Hey alamakota,

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking you need hours of practice or the perfect environment to learn iPad Calligraphy.

But here’s what I wish more people knew:

Improvement doesn’t come from huge efforts once in a while. It comes from small, consistent practice sessions over time.

And your routine doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.

If you’re struggling to stay consistent or wondering if your efforts “count,” here are three things that helped me (and so many of my students) build a sustainable practice routine and see real progress.

3 Tips for Building a Consistent Digital Calligraphy Practice

1. Tracing is not cheating
Tracing practice sheets in Procreate is one of the most effective ways to build muscle memory and learn what makes beautiful letters work. In Copperplate, for example, you learn how to place each letter on a 55-degree slant, how to balance thick and thin strokes, and how the pressure of your brush makes the letters flow. Tracing lets you absorb all that, one stroke at a time.

2. You don’t need to practice for hours at a time
Even 10–20 minutes of consistent practice still moves the needle. I’ve seen students gain noticeable confidence and control with just a short regular practice. Think of it like planting a seed. Your lettering grows over time.

3. Stick with one style (at first)
When you focus on mastering one style of script, you’ll start to internalize its flow and structure. From there, your own style will start to emerge naturally, and you can expand into other scripts with more ease and confidence. You build a foundation first. Then you play.

Calligraphy is more than just making things look pretty. It’s a creative outlet that brings calm, clarity, and connection. It’s a chance to slow down and be present with your own creativity.

So if your calligraphy practice hasn’t felt very “consistent” lately, don’t worry! You’re not behind. You’re learning, and that’s the most important part!

Speak soon!
- Nicole

P.S. If you’re new to this and are curious about learning iPad Calligraphy but don’t know where to start, I have a free 45 minute workshop that will walk you through the basics and help you take those important first steps.

You’ll see how simple it can be to begin, even if Procreate currently feels overwhelming and you have 'messy handwriting' - click here to watch workshop.