Lesson 18: Letter Waw (Shape 2)
Letter Waw (Shape 2)
Introduction
In this lesson, you will learn how to write the Arabic letter Waw in its second form using the Thuluth calligraphy style.
Waw Shape 2 is more compact and structured than Shape 1. It focuses on symmetry, vertical balance, and smooth rounded construction. Practicing this form helps students strengthen vertical alignment, proportional spacing, and controlled body shaping, which are essential for clean and refined Thuluth writing.
Letter Data
- Letter: Waw
- Script: Thuluth
- Shape: 2
- Total strokes: 4
- Pen angle: 90°
- Total length: Based on nuqta measurements
Stroke Details
Stroke 1:
- angle: 90°
- direction: Downward vertical
- length: 2 nuqtas (height)
- width: 2 nuqtas
- pressure: Medium and steady
- description: Draw a short vertical stroke to establish the first structural base of the letter.
Stroke 2:
- angle: 90°
- direction: Downward vertical
- length: 2 nuqtas (height)
- width: 2 nuqtas
- pressure: Medium
- description: Draw a second vertical stroke beside the first to create symmetry and reinforce the foundation.
Stroke 3:
- angle: 90°
- direction: Curved forward and slightly downward
- length: 3 nuqtas (width)
- height: 2 nuqtas
- pressure: Medium and controlled
- description: Draw a broader curved stroke to round the body of the Waw and add smooth flow to its structure.
Stroke 4:
- angle: 90°
- direction: Downward vertical
- length: 3.5 nuqtas (height)
- width: 2 nuqtas
- pressure: Medium
- description: Draw a longer vertical stroke to complete the letter’s height and give it balanced proportion.
- First vertical foundation
- Second vertical foundation
- Rounded body stroke
- Final vertical height stroke
- Uneven foundation strokes
- Body curve too sharp or too flat
- Final stroke too short
- Crowded spacing between strokes
- Inconsistent stroke width
Practice strokes 1 and 2 together to achieve perfect symmetry before adding the rounded body and final height stroke.
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. |
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