Calligraphy FAQs

Clear answers to the most common questions about custom digital calligraphy

These FAQs help you understand what’s included, what to expect, and how the process works from start to finish.

Do you create the calligraphy digitally?

Yes — all calligraphy is created digitally by hand. No fonts, no automation, no AI. Every letter is drawn manually for a clean, modern, elegant style.

Will I receive a physical print?

No. All calligraphy pieces are delivered as digital files so you can print, frame, or share them however you like.

What do I need to provide?

You’ll submit:

Your exact text
Any optional layout notes
Any special instructions

You’ll enter this information through the form linked after checkout.

What kind of text can you write?

I can create non-copyrighted (public domain) or personal text:

Quotes
Vows
Letters
Poems
Readings
Song lyrics
Custom messages

If you’re unsure whether your text will work, feel free to ask.

Are there copyright rules about what text I can submit for calligraphy?

I can only calligraph text that you have the legal right to use. This includes:

Personal writing (your own poem, letter, vows, etc.)
Public domain texts (older works whose copyright has expired)
Scripture translations that are public domain (KJV, ASV, WEB)
Texts for which you have explicit written permission

I cannot calligraph copyrighted material such as:

modern poems
contemporary song lyrics
excerpts from novels
copyrighted Bible translations (NIV, NLT, ESV, The Message, any modern version published after 1927)
or any text owned by an author, publisher, or artist without permission

For example, I cannot calligraph songs by popular modern artists.

If you’re unsure whether your text is allowed, you can contact me — I’m happy to help you determine whether it’s eligible.

How long can my text be?

Word limit is extremely flexible depending on the item, but longer text will result in:

Smaller lettering
More lines of text
A taller or wider layout
Less margin space

You can check your word count at wordcounter.net. If your text is unusually long, I’ll let you know if adjustments are needed.

What size will my final file be?

Your final files are delivered at 300 DPI and sized according to your text.

Most pieces are delivered in a portrait orientation, but I can adjust if needed for some listings.

What file types will I receive?

You’ll receive:

300 DPI, high resolution files ready for printing
JPG and PNG format
5 color backgrounds for each (white, cream, pink, gray, parchment)

How long does it take?

Your proof will be delivered within 3–5 business days.

Final files are delivered shortly after you approve your proof.

Can I request changes?

Yes — each order includes small layout adjustments.

For more details, visit the Revisions and Proofs page

What counts as a large adjustment?

Large adjustments require rewriting or re‑flowing the layout and are considered paid revisions.

For more details, visit the Revisions and Proofs page

Can I make changes after I approve the proof?

Yes — but only as a paid revision.

Once approved, the piece is considered complete, and any changes require additional work.

What is your refund policy?

You may request a full refund before work begins.

Work begins as soon as you submit your text and I start reviewing it.

Once work has begun, the order becomes non‑refundable.

Full details: Refunds & Cancellations

Can I use my calligraphy commercially?

Not without written permission.

Your artwork includes personal use rights only.

Commercial use includes:

Selling prints
Using the artwork for a business
Using it in branding or marketing
Uploading it to print‑on‑demand sites

Full details: Usage Rights

Will my calligraphy be shared in your portfolio?

Possibly — but only if you’re comfortable.

You can choose whether to allow this on your order form.

You may change your preference at any time by emailing support@thecalligraphersletter.com or by filling out my contact form.

Can I edit or modify the artwork myself?

No. To protect the integrity of the work:

You may not recolor, crop, or alter the artwork
You may not add filters or effects
You may not use AI tools to modify or extend the artwork

If you need changes, please request a revision.

Where can I print my artwork?

Your calligraphy files are high‑resolution and ready for printing at 8×10, 11×14, or 16×20 sizes. For the best results, choose matte cardstock (not photo paper).

Recommended places:

Zazzle cardstock prints
Shutterfly cardstock prints
Local print shops — ask for matte or smooth cover stock

You can also print at home or through any online printing service that offers matte or heavyweight paper options. Read more in the Printing Guide.

What if I’m not sure which listing I need?

I’m happy to help you choose the right option.

You can reach me anytime at support@thecalligraphersletter.com.

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