Notes for comparing marks, materials and proportions.

Keep material changes visible

If a new paper or ink changes line quality, record that change before judging the capital itself. Material behaviour can alter hairlines and pressure response.

Compare at two distances

Close inspection reveals stroke edges and release points; viewing the entire capital from farther away reveals balance and proportion.

Use references as evidence, not tracing targets

A useful reference helps identify relationships—width, slant, shade placement and spacing. The learner’s goal is to understand those relationships rather than reproduce every contour mechanically.