5 steps to start Shodo
STEP 1: Prepare Your Tools
- Brush (筆) - a soft brush for writing
- Ink (墨) - black ink made from special stone
- Paper (和紙) - traditional Japanese paper
- Ink Stone (硯) - a stone for mixing ink
STEP 2: Make the Ink
- If using an ink stick: Rib it on the ink stone with water
- If using liquid ink: Pour a small amount into an ink stone
STEP 3: Practice Basic Strokes
- Learn simple lines and shapes first
- Keep your hand relaxed and move smoothly
STEP 4: Try Writing Kanji or Hiragana
Start with simple characters such as 一 or 永
STEP 5: Enjoy and Keep Practice!
Shodo takes time, so be patient and have fun!