Jun 20, 2007
Fontself Bitmap Font & Text Engine
I’ve always been a fan of the initial sketches that typographers make when developing new fonts. Even the most ordinary fonts can look that little bit more special when rendered or sketched in pencil.
Fontself is an interesting new project–a Bitmap Font and Text Engine–that renders text as images. Now, I can already hear you say that text rendered as an image makes it less accessible, but then if we for a moment think in terms of type as art or for use within Graphic Design, then this project has some potential. It’s also an interesting coding challenge.
3 Comments, Comment or Trackback
LaurenMarie - Creative Curio
That is really amazing! I like the concept, and as you said, it is probably best for type as art or for use within a design. This would not be suitable for web body copy, naturally.
I watched the movie, and did you notice how the more the person typed the characters changed? It made the copy so that, like they said, it “looks and behaves more like realistic human handwriting.” No two of the same letters in a row looked identical. You will be able to scan samples of your own writing and use it in layouts! Very cool.
You mentioned being a fan of initial typography sketches, do you have any examples? Maybe even a visual progression of the whole process? That would be inspiring!
Jun 20th, 2007
johno
Lauren
I’m pleased you like it. I didn’t notice that in the movie; I’ll watch it again.
I must have some old sketches around somewhere, but I’m no typographer–just a big fan of the art. However, I was planning (planning to do so many things when time permits) to review the “Made With FontFont” book. Therein are some great examples of what you’re after.
Jun 20th, 2007
Manuel Martensen
About what Lauren said: “notice how the more the person typed the characters changed?” (Hi there btw)
If that smashes you, then here is the shit (in my oppinion though, as i don’t like the bitmap idea - how do you scale that stuff?):
I think Handsome Pro by Shinn Type tries do do the same with its shitload of opentype ligatures. But i never saw a copy in the open, so haven’t tried it yet. I just heard…
Have a look at this example and make sure you read the red explanations: http://manuelmartensen.com/wp-content/uploads/handsome_pro_kills_me.gif
U$ 250 for the set, i’d rather testdrive that before. And here is the full PDF for your viewing pleasure: http://manuelmartensen.com/wp-content/uploads/handsomepro.pdf
Aug 24th, 2007
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