Flourish No. 2

Here is a variation of the basic figure-eight that you can add to the end of a word. Fig. 1 shows a small version. The tiny arrows show that it is nice to balance the amount of depth and height on the flourish and when you are deciding where to stop, aim for the middle of that oval that you created. The tiny word to the right was trying to illustrate that if you keep the flourish to the same size as the letter, it is probably a little too small and crunched. But, maybe you like that look.

Fig. 2 shows a full line drop at the beginning and then swoop up, a full line in height and then after the left loop of your figure-eight is done, be sure you fling an equal distance to the right. The final curve is loosened up, so you do not see an implied figure-eight.

Fig. 3 is the same as 2, but it is a little larger. The sad face is pointing out that if you think about things too hard, you might have an awkward transition from your letter to your flourish. Avoid doing that by making 300-400 flourishes until they just flow spontaneously. Pencil is good for practice.

Fig. 4 shows a more traditional figure-eight up in the air. This is an option if you forget to drop down on your last letter and just have to add it on at the last minute. You can see the implied figure-eight where the dotted line finishes up the second loop.

Fig. 5 shows the size I like to make flourishes. I am much better when I fling a really big flourish and use my whole arm. It takes hundreds and hundreds of flings to get to the point where you can fling them and every single one is pretty. But, the good news is....it's like riding a bike. Once you get the feel for a big loopy flourish, you can't forget it. I was trying to make those two little *bad* examples....and they really aren't as bad as I had hoped to make them. I suppose I could go out on the internet and find examples of *bad* flourishes. But, I really don't want to judge. If someone is just trying to figure it out on their own, with no lessons, I am still happy that they are trying. Some of the quirky, jerky, contorted flourishes are full of happiness and love....so, I refuse to label them *bad.*
They are welcome in my world. If people want to learn some flourishes that are little more refined, that's fine, too.