I've tried to do a kind of improvised copperplate but I can't seem to get a very proffesional result with a quill ... Also, is there anywhere to learn Spencerian for free? Thanks!

It takes patience and time (measured in months, not hours), plus guided practice with the aid of a good teacher (if you don't have the necessary artistic talents) to master copperplate. It also takes good equipment -- steel dip pens, not quills, for the learner. Cutting quills is another skill that takes time to master, and producing satisfactory results with them takes more time and practice.

Google will help you find free instruction. However, the free instruction is worth what you pay for it. Find yourself a teacher. Most community colleges have an instructor in the art department who can help. If you live in a large metropolitan area, look in the yellow pages under "Calligraphers" and call a few -- ask them who they recommend, or if they take students.

The best free resource in the known Universe:

IAMPETH

This link will take you right to their lessons page. As Bill says, results are directly proportional to quality practice time...

Happy Writings!


Cheers,
Tom