Special Interest Groups
A Special Interest Group (SIG) within the Calligraphy and Lettering Arts Society (CLAS) provides a focused community for members passionate about specific areas of calligraphy, lettering, and related crafts. Each SIG is designed to nurture shared interests, offering opportunities for learning, collaboration, and creative exchange.
Activities often include newsletters, workshops, mentoring schemes, and collaborative projects, creating an inclusive and inspiring environment for members to develop their skills and connect with like-minded enthusiasts.
SIGs may operate online, in person, or through a mix of both, fostering engagement across a broad membership base. Whether exploring traditional scripts or modern techniques, CLAS SIGs are invaluable resources for calligraphers of all levels.
Copperplate Special Interest Group
Founded in 1995 by Jim Linwood, the Copperplate Special Interest Group (SIG) caters to pointed pen enthusiasts with a focus on the elegant handwriting style historically known as English Roundhand. Tracing its roots back to 16th-century Italic letterforms, Copperplate evolved as a refined script, but it fell out of favour in the UK calligraphy community after being omitted from Edward Johnston’s 1906 manual Writing and Illuminating and Lettering. Linwood’s dedication revitalised interest in the script, and the group has grown from eight members to 150 worldwide under the leadership of Joy Daniels since 2005. Members benefit from quarterly newsletters, mentoring, an Envelope Exchange scheme, and collaborative projects like an annual calendar.
Little Book Special Interest Group
The newly launched Little Bookmakers Group invites UK-based members to explore the art of bookmaking, ranging from simple concertina designs to intricate creations. Projects are open to all book sizes, from tiny works of art to A5 publications. With activities conducted primarily online and swaps providing a tangible connection, this SIG offers a flexible and creative space for like-minded enthusiasts.
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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.