Other Background Effects For Calligraphy

Gouache Paint (Wikimedia Commons)

There are many other ways to create really effective backgrounds for writing calligraphy onto.  For example, experimenting with different mediums, a roller sponge or some pastel colors.

Using Color Pencils With Calligraphy

You can use simple coloring pencils to introduce a colourful background to your work.  You can also buy watercolour pencils from any good art and craft shop.  You use the pencils, by mixing the nib with a little water to give a smooth, even effect or you can use the pencils dry if you wish.

Using Pastels For Calligraphy

You can use one color or a multitude of colors for background effects.  Simply scrape some pastel into a powder, and then smudge the color into the paper with a finger or some soft tissue.  To prevent the background from further smudging, you can fix the pastel with some fixative, from an art shop, or you can even fix the pastel with hairspray.  Once you have prepared the background, you can then write your work on top of the background.

Effects With Textures

You can use gouache or watercolour mediums to create a splattering effect.  Simply mix some watercolour in a clean glass jar or separate palettes, then use an old toothbrush and dip it into the paint.  Flick the paint onto your prepared watercolour paper.  The further away you hold the brush, the finer the splatter will be on your paper.  Experiment with different brushes and splatter effects.

Gold And Silver Effects

Gold and silver paint can look great on a dark background.  Simply splatter the gold or silver paint onto some dark colored card for stunning effects.  Once you are satisfied with your work, you can then start to write with your calligraphy pen onto the card. 

Other Coloured Background Ideas For Calligraphy

Other ways to create stunning backgrounds is using a roller sponge.  Simply put some watercolour paint onto a plastic surface, and then roll the roller over the paint.  Once the sponge is evenly covered, roll the roller over your calligraphy paper.  The more you roll over the same area, the denser the color will be.  You can introduce other colors by rolling other colored paint on top of the previous paint.  Wait for the paint to dry between rolling the colors on top of the previous color.  Once you have finished rolling colored painton you paper, wait for the paint to dry, then spray some fixative onto the paper to fix the paint, and then you can write calligraphy onto the paper.