I am thrilled by the feedback of Maybelle’s interview! I won’t keep you waiting, because I know you are anxious to read more, so without further ado…

Any tips for newbies on how to develop their own style?

Look at lots of examples, seek out teachers who offer a style that you really admire, and approach them. Keep an eye out for special collections at libraries, and exhibits at art museums. The work that you do should feel like it’s coming from you.

Any recommendations of books or classes for lettering enthusiasts to further their studies?

I would recommend IAMPETH, aka the calligraphy convention, I didn’t attend until after ten years of doing this professionally. There are certainly rules to follow, and be prepared to be writing in calligraphy for 8 hours a day with master calligraphers, some of them are in their 80s and 90s — national treasures! One of the things I love is that you have access to their archives, I wished I discovered it early on last year. If you attend the next one in Indianapolis, be sure to visit the archive room sooner rather than later.

As for books, I love this book Mira Calligraphae Monumenta, but there is a pinterest board. Scripts by Louise Fili, Missing Ink: The Lost Art of Handwriting (required reading for anyone who loves lettering), and this book of ephemera (you can find it at Kinokinuya).

Do you have some favorite projects?

I feel very fortunate to be able to do something that I absolutely love. I combine calligraphy workshops and travel and I work with some of the most talented people in the creative industry. I just worked with photographer Laurie Frankel on a stop motion Valentine greeting Last Fall I collaborated with Elizabeth Messina at her Photography workshop: A Lovely workshop. I taught in Sydney and Melbourne at The School. This week I will be in Tokyo teaching at Fog Linen and Singapore at Bloesem’s new creative space and a few other projects on the horizon that I can’t wait for you to see! Chances are I may be in a city near you soon!