ORLANDO, Fla. – Writing in cursive is not a lost art yet.
Twenty-three states, from Florida to California, still require young people to learn cursive in school. Programs online offer courses in handwriting, even for adults.
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And in Orlando, lovers of writing and journaling and drawing and calligraphy are gathering to celebrate all things pen and penmanship at the third annual Orlando Pen Show, Sept. 6-7 at the Florida Hotel and Conference Center at the Florida Mall on Sand Lake Road.
Over 100 vendors will showcase vintage and modern pens, along with inks, paper, cases, and other items. The show says fountain pens will get a spotlight, with crafters from all over the world taking part. They include Omas, an Italian penmaker who has been in the business since 1925, and Esterbrook Pens, an American company that goes back to 1858.
Attendees can also attend classes on learning how to use fountain pens, choosing the right ink, journaling techniques and concepts, and classes on how to write in American cursive and vertical cursive (for these, pencils are recommended).
There will also be giveaways and show exclusives, and a silent auction of custom handmade pens, with the proceeds benefiting Reef Relief of the Florida Keys.
Tickets to the Orlando Pen Show cost $10 a day for one person, or $15 a day for two people. Some of the workshops are free, while others cost $10 and up, depending on what materials are provided.
Learn more about the Orlando Pen Show and buy tickets on the event’s website.
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