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Modern Typeface Creation Importance of Typography

Present Day Typography


Modern Typeface Creation

Typography design methods have evolved overtime. Starting in the early 15th century with the development of moveable type, typeface design has been influenced by new technologies or new trends. Today, digital applications provide tools to make designing and replicating typefaces even easier. Here is a look at how typefaces are created using modern technology and prepared for modern usage.

  1. Conceptual Explorations
    • The typeface design process typically starts with hand-drawn sketches of key letters and showcasing the common shapes seen throughout the typeface.
    • Consistency is key to making type faces easy to understand.
  2. Digitizing & Drawing
    • The sketches are digitized into line drawings (vector graphics) where each line is defined by its starting, ending, and curve control points.
    • Usually done in a font software program such as FontLab, Glyphs, or Robofont.
  3. Sidebearings & Kerning
    • Each character is assigned an amount of space on each side (sidebearings) to separate the characters. Specific adjustments are made when shapes interact and are made to improve the spacing between characters (kerning).
    • The goal is for each character to be proportionally spaced so there is a sense of rhythm when they are grouped together.
  4. Interpolation
    • For type families with two or more styles, the designer draws the lightest and heaviest styles, known as masters, and the software generates the intermediate weights (interpolation).
    • This works with families with two or more styles within a single axis, ex. weight or width.
  5. Programming
    • Layout features are coded in font editing software to control how fonts operates for the user.
    • OpenType font technology allows characters to be adjusted or substituted.
  6. Mastering
    • The font is checked to ensure it operates correctly, then it is exported as a TTF or OTF font.
  7. Distribution and Usage
    • Fonts can be available directly from the designers website, through third party libraries, or subscriptions installed directly into design software.

Importance of Typography

"Typography is what makes written messages sing"

While there are many typefaces available for use, it is important to consider the significance of typography in today's market. The appropriate use of typography can:

  • Draw Attention to Specific Areas
  • Establish Information Hierarchy
  • Set a Tone or Impression
  • Create Brand Recognition
  • Show Brand Personality
  • Increase Accessibility