What's Your Canvas?: An interview with Lettering Artist Crystal Kluge

One of my favorite areas in design is handlettering. I did a lot of it when I was younger and dabble in it every now and then now. When I worked at Hallmark, I absolutely loved watching the lettering artists create their beautiful handwriting, and it was interesting matching their lettering styles to their personalities. When I discovered lettering artist and designer Crystal Kluge online, I had to find out more about her own hand lettering experiences. Check out some of her lettering and illustrations below and her fonts on MyFonts.com.

Hand lettering doesn't get the recognition it should. Why do you think this is so?
Like most handcrafted work, I think it’s gaining more recognition.  August’s issue of HOW magazine is all about handmade design, and how’s it’s influencing modern trends. That said, with the range of fonts available now, many people just don’t think of letters being created by hand.  Every month or so, I receive a inquiry about which font I used for my logo & website,  a number are surprised to find out it is handlettered – not a font.

Why do you think hand lettering is important?
I think for the same reasons drawing by hand is important. 

How did you learn to create such beautiful lettering?
I discovered a calligraphy pen at Grandma’s house when I was a 11.  It was a Sheaffer cartridge pen, I still have it.

What type of writing instruments do you use?
Simple dip pen w/ steel nibs

How would you describe the personality of your hand lettering?
Whimsical, romantic, modern

Is your natural penmanship very similar to your hand lettering?
I’m often asked this question.  When I was younger it was.  Currently, it’s not even close.  The stronger I develop my calligraphic skills, the further my regular penmanship declines.  It’s barely legible.

What inspires your lettering?
When I’m working with a client, I’m inspired by their personality, the context and special details of the project or event.  The more I know about it, the more my work will assume that spirit.

I’m drawn to expression types of lettering, kanji, arabic, vintage fashion advertising headlines & logos.  But I also respect the skill of traditional broadpen calligraphy, from old medieval texts to the amazing St. John’s Bible currently being scribed.

Any advice for those who have the gift of beautiful hand lettering?
Enjoy your gifts!