14 Simple Ways To Actually Improve Your Handwriting

    It's never too late.

    Michelle No
    by Michelle No

    BuzzFeed Staff

    Jenny Chang / BuzzFeed

    1. Start by watching videos of master calligrapher Seb Lester.

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    Let's be real: Handwriting (and trying to improve it) is a tedious and time-intensive task — so getting adequately motivated is the first real step. One of the easiest way to do that is by following Instagram-famous Seb Lester, whose short vids will hypnotize you into kicking off your handwriting journey.

    2. If you're left-handed, get pens with fast-drying ink.

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    These Uni-Ball ones are smooth, quick to dry, AND have tips that'll be able to handle pages on pages of handwriting practice. Get a pack of 10 for $10.61 here.

    And for more general pen advice, read our thoughts on 13 pens here.

    3. Make sure you're using the grip that's most comfortable for your hand.

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    Though most experts recommend a tripod grip, there's no real conclusive evidence that shows there's one grip that works better than others. The correct grip is simply one that'll help you lessen unnecessary strain on your joints and help you write smoothly and for longer periods of time without tiring out your hands.

    4. Check out the handwriting subreddit for a ton of answers to common questions.

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    In addition to discussions by newbies and experts alike, this subreddit is filled with resources on the right sidebar, like links to the Palmer Method, a weekly practice mega-thread, and cursive handwriting PDFs. Check out more here.

    5. Mimic handwriting on Instagram accounts.

    6. Learn the basics using the Spencerian Theory Book, a penmanship book taught in American classrooms in the 19th century...

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    TBH the only way to improve your handwriting is through PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE.

    But learning the basics, and knowing what to actually practice, is also an essential step. Enter the Spencerian Method: This super holistic theory book teaches you every minute detail of the writing process — from the angle at which you should sit and the individual strokes that go into every letter to how you should hold a pen. Once you get through all the workbooks, you'll pretty much be a pro.

    Get a theory book and five workbooks for $23.84 here.

    7. Or pick up this simpler book, written with med students and business professionals in mind.

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    While the previous book gets into the nitty-gritty of cursive writing, this book instructs readers on making your everyday handwriting style more consistent, faster, and ultimately more legible. Get a copy for $19.95 here.

    8. Watch videos like this one for short, digestible tips.

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    Start with simple fonts to get started, then progress to bubbly, rounded, and curvy letters. Watch the whole video here.

    9. Print and practice on free handwriting worksheets.

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    A free subscription to Tiny Ray of Sunshine will let you print worksheets to practice correct spacing, slants, and correctly sized letters. Get yours here. You can also find free plain lined paper here.

    10. Make handwriting practice an anxiety-relieving exercise by keeping a diary.

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    As if you needed yet another reason to keep a diary (among other things, it's good for improving mood and better sleep), you can also use it as a productive way to practice your handwriting.

    11. Try your hand at a bullet journal.

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    Bullet journals are great for organizing your schedule, to-dos, and thoughts, and perfectly enough — also for practicing your writing. Here's how to get started.

    12. Or practice by writing a friend or family member a letter.

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    You'll make someone's day, feel better, AND improve your handwriting. Win-win-win.

    13. To take the stress out of handwriting, you can also watch short videos like this one, which'll show that you all letters are basically lines:

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    Really puts things in perspective, doesn't it? Watch the full video here.

    14. And when you're ready to take the leap, try your hand at hand-lettering with this cheat sheet.

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    Or read through these tips for beautiful calligraphy.