JFA monogram

I realize, as I begin working on another monogram design, that I have created so many, but have not had time to post. As you can see, I have been pulling out a few of these over the past few months.

Here is a simple copperplate monogram engraved in fawn ink on cotton paper.
Part of the fun in constructing a monogram is sketching out different letters to see which work best in the overall composition. On this one, I arranged the top and bottom loops of the F to reach out into the letters on each side.

We used the monogram on note cards, favor boxes and other pieces for the reception.

I will have share a "behind the scenes of creating a monogram" in an upcoming post. I have had people ask me if I could not just sit down and write out their letters.  No! :) It involves lots of sketches and a variety of letterforms to see which will work best. Each monogram will be shaped differently, depending on the letters involved, to form a cohesive design.

Whimsical Monograms

This is a fun, whimsical monogram I created for a client to use for her program booklets and stationery note cards.  I had one of my favorite books, The Perfectly Imperfect Home - illustrated by one of my favorite illustrators - Virgina Johnson, lying on my table and happened to notice the end pages were the same color. I love these designs together!

~ but I also like the design combined with a classical blue pattern~

...so, whatever your style, you can always incorporate a fun monogram into your stationery wardrobe!

olivia's monogram

As I have said before, I love creating monograms ~ and here is the monogram I designed to coordinate with Olivia's note cards (in post below).

Engraved in Pink Punch

A Fine Line featured in Martha Stewart Real Weddings ~ Special Issue!

I was beyond excited to see a custom monogram I designed featured in Martha Stewart Real Weddings ~ Special Issue! 

I love designing monograms. They are like solving fascinating little puzzles, never quite sure how they will emerge.  It was fun intertwining the Y and M and weaving them into the R for ~ YRM.

So, here is a charming way to show off your monogram at your next soirée .

~~~

Monogrammed Gift Enclosures

~Give the gift of personalized gift enclosures.~

Letterpress cards with custom calligraphic monogram and painted edging.

These beautiful cards could be designed to include a name, illustration or whatever you like as your personal logo for gift enclosures, calling cards or business cards.  The design could be a mixture of a typeface and calligraphy, a custom illustration or a motif from the fabulous fine lines offered at A Fine Line.

They make the perfect accessory to any stationery wardrobe.

monogram designed by Dana Cochran

also available in other wonderful colors, shapes and sizes

Martha Stewart Weddings Spring 2011 ~ Written By Hand

I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of this featured story,

Written by Hand, in the Spring 2011 issue of

Martha Stewart Weddings.

My work was featured, along with some of my favorite calligraphers - both friends and teachers, in an article on the many ways to incorporate hand-lettering into everything from your stationery and vows to the favors and food at your reception.

I was also asked to pen the title of the opening page (above) to the main stories in the magazine.

The 8-page article is a must see/read for anyone planning a wedding or an event.

It is a really beautiful article and I am so honored to be among such spectacular company!

photos Martha Stewart Weddings