At what angle should you hold your pen when writing uppercase Italic letters?

Holding the pen at a 45-degree angle when writing uppercase Italic letters is crucial for achieving the characteristic slant and flow of the Italic script. This angle allows for optimal ink flow and control, ensuring that the thick and thin strokes that define Italic writing are properly formed. At this angle, the nib of the pen makes adequate contact with the paper, facilitating the creation of elegant curves and distinctive letterforms essential in Italic calligraphy.

In contrast, positioning the pen at angles that are too shallow or too steep can hinder the ability to execute the necessary contrast between thick and thin lines. A 30-degree angle may not provide enough of a slant to capture the Italic style effectively, while a 60-degree angle could be too steep, leading to overly sharp letterforms. A 90-degree angle would be impractical for traditional writing, as it would produce a very different effect that deviates from the intended Italic appearance. Therefore, the 45-degree hold strikes the ideal balance for producing visually appealing and authentic uppercase Italic letters.