A handwritten letter. Imagine that: basking in the knowledge that someone has taken the time to put pen to paper just for you. What could be more romantic? In these days of Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat, it’s almost like receiving some kind of sacred scroll. But, with Valentine’s Day looming, maybe it’s time to put actual pen to actual paper. And if a job’s worth doing, then it’s worth doing well. No pressure.

Mastering the art of calligraphy is a tough ask but, according to pen-on-paper expert Lu Guthrie, ‘colourful ink and a carefully selected paper is all you need. And it sounds clichéd, but it really is the thought that counts.’

Writing from the heart is always the advice given, but for the shy or those who can’t find the right words, Lu suggests just ‘copying out one of Shakespeare’s sonnets. They are so beautiful and even more special when written in a pretty colour of ink.’ With 154 sonnets to choose from, there’s bound to be one suitable for the whole spectrum of passion – from promising to pleading.