Speedball Textbook (26th edition)

The Speedball Textbook has been guiding letterers since 1915, and this 26th edition was published in July 2026. It has been edited by Carl Rohrs, who co-edited the previous edition and spent the years since thinking about where he would take the book next. The result brings together lesser-known historic pieces, well-loved classics and new work from over 100 of today's calligraphers. It covers both pen and brush lettering, with traditional and modern approaches sitting side by side.

For the first time, it comes in two sizes. The standard edition keeps the compact format the book has used for most of its long life. The new large edition has bigger print and six extra pages, and is a little easier to keep open beside you while you work.

Who it suits

It's the sort of book people keep for years and come back to often. Beginners will find plenty to learn from, and more experienced scribes tend to value it for the range of work and the ideas it sparks. It also makes a lovely present for anyone who enjoys writing with a pen or brush.

The two sizes

Standard: 14 x 21.5cm (5.5" x 8.5"), spiral bound, 124 pages
Large: 18 x 28cm (7" x 11"), spiral bound, 130 pages, with larger print

Both lie flat on the desk, which is a real help when you have a pen in one hand and are following letterforms with your eye.