Introduction to Brush Lettering
A course by James LewisLettering Artist
A course by James Lewis, Lettering Artist
Learn how to use brush pens and lettering brushes to create letters, words, and phrases
It was just over seven years ago that James Lewis had the realization that his handwriting was, in his own words, terrible. So at that moment, he devoted himself to improve it, to the point that he’s now a full-time illustrator, specialized in calligraphy and lettering, working with clients like Pepsi, Amazon, Montblanc, the BBC, and more. How’s that for improvement?
In this course, James will teach you everything you need to know to begin your brush lettering practice. You’ll receive all of his techniques and information that will allow you to develop your own custom letters and words.
By reviewing world-famous logos and understanding how they’re made, you’ll develop the skillset to design the most recognized logotypes of the future.
What will you learn in this online course?
17 lessons & 10 downloads
What We Will Do in the Course
1 minute, 50 seconds
Tools and Technique
7 minutes, 3 seconds
Calligraphy, Lettering, and Type Design
5 minutes, 58 seconds
An introduction to Brush Lettering - The Brush Pen
6 minutes, 43 seconds
Beginning with a Brush
10 minutes, 57 seconds
Developping your Skills with a Brush - Part 1
17 minutes, 22 seconds
What's included in this course?
Who is James Lewis? Start the course by getting to know him and his work, which he explains in detail. When discussing his influences, he comments on the books and other things that have influenced his professional career.
Through practice, you will understand all that goes into making a hand-lettered logotype with the brush and brush pen. Explore the tools you need, one by one, as well as the theory, and the differences between calligraphy, hand lettering, and type design.
Apply what you've learned and practiced into emulating a well-known logo, from drawing it and tracing it into the canvas to painting it and applying the final touches.
The last unit of this course focuses on finalizing and presenting your piece in a clear and professional way. Learn about varnishing and framing your work, as well as the best tips to scan and digitize it before sharing your work on Instagram.
What is this course's project?
You’ll paint two famous logos and complete the guide sheet, learning a unique style of brush lettering.
Projects by course students
Who is this online course for?
This course is aimed at the lettering enthusiast looking to convert their hobby into a viable business. Also, graphic designers looking to expand their logotype knowledge and skillset in an effort to stand out in a crowded market and provide a truly bespoke service to their clients.
Requirements and materials
You won't need any previous experience or knowledge.
As for materials, you'll need a lettering brush, a brush marker, acrylic paint, pencil, ruler, tracing paper, carbon transfer paper, grid paper, canvas board, and an easel or desk stand.
Reviews
- 3 months ago
Bem didatico, recomendo.
- 6 months ago
Un curso altamente recomendable, y cuenta com todos los recursos para seguir al profesor!!! Espero el próximo!!!
- 2 years ago
Very good course, well explained.
- 2 years ago
La verdad feliz lo recomiendo
- 2 years ago
Un 10 en todos
He began his career as a digital logotype & lettering designer but slowly transitioned from designer to artist by focusing on calligraphy and painting. His passion for letters, social media understanding, and a handcrafted approach have formed the basis of his career.
James has exhibited his art and taught lettering workshops all around the world.
Content
- U1
Who is James Lewis?
- Introduction
- Influences
- What We Will Do in the Course
- U2
The Fundamentals of Brush Lettering
- Tools and Technique
- Calligraphy, Lettering, and Type Design
- An introduction to Brush Lettering - The Brush Pen
- Beginning with a Brush
- Developping your Skills with a Brush - Part 1
- Developping your Skills with a Brush - Part 2
- Developping your Skills with a Brush - Part 3
- U3
Brush Lettering a Logo
- Brief and Custom Logos
- Logo Painting Preparation
- Replicating Coca Cola’s logotype - The Paint Brush
- Replicating Champion's logotype: A Different Approach
- U4
Going Further
- Varnish and Framing our Work
- From Analog to Digital
- Showcasing your work and building an audience
- FP
Final project
- Final Project
What to expect from a Domestika course
Learn at your own pace
Enjoy learning from home without a set schedule and with an easy-to-follow method. You set your own pace.
Learn from the best professionals
Learn valuable methods and techniques explained by top experts in the creative sector.
Meet expert teachers
Each expert teaches what they do best, with clear guidelines, true passion, and professional insight in every lesson.
Certificates
PLUSIf you're a Plus member, get a custom certificate signed by your teacher for every course. Share it on your portfolio, social media, or wherever you like.
Get front-row seats
Videos of the highest quality, so you don't miss a single detail. With unlimited access, you can watch them as many times as you need to perfect your technique.
Share knowledge and ideas
Ask questions, request feedback, or offer solutions. Share your learning experience with other students in the community who are as passionate about creativity as you are.
Connect with a global creative community
The community is home to millions of people from around the world who are curious and passionate about exploring and expressing their creativity.
Watch professionally produced courses
Domestika curates its teacher roster and produces every course in-house to ensure a high-quality online learning experience.
FAQs
Brush lettering uses a brush or brush pen to create expressive letterforms, focusing on stroke contrast and fluidity. It's distinct from traditional calligraphy, which often uses nibs, and from hand lettering, which can involve any drawing tool and varied styles.
Yes, this course is designed for beginners. It covers foundational skills, basic tools, and step-by-step techniques so anyone can start learning brush lettering, even with no prior experience.
You'll need brush pens or paintbrushes, paper (grid or tracing paper), pencils, erasers, paint, carbon paper for transfers, and optional digital tools like a scanner or vector software for digitizing your work.
You’ll learn brush lettering basics, hand lettering techniques, calligraphy fundamentals, type design principles, logo creation, painting techniques, artwork finishing, and how to digitize and share your lettering projects.
No artistic background is required. The course starts with the basics and guides you through each step, making it accessible to complete beginners.
Yes, the course includes step-by-step instructions for creating custom logotypes and replicating iconic logos like Coca-Cola using brush lettering techniques.
Yes, the course covers how to scan, edit, and vectorize your hand-lettered or painted artwork using digital tools to create professional digital files.