Machine for Making Type - Modular Objects

Research

Experimental Jetset provided context for my approach, using a singular typeface (Helvetica) to produce an abundance of design was of interest, and I thought I could use these techniques to create my alphabet. I developed shapes used for study task 2, taken from Futura, and used those to create a new typeface.

Experimenting
Initially I made my typeface using foam board, using the grid of the cutting mat as a guide. Spent a lot of time playing with small details on more simple letters, rearranging shapes, comparing with other letters.
- This allowed me to create rules based off shapes that worked together.

I decided to use a grid system, 8 x 6, allowed shapes to be organised into a cohesive alphabet. Used 8 x 6 grid as those were the dimensions from my largest shape, capital m, during study task 2. Wanted to experiment with the boundaries of a grid, to see what issues would arise.

Difficulties
Letters D, X, and K presented difficulties, couldn't find combination of shapes to produce a letter that was cohesive to the rest of the alphabet, particularly D.
- They wouldn't adhere to rules of the grid, spacing became abnormal, and silhouette of letter looked odd compared to the rest of the alphabet.

I was interested as to why D didn't fit with the rest of the letters, K and X have similar shapes to each other so it was understandable that they would both be difficult to design, but D is rather different. I was able to make the letter B and C which both involve similar structure, they all sit the same between the baseline and cap height, however I couldn't produce the letter D using my shapes.
 - If I was able to use another shape my alphabet may have looked more united. However my approach to the project would have been very different as I had to problem solve and learn to use the restrictions of the shapes to my advantage.

Final Outcome: