Sketch Your Fonts

In this course we start on paper with pencils and markers! I’ll teach you 8 powerful techniques to draw letterforms. Plus we’ll explore how to never run out of inspiration and stress-test your ideas.

Never run out of inspiration

Draw along with the videos

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Trailer

This hands-on video course is designed to teach you how to sketch fonts by hand. From the first rough lines to refined letterforms, using only pencils, markers, and paper.

This is NOT a calligraphy or hand-lettering course. You won’t be learning how to write decorative script or brush lettering.

Instead, you’ll learn how to draw letterforms from scratch, the way type designers have done for centuries. This course is also about coming up with new ideas, how to never run out of inspiration and stress-test your ideas.

No computers. No digital tools.

Just your sketchbook and the techniques you need to bring your ideas to life.

Why it’s important to sketch your own fonts?

Sketching a font by hand is the best way to:

Develop a deep understanding of letterforms, structure, and balance.
Create truly unique fonts that don’t just mimic existing designs.
Train your eye to spot details that make typography more refined and expressive.
Think like a type designer before ever opening font-making software.

Even if you don’t plan to digitize your sketches, learning this process will enhance your creative skills and appreciation for typography.

What you’ll learn in this course

How to generate unique font ideas, so that your designs always stand out.

Eight proven techniques for drawing type, so that every letter is visually appealing.

How to refine and perfect letterforms, so that your fonts eventually look polished and professional.

What you’re about to learn are eight practical methods. Each one sharpens a different way of seeing and drawing letterforms. No life hacks. No styles of lettering. Just simple exercises that type designers have relied on for decades because they work. Some of them will feel fast, others slow, ASMR-style like.

The Lessons

An introduction to how this course approaches sketching. Focused on speed, clarity, and generating ideas that can actually turn into type.
Drawing is cheap! A small selection of tools that support loose, fast sketching. Nothing excessive, just what contributes to better results on paper.
Core principles behind strong letterforms. Proportion, rhythm, and consistency, applied in a practical way while sketching.
An overview of the different approaches used throughout the course. Each technique offers a distinct way into drawing and developing ideas.
Using existing logos as a starting point for new letter ideas. A way to build variation and
A method that introduces contrast and movement into sketches. It creates more dynamic letterforms with minimal effort.
A shape-based approach to constructing letters. It shifts the focus from outlines to structure and proportion.
The underlying framework of letterforms. These sketches define how everything else will sit and relate.
Working with historical material to build a stronger sense of proportion and form. A direct way to train both eye and hand.
The parts of the alphabet that carry consistency across a typeface. They tie individual letters into a system.
A simple technique that produces contrast through a single movement. The result is immediate variation in stroke weight.
Different tools lead to different outcomes. Changing them introduces new forms and breaks repetition in the work.
Shaping rough sketches into a clear direction. This connects individual ideas into a consistent concept.
Early evaluation of sketches across multiple letters. It reveals whether an idea holds up beyond a single character.

The tools you’ll need

Drawing is CHEAP. You don’t need fancy tools or equipment. I’m not going to bring you into debt before starting with recommending certain brands. Expensive tools won’t make your drawings any better. What you’ll need, and what I use in this course is:

Carissa Allen

“I cannot thank Viktor enough for sharing his knowledge and creating these courses. I'm a web designer and type design was the creative outlet I needed, and I've fallen in love with it. It wouldn't have been possible without him!”

Who is this course for?

This course is perfect for:

Type Designers who want a better understanding of letterforms.
Graphic Designers looking to add hand-drawn fonts to their skillset.
Illustrators & Artists interested in exploring letter design.
Anyone who loves sketching & creativity!

No prior experience is required, just a love for typography and a willingness to experiment with pencil and paper.

How it works

Step-by-step video lessons. Watch, learn, and sketch along at your own pace

Hands-on exercises. Practice each concept with guided drawing exercises
No software needed. This is a completely paper-based course (except for a computer with Internet connection or our platform app to watch the videos of course)
Work at your own pace. Rewatch lessons and refine your skills anytime

All you need is a sketchbook, some pencils, and a love for typography.

