Copperplate Guidelines Proportions?

[Morgan Kelley]

I was wondering if anyone cold explain the difference in using Copperplate guidelines with the ascender/descender height at 1.5 times the x-height versus 2 times? I'm finding both on different guidelines and am not sure if I should be using a particular one for Copperplate study, or if it's more up to personal preference.

Thanks!
Morgan

[evad]

Most Copperplate guidelines have the 2:1:2 ratio. It was only on this forum that I have seen 1,5:1:1,5 guidelines made by Erica. Thankfully, these were the first I found, as I find this ratio the most elegant!

When I try flourishing, though, I will try 2:1:2 guidelines as they allow for more room for flourishes.

[Brad franklin]

Not to confuse you anymore, but engrosser's script uses 1:1:1 at least that I know off.  Try them all.

[AndyT]

Last time one of these questions about proportions came up, I trotted out the excellent John Jenkins just for the fun of it.  Here he is again:

Q:  At what height are the stems of the b,d,h,k and l drawn above the body of the letters?
A:  The height of the n; and it is observed that the stems of the p,q and f, when not looped, are drawn the same length below the body of the letters, and the stems of the j,g,y, long ʃ and f, when looped may be drawn about one third longer.

Nb.  In small or running hand, the letters are wider in proportion to their height, and the stems are drawn longer.

So you need 1:1:1, plus an extra line at 1⅓.  Hope that helps!