When should you consider adjusting the spacing between characters in calligraphy?

Adjusting the spacing between characters in calligraphy is most effectively approached during the initial drafting stage. This early consideration allows the calligrapher to evaluate the overall composition and balance of the letters as they flow together. During this phase, one can see how the forms interact and assess whether adjustments are necessary for improved readability and visual appeal.

Proper spacing ensures that the letters do not appear too crowded or too distant from each other, making the final piece much more harmonious. By addressing spacing at the beginning, one can make informed decisions that can affect the entire layout, rather than fixing these issues later in the process when the ink has dried and the overall design is complete.

In contrast, making spacing adjustments after finishing the piece may lead to challenges, as it can complicate alterations without risking damage to the existing work. Adjusting spacing when using a new pen might lead to inconsistencies due to the different thicknesses or styles, rather than focusing on the design aspect, and attention to spacing solely when working with capitals is limited and does not take into account the entirety of the work, since all letterforms contribute to spacing dynamics.