Graffiti is very much about self-expression, and the letters are often the heart of a graffiti artwork. Mastering the art of creating unique graffiti lettering is a fundamental skill for anyone interested in this art form. In this guide, we go over the basics and give you some tips on how to develop your own style.
The Basics of Graffiti Letters
Tags
A tag is the most basic form of graffiti. It is usually a quick and simple signature that the artist uses to leave his mark. The tag is often written with simple, flowing lines and can be varied endlessly with different styles and effects.
Throw-ups
Throw-ups are a step up from tags and usually involve bubble-shaped letters filled in with color. They are quick to make, making them popular for artists who want to cover large areas in a short amount of time. The letters are often round and overlapping, and can be done with a couple of colors to give them a little extra pop.
Block Letters
Block letters are exactly what they sound like – thick, blocky letters that are easy to read. These are often used in more complex works, where the clarity of the letters is important. Block letters are a good starting point for beginners as they are easy to draw and provide a solid foundation to build on.
Wild style
Wildstyle is a more advanced form of graffiti lettering that is often so stylized that it can be difficult to read for those who are not used to it. The letters flow into each other, and artists often use arrows, dashes and other elements to create a complex and dynamic design. Wildstyle takes a lot of practice, but once you master it, you can create some of the most impressive graffiti works.
Create Your Own Style
Developing your own style in graffiti lettering is a lot about experimentation. Here are some tips to help you along the way:
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Start with the basics
If you are a beginner, start by practicing tags and block letters. Focus on getting the letters smooth and proportional before you start experimenting with more advanced styles. -
Experiment with Form and Style
Once you feel comfortable with the basics, start experimenting with different shapes and styles. Try lengthening certain parts of the letters, changing their slant or adding extra elements like arrows and lines. -
Play with Colors and Shadows
Colors and shadows can really make your letters stand out. Start with simple two-color combinations, then experiment with gradients, highlights and shadows to give your letters depth and dimension. -
Study Other Artists
Look at the work of other graffiti artists for inspiration. Analyze how they build their letters and what techniques they use. Use this as inspiration, but try to develop a style that is all your own. -
Practice, Practice, Practice
As with all art, it takes a lot of practice to get good at graffiti lettering. Take time to draw every day, and don't be afraid to make mistakes - that's how you learn and develop your own unique style.