're looking for the best engraved pen gift, head over here to learn more.  With daily practice, you can learn any style of handwriting and make it your own. Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.

The best pen for good handwriting can significantly impact one's writing style. Throughout life, I struggled with inconsistent and messy handwriting. I often neglected to dot the i's or cross the t’s. Worse still, the words danced high above the lines and wandered off the page! Years later, there was not much of an improvement in my handwriting style. However, after researching, I discovered the importance of choosing the right pen. I invested in some quality pens and put in the time to practice - and boom! My handwriting improved. Now, I walk around like a scribe, writing everything I can. So, how can you improve your handwriting? It all starts with your pen. (Trust me!) Image from: unsplash.com What’s in the Best Pen for Good Handwriting? Nothing is set in stone when it comes to the perfect pen. The right one for you may not be the same choice for me. However, good handwriting is a worthy investment and sourcing the best pens is a big step in the right direction. Dayspring Pens proved a great tool for me and I found what works for my handwriting style. I’ve identified some markers to help you find the ideal pens to improve your handwriting. Rate of Ink Drying  Have you ever written a full page with a fountain pen and in a split second, you swiped your hand over the paper - and the ink smudged? Not exciting at all.     Different types of ink dry at different rates. If you lack patience and are prone to smudging, you should get a ballpoint pen because the ink dries fast on the paper. This keeps your handwriting neat and impressive. A good pick is the Waterman Hemisphere Black Ballpoint Pen, going for $69.99. The gold trim not only adds to its sophistication but also the twisty action is a great take on the classic ballpoint. People assume that ballpoints are basic. But Dayspring Pens are elegant, good for showing off your handwriting, and have a great finish, regardless of the model.  Smooth Writing Experience As you improve your handwriting, there’s nothing so frustrating as your pen interrupting the flow and rhythm of your writing. I like a smoother pen, especially when I’m writing on paper for a long time. The best pen for this purpose is a rollerball or gel pen. These bad boys are smooth as molasses, enabling you to write with less pressure compared to ballpoints.  My favorite is the Cross Bailey Medalist Selectip Pen, a best seller for its luxe chrome barrel and lifetime mechanical warranty. It will have you rolling through your writing, page after page. Functionality of the Pen As I mentioned above, different pens work for different purposes. For everyday use, I prefer ballpoints and gel pens. I like to sign checks and paperwork with fountain pens, for that extra flair. Many people get pens for special occasions like signing marriage certificates or contracts. The beauty of Dayspring Pens is in the variety. These pens cater to a wide range of handwriting interests including calligraphy. A calligraphy fountain pen is great for writing enthusiasts.  Further Reading: The Ultimate Guide to Different Pen Styles: Ballpoint, Rollerball, Fountain Pen, and Gel Ink Pen Personal Touch What has been most memorable for me in this quest is having personalized pens. Purchasing Dayspring Pens for myself with my name or initials engraved on them not only makes me feel prioritized but also makes my handwriting stand out. It may sound surprising, but a study by Jie Zen in 2017 explains that consumers often need to feel unique and stand out. As a result, they buy customized goods to satisfy this personal need.     Cross Calais Ballpoint Pen - Blue Lacquer How was I Able To Improve My Writing Quickly?  When I found the ideal pens for me according to my needs, it was easier to put in the work to want to improve my handwriting. Below are some useful pointers to improve your handwriting and take it to the next level.  Hold Your Pen the Right Way How you hold your pen influences the quality of your handwriting and how long you can write effectively. Three fingers hold the pen in position; the thumb, the index finger, and the middle finger. The ring and pinky finger stay in place and offer support as you write on the paper. Maintaining the right posture also ensures that you write consistently. Your legs should form a 90-degree angle between the seat and the floor to straighten your back. Avoid the urge to lean towards the writing paper - it will negatively affect your handwriting (and your back!). Image from: merakildh.in     Find a Unique Writing Style There are countless fonts and writing styles out there and it always helps to look up styles that you like. Then, you can write them in your handwriting to create your own style.  Changing your writing style often may not be helpful - it is more practical to choose one style and perfect it. That consistency helps to improve your handwriting. Open the Pinterest app on your phone to check out different types of writing and settle on what works for you.  Practice Handwriting Exercises Practice makes perfect, and it’s the same for handwriting. Doing exercises helps to ensure that you slant and shape letters well. Every letter counts. Consistent handwriting practice enables you to be aware of your strengths and weaknesses. This awareness in practice helped me perfect my handwriting in a few months.  Image from: pinterest Here are a couple of exercises that help in improving your handwriting. I love these because they are light and varied. Also, these exercises are convertible into whatever format that works for you - PDF, File, or Docx. Some of the exercises are for school children and I was able to tap into my inner child and relive the good old days. Using lined paper is best for these exercises because it improves penmanship and makes practicing easy.  Explore More: 35 Handwriting Styles We Wish We Had   Consistent Practice You can do an exercise once or twice but for it to amount to anything, you must cultivate consistency. This handwriting practice builds confidence. You will improve your handwriting in no time.  It may seem boring to have to sit down daily to write. I decided to make it simple and fun. In every meeting, I volunteer to write minutes (much to the surprise of my boss). In the morning, I write down neat to-do lists and shopping lists. Other ways I practice include journaling, hand lettering, and writing notes to my loved ones. This made me embrace the practice without feeling like I had to do too much. Always have paper around and make it count. To jog your memory, here are my favorites Dayspring Pens : Waterman Hemisphere Ballpoint  Cross Bailey Medalist Selectip Dayspring Pens Are the Best Pens for Good Handwriting Deciding to work on my handwriting paid off with diligence and the right choice of pens. Dayspring has a variety of good quality pens at great prices coupled with excellent customer service. That’s why I’m now forever loyal to their brand. Aside from getting a lovely set of pens for yourself, you should pick up one or two for your friend, boss, or loved one. The catch is, you can get them customized for the occasion - be it Christmas, Thanksgiving, or even graduations. There’s nothing as special as getting elegant pens made just for you. Buy Dayspring Pens today, for a mélange of excellence, craftsmanship, and unrivaled quality.  Featured image: Freepik Sam Di Nardo is an author for Dayspring Pens, where she has honed her expertise in ballpoint, rollerball, gel and fountain pens since joining the team in 2018. From her initial role as an Engraver to becoming the Production Manager, Sam's journey has been marked by her passion for the history, manufacturing, and the unique value of gifted writing instruments. A graduate of Regent University with a degree in English Literature and a special interest in Old Norse literature, dive deeper into Sam's world and discover why she's your trusted guide in the realm of gift pens. Follow Sam on LinkedIn.

Sometimes it may seem impossible to write both neatly and fast. Neat handwriting is one of those skills that eludes many people.  When trying to write fast, your handwriting ends up looking unreadable and messy. When you try to write neatly, it seems to take forever. You may be frustrated and wondering - What is the solution? Is it really possible to write fast yet neatly? Let’s find out… The 4 Best Tips to Achieving a Neat Handwriting When Writing Fast How do you write neatly and fast? Use a comfortable pen grip Make your letters small, tall, and skinny Maintain correct posture Use the "arm movement method"  DISCOVER MORE: WRITE FASTER WITH A PERSONALIZED PEN!   We'll take a closer look at each one of these key tips below! Why Would You Need to Write Neatly and Fast? There are some instances when you will have to write very quickly, yet legibly. Students for example often face this dilemma during lessons.  If you are studying, you will need to be able to listen and take notes at the same time. Often, the speaker will not slow down and it’s up to you to keep up.  They may also have to increase handwriting speed when answering tests or exams. With limited time, they need to record their answers as fast as possible. Being able to write quickly could be the difference between a pass and a fail. Another instance is when you have a flash of inspiration and need to jot it down quickly. Many creatives have this problem. They think of a brilliant idea and by the time they make a note, it’s forgotten. Quick handwriting skills would definitely come in handy in such situations.  The Role of Your Pen in Maintaining a Neat Handwriting When Writing Fast “The pen is the tongue of the mind.” -Horace As Horace said, no matter how technologically advanced a society is, the pen is always present. It can never be replaced.  When wondering how to write neatly and fast, you will need to find the correct equipment.  Your pen will play a big role in the speed and legibility of your handwriting as well as handwriting style.   Key features to look out for in a ‘fast pen’ include: Balance - Where does the weight lie on the pen? Is it towards the tip, the back or the middle? One way to check is to lightly hold the pen in the crook of your thumb and index finger. There should be no excess weight towards one end. Tip friction/pressure - The point at which the pen makes contact with paper should have minimum friction. It should allow for easy, quick ink-flow.  Nib/writing point size - The thickness of the nib/writing point will determine speed.  Tips between 0.7mm - 0.9mm may be easier to use but they result in larger strokes which take more time to complete.  Use thinner tips for smaller letters (explained below). Fine point fountain pens and rollerball pens are the best when looking for a thin-tipped pen. Fit - Your pen should have no loose or ill-fitting parts. The cap should close snugly and the clip should be able to snap back when tugged slightly.  The ideal pens for ‘speed-writing’ are fountain and rollerball pens because minimal pressure is needed. The ink flow is constant and the light touch lets you write much faster.  Take a look at this comparison table for various pens and their advantages. Each one has a different impact on your handwriting style.  Shop Now: Personalized Pens from Dayspring Pens 1.) Use the Most Comfortable Pen Grip Everyone holds their pens differently and your grip is entirely personal. As long as it results in neat handwriting, no single grasp can be labeled right or wrong.  