Lesson 19: Letter Yaa (Shape 2)
Letter Yaa (Shape 2)
Introduction
In this lesson, you will learn how to write the Arabic letter Yaa in its second form using the Thuluth calligraphy style.
Yaa Shape 2 is expressive and fluid, characterized by a compact beginning, a strong central body, and a long sweeping finish. Practicing this form develops stroke confidence, controlled movement, and graceful extension, which are essential skills for artistic Thuluth compositions.
Letter Data
- Letter: Yaa
- Script: Thuluth
- Shape: 2
- Total strokes: 3
- Pen angle: 70°–90°
- Total length: Based on nuqta measurements
Stroke Details
Stroke 1:
- angle: 70°
- direction: Diagonal downward
- length: 2 nuqtas (height)
- width: 1 nuqta
- pressure: Medium
- description: Draw a short diagonal stroke to create the opening curve and prepare the flow of the letter.
Stroke 2:
- angle: 90°
- direction: Downward vertical
- length: 4 nuqtas (height)
- width: 4 nuqtas
- pressure: Firm and steady
- description: Draw a bold vertical stroke to form the main structure and visual weight of the Yaa.
Stroke 3:
- angle: 70°
- direction: Long diagonal curve
- length: 11.5 nuqtas (width)
- height: 1 nuqta
- pressure: Medium at start, light toward the end
- description: Draw a long flowing diagonal stroke to form the tail and complete the letter with elegance and motion.
- Diagonal opening stroke
- Central vertical body stroke
- Final sweeping tail stroke
- Opening stroke too steep
- Body stroke too narrow
- Tail too short or stiff
- Uneven pressure along the tail
- Poor connection between body and tail
Practice the third stroke separately to master long smooth movement before combining it with the full 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. |
There are no comments for now.
to be the first to leave a comment.