When starting to learn Spencerian, it seems appropriate to listen to the man himself: Spencer (and his successors). I’m a huge fan of learning from books – real, paper and ink ones – so I’m considering ordering a copy. Apparently there are two main guides: Spencerian Key to Practical Penmanship and Theory of Spencerian Penmanship (and Copybooks). Happily, they are both out of copyright and available for download via IAMPETH.

It makes me wonder, which one is the best book to start? I skimmed both books digitally and I think you’re supposed to read the Key first, then further with theory and copybooks. Is one of either book enough to help practice the Spencerian hand?

If you’re learning or have learnt the Spencerian hand from one or both these books, please share your experience below!

S.