@Samanthaj,

I'm in the same boat as you. I can read and write via Pinyin, however I can't write enough characters by hand to pass even the first level HSK test.

I'd strongly suggest, if you have a smart phone, download an IME that includes handwriting EG: 百度输入法, (or if you have an I phone the software is standard), and just start writing whatever you want to say using Pinyin. Next, switch to handwriting mode and copy whatever you've just written using the handwriting input, I like Baidu because it has 全屏 mode， which is really convenient because you can write over the top of the whole screen. As you work, concentrate on identifying the different components in the characters so that later it will become easier to remember how to write.

This is excellent practice, and the results are quick and stunning. Within a few months, I believe you should be able to take the full test and not worry about the handwriting portion.

Best of luck to you in your development.

小虎