Calligraphy L: Uppercase & Lowercase (Video Tutorial)

Brush Calligraphy Basics 

Before we start, remember the two rules that make brush calligraphy work:

• Upstrokes = light pressure (thin lines)
• Downstrokes = heavy pressure (thick lines)

Everything we’re about to do is built on that contrast.

Calligraphy L: Uppercase and Lowercase Video Tutorial

Want to Take This Further?

If you’re practicing on Procreate and want more guidance on strokes, consistency, and building polished lettering pieces, I walk through the full process step by step inside my iPad Calligraphy in Procreate course.

It’s designed to take you from practicing letters… to actually creating finished work you’re proud of.

All of the practice sheets and Procreate brushes I’m using in the free video series are included in this class.

Want Step-by-Step iPad Calligraphy Lessons?

If you want guided, start-to-finish instruction for learning calligraphy on your iPad, I teach the full process inside my iPad Calligraphy in Procreate class. You’ll learn strokes, letterforms, words, and finished pieces with real-time demos and practice projects.

There are 50 Lessons and 3 Hours of Video Content. It’s well-organized and easy to follow via my online class platform (Thinkific). All the brushes and worksheets you need to learn iPad Calligraphy are included with the class. 

• Intro Lessons (3 lessons + Class Downloads)
• Drills (1 lesson + Worksheet Set)
• Alphabet (26 lessons + Procreate Workbook)
• Words + Short Phrases (1 lesson + Worksheet Set)
• Tricky Letter Combos (1 lesson + Procreate workbook)
• Project No. 1: Calligraphy Word Art (6 Lessons)
• Project No. 2: Dancing Calligraphy Animation (2 Lessons)
• Project No. 3: Ghostwriting Animation (2 Lessons)
• Bonus Lessons (2 Lessons + Procreate Worksheet)

iPad Calligraphy in Procreate Class →

IPAD CALLIGRAPHY CLASS FAQs

• What Do I Need for this Class? You’ll need an iPad, Apple Pencil, and the Procreate App. Everything else you’ll need is included in your class downloads.
• Can I watch it anytime? Yes! The class is pre-recorded and available to watch at your convenience. You have lifetime access.
• Is it okay if I’m new to Procreate and/or Calligraphy? Yes, you are the intended audience for this class. We’ll take things step-by-step. I love project-based learning because it makes things more fun and easier to understand.

What to watch for

• A common mistake is making strokes feel too stiff. Try to keep everything fluid.
• Make sure your thick downstroke is actually thick (don’t be shy with pressure)!
• Try not to rush—smooth > fast.

Practice Tips for a Better “L”

“L” is one of those letters that looks effortless, but it really highlights your stroke control and spacing. It’s tall, simple, and very visible in words, so getting it to flow smoothly makes a big difference overall.

• Focus on a clean, confident downstroke. The main stem is everything: Heavy, even pressure. Smooth from top to bottom. If it’s shaky, the whole letter feels off.
• Light, controlled upstroke entry. Your entry stroke should feel soft and intentional: Thin. Slightly curved. Not overly long
• Don’t rush the transition at the bottom. The curve into the exit stroke is where things get messy. Slow down and keep it smooth, not sharp or stiff.
• Keep your exit stroke light and flowing. This is what helps connect to the next letter. Think: gentle curve, not a hard flick.
• Watch your ascender height. Your lowercase “l” should be tall and consistent with:b, d, h, k. If it’s too short or too tall, your lettering will feel uneven.
• Avoid leaning too much. A slight slant is great, but too much and it feels unstable. Keep it controlled and consistent with the rest of your letters.
• Uppercase “L” = simple but styled. You can keep it minimal or add a soft base flourish.. Just make sure it doesn’t overpower the rest of your word.

Practice Words with “L”

These help with flow and tall letter spacing:

• let
• love
• light
• learn
• lovely

Common Mistakes

• Pressing too hard on every stroke (you’ll lose contrast).
• Uneven shapes.
• Rushing through the letter instead of building it intentionally.

💡Extra Tip (THIS ONE MAKES A DIFFERENCE FAST)

Practice this motion repeatedly:

• light upstroke → heavy downstroke → soft curve → exit

It’s simple, but it builds control fast.

“L” might feel basic, but once it’s smooth and consistent, your lettering instantly looks more polished.

FAQ: Calligraphy Letter L

How do you write calligraphy L?

A calligraphy L is created using a combination of thin upstrokes and thick downstrokes, following the natural flow of brush lettering. Watch the video lesson for more precise instruction on this letter. 

Why is my letter uneven?

This usually comes down to inconsistent pressure or rushing your strokes. Slowing down and focusing on control will make a big difference.

Is it hard to learn calligraphy?

Some letters are trickier than others, but with step-by-step practice, they all become much easier over time.

Can I practice this in Procreate?

Yes, these same techniques apply to digital brush calligraphy, and Procreate is a great tool for practicing and refining your strokes.

HELPFUL LINKS

• Practice the next letter: Calligraphy M
• Or go back: Calligraphy K

Related Series

• The Anatomy of Letters: An A-Z Guide
• Hand Lettering the Alphabet A–Z for Beginners
• Playful Bubble Letters: A-Z (with free Practice Sheets!)
• Playful Serif Lettering Alphabet: A-Z Tutorials (with freebies!)
• Modern Penmanship Tips for Calligraphy and Lettering Lovers

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel!

Happy Practicing!

My Published Books →

The Lettering Shop →