If you’ve ever noticed the blackboards or signs around Petersham Nurseries then you’ll have seen the exquisite penmanship of Kate Ridyard. As Petersham’s in-house calligrapher, Kate is called upon to make everything look beautiful from wedding invitations to café menus. Now you can learn from the master as she has just launched a new series of calligraphy courses from her home on Ham Common. We tried a taster class a few weeks ago and couldn’t recommend it more.
Arriving at the impressive Grade II-listed Langham House that dates back to 1709, calligraphy feels an entirely fitting skill to hone within. Kate’s family occupy a very chic apartment on the first floor of the house, and the class is taken informally in her kitchen, which is completely welcoming with a wood burner and gentle music playing. Home-made banana bread is pulled out at break-time and everyone chats amiably whilst practising their strokes.
In the six-week course – with a maximum of 8 participants – you can each work on your own project. This might be a special invitation, a family tree or a favourite poem. You’ll learn to use both pointed and broad-edged pens and can also use watercolours to decorate your project.
Do ask for Kate’s advice on what will look best – having trained full-time in calligraphy and bookbinding over 30 years ago at Roehampton University, Kate learned gilding with gold leaf methods used by medieval scribes and she properly knows her stuff. Moreover, her kind and patient nature produces the most wonderful creative vibe that puts everyone at ease, and allows you to feel fully absorbed in the process.
The next 6-week course begins on 3rd May and runs every Tuesday 2-4.30pm, £195. Sign up here. Taster workshops run on 24th and 28th May 10.30am-1pm, £50, here.
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