Every January, I get the same question: "Where do I even start?" As someone who teaches calligraphy, homeschools four boys, and has tested just about every supply out there, here are the five items I'd buy right now to make 2026 my most beautifully handwritten year yet.
1. The Cursive Connection
If I could only recommend one product, it would be The Cursive Connection. This 40-week curriculum goes beyond tracing worksheets with a leather desk mat, vintage-style spectacles for studying historical documents, 12 surprise packages with quality writing instruments, and a laminated exemplar. Starting in January means your family will be writing beautiful cursive by fall. Choose the Complete Bundle ($239), Boxed Set ($179), or Online Course ($179)—all are investments in a timeless skill.
2. Pointed Dip Pen Calligraphy Beginner Kit
The Pointed Dip Pen Calligraphy Beginner Kit takes all the guesswork out of starting. At $45 (on sale from $68), you get a convertible pen holder, six nibs, sumi ink, a 25-page workbook, tracing paper, and bonus watercolor cards and wax seals. Everything you need to build proper technique from day one.
3. Wax Seal Kit
The Wax Seal Kit transforms ordinary into extraordinary. On sale for $20 (down from $25), this kit includes a brass seal, wax sticks, and instructions. Use it on letters, invitations, journals, or gift wrapping. It's a small investment that brings joy every time you use it and elevates every handwritten piece you create.
4. The Cursive Connection Companion Set
The Cursive Connection Companion Set ($49) provides extra practice pages and supplementary materials that keep practice fresh. Perfect for multiple children working simultaneously or for those moments when a concept clicks and your child wants to keep going. Quality paper makes all the difference in encouraging consistent practice.
5. DIY Pressed Floral Card Making Kit
The DIY Pressed Floral Card Making Kit ($20, on sale from $22.39) combines handwriting practice with beautiful card making. The pressed flowers are already prepared, so you can focus on arranging and adding your message. It's therapeutic, beautiful, and helps you follow through on sending more handwritten notes to people you care about.
Why These Work Together
These five products complement each other perfectly. The Cursive Connection or Beginner Calligraphy Kit builds your foundation. The Companion Set deepens your skills. The Wax Seal and Card Making Kits give you beautiful ways to apply what you're learning. Together, they create a complete ecosystem for meaningful handwritten work.
Every item on this list represents a commitment to making 2026 more intentional and connected. These aren't products collecting dust—they're the ones I use regularly and genuinely believe will make your year better. Because words never lose their value, especially when they're written by hand.
Ready to start your year right? Shop all these products at Simply Lettered Shop.