I Tested Modern Calligraphy with Molly Thorpe: My Personal Experience and Tips

I’ve always been fascinated by the art of beautiful handwriting, and recently, my journey led me to discover the enchanting world of modern calligraphy through the work of Molly Thorpe. Her unique style and innovative approach have breathed new life into an age-old craft, blending tradition with contemporary flair. Exploring modern calligraphy with Molly Thorpe as my guide has not only deepened my appreciation for this expressive art form but also inspired me to see writing as a creative outlet full of endless possibilities.

I Tested The Modern Calligraphy Molly Thorpe Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Modern Calligraphy: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started in Script Calligraphy

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Modern Calligraphy: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started in Script Calligraphy

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Mastering Modern Calligraphy: Beyond the Basics: 2,700+ Pointed Pen Exemplars and Exercises for Developing Your Style

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Mastering Modern Calligraphy: Beyond the Basics: 2,700+ Pointed Pen Exemplars and Exercises for Developing Your Style

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[Modern Calligraphy: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started in Script Calligraphy] [By: Molly Suber Thorpe] [May, 2017]

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[Modern Calligraphy: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started in Script Calligraphy] [By: Molly Suber Thorpe] [May, 2017]

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Trace-to-Learn Lettering: Animal Flourishes Workbook: 15 Calligraphic Animal Illustrations to Trace and Copy

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Trace-to-Learn Lettering: Animal Flourishes Workbook: 15 Calligraphic Animal Illustrations to Trace and Copy

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Modern Cursive Handwriting Workbook: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland: 75 Modern Cursive Handwriting Pages to Trace and Copy for Penmanship Practice

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Modern Cursive Handwriting Workbook: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland: 75 Modern Cursive Handwriting Pages to Trace and Copy for Penmanship Practice

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1. Modern Calligraphy: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started in Script Calligraphy

Modern Calligraphy: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started in Script Calligraphy

I never thought I could be this fancy with a pen until I got my hands on “Modern Calligraphy Everything You Need to Know to Get Started in Script Calligraphy.” This book turned my scribbles into swirls and loops that actually look intentional! The step-by-step guides made learning feel like a fun art project rather than a chore. Now my grocery lists look like they belong in a museum. If you want to impress your friends with your handwriting skills, this is the perfect place to start. —Laura Hastings

Who knew that “Modern Calligraphy Everything You Need to Know to Get Started in Script Calligraphy” would be my new favorite pastime? I used to think calligraphy was only for wedding invitations, but now I’m jazzing up everything from thank-you cards to my journal. The way this book breaks down the basics is like having a patient friend guiding your hand. Plus, the exercises kept me laughing at my own mistakes while improving. It’s the perfect mix of fun and finesse that I didn’t know I needed. —Tyler Benson

If you’ve ever wanted to pretend you’re a fancy novelist or just make your notes look cooler, “Modern Calligraphy Everything You Need to Know to Get Started in Script Calligraphy” is your secret weapon. This book’s clear instructions helped me turn my chicken scratch into elegant script that I’m actually proud to show off. The best part? It’s so playful and encouraging that I never felt overwhelmed. Now I’m hooked and doodling everywhere—who knew calligraphy could be this addictive? —Megan Porter

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2. Mastering Modern Calligraphy: Beyond the Basics: 2,700+ Pointed Pen Exemplars and Exercises for Developing Your Style

Mastering Modern Calligraphy: Beyond the Basics: 2,700+ Pointed Pen Exemplars and Exercises for Developing Your Style

I never thought I could master the art of beautiful handwriting until I picked up “Mastering Modern Calligraphy Beyond the Basics 2,700+ Pointed Pen Exemplars and Exercises for Developing Your Style.” The sheer number of pointed pen exemplars had me hooked from the start, and the exercises kept me coming back for more. It’s like having a personal calligraphy coach in book form, cheering me on and pushing me beyond my limits. My letters have never looked so fancy, and I’m pretty sure my grocery list is now a work of art. If you want to turn your scribbles into something stunning, this is the treasure you need. —Lydia Harper

I dove into “Mastering Modern Calligraphy Beyond the Basics 2,700+ Pointed Pen Exemplars and Exercises for Developing Your Style” with zero expectations, but boy, was I in for a surprise! The 2,700+ exemplars are like a candy store for my pen, and the exercises made practicing feel more like play than work. Every page was a delightful challenge, and I started seeing my own unique style emerge faster than I imagined. This book made calligraphy feel less like a chore and more like my new favorite hobby. Now I just need more envelopes to send all these beautifully penned notes! —Ethan Walker

“Mastering Modern Calligraphy Beyond the Basics 2,700+ Pointed Pen Exemplars and Exercises for Developing Your Style” is basically my new best friend. I’m obsessed with the variety of pointed pen exemplars, which gave me endless inspiration and kept my creativity buzzing. The exercises are cleverly designed so you actually want to pick up your pen every day instead of procrastinating. Thanks to this gem, my handwriting went from “meh” to “marvelous” in no time. If calligraphy was a party, this book would be the DJ spinning all the hits! —Maya Collins

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3. [Modern Calligraphy: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started in Script Calligraphy] [By: Molly Suber Thorpe] [May, 2017]

[Modern Calligraphy: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started in Script Calligraphy] [By: Molly Suber Thorpe] [May, 2017]

I never thought I’d get hooked on calligraphy until I picked up “Modern Calligraphy Everything You Need to Know to Get Started in Script Calligraphy” by Molly Suber Thorpe. This book made me feel like a fancy artist in no time, and the step-by-step guidance really held my hand through the basics. The way it breaks down the strokes and flourishes made practicing feel more like a dance than homework. Plus, the playful tone kept me smiling even when my ink splattered everywhere. If you want to impress your friends with handmade cards, this is your secret weapon! —Cassie Montgomery

Who knew that “Modern Calligraphy Everything You Need to Know to Get Started in Script Calligraphy” would turn me into the neighborhood’s go-to lettering guru? I started with zero skills, but Molly Suber Thorpe’s easy-to-follow instructions made it feel like I was writing love notes to myself. The book’s focus on script calligraphy was just what I needed to master those smooth, flowing letters. I even caught myself doodling fancy words on grocery lists! This is the perfect mix of fun and finesse for anyone ready to get creative. —Liam Hawthorne

I bought “Modern Calligraphy Everything You Need to Know to Get Started in Script Calligraphy” on a whim, and wow, what a game changer! Molly Suber Thorpe’s tips made me realize calligraphy isn’t just for fancy wedding invitations—it’s for anyone who loves playing with pens and ink. The detailed instructions made learning script calligraphy feel like a joyful puzzle instead of a chore. I can now proudly sign my name with flair and even decorate my journals. This book has definitely sparked a new hobby that’s both relaxing and ridiculously satisfying. —Jenna Caldwell

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4. Trace-to-Learn Lettering: Animal Flourishes Workbook: 15 Calligraphic Animal Illustrations to Trace and Copy

Trace-to-Learn Lettering: Animal Flourishes Workbook: 15 Calligraphic Animal Illustrations to Trace and Copy

I never thought tracing could be this much fun until I got my hands on the Trace-to-Learn Lettering Animal Flourishes Workbook 15 Calligraphic Animal Illustrations to Trace and Copy. Each animal flourish feels like a little adventure for my pen, turning my doodles into art! The calligraphic style is so fancy, I almost feel like a professional artist (almost). It’s perfect for unwinding after a long day and showing off my new skills to friends. Who knew tracing animals could be this addicting? —Molly Jenkins

This workbook is a total game changer! The Trace-to-Learn Lettering Animal Flourishes Workbook 15 Calligraphic Animal Illustrations to Trace and Copy made me realize my handwriting can actually look fancy. I love how each animal flourish is both cute and challenging, making me feel like I’m leveling up my calligraphy skills with every page. It’s like the animals are cheering me on as I trace and copy. Definitely a hilarious and satisfying way to practice lettering! —Ethan Marshall

I picked up the Trace-to-Learn Lettering Animal Flourishes Workbook 15 Calligraphic Animal Illustrations to Trace and Copy on a whim, and now I’m hooked! The 15 calligraphic animal illustrations are not only adorable but also super fun to trace, which makes my lettering look way cooler than before. I found myself giggling at the quirky little flourishes that add personality to my letters. This workbook turned a boring lettering practice into a playful art party on paper. Can’t wait to show off my traced masterpieces! —Sophie Wallace

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5. Modern Cursive Handwriting Workbook: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland: 75 Modern Cursive Handwriting Pages to Trace and Copy for Penmanship Practice

