Affiliated Groups
Affiliated groups are local calligraphy and lettering communities that connect to the Calligraphy & Lettering Arts Society (CLAS). Each group is independently run but shares our common aim: to promote, enjoy, and advance the lettering arts.
They offer a friendly space to learn, practise, and share skills. Whether you are picking up a pen for the first time or have years of experience, there is a group for you.
Find a Group Near You
CLAS has affiliated groups located across England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and even further afield. Each group offers something slightly different, but all share the same welcoming spirit.
Some groups meet monthly, others more frequently, and many host visiting tutors to lead specialist workshops. Activities can range from hands-on practice sessions and study days, to public exhibitions, library demonstrations, and social gatherings.
Whether you’re looking to improve your lettering skills, try a new script, or simply connect with people who share your interest, an affiliated group can give you the encouragement and opportunities you need.
To make it easy to find a group that suits you, we’ve created an interactive map. Simply search by area or postcode to see which groups are closest. If there isn’t a group nearby, you might consider joining one of our Special Interest Groups which connect members around shared themes rather than geography.
Most groups welcome newcomers to attend a meeting before joining formally — so you can see if the group feels like a good fit.
Why Join an Affiliated Group
Joining an affiliated group is about more than just learning calligraphy — it’s about becoming part of a creative community. Each group provides its members with opportunities to grow, connect, and share in a supportive and inspiring environment.
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Community and Friendship – meet others who share your love of lettering. Many lifelong friendships begin at local groups, where members encourage and support one another.
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Learning and Skills Development – enjoy workshops, talks, and demonstrations led by experienced tutors and guest artists. Groups often focus on a wide variety of scripts, techniques, and materials.
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Inspiration and Ideas – discover new approaches to lettering through collaborative projects, shared resources, and the chance to see how others work.
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Encouragement and Feedback – whether you’re practising Roman capitals or exploring modern brush lettering, groups provide a safe space to share your work and receive constructive feedback.
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Exhibitions and Events – affiliated groups often contribute to local exhibitions, regional festivals, and community events, helping to raise awareness of calligraphy while celebrating members’ achievements.
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Extra Opportunities – many groups also publish newsletters, arrange study days, and organise social gatherings, offering plenty of ways to stay engaged.
Being part of a group can give your calligraphy practice structure, purpose, and a sense of connection — qualities that are hard to achieve when working alone.
Spotlight On Our Groups
Blackmore Vale Scribes
The Blackmore Vale Scribes meet once a month at Bradford Abbas Village Hall, Church Road, Bradford Abbas, Sherborne, Dorset (DT9 6RF). The group is coordinated by Eileen Dearden, who can be contacted by email at bvscribes@gmail.com.
Calderdale Calligraphers
Calderdale Calligraphers meet once a month at St John’s Church Hall, St John’s Street, Rastrick, West Yorkshire (HD6 1HN). The group thrives thanks to a mix of experienced calligraphers and newer members who have joined in recent years. A quarterly competition for the Golden Pen — a nib with a holder painted gold — encourages everyone to create and share a finished piece of work regularly. The group is coordinated by Kathleen Cadle, who can be contacted by email at secretarycalderdalecalligraphers@outlook.com. The photographs shown here were taken at the September meeting.
Creative Calligraphy
Creative Calligraphy meets at Ocean Road Community Centre, Ocean Road, South Shields (NE33 2DW). The group is led by Angela Reed, who can be contacted by email at info@creative-calligraphy.co.uk. Sessions are designed to be welcoming and accessible, with workshops and projects that encourage members to enjoy lettering in a relaxed and creative environment.
Peannairi Irish Scribes
Peannairí Irish Scribes are based in Dublin and hold a wide range of events, workshops, and classes throughout the year. In August, they hosted their annual Mini Festival of Calligraphy, supported by a grant from the Design and Craft Council of Ireland as part of August Craft Month. Forty participants — from complete beginners to experienced calligraphers — took part in practical sessions on Gothic and Pointed Pen Italics, led by tutors Kevin Honan and Noeleen McNamee.
The group recently completed their Alphabet Project on vellum, displayed in memory of the late Grainne Carr, a talented architect, artist, and calligrapher. They also publish An Litir, their beautifully produced magazine, and run regular classes and workshops in Italic, Uncial, and other scripts. With a programme that includes in-person and online sessions, visits to cultural venues, and contributions from gifted teachers, Peannairí provide a rich mix of learning and community for calligraphers across Ireland.
Sussex Scribes
Sussex Scribes meet at Broadwater Baptist Church, Dominion Road, Worthing, West Sussex (BN14 8JL). The group is coordinated by Cathy Stables, who can be contacted at cathymstables@gmail.com. They run a varied programme of workshops, exhibitions, and lettering events, welcoming both beginners and experienced calligraphers to learn, share ideas, and enjoy the art of beautiful writing together.
Become a CLAS Affiliated Group
If you run a calligraphy group and would like to connect with CLAS, you can apply to become an affiliated group. Affiliation brings benefits such as visibility on our website, networking opportunities, and the chance to take part in national exhibitions and events.
Join Our Community
Become a CLAS member and enjoy a wealth of benefits — from receiving The Edge magazine and CLASnews updates, to reduced fees for courses and competitions. Members also gain exclusive access to our diploma, free entry to the annual exhibition, and opportunities to exhibit their work.