What is the standard line spacing for calligraphy?

Standard interline spacing is one x-height gap between lines. This means one x-height of clear space between the descender of one line and the ascender of the next. Tight spacing uses half an x-height, relaxed uses 1.5x.

What are ascenders and descenders?

Ascenders are the parts of letters that extend above the x-height (b, d, f, h, k, l). Descenders drop below the baseline (g, j, p, q, y). Their height relative to x-height varies by script.

How do I rule guidelines on paper?

Use a sharp pencil (4H or harder) and ruler. Mark the line positions on both sides of the paper and connect them. Or create a guideline sheet on card and place it behind translucent paper. Remove pencil lines after inking.

Why does Uncial have shorter ascenders?

Uncial is a majuscule (capital-like) script where most letters sit within the x-height. Ascenders and descenders are minimal, only about 30% of x-height, making it compact and ideal for short texts.

Should I include a waistline guide?

Yes — rule four lines per text line: ascender line, waistline (top of x-height), baseline, and descender line. For scripts with branching strokes, some calligraphers add a fifth line at the branching point.

ArtCalcs

Line Spacing Calculator — Calligraphy Guidelines

Work out x-height, ascender, descender and line spacing for calligraphy scripts.

X-Height

Script

Interline Spacing

Page Height

A4 = 297 mm

Top Margin

Bottom Margin

How We Calculate This

How Line Spacing Calculation Works

Line advance = Ascender + X-height + Descender + Interline gap

Each script has characteristic ascender and descender proportions relative to x-height. The interline gap (space between lines) is typically one x-height. The calculator then works out how many complete lines fit on your page.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.