Sheila Waters/Calligraphy Books/Foundations of Calligraphy

This is a calligraphy textbook by Sheila Waters, a renowned American calligrapher.

From the basic writing of over a dozen scripts such as Roman Minuscule and Uncial to their variations, the book features not only the author's examples but also historical reference illustrations and examples of works by famous calligraphers. It meticulously explains not only how to write each letter but also how to apply them—how to manage letter spacing, word spacing, and line spacing, as well as layout and design, and the entire production process of a work.

This book, filled with the ideas and techniques of an author who taught for over 50 years and was known as the "Queen of Calligraphy," is essential for anyone who wants to learn properly from the basics and further improve their skills.

The original book, "Foundations of Calligraphy" (5th edition), was released in the US in 2006 and has been a super long-seller, read by calligraphers worldwide for nearly 20 years through mail order only. Until now, no translated version has been published, and this marks its first Japanese edition. Supervised by the author's son, renowned calligrapher Julian Waters, and translated by calligrapher Takako Takigawa, new explanations of calligraphy terms have been added for Japanese readers, making it easy to understand.

Although written for those studying calligraphy, many pages are also dedicated to explaining Western text spacing concepts, the relationship between letter, word, and line spacing, and layout, making it a highly valuable resource for those studying typography as well.

[Testimonials]
Although it's a basic calligraphy book, every spread contains knowledge applicable to Western typefaces and logo creation. The analysis of letterforms and explanation of letter spacing, especially with abundant illustrations, are superb, and it's astonishing how much content, equivalent to several books, is packed into this single volume.
Akira Kobayashi [Type Director]

This book has been fundamental to my own calligraphy. From the history of scripts to writing techniques and design, it thoroughly presents the basics and offers a clear perspective on how to learn. It is a must-have for all calligraphers.
Minako Mito [Calligrapher]

More than just a technical manual, it is a definitive guide that cultivates "the ability to see and judge." It condenses the author's philosophy and passion, who continuously pursued the essence of writing, teaching us that freedom lies within the fundamentals. A masterpiece read worldwide, it is a book every writer should possess.
Izumi Shiratani [Calligrapher]

[Table of Contents]
Foreword by Julian Waters
Preface by Sheila Waters

Chapter 1: The Basics and Beyond
Chapter 2: Roman Minuscule: Foundational Hand
Chapter 3: Capitals
Chapter 4: Narrow Scripts: From Roman Minuscule to Black Letter
Chapter 5: Gothic Cursive
Chapter 6: Uncial and Half-Uncial
Chapter 7: Carolingian
Chapter 8: Italic
Chapter 9: Italic Variations
Chapter 10: Analysis and Practice
Chapter 11: Design and Layout
Chapter 12: From Conception to Completion
Chapter 13: Applying Design Principles

Gallery (Showcase of the Author's Works)
Glossary
Translator's Afterword


Size: 280mm x 210mm
Pages: 164 pages
Publication Date: May 7, 2026
Author: Sheila Waters
Original Text Review: Julian Waters, Takako Takigawa
Translation: Takako Takigawa