I've been lurking around here for about a week or so, unable to register (thanks to the mods by the way for helping me out). Anyway, I got the book Write Now in an attempt to make my handwriting more legible and pleasing to look at, but was puzzled when I got to the following statement in the book:

"Note that this is handwriting - not finger or arm writing. Move from the wrist with minimal finger movement."

This seems to contrast with what I've seen in older handwriting manuals that I've come across (i.e. The Palmer Method), as well as many of the statements I've read on this board. Most of these sources seem to indicate that the fingers and wrist should not really move much at all, but that arm movement is key (the "shoulder girdle").

Thoughts? Opinions? Which way is proper?

This subject has been discussed in depth before. If you scroll down to the topic "arm and shoulder usage" you might find the information you're looking for. The last entry was dated 15. 07. 2007

That thread confirmed what I thought. I guess I just find it surprising that the authors of Write Now aren't advocating the correct way to write (they seem to indicate that wrist movement is how to do it, not arm movement).

I believe you will find disagreement regarding the appropriate muscles to use, just like there is disagreement regarding preferences for nib size and ink characteristics. I've read articles advocating for "shoulder girdle only" or wrist movement. Certain members of this group have stated that finger movement is completely acceptable. I remember seeing an online video last year where a calligrapher was obviously using finger movement in order to form letters. In my view, pen users should use the approach that is most comfortable and produces the most pleasing results for them. After five decades of writing with wrist and finger movement (I don't recall the nuns ever telling us to only write from the shoulder), "shoulder girdle only" just doesn't work for me.

I agree with RayMan - in my opinion there is no right way and no wrong way. There are perfectly valid methods which differ as they are based on personal experiences, but the end result on paper is what matters.

There are enough problems in producing good lettering, without getting hung up on whether or not your physical approach is the "right" one.

Whatever approach you use, if you can eliminate tension from your arm, shoulder and hand grip, your method is probably right for you.

caliken