SA Pen Show Workshop: Fountain Pen Magic – One Tool, Endless Calligraphy Possibilities

This workshop is a joyful and creative exploration of how much an ordinary fountain pen can do. Running from 10:00 to 11:30, this engaging session with calligrapher Leesette Turner invites participants to dive into the artistic side of writing and discover new ways to use their pens.

Open to anyone aged 12 and up, this workshop is designed for all levels, whether you are a complete beginner or someone looking to expand your calligraphy and journaling skills. No prior experience is necessary, and everything you need will be provided, though participants are welcome to bring their own fountain pen and journal to make the experience more personal. Booking is essential to secure your spot at this popular SA Pen Show event.

Throughout the session, Leesette will guide you through a variety of techniques that showcase the surprising versatility of fountain pens. You will experiment with colours, textures, and lettering styles that transform simple writing into expressive art. From smooth monoline script to bold and dramatic flourishes, each approach demonstrates how nib angle, pressure, and ink choice can completely change the look and feel of your work. The workshop also highlights the magic of inks, giving you the chance to play with shimmering effects, shading properties, and vibrant blends that add depth and excitement to the page.

The hands-on aspect of the workshop ensures that you leave not only with new knowledge but also with something tangible to remind you of what you’ve learned. Each participant will create a sampler card, a personal project that captures the different styles and effects explored during the session. This card serves as both a creative keepsake and a practical reference, offering inspiration for journaling, letter writing, or further calligraphy practice at home.

Fountain Pen Magic is designed to be a relaxed and playful experience that celebrates the joy of creativity. It is about more than just learning calligraphy—it is about gaining confidence with your fountain pen, discovering tricks and hacks to make your writing stand out, and enjoying the process alongside fellow enthusiasts. Whether you want to add personality to your journal, experiment with new textures and colours, or simply spend a morning exploring the possibilities of fountain pens, this workshop offers a welcoming space to do so. You will leave with your own finished sampler card, fresh techniques to try, and a renewed love for the creative potential of fountain pens.