Hand Lettering - creating shadow effects

One of the things you can do to enhance your hand lettering is create artistic effects that make your letters stand out. And one of the ways you can do this is by creating shadow effects! With a couple of simple tricks you will be able to give your letters a three‑dimensional feel and give your hand lettered phrase that certain something. We show you three techniques for creating shadows that will really bring your letters to life.

An article by Lea

To ensure your hand lettered phrase has a symmetrical and harmonious look, sketch it out in advance with the pencil.

Using the triplus color in black, create your first word (“live”) in simple block letters.

Using the triplus color in grey, draw a second line to the left of every vertical stroke, to create a shadow.

Use the pigment liner to create your second word (“laugh”) in faux calligraphy, leaving the spaces empty. (You’ll find tips on faux calligraphy)

Fill in the spaces with dots using the pigment liner. Create a gradient from dark to light by putting lots of dots in the upper half of your letters and very few dots in the lower half.

Using the triplus colour in black, create your third word (“love”) in block letters. Add a 3D shadow using the pigment liner and colour in with the triplus color in grey to make your letters stand out.