How to Write the Plus + in Cursive
The plus sign is the most elemental glyph on the keyboard — two perpendicular strokes that form a cross. In cursive lettering it shows up in simple maths, branding ('Coffee + Cake'), and modern minimalist design where it stands in for the word 'and' as a quieter alternative to the ampersand. Its simplicity is also its trap: any slight asymmetry stands out instantly.
The Plus (+) in 30 Cursive Fonts
See how the plus looks across every cursive font in our collection. Each font gives the symbol a unique personality — from formal calligraphic scripts to casual modern handwriting.
Tangerine
Dancing Script
Great Vibes
Parisienne
Sacramento
Kaushan Script
Alex Brush
Caveat
Mr De Haviland
Satisfy
Allura
Yellowtail
Arizonia
Bad Script
Berkshire Swash
Marck Script
Petit Formal Script
Pinyon Script
Italianno
Niconne
Quintessential
Style Script
Carattere
Ephesis
Luxurious Script
Bilbo Swash Caps
How to Write the Plus (+) Step by Step
Draw a horizontal stroke at the midline of the x-height, then a vertical stroke crossing it at the midpoint. Both strokes should be the same length, and the crossings should produce four equal arms. In script lettering, give the strokes a slight slant to match the surrounding text rather than keeping them strictly perpendicular to the page.
- ✗ Drawing the horizontal too long so the plus looks like a 't' without a curve
- ✗ Crossing the strokes off-centre, leaving one arm noticeably longer
- ✗ Using strokes of different weights — both arms should match
- ✗ Sizing the plus like a digit when it should be slightly smaller (similar to a multiplication sign)
- ✗ Slanting only one of the two strokes, breaking the visual balance
Stylistic Variations of the Plus
- Geometric plus — perfectly perpendicular strokes, used in technical and mathematical contexts
- Slanted plus — both strokes share the script slant, used inside italic phrases
- Brush plus — bold strokes with hairline tips, popular in modern lettering
- Heavy plus (➕) — bold dingbat variant for emphasis on signage
Where the Plus (+) Is Used
Real-world contexts where this symbol earns its place in cursive lettering.
- +Modern brand and shop names ('Coffee + Cake', 'Lemon + Lime') as a quieter alternative to the ampersand
- +Maths and chemistry equations on classroom charts
- +Plus-size and inclusivity branding
- +Medical and first-aid symbols
- +Music collaboration credits ('Artist A + Artist B')
Practice Tips for the Cursive Plus
- 1Drill the cross shape at consistent size — many beginners shrink the vertical relative to the horizontal.
- 2Practise the plus inside short phrases like 'Salt + Pepper' to feel how it interacts with letters.
- 3Try slanted and upright versions side by side to see which suits your script.
- 4Use a ruler on the first few attempts so you internalise the proportions before going freehand.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cursive Plus
How is + different from the ampersand?
How do you write a cursive plus sign?
Why is + sometimes used instead of 'and' in branding?
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