From Letterpress to Screen: Learning from a Modular Type System

Abstract

When we think about modularity, we often consider simple structures defined as single elements that exist to become part of a more complex structure. Modules join each other in a logical manner, following a set of given rules. We can understand type composition as a way to combine modules, where each piece of metal works as a module in the composing of a paragraph of text. Designing simple pieces and combining them together, creating the shape of a letter, is a quick way to ‘draw’ letters (if we understand drawing from a very open perspective). Teaching the basics of type design using the concept of modularity is a good way to introduce students to the process of creating letter shapes. Not all students are sufficiently good at drawing letters through lettering. Defining relations among letters in terms of spacing, contrast, modulation and proportions also requires a trained eye. Modules, as single basic pieces (based on geometry or otherwise), are much easier to draw and work with. By combining, we follow basic rules. The coherence of the result has to do with the design of the modular system. The visual relationship between the single modular elements contributes to the general harmony and unity of the result. Working with modules helps us understand how parts of letters are related to each other and how designing an alphabet is a process of combining shapes consistently. Concepts such as proportions, contrast, modularity, counterforms, spacing and the basics of type anatomy can easily be acquired w hile building letter shapes. Modularity is a logical and constructive way of thinking and action thatis integrated into a design system. Perhaps one of the most perfect designsystems is moveable type. It is no accident that it has survived almost unchanged for five centuries.