This book is designed for the use of students and teachers who believe that they need more detailed direction in learning Italic than is available in Mr. Fairbank?s Manual or in Mr. Benson?s The First Writing Book. It is recommended that these three books be studied together, especially the writings of Alfred Fairbank, to whom we are all indebted for the Italic revival. By working with the large sizes of Platignum nibs one can learn to write out bulletin board notices of rather impressive size. Also, work in the large pen sizes makes it easier for one to learn details of letter construction. Small writing tends to look better than it is, for details are not clearly seen?especially by the beginner. The recommended inks for use with the Platignum pen are the Pelikan for 4001 fountain pen ink series available in brilliant black, royal blue, blue-black and green. The brilliant black is especially recommended for its jetness and even flow. For larger posters on butcher paper, Coit and Speedball pens are recommended. For notices and bulletins use Pelikan Eternal or India inks. The butcher paper requires Carbon inks. Poster colors can be diluted so that they will flow in Coit and Speedball pens. When using Speedball with poster colors, pry up the reservoir on top just so that it does not quite touch the nib, Remember that it takes time, patience, critical practice, and knowledge to learn any art or craft.