In our first project we were given the task to design a type specimen design using one typeface of are choice.
In class we went over the basic knowledge of typefaces and how they function.
A typeface is a group of letters combined into a word. Many typefaces have similar patterns. There are fundamental principles in typography design that make a typeface style most effective such as readability and legibility. Below are a few fundamental principles we went over in class. I decided to write a few notes on them for better knowledge and understanding.
Cap height is the height of a capital letter above the basline of a typeface. It can be most noticeable in letters such as H or I were the capital letter is flat. It can be also seen in round letters and pointed letter such as “O” and “A” which also go higher than the basline.
X height tells the correct placement and positioning of a letter. Its the highest point of a lowercase letter such as the letters “g” and “y”. Its easier to read a smaller font size with a tall X height as it has better legibility. Letters such as “b” and “m” align with X height which makes it clearer to see.
Ascenders are lowercase letters that go above the x-height while descenders goes below. Line spacing is important for these letters as it has to be easy to read. For instance if the paragraph spacing is too tight it would make it squashed and hard to perceive.
Weight is the thickness of a typeface. While choosing lettering you can often choose from bold, light, extra light, black or extra bold. Depending on what project you are creating font weight can be extremely effective for impact. If you are trying to make a design look softer for example extra light would be a great option.
Serif is easier known as a old fashioned formal lettering such as New Times Roman. The strokes extend from the letters and gives it a very professional appearance. You can find serif in many books.
Sans Serif is rounded and modern. It has no strokes which is why its called “sans” as this is the french word for “without”. Sans Serif is used for many things in todays world such as travelling signs as its clean and easy to read.