Overturn Stroke

{  An upside-down U-shaped stroke in brush lettering. }

The Overturn Stroke demonstrated with a large brush pen
The Overturn Stroke demonstrated with a large brush pen

What is an Overturn Stroke?

In brush lettering, the overturn stroke is a basic stroke shaped like an upside-down “U.” It starts with a light upstroke A light, upward stroke in brush lettering using minimal pressure. Learn more that curves over the top and transitions into a heavy downstroke. This stroke is commonly used in lowercase letters like “n” and “h” and is an essential part of basic brush lettering drills.

How to Make an Overturn Stroke

Demonstrating drawing an overturn stroke with a brush pen
Brush pen overturn stroke demonstration with a large brush pen.

With your brush pen in position, begin with a light upstroke, curving to the right. As you reach the top of the stroke, transition smoothly into a heavy downstroke to complete the shape. The overturn stroke typically spans from the baseline to the x-height or ascender, depending on the letter.