Generally speaking, the words calligraphy and lettering are often interchanged to mean the same thing. However, when talking about calligraphy we often refer to the broad form of the art of creating beautiful writing in all its guises. There are three main types of calligraphy today, Western or Roman, Arabic and Chinese or Oriental. Some of the styles of calligraphy can better be described as fine art calligraphy.

Lettering refers to this creation of text and the drawn forms of text. Logos, headlines and most works for reproduction fit this category. With the art of calligraphy, the finished product is usually achieved with one pass of the calligraphy pen. The final result is appreciated for its individuality as well as for the consistency and fluidity.

Lettering differs because the process involves a certain amount of letter sculpting to ensure uniformity in letters because often times the result is meant to meet some sort of commercial need.

Calligraphy does not always require perfection, the finished work often reflects the personality of the person holding the calligraphy pen, their spirit. Lettering is a more exacting form of calligraphy and requires a more definite idea of uniformity and evenness.

The term lettering may also be used to cover every kind of letter-making, including calligraphy, drawn lettering, monumental letter-carving, typeface design, and so on.