How to Start Learning Arabic Calligraphy as a Beginner
Arabic calligraphy is an art that takes patience, practice, and perseverance. Whether you are drawn to it because of your connection to Arabic, Islamic history, Arab heritage, or simply the beauty of the letters, anyone can learn it—you do not need to know Arabic to begin.
Here are a few things I recommend if you're just getting started.
1. Set Your Intention
Before you get to your how, understand your why.
What makes you want to learn Arabic calligraphy? What draws you to this art?
Arabic calligraphy is deeply connected to Arab heritage and Islamic history. There is something special about the way the letters flow with intention and soul, especially in a script like Thuluth.
Whatever your reason may be, keep it in mind. And remember that this art takes time. Patience and perseverance are just as important as practice.
2. Gather Your Tools
Once you know your why, you can start collecting the essentials:
Bamboo qalam
Ink
Inkwell
Likka
Glossy paper
These are some of the basic tools you'll need to begin practicing. I've linked some of my favorite supplies here for those who aren't sure where to start.
Shop my recommended supplies →
3. Learn the Individual Letters
Before putting letters together into words, learn them individually.
Each letter has its own proportions, strokes, and movements, so give each one the time and attention it deserves. It may take weeks or even months to feel comfortable with a single letter—and that's okay.
For beginners looking for a structured way to practice, I've created a downloadable Arabic Calligraphy Practice Workbook with lessons, explanations, and tracing exercises for each letter.
4. Repeat, Repeat, Repeat
There is no shortcut around practice.
Repeat the letters often and pay attention to your strokes. Don't worry about perfection. With time, your hand will become more familiar with the movements.
5. Learn From Those Who Came Before You
A huge part of Arabic calligraphy is learning from master calligraphers. Study their work and pay attention to their letterforms, proportions, and compositions. Check out the kursa by Ustadh Mehmed Shawqi.
Traditionally, calligraphy has been passed from master to student, so if you're able to learn from a teacher, take advantage of it. If in-person lessons aren't available, there are many online resources, including YouTube and one-on-one lessons like the ones I offer for women.
Learn more about one-on-one lessons →
Be Patient With Yourself
Learning Arabic calligraphy is a journey. Some days your writing will feel better than others, and some letters will take longer than you expect.
Keep practicing, keep studying, and give yourself time to grow.
You don't have to know everything before you begin. You simply have to begin.