On top of all the videos, you’re also going to gain access to these exciting Bonuses. I’m confident that you’re going to love them just as much!

The Humanist Blueprint Words Edition

This bonus gives you a simple way in. Instead of working through a full alphabet, you’ll start with carefully chosen words so you can focus on the movement, rhythm, and flow without getting lost in details. Just follow the strokes, repeat them a few times, and you’ll feel how the forms come together. It’s a quick, low-pressure way to understand the system and build confidence before moving on to the full Humanist Blueprint.

Feedback on your process

Got stuck, overthinking a curve, or not sure why something feels off? You can ask me anything along the way. Whether it is a quick check, a second opinion, or a deeper question about your sketches, you will have direct access to guidance when you need it. You get clear answers so you can keep progressing without second guessing your work.

Easy to Follow

Comprehensive, to-the-point, modules you can do at any time

No Software needed

All you need for this course is a laptop or phone to watch the modules

At Your Own Pace

Learn at your own pace, in your own time, anywhere in the world

Sketch Your Fonts is always available and an ideal starting point before the joining the Font Making Course.

JOIN THE WAITLIST →

Meet your instructor:
Viktor Baltus

I’m a Dutch typedesigner with a passion for calligraphy and typography. I spent years learning the rules of type design and getting a feel for what makes fonts work.

Since launching Type Design Class, I’ve had the privilege of helping over a thousand students learn the art of typography.

I teach in a clear and concise manner, so you can grow quickly as a designer. Whether you’re looking to pick up new design skills or just brush up on your knowledge, I’m here to help.

I’m proud to say that our platform has become one of the leading names in online typography courses, and I’ve had the opportunity to partner with industry leaders like Glyphs, The Futur, Goodtype, and Fontself.

What people say about my courses

"I absolutely love the Font Making Course, and find myself returning to the lessons regular. There’s so much knowledge to glean here!"

Elliot Jay Stocks
"I'm so grateful to have taken this course, because without Viktor I wouldn't be where I am today."

Stacy ‘Blanc Salváge’
"I would highly recommend this course if you're serious about type, it will make you love it even more!"

Adam Vicarel
"I’m super happy with the course! I’ve created a typeface before, but following your process has definitely sped up my workflow, and I’ve discovered so many new tips that make this journey a bit easier!"

Mari Carmen del Valle
"Besides the very detailed structured course Viktor gives invaluable feedback. This is the perfect combination."

Michael Leonhartsberger
"The course is full of useful knowledge and tips to learn and yet it is explained simple and easy to follow. So I was able to learn it step by step without being overwhelmed."

Saori

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Once you’re enrolled, you have the flexibility to start at your own pace, whether that’s next week, a few months down the road or even next year.
You’ll get full access to all videos, plus all the guidebooks. No need to wait for new content to appear, you can dive right in!
Yes! You can learn at your own pace, in your own time, anywhere in the world. Stuck with a technique? Simply scroll back in time and start over.
We encourage using good old paper and pencil. It’s cheap, accessible, and helps you focus on the shapes without tech getting in the way.
Not at all. This course is about exploring letterforms, not creating perfect art. If you can sketch a letter, you’re good to go.
Just some basic paper, a pencil or pen, and maybe an eraser. That’s it. No fancy supplies required.
You can order your course on this page. You will receive an email with links and instructions for accessing the course material.
Let’s be honest, ‘life long access’ is not something you can really claim. You’ll have access to the course material for a minimum of 5 years.
Nope. This course is more about understanding letter construction, rhythm, and style by drawing. It’s a foundation that can help if you ever do want to design a full typeface later.
Sure, if you want I can help you figure out what needs to be improved in your skeches.

Any additional questions? Feel free to email us at info@typedesignclass.com