Blogs
Spencerian vs Palmer Scripts in Cursive Calligraphy
Cursive writing is an ancient art form with a rich history. Calligraphy typefaces and letters written in a cursive hand have been used for anything from official papers and intimate letters to paintings and other forms of visual art.
Cursive calligraphy has various forms and prints, each with its own history and characteristics. The Spencerian and Palmer methods are two of the most well-known and influential types of cursive writing.
Here at JesCalligraphy, we’ve taken a deep dive into both styles to understand their similarities, differences, and unique features. Let’s explore the fascinating world of writing in cursive style.
Here at JesCalligraphy, we’ve taken a deep dive into both styles to understand their similarities, differences, and unique features. Let’s explore the fascinating world of writing in cursive style.
The Spencerian Method of Cursive Script
The Spencerian Method of cursive writing was developed in the mid-1800s by Platt Rogers Spencer, an American penmanship expert. Spencer developed the script as a more legible and elegant alternative to the copperplate script that was popular at the time. The Spencerian Method was widely used in the United States for formal documents and correspondence until the early 20th century.
The Spencerian Method has a few distinctive features that set it apart from other styles of cursive writing. First, it is characterised by its ornate, flowing letters and loops. Each letter is carefully crafted with precise, fluid strokes. In fact, Spencer referred to his method as “writing without lifting the pen,” as the letters are meant to be written in a continuous, uninterrupted flow.
Another distinctive feature of the Spencerian Method is its use of shading, where certain parts of the letters are made darker by applying more pressure to the pen. This gives the letters a three-dimensional appearance, adding depth and visual interest to the script. The Spencerian Method also emphasises the use of flourishes—decorative curls and swirls added to the letters to make the writing more visually appealing.
The Spencerian Method has a few distinctive features that set it apart from other styles of cursive writing. First, it is characterised by its ornate, flowing letters and loops. Each letter is carefully crafted with precise, fluid strokes. In fact, Spencer referred to his method as “writing without lifting the pen,” as the letters are meant to be written in a continuous, uninterrupted flow.
Another distinctive feature of the Spencerian Method is its use of shading, where certain parts of the letters are made darker by applying more pressure to the pen. This gives the letters a three-dimensional appearance, adding depth and visual interest to the script. The Spencerian Method also emphasises the use of flourishes—decorative curls and swirls added to the letters to make the writing more visually appealing.
The Palmer Method of Handwriting
Austin Palmer developed the Palmer Method of cursive writing in the late 1800s. The Palmer Method became the standard form of cursive writing taught in American schools during the first half of the 20th century. Palmer’s method was designed to be more efficient and easier to teach than the Spencerian method.
The Palmer Method is characterised by its simple, unadorned letters and a more rapid writing speed. Unlike the Spencerian Method, which requires precise and deliberate strokes, the Palmer Method focuses on producing legible and quickly written letters with a minimum of effort. Palmer advocated for the use of “whole arm movement” in writing, where the forearm and shoulder are used to control the pen rather than just the fingers. This allows for smoother, more fluid writing and reduces hand fatigue.
The Palmer Method also emphasises the importance of regular practise and repetition in learning cursive writing. Palmer believed that consistent practise was the key to developing good penmanship. To this end, he developed a series of practise exercises and drills that focused on the basic shapes and movements used in cursive writing. These exercises were designed to help students build muscle memory and develop a consistent, legible handwriting style.
The Palmer Method is characterised by its simple, unadorned letters and a more rapid writing speed. Unlike the Spencerian Method, which requires precise and deliberate strokes, the Palmer Method focuses on producing legible and quickly written letters with a minimum of effort. Palmer advocated for the use of “whole arm movement” in writing, where the forearm and shoulder are used to control the pen rather than just the fingers. This allows for smoother, more fluid writing and reduces hand fatigue.
The Palmer Method also emphasises the importance of regular practise and repetition in learning cursive writing. Palmer believed that consistent practise was the key to developing good penmanship. To this end, he developed a series of practise exercises and drills that focused on the basic shapes and movements used in cursive writing. These exercises were designed to help students build muscle memory and develop a consistent, legible handwriting style.
Differences and Similarities when Using Both in Cursive Calligraphy
Although the Spencerian and Palmer methods both fall under the umbrella of cursive writing, they have several key differences. As mentioned, the Spencerian Method is known for its ornate, flowing letters and decorative flourishes, while the Palmer Method is more focused on simplicity and efficiency. The Spencerian Method uses shading and flourishes to add visual interest to the letters, while the Palmer Method avoids such embellishments in favour of a more streamlined approach.
Another major difference between the two methods is the way the pen is held and moved. In the Spencerian Method, the fingers are used to control the pen, and the writing is characterised by precise, deliberate strokes. In contrast, the Palmer Method uses whole-arm movement, with the forearm and shoulder controlling the pen, allowing for smoother, more fluid writing.
Despite their differences, both methods share some common features. Both methods emphasise the importance of practise and repetition in learning cursive writing. Both also use a series of basic shapes and movements as the foundation for their writing styles. And both methods have left a lasting legacy in the world of cursive writing, with many contemporary penmanship styles drawing on elements of both methods.
Another major difference between the two methods is the way the pen is held and moved. In the Spencerian Method, the fingers are used to control the pen, and the writing is characterised by precise, deliberate strokes. In contrast, the Palmer Method uses whole-arm movement, with the forearm and shoulder controlling the pen, allowing for smoother, more fluid writing.
Despite their differences, both methods share some common features. Both methods emphasise the importance of practise and repetition in learning cursive writing. Both also use a series of basic shapes and movements as the foundation for their writing styles. And both methods have left a lasting legacy in the world of cursive writing, with many contemporary penmanship styles drawing on elements of both methods.
Enhance Your Cursive Alphabets, Basic Strokes and More with JesCalligraphy
The Spencerian and Palmer Method cursive writing styles each have their own unique features and historical significance. Cursive writing may be seen in its beauty and craftsmanship in Spencerian script, which is more ornate and artistic, and in how it can be utilised in everyday life in the Palmer Method, which is quicker and more practical. Both methods have had a lasting impact on the art of calligraphy and handwriting and have influenced many generations of creators and admirers.
At JesCalligraphy, we are passionate about the art of cursive writing. We offer a range of resources and tutorials for those interested in learning more about the Spencerian and Palmer Methods, as well as other styles of cursive writing. Whether you’re a seasoned calligrapher or just getting started, we have something for everyone.
At JesCalligraphy, we are passionate about the art of cursive writing. We offer a range of resources and tutorials for those interested in learning more about the Spencerian and Palmer Methods, as well as other styles of cursive writing. Whether you’re a seasoned calligrapher or just getting started, we have something for everyone.