If you’ve ever admired beautifully lettered invitations, hand-crafted cards, or the quiet confidence of a well-formed italic hand, the Calligraphers’ Guild of WA is a welcoming way to step into the world of “beautiful writing”. This not-for-profit group brings together people who love lettering and penmanship, from absolute beginners through to highly experienced practitioners, with a strong emphasis on sharing skills, encouraging creativity, and enjoying the craft in good company.
Monthly meetings are held on the fourth Saturday of each month (with a break in December and January) at Mt Claremont Community Centre. The afternoon typically includes a relaxed “show and tell”, plenty of conversation about tools and techniques, and the chance to swap tips with people who genuinely want to help. A short workshop is also run at each meeting by an experienced member for a nominal fee, which is a great way to try new styles without needing to commit to a long course.
One of the standout features is the Guild’s library. Members can browse and borrow from an extensive collection of calligraphy books and reference journals, which is especially handy when you’re exploring different scripts or looking for inspiration for a new project. Membership also includes the Guild’s monthly newsletter, Quillo Talk, delivered electronically as a PDF, with updates on workshops, exhibitions, and member projects.
If you’d like to learn outside the monthly meeting, the Guild also maintains a teachers listing, with classes running in different areas around Perth. There’s even a “hire a calligrapher” page for anyone looking to commission work for events or special projects. For those who join, the current membership fee is $55 (AUD) per year (with a pro rata half-year option), and members can access a 15% discount at selected art stores, including Jacksons Drawing Supplies, Oxlades, and Art and Craft World (membership card required).
The Calligraphers’ Guild of WA
Address: Hakea Room, Mt Claremont Community Centre, 107 Montgomery Avenue, Mt Claremont WA
Opening hours: Meetings held 4th Saturday of each month (except December and January), 12:00pm to 3:00pm
Official website: Calligraphers’ Guild of Western Australia
