Type Specimen Plan

To present a typeface to potential clients.
Catalogues and specimens dedicated to a unique typeface are the first link between the type designer and potential users of the new typeface.

• Singular letters - shown large so that anatomical details can be clearly seen (and described in brief notes)
• Example sentences - Use short sentences that relate to my typeface 

The type will be named DIFFER due to the ever-changing nature of the text, which alters depending on how the user of the records the shape of the type they have arranged. The typeface presents qualities of fluidity and laxness due to its loose scrawled like appearance. This down to the natural droops and upswings the paper form takes when assembled in an open and unrestrained confine. While this text isn’t restricted to a set assembling format, there is some structure to the method of assembling the type, this being the act of using only paper clips, tape and three A4 pieces of paper for each letterform. This gives the type a sort of correlation between the ways in which different users decide to make the letterforms, as they have parameters/confines to work with, however this doesn’t limit the typeface to a particular lax or fluid appearance, as the materials can be used to create a wide array of styles (structured or open and loose).

The machine is a kit where the user constructs letterforms, based off of diagrams (flip book of photos of letterforms) out of three pieces of paper, paper clips and tape. This will create a set of paper forms which stand as sculptural pieces and can be displayed wherever the user feels the letterform has a significant presence. The idea of placing the text in positions where the text feels it has a purpose, is based on the notion that the typeface could be used as way-finding tool in buildings and streets, due to its fluidity and heavy focus of movement and natural shape. The materials provided will allow for a typeface which is diverse and unique to the users own interpretation based of the pre-set guidelines/diagrams. The rules convey that you can use three pieces of paper at most to build a single 3D letterform.

The idea that way-finding systems can change the mentality and wellbeing of a people was part of the inspiration behind this typeface. The use of way-finding systems in busy environments such as hospitals and train stations, can help reduce stress by providing easy-to-follow signage and legible directions to their destinations. This influenced the personality and character of the type anatomy as it aims to follow the gentle and effortless flow of the paper form, therefore giving a fluid and calm feel to the typeface.

My instruction sheet consists of a set of photos of the paper letterforms from a different angles to so that the user gets a basic understanding of how to create the letter form, but allows room for some variation in the form as it isn't too obvious where the folds have been made. There is also an isometric typeface in the specimen, which will give the user a better idea of how the paper can be constructed. 

The specimen includes a full alphabet of normal, bold and isometric type forms, presenting the full range of the letterform.