Studies show that grasp patterns do not actually play a big role in handwriting speed. Experts, however, agree on these two methods of holding a pen: 1. The pen is between the thumb and index finger and the body of the pen rests on the middle finger. The ring finger and little finger are tucked into the palm. This is the most commonly used handwriting method, known as the dynamic tripod grip. 2. The pen is between the thumb and both the index finger and the middle fingers. The body rests on the ring finger. Known as the dynamic quadrupod grip, it is also widely popular and one of the most effective.  They are accepted as a way to reduce strain on fingers and wrists and are the most popular grasp methods in handwriting techniques. The lateral versions of these grips are also common in handwriting. The one major difference is the way the thumb crosses over the pen and touches the forefinger. Source: researchgate.net However you hold your pen, you want to make sure you hold it lightly with minimal tension to ensure you maintain a neat handwriting throughout.  A wider pen allows for a more relaxed grip so stay away from thin-barreled pens. These cause you to squeeze the pen causing unnecessary strain on fingers.   2.) Make Your Letters Small, Tall and Skinny You can increase your writing speed by decreasing the size of your letters. The smaller each individual letter is, the less time it takes to complete it.  You do not want to decrease the letter size so much as to make your note illegible. Rather, a reduction of 10 - 15% is enough to increase your handwriting speed.  It has also been found that it is easier for us to write up and down than side-to-side. This is because our fingers only bend up and down so sideways motions are more difficult. Making your letters taller and skinnier is a way to reduce horizontal movements. Another simple way to improve your handwriting is to use lined paper. The lines give guidance and are a way to keep the letters neat.  3.) Posture Your posture when writing will determine the amount of stress placed on your various muscles and thus influence the speed.  If you have incorrect posture, your muscles will cramp, and inevitably, cause you to write slower.  These tips outline what posture will help improve your handwriting. • Both feet are flat on the floor.• Knees are at a 90° angle.• Your back is straight and slightly inclined towards the desk.• Forearms rest in the desk with elbows at 90°.• Non-writing hand holds onto paper at a 45° angle.• Your neck and shoulders are relaxed.• Whole body faces the desk directly.• Paper tilted to the right (for right-handed people). The opposite applies to left-handed people.   4.) Use the Arm Movement Method of Writing According to the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the normal method of handwriting taught in schools often causes cramps as it uses the smaller hand muscles. Another mode of writing known as the ‘American method’ is a movement of the full arm off the shoulder. It does however not lend itself to rapid writing due to the energy required to move such large parts.  The best method for rapid writing is the ‘Arm Movement Method’. Here is a breakdown of how to use this method of handwriting. (Note: This is for right-handed people. If you ’re left-handed, just reverse the instructions to fit)  • Place the center of your forearm on the desk, with the fleshy part taking the weight.• Extend your arm behind the elbow over the edge of the table. • Rest your hand on the third and fourth fingers (or preferred pen grasp).• Use your wrist and forearm to move across the page instead of just your fingers.• Keep your elbow at an angle of more than 90° to avoid excessive flexion. Although there are numerous Dos and Don’ts when it comes to correct positioning, the actual arm movements are key. If you want faster writing, try to use your forearm muscles to move across the page. Avoid relying on the delicate wrist and finger muscles. Expert Tip: Cursive handwriting is often faster than print. More connected letters allow for a smoother and faster transition between words. The table below highlights some techniques you can use to help you achieve neat handwriting: Technique Description Effect Proper grip Hold the pen with a relaxed grip Improved control, neater writing Consistent size Maintain uniform letter size Enhances overall neatness Posture Sit with proper posture Affects consistency and legibility Line spacing Adequate spacing between lines Prevents crowding, enhances readability Slanting Maintain consistent slant Contributes to a uniform and neat appearance Finding the Right Pen for Fast Yet Neat Handwriting We have seen that fountain pens and rollerball pens are the best for fast, neat handwriting. Luckily, there is no need to spend hours trying to find the correct pen in your quest. We believe that handwriting is an art and should be treated as such. That is why we offer a wide range of customizable pens that will enable you to write neatly, yet fast. Only the highest quality will do, as experienced by this happy customer. "My son loved his pen. He said it wrote really well and the quality was better than expected. It was beautifully packaged ...." Cinthia F.   Our fountain pens offer a unique experience for both beginners and aficionados. The smooth ink flow and rich lines delivered by Dayspring Pens rollerball pens are unrivaled.   Or check out some of our top everyday carry pens! And you can choose an engraved pen gift, if you're stuck for ideas. Even better, we offer free engraving on all pens to make your ‘tool’ unique and special.  Why wait? Shop online now for speedy delivery.

