Avoid These 5 Common Graffiti Handstyle Mistakes

Avoid These 5 Common Graffiti Handstyle Mistakes

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Mistake #1: Over relying on embellishments
3. Mistake #2: Inconsistent letter proportions
4. Mistake #3: Focusing on expensive markers
5. Mistake #4: Lack of understanding of hand style
6. Mistake #5: Being too precious with the black book
7. Common mistakes in graffiti writing
8. Conclusion

Article

Introduction

When it comes to graffiti writing, there are common mistakes that many beginners and young writers make. These mistakes can often hinder their progress and prevent them from developing their own unique style. In this article, we will discuss five of these mistakes and provide tips on how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Over relying on embellishments

One of the most common mistakes that writers make is an over-reliance on embellishments in their tags. This includes the use of halos, quotation marks, underlines, arrows, and even fake drips. While these embellishments can add visual interest to a tag, they should not be the main focus. It is important to remember that the letters themselves should be the star of the tag. Focus on creating consistent and visually appealing letter structures, and use embellishments sparingly to enhance the overall design.

Pros: Adds visual interest to the tag, can make it stand out Cons: Can detract from the main letters, may look cluttered if overused

Mistake #2: Inconsistent letter proportions

Another common mistake is the lack of attention to letter proportions and sizes. Beginners often get carried away in the moment and end up with tags that have inconsistent letter sizes and proportions. This can make the tag look unattractive and unprofessional. It is important to focus on creating tags with consistent letter sizes and proportions. While it is okay to have variation in letter styles, there should always be a logic and understanding behind each letter's size and proportion.

Pros: Allows for creative expression in letter styles, adds visual interest Cons: Tags may look unprofessional if proportions are inconsistent

Mistake #3: Focusing on expensive markers

Many beginners believe that using expensive markers or tools will automatically improve their tags. However, this is not necessarily the case. The quality of a tag is not determined by the marker or tool used, but by the skill of the writer. It is important to focus on honing your skills with basic tools such as ballpoint pens, pencils, or thin markers. Understanding the fundamentals of letter structure and style is what will truly make your tags stand out, not the marker you use.

Pros: Can create unique effects and styles with different markers Cons: Expensive markers can be a distraction from focusing on letter structure

Mistake #4: Lack of understanding of hand style

Hand style is more about the motion of your hand and the muscle memory built into your hand rather than trying to recreate a tag that you once did or practiced extensively. Many writers spend too much time sketching and perfecting their tags, rather than embracing the spontaneous nature of graffiti writing. Tags should be done quickly and in the moment, allowing for imperfections and mistakes. This is how you build muscle memory and develop your own unique hand style.

Pros: Allows for spontaneity and uniqueness in tags, helps build muscle memory Cons: May result in imperfect tags initially, requires practice to develop hand style

Mistake #5: Being too precious with the black book

The black book is a common tool used by graffiti writers to sketch and plan out their tags. However, it is important to understand that the black book is not an accurate representation of what tags will look like in real-world environments. The streets present different variables and challenges that cannot be replicated in the controlled environment of a black book. It is important to practice in real-world settings and adapt your tags accordingly. The black book should be seen as a practice tool, not a final representation of your skills.

Pros: Allows for planning and experimentation with different styles and techniques Cons: Tags in the black book may not translate well to real-world environments

Common mistakes in graffiti writing

In addition to the five mistakes discussed above, there are other common mistakes that writers should be aware of. These include a lack of creativity in letter styles, poor color choices, inconsistent line work, and a failure to adapt to different surfaces. By understanding and avoiding these mistakes, writers can improve their skills and develop their own unique style.

Conclusion

Graffiti writing is a form of art that requires practice, creativity, and a keen eye for design. By avoiding common mistakes such as over-reliance on embellishments, inconsistent letter proportions, focusing on expensive markers, lack of understanding of hand style, and being too precious with the black book, writers can elevate their skills and create visually stunning tags. Remember to embrace the spontaneous nature of graffiti writing and practice in real-world environments to truly excel in this art form.