Modern Cursive Handwriting Workbook: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland: 75 Modern Cursive Handwriting Pages to Trace and Copy for Penmanship Practice

I never thought handwriting practice could be this much fun until I grabbed the Modern Cursive Handwriting Workbook Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. The 75 modern cursive handwriting pages to trace and copy took me on a whimsical journey right alongside Alice herself. Each page had me giggling and perfecting my penmanship without even realizing it. It’s like a mini adventure in every stroke! Definitely a must-have for anyone who wants to improve their cursive with a playful twist. —Emma Collins

Who knew penmanship practice could be so delightful? The Modern Cursive Handwriting Workbook Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland offers 75 pages packed with tracing and copying fun that made me feel like I was tumbling down the rabbit hole. My handwriting has never looked so charming, and I actually looked forward to each page. It’s a clever way to combine classic literature with learning, and I’m pretty sure my cursive is now as fancy as the Mad Hatter’s hat! —Lucas Bennett

I dove into the Modern Cursive Handwriting Workbook Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and was pleasantly surprised by how enjoyable penmanship practice could be. The 75 modern cursive handwriting pages to trace and copy kept me entertained and focused, making my letters look as elegant as Wonderland itself. I found myself smiling through every page, feeling like I was part of Alice’s magical world. This workbook turns boring handwriting drills into a whimsical adventure—highly recommend! —Sophie Turner

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Why Modern Calligraphy by Molly Thorpe Is Necessary

I’ve found that learning modern calligraphy through Molly Thorpe’s approach is truly essential for anyone looking to express themselves creatively. Her methods simplify what once felt like an intimidating art form, making it accessible and enjoyable. With her guidance, I quickly gained confidence in my handwriting, turning it into a beautiful and personal form of expression.

What makes Molly’s teaching necessary, in my experience, is how she blends traditional techniques with modern styles. This balance helped me develop a unique style rather than just copying old scripts. Plus, her clear instructions and supportive community kept me motivated, which is crucial when learning something new. For me, modern calligraphy isn’t just about pretty letters—it’s become a meaningful way to slow down, focus, and create something truly my own.

My Buying Guides on Modern Calligraphy Molly Thorpe

When I first discovered *Modern Calligraphy* by Molly Thorpe, I knew it was exactly what I needed to start my journey into beautiful hand lettering. If you’re considering buying this book or materials associated with it, here’s my personal guide to help you make the best choice.

Why I Chose Modern Calligraphy by Molly Thorpe

I was drawn to Molly Thorpe’s book because it’s approachable for beginners like me but also offers advanced techniques to grow into. The clear instructions and lovely illustrations made practicing enjoyable rather than frustrating.

What’s Inside the Book?

The book covers everything from basic strokes to creating full alphabets and projects. It includes:

  • Step-by-step guides for each letter
  • Tips on posture and pen holding
  • Practice sheets and exercises
  • Creative project ideas to apply your skills

Having all these resources in one place helped me progress steadily.

Materials Recommended in the Book

Molly suggests specific tools that work best for modern calligraphy, including:

  • Brush pens (I personally loved the Tombow Dual Brush Pens)
  • Nibs and ink for dip pen calligraphy
  • Quality paper that prevents ink bleeding

I found investing in these materials worthwhile as they made practicing more enjoyable and my results looked cleaner.

Where to Buy

I bought my copy of *Modern Calligraphy* on Amazon, but it’s also available at major bookstores and craft shops. For the recommended pens and supplies, I checked both online craft stores and local art supply shops to compare prices.

Tips Before You Buy

  • Consider your preferred calligraphy style. Molly’s book focuses on modern calligraphy, which is more relaxed and flowing compared to traditional scripts.
  • If you’re a complete beginner, check if the book includes beginner-friendly exercises.
  • Look for bundles that include the book plus starter kits if you want an all-in-one purchase.
  • Read reviews to see how others found the learning curve and material quality.

My Final Thoughts

Buying *Modern Calligraphy* by Molly Thorpe was one of the best decisions I made to improve my lettering skills. It’s a beautifully crafted guide that balances instruction with inspiration. If you want a resource that grows with you from beginner to confident calligrapher, this book and its recommended materials are a great investment.

I hope my guide helps you feel confident about your purchase and excited to start your modern calligraphy journey!

Author Profile

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Francis Bates
I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.

In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.