Welcome to the Letter Qaaf

Thuluth Calligraphy section of the Letter Animation Studio

On this page, you will find a detailed breakdown of the Qaaf’s structure, its individual parts, and the precise technique required to craft it in the Thuluth style.

All Alef Baa Jeem Daal Raa Seen Saad Taa Ayn Qaaf Faa Kaaf Laam Meem Noon Haa Waw Yaa La​

Anatomy of the Letter Qaaf

The letter Qaaf in Thuluth consists of the following key parts:

Full Animation of Qaaf

The Qaaf (ق) is a distinguished letter in the Arabic alphabet, characterized by its symmetrical curves and structured form. In Thuluth calligraphy, the Qaaf’s design showcases balance, precision, and artistic elegance. Composed of four carefully measured strokes, each part contributes to the harmonious beauty of the letter. Below is a detailed explanation of its structure.

1.First Stroke

Start with a vertical stroke at a 90° angle, forming the letter’s initial foundation.

This stroke measures 2 nuqtas in height and 2 nuqtas in width, creating the base of the Qaaf.

2.Second Stroke

Add another vertical stroke at a 90° angle, mirroring the first for symmetry.

The dimensions remain the same: 2 nuqtas in height and 2 nuqtas in width, reinforcing the structural balance.

3.Third Stroke

Transition to a larger, flowing stroke at a 75° angle.

This stroke measures 2  nuqtas in height and 4 nuqtas in width, forming the rounded upper part of the Qaaf.

4.Fourth Stroke

Conclude with a vertical stroke at a 90° angle, extending to form the tail of the letter.

This stroke measures 3 1/2 nuqtas in height and 2 nuqtas in width, completing the Qaaf with its signature elegance.

Guidelines for Letter Mastery

The "Guidelines for Letter Mastery" table provides a clear and systematic approach for students to practice and refine their Arabic calligraphy skills. It outlines each step, the recommended time allocation, and detailed descriptions to ensure effective and focused practice sessions. This table is designed to help students build consistency, master letter proportions, and develop a strong foundation in Arabic calligraphy.

Structured Practice Guidelines for Letter Mastery

Step Time Description
Set Aside Dedicated Practice Time 15–20 minutes per session Allocate focused time for practice. Aim for 3–4 sessions per week to build consistency and muscle memory.
Understand the Letter's Structure 2–3 minutes Review examples and stroke breakdowns. Familiarize yourself with angles, proportions, and key components.
Begin with Tracing 5–7 minutes Trace the letter on the worksheet to understand its flow and stroke angles.
Practice Freehand 10–12 minutes Draw the letter freehand using guides. Focus on clean strokes, proportions, and consistency.
Refine with Repetition 5–10 minutes Repeat the letter multiple times, aiming to improve alignment, spacing, and smoothness.
Evaluate Your Progress 2–3 minutes Compare your work to the examples on the worksheet. Identify areas for improvement.
Incorporate Feedback As needed Seek feedback from an instructor or peer and apply their suggestions in future sessions.


Personalized Feedback at UAC

At the University of Arabic Calligraphy (UAC), we are dedicated to your development as a calligrapher. We provide personalized corrections and comments on your practice worksheets to ensure you get the help you need.

Once you've finished your practice, upload it using this link: Submit Practice for Correction.

Our experienced team  will carefully analyze your entry and make thorough changes to help you improve your technique, abilities, and confidence in your calligraphy journey.

This one-of-a-kind experience assures that you are not practicing alone, but rather studying with the support and knowledge of a devoted calligraphy community. Continue your journey with us and take a step closer to learning the art of Arabic calligraphy.