The following are just examples of different styles. I find that I like to stop on one of these and then practice the style (if I can) and the make subtle changes to suit myself. I practice on graph paper of different sizes to keep me from getting fixed on only being able to write one size font. Muscle memory is so important when learning to write nicely, however not being able to break away from one style I think can be a little stifling.
I have found that I have hit a road block in my penmanship. What is that roadblock? It's some of the vendors I have come across... It seems the pen industry has many sales prevention offices in it. People that create web sites and advertise them selves and products. Products for sale. When, however you try and contact these site the contacts on the site are either very very slow to respond (often days), or just very rude. An excellent example of this would be http://www.vintagepen.net/links.html. Here is part of the initial mail sent out on contact.
"If you have a realistic budget I will be happy to assist you ... as long as you have a clear direction of what you want, you do not expect me to be answering basic pen information, asking redundant questions about topics I thoroughly disclosed in my website and you do not bombard me with questions or take me in all different directions. I disclose this as a few individuals have been wasting lots of my time. In advance, thanks for your consideration on this"
Unbelievable !.... Perhaps one of the rudest mails I have ever received from someone claiming to sell pens. Actually I was going to purchase from this site until I received this, that was it for me.
I always expect to occasionally write to someone on the wrong day, they have just had some bad news, they are in pain, or something that causes them to be less than helpful, but it seems in the pen business they are all over the place. Even people that represent companies. I called a well known company recently and asked about the price of a replacement nib. I asked a few questions like, what is the cost, what is the approx delivery time, did the nib come in another size, and on each occasion the assistant would say, "one min sir while I check that and disappear for 10 mins".
I couldn't believe it. If you are going to have someone answer your phone then please make sure they know something about the products you sell I thought.
On the other hand, occasionally you meet or contact people that seem to be exceptional in comparison.
Pierre Miller owner of Desideatapens, http://www.desideratapens.com/. He will go out of his way to explain detail to you and really make sure you are happy with the product. I have bought 2 of his pens recent. Excellent pens, however seemingly hard to come by as they are hand made.
The guy at Eddison Pens, I think his name is Brian Grey is fantastic in comparison. He seem genuinly interested in his customers and its obvious when you talk to him.
Most of their websites need serious attention, and the reason is that they obviously believe everyone should have a good knowledge of what they are looking for before they begin.
NEWS FLASH... Often beginners don't have the knowledge and need to learn it from somewhere. If you are an experienced penman, take the time to share, educate and help....