The Ultimate Calligraphy & Personalisation Glossary by Kimlligraphy

A comprehensive list of terms and definitions related to calligraphy, engraving, foiling, and personalisation. This glossary helps you understand the unique offerings at Kimlligraphy and the technical terms behind our bespoke and experiential services.

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3D Embossing – A technique that adds a raised effect to designs or letters, creating a tactile, three-dimensional appearance. Commonly used in luxury calligraphy projects to add sophistication and texture.


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Acrylic Calligraphy – Calligraphy done on acrylic surfaces, often used for custom signage at events or personalised decorative items.

Alphabet Styles – Different letter forms or fonts, such as Gothic, Italic, and Modern, used to create specific aesthetics in calligraphy.


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Back-of-House Personalisation – Behind-the-scenes customisation, often used for high-volume or last-minute personalisations, enabling a controlled setting without interrupting event flow.

Back-of-House Service – Kimlligraphy’s back of house service provides private, behind-the-scenes personalisation, ideal for events needing flexibility and efficiency. Unlike live, on-site calligraphy, this service allows calligraphers to work in a separate area, customising large volumes of items—such as place cards or gifts—without disrupting event flow. Perfect for corporate events, weddings, and brand activations, this service ensures high-quality personalised products with the convenience of real-time adjustments.

Bespoke Calligraphy – Custom-designed calligraphy pieces created specifically for each client, ensuring a one-of-a-kind look for invitations, logos, or event signage.

Brand Activations – Marketing events or experiences designed to build memorable connections between a brand and its audience. These interactive activations bring the brand to life, fostering awareness and loyalty through unique engagements. Examples include product launches, in-store events, and pop-ups. Incorporating calligraphy can add a personalised touch, enhancing brand engagement.


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Calligraphy Personalisation – Adding names or custom designs to items with calligraphy, often live at events to create an interactive, memorable experience.

Corporate Calligraphy Services – Custom calligraphy offerings for corporate settings, such as branded gifts, place cards, or on-site calligraphy at company events.

Custom Calligraphy – Personalised calligraphy pieces created for specific client needs, ensuring a unique and tailored look for any project. Used for invitations, logos, event signage, and more.


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Engraving – The process of etching designs onto hard surfaces, like glass, metal, or leather, often used for high-end gifts and keepsakes.


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Foiling – Applying a metallic foil layer to items, adding a luxurious, reflective effect. Often used on invitations, business cards, or gifts for a high-end finish.

Full-Service Personalisation – A combination of calligraphy, engraving, and foiling, allowing a complete personalised experience across multiple items for brand cohesion.

 


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Gold Leaf Application – Applying thin layers of gold leaf to add a luxurious finish, often used in premium calligraphy and signage.


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Hand Engraving – A traditional technique where designs are etched by hand into materials, offering a bespoke, artisan touch. Suitable for detailed or high-value items.

Hand Foiling – Applying foil to items manually, giving each piece a unique, hand-finished look, ideal for luxury stationery or leather goods.

Hand Lettering – The art of drawing each letter individually, allowing for unique, creative shapes and decorative elements. Unlike calligraphy, hand lettering involves more illustration and design, commonly used for signage, branding, and custom artwork.


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In-Studio Personalisation – Customising items at the Kimlligraphy studio, offering a controlled environment with precision tools, best for small-batch, high-end personalisations.


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Laser Engraving – Using laser technology to create precise, detailed engravings on various surfaces. Ideal for bulk orders or items requiring consistent, high-quality personalisation.

Live Calligraphy – On-site calligraphy performed in real-time at events, offering guests a unique and engaging experience as they watch their items being customised.

Live Digital Lettering – Real-time digital calligraphy displayed on screens or instantly printed, combining traditional calligraphy artistry with digital technology for a modern touch.


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Monogramming – Creating initials or name abbreviations in a personalised, stylised design. Common in luxury calligraphy projects or branded gifts.


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On-Site Personalisation – Personalising items directly at events or retail locations, allowing guests or customers to receive personalised items on the spot.


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Place Cards – Cards featuring guests' names in calligraphy, often used at weddings or corporate events to add elegance and a personal touch to table settings.

Product Painting – Painting designs or names directly onto items, like leather goods or glassware, creating a hand-crafted, unique look ideal for high-end branding or gifts.


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Traditional Calligraphy – Classic calligraphy forms rooted in historic styles and tools, using nibs or quills for an authentic, elegant appearance.


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Ultra-Luxe Calligraphy – High-end calligraphy services featuring premium materials and intricate designs, suited for luxury brands or special events.

 


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