Basics Design 03: Typography

Gavin Ambrose is a practising graphic designer. His current commercial practice includes clients from the arts sector, publishers and advertising agencies. Paul Harris is a freelance writer and editor. His work has appeared extensively in magazines and journals on both sides of the Atlantic.

Typography is full of illustrated examples that show how even the most cutting edge designers need to refer to the fundamental principles in type. A great book. You'll want to go back to school.

• Introduction. How to get the most out of this book. Looking at type: Where type is used; What is type?; Typefaces and fonts (or founts); Typeface style; Italic or oblique?; Looking at a typeface; Typeface anatomy; X-height; Absolute and relative measurements. Type classification: Basic classifications; Block typefaces; Roman typefaces; Roman variations; Serif variations; Gothic typefaces; Gothic variations; Rounded variations; Script typefaces; Graphic typefaces. Setting type: Type families; Using multiple typefaces; Text hierarchy; Type on a page; Numerals; Drop and standing capitals; Special characters; Ligatures; The right character for the job; Punctuation; Non-alphabetical typefaces; Non-Latin typefaces; Leading; Tracking; Kerning; Spacing; Overprinting and knocking out; Legibility and readability. Type generation: Font generation; Type as a visual identity; Hand-drawn type; Building letterforms; Expressionism. Type Realisation: Materials; Printing techniques; Hot-metal printing; Silk-screen printing; Gravure printing; Print finishing; Embossing and debossing; Foil blocking; Varnishes. Type in practice: Eclecticism; Integrating type and image; Environment. Glossary. Conclusion. Acknowledgements. Contacts.