Have you ever wondered what a graphology expert would have to say about your handwriting? Have you ever wondered what that even means? Graphology is the analysis of the characteristics of a person’s writing, in other words: handwriting analysis. Such a study is said to reveal the emotional and psychological state of the person who wrote the script at the time it was written. Similar to a personality quiz, a thorough look at your own writing will uncover what you are feeling at the given moment. These feelings bubble to the surface and are expressed through your writing style. Grab your favorite pen, write the following phrase, then you can start the quiz. "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog." If you’re eager to learn more about what your handwriting styles say about you, follow our simple steps outlined below in our handwriting analysis quiz. And guess what these messy famous signatures say about their owners! Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.

Peaceful Penmanship Printouts Enjoy a few hours of quiet reflection and improve your handwriting styles with these handwriting practice samples. Choose from a variety of classic writing styles, poems, psalms and a sonnet. Download and print your favorite, then settle into your most comfortable chair and let the ink flow. Don’t have the perfect pen? View our excellent range of quality fountain pens or try one of our most popular writing utensils, the Waterman Hemisphere Fountain Pen. The Road Not Taken By Robert Frost This classic poem by American poet, Robert Frost, spans one traveler’s journey down the path less taken. But is everything as it seems? Perhaps, either trail you decide on will take you exactly to where you’re meant to be. Download Font 1 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 2 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 3 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 4 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 5 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Sonnet 18: Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? By William Shakespeare Is it an understatement to say the Bard had a way with words? Get into the spirit of the sonnets and dedicate this practice to a loved one. “But thy eternal summer shall not fade?” Do you think this was written in a fit of passion? Or after Shakespear forgot Anne’s birthday? Download Font 1 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 2 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 3 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 4 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 5 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Caged Bird By Maya Angelou Before the Girl Power movement, there was Maya Angelou. Angelou’s writing has been inspiring women and the downtrodden for decades. She beautifully pens the experience of continuing to sing despite having dreams thwarted along the way. What’s your distant hill? Download Font 1 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 2 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 3 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 4 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 5 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Psalm 23 King James Version A beacon of light for those going through tough times, Psalm 23 has comforted many in its 2000+ years. No matter your beliefs, there is solace to be found in the calm and guiding presence of The Shepherd. Download Font 1 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 PNG - Pg 1 Download Font 2 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 PNG - Pg 1 Download Font 3 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 PNG - Pg 1 Download Font 4 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 PNG - Pg 1 Download Font 5 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 PNG - Pg 1 Invictus By William Ernest Henley The old saying, ‘fall down seven times and get up eight”, couldn’t be more accurate for the feelings evoked by Henley’s classic poem. You can’t control what happens, you can only take ownership of how you react. Who do you thank for your unconquerable soul? Download Font 1 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 2 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 3 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 4 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Download Font 5 as: PDF - Download all pages JPG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 PNG - Pg 1 | Pg 2 Daniel Whitehouse is the President and CEO of Dayspring Pens. He uses his expertise with premium writing utensils to create exceptional, intentional products and craft easy-to-understand articles that help both new and experienced users learn more about their writing tools. He lives in Virginia where he and his wife are raising their four children. To learn more about him and his insights about custom engraved gift pens, follow Daniel on LinkedIn.