Lesson 14: Letter Laam
Letter Laam
Introduction
In this lesson, you will learn how to write the Arabic letter Laam using the Thuluth calligraphy style.
Laam is one of the most elegant and vertically expressive letters in Arabic calligraphy. It is recognized for its tall posture, clean rhythm, and balanced simplicity. Mastering Laam helps students develop control over long vertical strokes, baseline alignment, and smooth stroke transitions — all fundamental skills in Thuluth writing.
Letter Data
- Letter: Laam
- Script: Thuluth
- Total strokes: 3
- Pen angle: 75°–90°
- Total length: Based on nuqta measurements
Stroke Details
Stroke 1:
- angle: 75°
- direction: Downward vertical
- length: 7 nuqtas (height)
- width: Pen width (standard nib width)
- pressure: Firm and steady
- description: Draw a tall vertical stroke to establish the main backbone of the Laam, giving the letter its defining height and strong presence.
Stroke 2:
- angle: 75°
- direction: Horizontal extending forward
- length: 4 nuqtas (width)
- height: 2 nuqtas
- pressure: Medium and controlled
- description: Draw a horizontal stroke from the lower section of the first stroke to form the base of the letter and create visual balance.
Stroke 3:
- angle: 90°
- direction: Downward vertical
- length: 3.5 nuqtas (height)
- width: 1 nuqta
- pressure: Light to medium
- description: Draw a short vertical stroke to refine the ending of the letter and complete the Laam with subtle elegance.
- Main vertical backbone
- Base horizontal stroke
- Final vertical refinement stroke
- First stroke too short or leaning
- Horizontal base too thick or too long
- Final stroke misaligned
- Inconsistent pen angle
- Poor vertical proportion
Practice the first stroke repeatedly on its own until you consistently reach 7 nuqtas in height with a steady angle. This stroke defines the character of the entire letter.
Structured Practice 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.
| 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. |
This lesson covers writing the tall letter Laam, focusing on vertical control and smooth curved endings.
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